Environmental Science Courses in Canada

Environmental science is a varied field incorporating biological and physical sciences in the study of the environment and the tackling of key environmental issues.

Environmental science is not only an exciting subject but an important one. We are facing some of the most trying issues in the history of our planet, making environmental science more relevant than ever before. The need for environmental scientists is at its peak and new opportunities in the field are opening up for young talent.

Canada provides a wonderful setting for the study for environmental science, not least because of its beautiful and varied landscape and its geographic location. Traditionally, Canada is a strong supporter of the environment and is leading environmental research with projects such as cataloguing species across the planet, finding new ways to harness wind power and studying how to manage green gas emissions using forests. Dr David Suzuki, winner of the United Nations Environmental Medal and Maurice Strong, the first non-American to win the National Academy of Sciences Public Welfare Medal, are only two of Canada's leading environmentalists.

The Bachelor of Environmental Science can either be taken as a 3 year program or a 4 year honours program in Canada. There are lots of study options available to students, and some may wish to take a joint degree with environmental science featuring as the major or minor subject. A degree in environmental science typically includes the study of conservation and biodiversity, environmental health, environmental analysis, natural resources management, land systems, stewardship, water resources, toxicology, wildlife management and atmosphere and air quality. At most institutions in Canada, such as the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, which boasts the world's largest international polar year research project on arctic climate change as well as the only storm and tornado chasing course in Canada, you will take part in lots of field trips. Hands-on practical experience allows students to put their academic learning into practice and properly engage with environmental science. Whilst Canada itself offers fantastic environmental research opportunities, universities like Manitoba also offer field trips to areas such as Australia, Indonesia, India, America and even the High Arctic. Career opportunities for environmental science graduates include research and teaching in areas such as wildlife biology, conservation, meteorology, environmental science and geology. Many also gain employment in governmental bodies, local government and private companies.