Undergraduate FAQ

There are only two required courses at the first and second year level: ES 200: Introduction to Environmental Studies, and ES 240: Ecological Processes. After you have completed these courses you can move on to our third and fourth year offerings.

This means that to obtain a degree with a major in Environmental Studies you must complete the requirements for an Environmental Studies major and the requirements for a major in a second discipline.

The most common combinations are with Geography or Biology, but almost any combination is possible (Political Science, Anthropology, Economics, etc). Some combinations are just more challenging to schedule than others.

No. You can pair another major with a minor in Environmental Studies.

Many of our courses, at all levels, have an experiential component, including tutorials, field trips, and service learning opportunities. Environmental Studies has several field school and field courses available at the 3rd and 4th year levels. Students could also consider joining the Social Sciences Co-operative Education Program (Co-op) where students have an opportunity to combine their studies with four terms of paid employment in the public, private, or non-profit sectors.  The Restoration of Natural Systems Program (RNS) offers both diploma and certificate programs in the field of environmental restoration.  There are numerous courses that are cross-listed in both Environmental Studies and Environmental Restoration.

You should declare your intention to enrol in Environmental Studies by the end of your second year of study.