Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Environment, Resources and Sustainability (Optional Co-op)

Waterloo

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Environmental Studies (BES) in Environment, Resources, and Sustainability (ERS) program at the University of Waterloo is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues, resource management, and sustainable development. This interdisciplinary program combines coursework from various fields such as environmental science, geography, economics, policy studies, and social sciences to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address complex environmental challenges.The Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Environment, Resources, and Sustainability program at the University of Waterloo offers students a comprehensive education in environmental studies, preparing them to become effective leaders, advocates, and problem-solvers in the field of environmental sustainability. The program's interdisciplinary approach, experiential learning opportunities, and focus on community engagement equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to address today's most pressing environmental challenges.

Curriculum:

  1. Core Curriculum: The curriculum covers a wide range of topics related to environmental sustainability, natural resource management, and environmental policy. Students take courses in environmental science, ecology, conservation, renewable energy, climate change, water resources, land use planning, environmental economics, environmental law, and policy analysis. The program also emphasizes experiential learning opportunities such as fieldwork, research projects, and co-op work terms to provide students with practical experience in the field.

  2. Interdisciplinary Approach: The BES in ERS program takes an interdisciplinary approach to environmental studies, recognizing that environmental issues are multifaceted and require holistic solutions. Students learn to integrate knowledge from various disciplines to analyze environmental problems, develop sustainable solutions, and evaluate their social, economic, and environmental impacts. This interdisciplinary perspective prepares students to address real-world environmental challenges in a dynamic and evolving global context.

  3. Co-op Education: The program offers an optional co-op education component, allowing students to gain valuable work experience in environmental organizations, government agencies, consulting firms, research institutes, non-profit organizations, and private sector companies. Co-op work terms provide students with the opportunity to apply classroom learning in professional settings, build industry connections, and develop practical skills relevant to their future careers.

  4. Fieldwork and Research Opportunities: Students have access to fieldwork and research opportunities both locally and internationally. Field trips, field courses, and research projects enable students to gain hands-on experience in environmental monitoring, data collection, field techniques, and ecological assessments. Students may also have the opportunity to participate in research projects led by faculty members or collaborate with community organizations on environmental initiatives.

  5. Specializations and Electives: The program offers flexibility for students to pursue specialized interests through elective courses and concentrations. Students may choose from a variety of elective courses in areas such as conservation biology, sustainable energy, environmental policy, urban planning, Indigenous studies, international development, and environmental management. Specializations allow students to tailor their degree to align with their career goals and interests.

  6. Community Engagement and Outreach: The BES in ERS program emphasizes community engagement and outreach through partnerships with local communities, environmental organizations, and government agencies. Students have the opportunity to participate in community-based projects, volunteer work, and environmental advocacy initiatives to address environmental issues at the local, regional, and global levels. These experiences foster civic engagement, leadership skills, and a sense of social responsibility among students.

  7. Career Preparation: Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in environmental sustainability, natural resource management, environmental consulting, government policy, advocacy, research, and education. The interdisciplinary nature of the program prepares students for diverse career paths in both public and private sectors, as well as non-profit organizations, international agencies, and academia. Alumni may pursue roles as environmental consultants, sustainability analysts, policy advisors, environmental educators, conservation officers, urban planners, and research scientists.

  8. Graduate Studies and Professional Development: The program also provides a solid foundation for students interested in pursuing graduate studies or professional certifications in environmental fields. Graduates may choose to further specialize their skills through master's or doctoral programs in environmental science, geography, sustainability studies, environmental management, or related disciplines. Professional certifications such as environmental auditing, project management, or sustainability leadership may also enhance career opportunities for graduates.

Pollster Education

Location

Waterloo

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

CAD 51000

Application Fees : CAD$ 251

Undergraduate Entry Requirements:

  1. Academic Achievement: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Waterloo are expected to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their secondary school studies.  

  2. English Language Proficiency: The accepted English language tests and their minimum score requirements are as follows:

    • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.5 in writing, 6.0 in reading, 6.0 in listening, and 6.5 in speaking.
    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 on the Internet-based Test (iBT).
    • PTE: Minimum score of 63.
    • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission to the University of Waterloo. The university receives a large number of applications and admission decisions are based on a holistic assessment of various factors, including academic performance, test scores, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.

The University of Waterloo offers several scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community. 

  1. International Master's Award of Excellence: This scholarship is available to international students entering a research-based master's program. It provides funding of up to $2,500 per term for a maximum of five terms.

  2. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): The OGS is a merit-based scholarship available to domestic and international students pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship provides funding of up to $15,000 per year for a maximum of two or three years, depending on the program.

  3. President's Scholarship of Distinction: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to top international students entering an undergraduate program at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship covers full tuition for up to four years of study.

  4. International Student Entrance Scholarships: These scholarships are available to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate programs. The value of the scholarships varies and is renewable for up to four years, based on academic performance.

  5. Faculty-specific Scholarships: Various faculties at the University of Waterloo offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and involvement in extracurricular activities within the respective faculty.

  6. Donor-funded Scholarships: The university receives generous contributions from donors, which are used to establish scholarships for international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary. To apply for scholarships, international students are typically required to submit an application for admission to the university. Some scholarships may have additional application requirements, such as essays or reference letters. It is important to care

Graduates of the Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Environment, Resources, and Sustainability program at the University of Waterloo are well-equipped for diverse career paths in environmental sustainability, natural resource management, environmental policy, education, research, and advocacy. The interdisciplinary nature of the program, combined with experiential learning opportunities such as co-op work terms, fieldwork, and research projects, prepares students for meaningful and impactful careers in addressing today's most pressing environmental challenges.

  1. Environmental Consultant: Graduates may work as environmental consultants, providing expertise to businesses, government agencies, and non-profit organizations on environmental regulations, sustainability practices, and environmental impact assessments. They may assess environmental risks, develop mitigation strategies, and help clients comply with environmental laws and regulations.
  2. Sustainability Specialist: Graduates may pursue careers as sustainability specialists, working to integrate sustainability principles into business operations, supply chain management, and corporate strategies. They may develop sustainability initiatives, conduct sustainability audits, and implement programs to reduce environmental impacts and improve resource efficiency.

  3. Policy Analyst: Graduates may work as policy analysts for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy organizations, analyzing environmental policies, conducting research, and making recommendations for environmental legislation, regulations, and initiatives. They may focus on issues such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, water management, or sustainable development.

  4. Environmental Educator: Graduates may work as environmental educators, developing and delivering environmental education programs for schools, community organizations, or environmental outreach initiatives. They may teach students about environmental science, ecology, conservation, and sustainability, and engage communities in environmental stewardship and conservation efforts.

  5. Natural Resource Manager: Graduates may pursue careers in natural resource management, working for government agencies, conservation organizations, or private companies to manage and conserve natural resources such as forests, wetlands, wildlife habitats, and water resources. They may develop conservation plans, monitor ecosystems, and implement sustainable resource management practices.

  6. Urban Planner: Graduates may work as urban planners, helping communities plan and develop sustainable cities, neighborhoods, and infrastructure. They may assess the environmental impacts of urban development projects, design green spaces, and promote sustainable transportation, land use, and community design principles to create healthier and more resilient communities.

  7. Environmental Policy Advisor: Graduates may work as environmental policy advisors, providing expertise on environmental issues to government officials, legislators, or advocacy organizations. They may analyze environmental policies, conduct policy research, and advocate for policy reforms to address environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution, or habitat loss.

  8. Conservation Officer: Graduates may work as conservation officers for government agencies or non-profit organizations, enforcing environmental laws, protecting wildlife habitats, and promoting conservation initiatives. They may patrol natural areas, investigate environmental violations, and educate the public about conservation and wildlife protection.

  9. Research Scientist: Graduates may pursue careers as research scientists, conducting applied or theoretical research in environmental science, ecology, or sustainability. They may work for government research agencies, academic institutions, or private research firms, conducting experiments, collecting data, and publishing research findings to advance scientific knowledge and inform environmental policy and management practices.

  10. Non-profit Organization Manager: Graduates may work as managers or directors for environmental non-profit organizations, overseeing program development, fundraising, and advocacy efforts to promote environmental conservation, sustainability, and social justice. They may lead community outreach initiatives, coordinate volunteer activities, and advocate for environmental policies and initiatives at local, national, or international levels.


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