Environmental Design

The Bachelor of Environmental Design at the University of Calgary offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive approach to understanding and shaping the built environment in harmony with ecological principles. This program is designed for students passionate about creating sustainable, functional, and aesthetically appealing spaces that enhance the quality of life for communities and individuals. Throughout the degree, students will explore various aspects of environmental design, including urban planning, landscape architecture, sustainable development, architecture, and community engagement. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical studio projects, allowing students to develop critical thinking, design skills, and technical expertise. Emphasizing innovation and environmental responsibility, the program prepares graduates to address complex challenges related to urbanization, climate change, and resource management. Students will have opportunities to collaborate with professionals and participate in real-world projects, gaining valuable experience and insights into current industry practices. The program also fosters an understanding of policy, social issues, and technological advances impacting environmental design. Graduates from the Bachelor of Environmental Design can pursue careers in urban planning, landscape architecture, environmental consulting, facilities management, and policy development. They are equipped to contribute to sustainable community development and to advocate for environmentally conscious design solutions in a variety of professional settings. The University of Calgary’s commitment to research, innovation, and community engagement ensures that students receive a well-rounded education tailored to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving world. With state-of-the-art facilities and access to a vibrant, diverse academic community, students in the Environmental Design program will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become leaders in creating sustainable environments for generations to come.

• Interdisciplinary Seminar
• Two half course electives at the graduate level that are relevant to their area of research, chosen in consultation with their Interim Advisor or Supervisor (see courses webpage for course descriptions; courses from outside of EVDS are also eligible if supervisor approval is obtained). Students who did not do a Master's thesis are strongly encouraged to take EVDS 753 Research Skills & Critical Thinking.
• Ethics: Students must obtain Ethics Approval before they can conduct their research, i.e. before admission to Candidacy. More information can be found on the Grad Studies website.
• Candidacy examinations: in their second year, students prepare for their candidacy examinations which entail a written examination followed by an oral examination. Candidacy examinations must be completed within 28 months of entering the program. EVDS requires that the student’s research proposal be submitted and approved by the Supervisory Committee before the Candidacy exams commence.
• Thesis: students spend the remainder of their program on research and writing.
• Thesis defense: an oral examination based on the thesis

Requirements

• Applicants to the PhD require a Master`s degree from the University of Calgary or another recognized institution. Degrees and grades from foreign institutions are evaluated for their equivalency to those of the University of Calgary.
• Admission is highly competitive and a limited number of places are available each year. Applicants to the PhD program must possess a grade point average (GPA) above 3.50 on a 4-point scale. The online application system opens on September 1, and the application deadline is February 1.
• In order for an applicant to be considered for admission, there must be a qualified supervisor within EVDS. It is strongly encouraged to have some contact whether in person, by phone or via e-mail with faculty members who may share similar research interests. Research topics are listed on our web site and are linked to faculty working those areas.
• Non-refundable application fee: CDN $125 for Canadian citizens and permanent residents, and CDN $145 for international students who will be attending on a Study Permit.
• One official transcript from all post-secondary institutions attended. (If you attended University in another country, please check ourinternational admissions requirements.)
• Three appropriate letters of reference (at least two should be academic) dated within 12 months of the date of application. Referees will be notified by email (once the applicant's online form has been submitted) and provided a link to complete an online reference. Only if the online form cannot be completed, referees may use this form.
• Research Funding Plan
• Research Proposal (see above) - uploaded through online application.
• Example(s) of work: at least one example of the applicant's previous academic or professional productivity such as a written essay, published paper, thesis, design project, consulting report - uploaded through the online application. A design portfolio is optional, and would be additional to the required written example of work.
• A Curriculum Vitae, uploaded to the online application.
• Individuals applying to EVDS from countries where English is not the official language are required to demonstrate proof of English language proficiency, prior to admission. By achieving a score of at least 600 (written test) or 105 (internet-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), including at least 5.0 on the Test of Written English (TWE), and by achieving a score of at least 50 on the Test of Spoken English (TSE); or By achieving a minimum score of 7.5 in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS);

Scholarships

• Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council Postgraduate Scholarships 
• Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Doctoral Fellowships
• Graduate Research Scholarships (GRS)
• Graduate Assistantship Teaching (GA(T))
• Graduate Assistantship Research (GA(NT))
• Graduate Assistantship Trust (GATrust)
• Graduate Teaching Fellowship (GTF)
• Faculty of Graduate Studies Awards (FGS)

The Bachelor of Environmental Design at the University of Calgary is a comprehensive undergraduate program focused on the study and application of sustainable and aesthetically pleasing design principles within the built and natural environments. It aims to prepare students for careers in landscape architecture, urban planning, environmental design, and related fields by providing a multidisciplinary approach that integrates environmental science, design theory, planning strategies, and technological skills. The program emphasizes the importance of sustainability, ecological stewardship, and community engagement, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions to contemporary environmental challenges. Throughout the degree, students gain hands-on experience through studio work, design projects, and internships, fostering practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. The curriculum covers areas such as environmental systems, urban design, cultural landscapes, and resource management, aligning with current professional standards and industry needs. Graduates of the program are equipped to contribute to the development of sustainable cities, eco-friendly landscapes, and environmentally responsible infrastructure. The program benefits from the university’s strong connections with industry partners, providing students with networking opportunities and real-world projects. Additionally, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including design studios, labs, and computational resources, supporting innovative learning and research. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, critical thinking, and leadership skills, preparing graduates for diverse roles in public and private sectors. With an emphasis on environmental responsibility and creative problem solving, the Bachelor of Environmental Design at the University of Calgary aims to shape future leaders committed to building a sustainable and resilient world.