Environmental Studies

Environmental Studies at Carleton University offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex interactions between human societies and the natural environment. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, analytical skills, and practical experience necessary to address pressing environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution, resource management, and sustainable development. Through a diverse curriculum that combines natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, students explore topics including environmental policy, ecological science, environmental ethics, and urban sustainability. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and real-world applications to prepare graduates for careers in government, NGOs, industry, or further academic study. Students have opportunities for hands-on learning through fieldwork, internships, and collaborative projects with community organizations. Carleton’s location and strong ties to governmental agencies provide unique avenues for experiential learning and professional development. The Environmental Studies program fosters a multidisciplinary understanding of environmental issues, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions and become responsible global citizens committed to environmental stewardship. Whether students are interested in scientific research, policy formulation, or advocacy, this program offers a solid foundation to pursue their ambitions in creating a sustainable future.

The Bachelor of Environmental Studies program at Carleton University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between humans and the environment. This interdisciplinary program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and practical knowledge necessary to address pressing environmental challenges. Throughout their studies, students explore diverse topics such as environmental policy, sustainable development, conservation, environmental economics, and ecological sciences, preparing them for careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, consulting firms, and the private sector. The curriculum combines rigorous academic coursework with experiential learning opportunities, including internships, fieldwork, and community-based projects, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations. Students also have the flexibility to tailor their education through specialized electives and concentration options, aligning their studies with specific interests like climate change, urban sustainability, or environmental justice. The program underscores the importance of an ethical and informed approach to environmental decision-making and encourages students to become proactive agents of environmental change. Overall, the Bachelor of Environmental Studies at Carleton University equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to contribute meaningfully to creating sustainable solutions for the planet’s most urgent environmental issues, fostering a sense of responsibility toward the environment and society.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies at Carleton University:

The Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies at Carleton University requires students to complete a total of 120 credit hours. The program is designed to provide students with an interdisciplinary understanding of environmental issues, integrating coursework from sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Students must fulfill core requirements, concentration or specialization courses, and electives to complete the degree.

Core Courses include foundational classes such as Introduction to Environmental Studies, Environmental Policy and Law, Ecology, and Research Methods in Environmental Studies. These courses typically total around 30 to 36 credit hours and are required for all students to establish a solid understanding of fundamental environmental concepts.

Specializations or Concentrations allow students to focus their studies on areas such as Environmental Policy and Governance, Sustainable Development, or Ecological Economics. To complete a specialization, students must choose a set of designated courses—generally totaling 18 to 24 credit hours—within their area of focus. Electives are chosen freely from other departments or programs, ensuring students can tailor their education to personal interests or career goals.

In addition to coursework, students are usually required to complete a capstone project or a thesis in their final year, which involves independent research on an environmental issue, demonstrating their analytical and research skills.

Every student is expected to participate in internships or co-op placements when available, providing practical experience in environmental sectors. Furthermore, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA—typically around 2.0—to remain in good academic standing.

Language proficiency, if applicable, must meet the university’s standards, and students may also need to complete general education requirements, including courses in humanities, social sciences, and sciences, to ensure a well-rounded education.

In summary, the Environmental Studies Bachelor’s program at Carleton University emphasizes interdisciplinary coursework, practical experience, and independent research, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of environmental challenges and solutions.

The Environmental Studies program at Carleton University offers diverse financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's residency status, program specialization, and level of study. For domestic students, the annual tuition is approximately CAD 7,200 for undergraduate programs, while international students pay approximately CAD 28,000 per year. Graduate students enrolled in master's or doctoral levels may have different fee structures, with estimated costs around CAD 8,400 for domestic students and CAD 17,000 for international students annually. Beyond tuition, students should consider additional expenses such as books, supplies, residence costs, and personal expenses, which can add several thousand dollars per year.

Carleton University offers a range of financial assistance programs to help mitigate these costs. Entrance scholarships are available for outstanding incoming students, based on academic achievement and other criteria, providing anywhere from a few thousand to full-tuition awards. Continuing students may access merit-based scholarships, bursaries, and awards, which recognize academic excellence, community involvement, and financial need. The university also participates in federal and provincial government student loan programs, allowing eligible students to apply for loans that are repayable post-graduation.

Additionally, students can explore part-time work opportunities through the university’s Work-Study Program, which allows them to earn funds while gaining valuable work experience related to their field of study. The university's Career Services Center offers guidance and resources for securing internships, research assistantships, and co-op placements, many of which include stipends or hourly pay. Research grants and fellowships are available for graduate students engaged in environmental research projects, providing financial support and professional development opportunities.

International students may also qualify for some scholarships dedicated specifically to them, along with external funding options from government agencies, private foundations, and environmental organizations. Carleton University additionally encourages students to seek external scholarships such as those from the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program, the Canada Graduate Scholarships Program, and sector-specific environmental awards that recognize leadership and research excellence.

Students are advised to carefully review program-specific financial aid information available on Carleton University's official website and to consult with the university’s financial aid office early in their academic planning process to identify suitable funding sources and ensure timely application submissions. Financial planning is a crucial aspect of pursuing environmental studies at Carleton, and the university strives to provide accessible options to assist students in achieving their academic and career goals.

The Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies at Carleton University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues related to environmental challenges and sustainability. This interdisciplinary program combines courses from geography, political science, economics, biology, and other fields to provide a well-rounded perspective on environmental problems and solutions. Students engage in critical analysis of environmental policies, management strategies, and scientific principles, preparing them for careers in environmental consultancy, policy development, advocacy, or further research. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, including data collection, analysis, and communication. Through experiential learning opportunities such as internships, co-op placements, and community projects, students gain hands-on experience that enhances their employability. The curriculum covers key topics like climate change, urban sustainability, natural resource management, and environmental ethics. Carleton University’s location in Ottawa offers unique opportunities for engagement with national government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions involved in environmental issues. The program also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore the social, economic, and political dimensions of environmental problems. Graduates of this program are equipped to address complex environmental issues, contribute to sustainable development, and influence policy decisions relevant to local, national, and global communities. The program typically takes four years to complete for a full-time student and includes coursework, research, and practical components. Admission requirements generally include a high school diploma with prerequisites in mathematics, sciences, and English. The program is designed for students passionate about environmental stewardship and committed to making a positive impact on the planet.