The environmental sciences focus on understanding the Earth’s natural systems and how we, as humans, interact with them.

Environmental scientists study the impact of these interactions on the biosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and atmosphere using an interdisciplinary and integrative approach. They provide us with the information we need to address some of the most pressing issues facing humanity today — such as climate change and the loss of biodiversity.

The major in environmental science will provide you with an appropriate background in the natural and physical sciences that is needed to understand how natural and man-made systems function. It will provide you with a broad perspective that is required to appreciate the role of humanity in global
environmental change.

As an environmental science major, you will have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, including those present in the Alberta Water and Environmental Sciences Building. These facilities house the infrastructure used in groundbreaking research by our award-winning faculty — ensuring that you are exposed to cutting-edge, multidisciplinary environmental research throughout your degree.

You will also be provided the flexibility and versatility to obtain the key skills that are required to answer pressing research questions in sub-disciplines such as ecology (aquatic, riparian and grassland), remote sensing, geographical information science (GIS), biodiversity assessments, conservation, ecophysiology and environmental toxicology.

Once you have completed your degree, you may apply for membership in professional societies such as the Alberta Institute of Agrologists (AIA) and Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB). Contact us early in your degree for further information.

Alberta Institute of Agrologists (AIA). Once you have completed your degree, you may apply to the Alberta Institute of Agrologists (AIA) to be registered as a Professional Agrologist within Alberta. Contact us early in your degree for further information.

Concentrations (Optional) | Students in the BSc in environmental science degree program may declare a concentration in geographical information science.

Minors | Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest. It is generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional. Pursue a second passion by adding a minor to your degree.

Honours thesis | If independent research is your passion, you should consider registering for an honours thesis course or one of our other undergraduate thesis courses. The focus of an honours thesis is the completion of an independent research project under the supervision of one of our award-winning faculty.

Experience learning | Our students have a number of experiential learning opportunities available to them including co-operative education, international exchanges, independent and applied studies as well as volunteer opportunities. uLethbridge is the only university in Alberta to offer co-operative education to all majors in the arts & sciences, at both the undergrad and grad level. Transfer students can actually head out on their first work term before ever stepping foot on campus! For example, many transfer students have completed a summer work term before starting classes in September.

Skills acquired | In addition to developing a keen understanding of environmental systems and problems, you will develop scientific field and laboratory research techniques and methodologies. You will also develop highly valued technical skills in information management, spatial analysis, remote sensing, statistics and risk assessment. You will leave the program with strong analytical problem solving skills and the ability to effectively summarize and communicate your research findings to others.