Core Programs

The Centre offers HBA and HBSc minor and major programs: Environment and Science (Science) and Environmental Studies (Arts), which are often taken in conjunction with another program(s) in a traditional academic field (e.g. Physics, Sociology, etc.). We consider this an ideal combination of disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary breadth.

Environment and Science (BSc)

The Centre's B.Sc. core program is a multidisciplinary program with a strong science focus which students must combine with another undergraduate science program in order to earn a BSc degree (a second major or specialist is recommended). The combination of this core program, with its advanced-level integrated science courses, and the second science program chosen by the student, develops expertise in environmental science. This integrated approach brings together students from a variety of science disciplines to provide them with the scientific basis necessary for understanding the physical, chemical and biological behaviour of Earth's ecosystems, and the ways in which these ecosystems are impacted upon by human society, as well as an introduction to the socioeconomic, political, technological and cultural influences that govern choices we make about the environment. 

The program, therefore, is intended for students who are interested in studying and working in environmental sciences with a focus on one of the Faculty's many science disciplines  Actuarial Science through Psychology. In many cases Environment and Science students will have already recognized that their academic path includes post-graduate science education. The science program is a demanding one with a requirement for a number of 100-level science courses from among Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Mathematics and Physics. This foundation is necessary to give students the degree of cross-disciplinary scientific literacy necessary for our 200-level science courses; ENV234Y (Environmental Biology), ENV235Y (Physics and Chemistry of Planet Earth) or ENV236Y (Human Interactions with the Environment).

For more information on all of the collaborative programs listed above, please visit the Faculty of Arts & Science Calendar Listings.

Environmental Studies (BA) NEW!!

The Centre's B.A. core program is an interdisciplinary program intended for students interested in studying and working in an environmental area, primarily within the social sciences or humanities. This program offers rigorous academic study of the economic, social, cultural and political forces that drive issues such as species extinction, loss of biodiversity, air and water pollution, and climate change.  The interdisciplinary structure of the program provides grounding in scientific literacy while advancing critical thinking skills that will help students to evaluate complex environmental problems and sustainable solutions for improved environmental health and well-being.

For more information on all of the collaborative programs listed above, please visit the Faculty of Arts & Science Calendar Listings.