Human Dimensions of Environmental Management

Human Dimensions of Environmental Management at the University of Alberta is an interdisciplinary program designed to address the complex relationship between humans and the environment. This program aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of social, cultural, psychological, and behavioral factors that influence environmental decision-making and policy. Through a combination of coursework, research, and practical experience, students will explore topics such as environmental ethics, sustainable development, environmental communication, and community engagement. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and active participation, encouraging students to analyze environmental challenges from multiple perspectives and develop innovative solutions. Graduates of this program are prepared to work in various sectors, including environmental advocacy, policy analysis, consulting, and public education. The program offers opportunities for students to collaborate with faculty on research projects, participate in fieldwork, and engage with communities to promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices. With a focus on human behavior and societal values, the Human Dimensions of Environmental Management program fosters a deeper understanding of how social dynamics shape environmental outcomes. The program is tailored for students passionate about making a positive impact on environmental issues through a human-centered approach. By integrating theory and practice, the program aims to produce professionals capable of leading initiatives that balance ecological integrity with social justice and economic viability. Students will develop skills in communication, ethical reasoning, and stakeholder engagement, preparing them to address the pressing environmental issues of our time with empathy and strategic insight. Whether pursuing careers in environmental organizations, government agencies, non-profit sectors, or academia, graduates will be well-equipped to influence policy and create sustainable change. With a strong foundation in interdisciplinary study, the Human Dimensions of Environmental Management program at the University of Alberta is committed to developing environmentally and socially responsible leaders dedicated to fostering a sustainable future.

The Bachelor of Science in Human Dimensions of Environmental Management at the University of Alberta is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex environmental challenges through an understanding of human behavior, social systems, and environmental policies. This interdisciplinary program emphasizes the integration of social sciences with environmental studies, preparing graduates to develop sustainable solutions that consider cultural, economic, and societal factors influencing environmental management.

Throughout the program, students explore topics such as environmental ethics, policy analysis, community engagement, and resource management. Core courses focus on the social and behavioral aspects of environmental issues, including human geography, environmental psychology, and communication strategies for environmental advocacy. Students also gain practical experience through fieldwork, internships, and research projects, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

The curriculum encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, enabling students to assess environmental policies and programs critically and to participate effectively in decision-making processes at various levels. The program also fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates to work with diverse stakeholders including government agencies, non-profit organizations, industry partners, and local communities.

Graduates of the Human Dimensions of Environmental Management program are equipped to pursue careers in environmental consulting, policy development, conservation initiatives, community planning, and environmental education. They also have a strong foundation for advanced studies in environmental science, public policy, or related fields. With a focus on social responsibility and sustainability, this program aims to develop environmentally conscious leaders who can create meaningful impact in addressing today’s pressing environmental issues.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Human Dimensions of Environmental Management at the University of Alberta typically include a combination of core coursework, electives, and other academic components. Students are expected to complete a set number of credits in relevant disciplines, including environmental science, social sciences, and humanities, to develop a comprehensive understanding of the human aspects influencing environmental issues. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, requiring coursework in environmental policy, resource management, sustainability, and human behavior. Students must also undertake practical experiences such as internships, community projects, or research activities to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world environmental challenges. Additionally, students are encouraged to develop quantitative skills through courses in statistics and data analysis, essential for analyzing environmental data and making informed decisions. The program may also include a capstone project or thesis, where students demonstrate their ability to integrate knowledge across disciplines to address complex environmental problems. Elective courses allow students to specialize in areas such as Indigenous environmental knowledge, environmental ethics, or policy development. To graduate, students must satisfy University of Alberta undergraduate degree requirements, including maintaining a minimum GPA, completing a specified number of required courses, and fulfilling general education requirements. The program fosters critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication skills, preparing graduates for careers in environmental consulting, policy analysis, community development, and related fields. Active engagement with community organizations and stakeholders is encouraged to enhance practical understanding and societal impact. Overall, the program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to address global environmental challenges from a human-centered perspective, integrating scientific understanding with social responsibility.

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 University of Alberta offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students enrolled in the Human Dimensions of Environmental Management program. International students and domestic students alike can access various sources of funding to support their academic pursuits. The university provides scholarships, bursaries, and awards based on academic achievement, financial need, leadership qualities, and field-specific merit. For example, the University of Alberta International Entrance Scholarship is available to high-achieving international students upon admission, offering significant financial support. Additionally, there are faculty-specific awards that recognize excellence in environmental studies and related disciplines, which students can apply for annually.

Graduate students in the program may also be eligible for research assistantships and teaching assistantships, which provide stipends and tuition waivers in exchange for assisting with faculty research projects or teaching responsibilities. These positions not only offer financial support but also valuable academic experience. Furthermore, students can seek external funding sources, such as government grants, private scholarships, and industry-sponsored fellowships, tailored to environmental management and sustainability fields. The government of Canada and the provincial government of Alberta offer various student loan programs designed to reduce the financial burden of higher education, with flexible repayment terms based on income.

The university's Financial Aid and Awards office provides personalized guidance to help students identify and apply for the most suitable funding sources. Many students also pursue part-time work opportunities on or near campus to supplement their income, supported by policies that facilitate employment for international students. The cost of attendance at the University of Alberta varies depending on residence status, with domestic students benefiting from lower tuition fees compared to international students. Overall, students enrolled in the Human Dimensions of Environmental Management program have access to a diverse array of financial resources, aimed at making their educational journey financially feasible and accessible.

The Human Dimensions of Environmental Management program at the University of Alberta is an interdisciplinary graduate program designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the social, cultural, political, and ethical aspects of environmental issues. This program emphasizes the importance of integrating human perspectives into environmental decision-making processes, recognizing that sustainable management of natural resources requires not only scientific understanding but also effective communication, policy development, and stakeholder engagement. Students in this program have the opportunity to explore various topics such as environmental ethics, community-based resource management, environmental policy and governance, public participation, and conflict resolution.

The curriculum combines coursework, research, and practical experience to prepare graduates for careers in environmental consulting, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and community planning. The program encourages critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration, often involving partnerships with Indigenous communities, industry stakeholders, and policy-makers. Faculty members in the department are experts in fields like environmental psychology, sociology, anthropology, and policy studies, providing students with diverse perspectives and mentorship. The program also offers seminars, workshops, and conferences to enhance learning and networking opportunities.

Students may choose between Master's and Ph.D. degrees, with the option to focus their research on topics such as environmental justice, public perceptions of environmental risks, or the social impacts of environmental change. The program’s location within a leading research university affords access to extensive resources, research centers, and funding opportunities. Graduates of the Human Dimensions of Environmental Management program are well-prepared to contribute to sustainable development initiatives, influence policy formation, and promote environmentally responsible behavior across various sectors. The program's emphasis on integrating human elements with environmental science aims to foster more inclusive and effective environmental solutions that take into account the needs and values of diverse communities and stakeholders.