National Group Reaccredits UW Professional Land Management Program

The University of Wyoming’s Energy Resource Management and Development Professional Land Management Program (PLM) has received notice that it has been reaccredited by the American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL).

The UW program, launched in 2012 by the School of Energy Resources (SER), is one of 12 such programs accredited across North America. Others are located at the University of Oklahoma, Texas Tech University, West Virginia University and the University of Texas-Austin, among others.

Reaccreditation qualifies UW’s PLM students for continuing-education credits, student memberships and eligibility to apply for AAPL scholarships and the “Outstanding Graduate” program. For more information, go to www.landman.org/education/accredited-programs.

SER developed the PLM program, in partnership with the Wyoming Association of Professional Landmen and the energy industry, in part to meet an increasing demand for well-trained land professionals with specific knowledge of Western land issues, culture, heritage and environment. The program includes coursework in business, geology, law, engineering and math, with opportunities for practical application. It emphasizes direct industry experience through internships, collaborations with practicing professional landmen and attorneys, field trips and other interactions with the energy sector.

Landmen have a vital role in maintaining sound stewardship of energy and mineral resources. They determine land ownership and availability for mineral leasing; negotiate agreements with landowners for drilling and production rights; draft and administer contracts with the assistance of corporate counsel; coordinate workflow with geologists and engineers; and ensure compliance with government regulations.