Environment and Resource Studies

Environmental and Resource Studies at the University of Waterloo offers students a comprehensive interdisciplinary education focused on understanding and addressing the complex challenges related to the environment and natural resources. This program integrates principles from sciences, social sciences, and humanities to equip graduates with the analytical skills and practical knowledge necessary for sustainable management of environmental issues. Students will explore topics such as ecosystem health, conservation, environmental policies, resource management, and human impacts on the environment. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through research projects, community engagement, and internships, preparing graduates for careers in environmental consulting, policy analysis, resource management, and advocacy. The program encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills, fostering a global perspective on environmental challenges and sustainable solutions. Whether interested in scientific research, policy development, or public education, students will find a dynamic and flexible academic environment that supports their professional growth. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and partnerships with industry and government agencies, students gain practical experience while contributing to meaningful environmental initiatives. The program also offers specialization options, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests such as environmental policy, conservation, or resource economics. Graduates of the Environment and Resource Studies program are well-positioned to make a positive impact on society by promoting sustainability, environmental stewardship, and responsible resource utilization in a rapidly changing world.

The Bachelor of Environmental and Resource Studies (VERS) at the University of Waterloo offers students an interdisciplinary education focused on understanding and addressing complex environmental and resource management challenges. This program combines coursework in environmental science, policy, economics, and social sciences, preparing graduates to develop sustainable solutions for a variety of issues related to the environment and natural resources. Students engage in rigorous coursework that covers topics such as ecological systems, environmental legislation, resource economics, and community engagement. The program emphasizes experiential learning through fieldwork, case studies, and collaborative projects, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

Throughout the degree, students have opportunities to specialize in areas such as environmental assessment, conservation, sustainable development, and resource policy. The program encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential in devising innovative strategies for environmental protection and resource management. Students are also offered opportunities for internships and co-op work terms, providing valuable professional experience and networking opportunities within the environmental sector. The curriculum is designed to foster a holistic understanding of environmental issues, integrating scientific, economic, and social perspectives to prepare graduates for careers in government, consulting, non-profit organizations, and private industry. Upon completion of the program, graduates are equipped to analyze environmental problems, develop effective policies, and contribute to sustainable development initiatives. The program’s flexible course options and emphasis on experiential learning make it a comprehensive choice for students passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and resource management fields.

Program Requirements for Environment and Resource Studies at the University of Waterloo:

The Bachelor of Environment and Resource Studies (BERS) is an interdisciplinary undergraduate program designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues and resource management. To graduate with a BERS degree, students must complete a minimum of 20.0 units of coursework, typically over the course of four years. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, integrating courses from multiple faculties including Environment, Planning, and Science.

Students are required to complete core courses that establish foundational knowledge in environmental science, resource management, and sustainable development. These core courses may include Introduction to Environment and Resource Studies, Environmental Science Principles, and Fundamentals of Sustainable Development. In addition to core courses, students must select a set of elective courses from approved programs that align with their specific interests within the field. These electives allow specialization in areas such as renewable resources, environmental policy, conservation, or environmental planning.

Furthermore, the program encourages experiential learning through mandatory participation in fieldwork, internship placements, or research projects. Typically, students are required to engage in at least one practical experience that provides hands-on exposure to real-world environmental challenges. This component aims to develop practical skills and professional competencies essential for careers in environment and resource management.

The program also includes a capstone project or thesis component, where students integrate their learning by conducting independent research or comprehensive analysis on an environmental issue under faculty supervision. This project demonstrates their ability to apply theoretical concepts to practical problems and communicate findings effectively.

Additional requirements include maintaining a minimum academic standing, with students advised to achieve at least a 60% average in their coursework to stay in good academic standing. Some courses may have prerequisites, and students are responsible for ensuring they meet the necessary requirements before enrolling.

Students are also encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities, seminars, and workshops related to environment and resource management to deepen their understanding and network with professionals in the field. English language proficiency must be demonstrated for admission and progression, where applicable.

In summary, completing the BERS program at the University of Waterloo involves taking a combination of core and elective courses, gaining practical experience through fieldwork or internships, completing a capstone project, and maintaining required academic standards. The program prepares graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, resource management, policy development, and related fields, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and sustainable solutions.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Funding opportunities for the Environment and Resource Studies program at the University of Waterloo include a variety of scholarships, bursaries, awards, and financial aid options. Undergraduate students enrolled in the program can access entrance scholarships based on academic achievement, which may include the President's Scholarship of Excellence, and faculty-specific awards. Continuing students have the opportunity to apply for scholarships such as the Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA) Awards, departmental awards, and external scholarships from government agencies and private organizations. Bursaries are available to students demonstrating financial need, with applications typically submitted through the university's Student Financial Services office. Graduate students pursuing advanced degrees within Environment and Resource Studies can apply for research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and competitive research grants that support their academic and research activities. The university also offers work-learn programs, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning income, which can help offset educational costs. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including government scholarship programs such as the Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS) and Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS), which provide significant financial support for eligible students. International students may have access to specific scholarships and bursaries designed to support their studies. The university maintains partnerships with industry and community organizations to offer specialized funding opportunities for students engaged in environmental and resource-related research. Loans, including federal and provincial student loan programs, are also available to eligible students to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. Overall, the University of Waterloo's Environment and Resource Studies program provides a comprehensive array of financial support options designed to make education accessible and affordable for its students.

The Environment and Resource Studies program at the University of Waterloo offers students an interdisciplinary approach to understanding environmental issues and sustainable resource management. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze complex environmental problems, evaluate solutions, and contribute to policy development and implementation. The curriculum integrates courses from areas such as ecology, geography, economics, policy studies, and social sciences, providing a comprehensive perspective on environmental challenges. Students have the opportunity to explore topics including conservation, environmental planning, sustainability, natural resource management, and environmental law.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through fieldwork, case studies, and project-based modules, encouraging students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Students can choose between different specialization streams or elective courses to tailor their education according to their interests and career goals. The program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers, including environmental consulting, policy analysis, resource management, environmental education, and advocacy. Additionally, it provides a solid foundation for further research or graduate studies in related fields.

The university fosters a collaborative learning environment, supported by faculty who are experts in environmental science, policy, and planning. Students also benefit from access to research centers and labs that facilitate hands-on learning and innovative research initiatives. The program is suitable for students passionate about environmental issues and seeking to make a positive impact on society through sustainable practices and policies. Overall, the Environment and Resource Studies program at Waterloo aims to develop environmentally literate professionals capable of addressing the pressing ecological and resource challenges of our time.