Geography — Environment and Sustainability

The Bachelor of Science in Geography — Environment and Sustainability at The University of British Columbia Vancouver is an innovative undergraduate program designed to prepare students to understand and address pressing environmental challenges through a comprehensive geographical perspective. This program integrates core principles of physical and human geography, emphasizing sustainable development, environmental management, and the societal impacts of ecological change. Students will explore the complex interactions between natural systems and human activities, gaining valuable insights into issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, resource management, urban planning, and environmental policy. The curriculum is structured to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, incorporating fieldwork, data analysis, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), and spatial modeling techniques. Through this multidisciplinary approach, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for careers in environmental consulting, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and academia. The program also encourages experiential learning, offering opportunities for internships, research projects, and community engagement, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. With a faculty renowned for research excellence and a vibrant campus environment, students are supported throughout their studies in pursuing their academic and professional goals. Graduates of the program are equipped to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development initiatives and to become leaders in environmental stewardship and geographic analysis. This degree combines rigorous academic coursework with a focus on sustainability, preparing graduates to make positive impacts on local, national, and global scales.

The Bachelor of Science in Geography — Environment and Sustainability at The University of British Columbia Vancouver offers students an in-depth understanding of the complex interactions between human societies and the natural environment. This interdisciplinary program equips students with the analytical tools, technical skills, and theoretical knowledge necessary to address pressing environmental challenges and promote sustainable development. Throughout their studies, students explore key topics such as spatial analysis, environmental management, resource sustainability, climate change, urban planning, and ecological processes. The curriculum blends core courses in physical geography, human geography, and environmental science with specialized electives that allow students to tailor their education to specific interests like conservation, environmental policy, or geographic information systems (GIS). Emphasizing experiential learning, the program provides opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and research projects conducted in diverse settings, from urban environments to remote ecosystems. Students gain proficiency in data collection, spatial modeling, and environmental assessment, preparing them for careers in government, academia, non-governmental organizations, or private industry. Additionally, the program fosters critical thinking about environmental ethics, social justice, and the role of policy in shaping sustainable futures. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant academic community, students are encouraged to develop innovative solutions to environmental problems, contribute to meaningful research, and participate actively in sustainability initiatives. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to become leaders in developing sustainable strategies, informing public policy, and making a positive impact on the planet. The Bachelor of Science in Geography — Environment and Sustainability at UBC Vancouver is ideal for students passionate about understanding the Earth’s systems and committed to creating a more sustainable world.

Program Requirements for Bachelor of Science in Geography — Environment and Sustainability at The University of British Columbia – Vancouver

To complete the Bachelor of Science in Geography with a focus on Environment and Sustainability, students must fulfill a combination of coursework, practical experience, and other academic prerequisites. The program typically requires the completion of 120 to 130 credits over four years of study. Students must satisfy the university’s general admission requirements, including high school graduation with a competitive average and prerequisite courses in mathematics, sciences, and humanities.

The core curriculum includes foundational courses in physical geography, human geography, and environmental science, emphasizing understanding spatial relationships, ecological processes, and human-environment interactions. Students are also required to take specialized courses in sustainability practices, environmental policy, resource management, and geographic information systems (GIS). These courses are designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for addressing complex environmental challenges.

In addition to coursework, students must complete a series of laboratory and fieldwork components, which are integral to experiential learning in geography and sustainability. Laboratory courses focus on data collection and analysis techniques, remote sensing, and GIS applications, while fieldwork involves studying local ecosystems and human communities to develop practical insights into environmental management.

A critical component of program requirements includes a capstone project or thesis that synthesizes learning and applies it to real-world environmental issues. This project involves identifying a research question related to sustainability, conducting field research or data analysis, and presenting findings in a written report and oral presentation. Students are encouraged to collaborate with community organizations and engage in research that promotes sustainable development.

Students must also demonstrate proficiency in statistics and research methods, often through coursework or examinations. Some programs may require internships or co-op placements, offering professional experience in environmental consulting, government agencies, or non-profit organizations.

Elective courses allow students to tailor their education to specific interests within the broader field of geography and sustainability, such as climate change adaptation, urban planning, or conservation biology. To graduate, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA as established by the university and complete all required coursework within the specified time frame.

Academic advising and mandatory workshops are recommended to help students progress successfully through the program and prepare for careers in environmental management, policy, research, or further advanced studies. Overall, the program aims to produce graduates equipped with interdisciplinary knowledge, technical skills, and a commitment to sustainability practices essential for addressing global environmental challenges.

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

The Geography — Environment and Sustainability program at The University of British Columbia - Vancouver offers a variety of financing options to assist students in managing the costs of their studies. Tuition fees for undergraduate programs are determined annually and vary depending on a student’s residency status, with Canadian citizens and permanent residents paying lower fees than international students. For the current academic year, undergraduate tuition for domestic students generally ranges from approximately CAD 5,000 to CAD 8,000 per year, while international students can expect to pay between CAD 39,000 and CAD 50,000 annually. These fees are subject to change and should be verified each academic year.

In addition to tuition, students must consider ancillary costs such as student fees, textbooks, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. UBC provides detailed estimates of these costs, with living expenses in Vancouver typically ranging from CAD 14,000 to CAD 18,000 per year. Students are encouraged to budget accordingly to ensure they can comfortably cover their expenses throughout their studies.

Financial aid opportunities are available through a variety of sources. For Canadian students, government-sponsored bursaries and scholarships, such as the Canada Student Grants and provincial aid from BC Student Aid, are accessible based on financial need and academic achievement. UBC also administers competitive entrance scholarships, awards, and fellowships for both in-province and out-of-province students. International students can explore external scholarship programs, university-specific awards, and private funding options to support their studies.

Work-Study programs are available to eligible students, allowing them to gain practical experience while earning money to offset educational expenses. Additionally, UBC offers assistantship positions and research opportunities for graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in Geography — Environment and Sustainability, providing stipends and tuition remission.

Students are advised to explore external scholarship databases, government loan programs, and private sponsorships early in their academic planning. Applying for financial aid typically requires submitting detailed financial documentation, academic records, and application forms within specified deadlines. Starting the funding application process early can enhance a student's chances of securing the necessary financial support to successfully complete their degree program.

The university also offers various financial literacy resources, workshops, and advising services to help students plan and manage their finances effectively. Overall, while studying at UBC's Geography — Environment and Sustainability program involves significant investment, the university's comprehensive financial support systems aim to make education accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds.

The Bachelor of Science in Geography — Environment and Sustainability at The University of British Columbia in Vancouver offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationships between human societies and the natural environment. This interdisciplinary program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address pressing global challenges related to environmental change, resource management, and sustainable development. The curriculum combines core courses in physical geography, human geography, and environmental sciences, encouraging students to explore topics such as climate change, urban planning, conservation, and environmental policy. Throughout their studies, students engage in fieldwork, spatial analysis, and research projects that foster critical thinking and practical problem-solving abilities. The program emphasizes the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship, preparing graduates for careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutions, and the private sector. Students also have opportunities to specialize in areas such as environmental policy, geographical information systems (GIS), or climate change adaptation. The program benefits from UBC's strong research focus and its location in Vancouver, a city known for its innovative approaches to sustainability and environmental management. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to contribute to sustainable development initiatives and environmental conservation efforts, making a positive impact on local, national, and global levels.