Land Reclamation

The BSc in Environmental and Conservation Sciences program is for students interested in the natural world, its management, conservation and ecological perspectives. Graduates have a strong background in basic and applied sciences. They are able to evaluate effects of human land use on plant, soil, water, animal, and human resources and to assess and facilitate conservation, reclamation and remediation measures for natural, managed and damaged ecosystems. They are not only reactive but also agents for positive, responsible stewardship and change.This major combines the natural and applied sciences to understand, assess and minimize the impacts of anthropogenic activities on natural resources with emphasis on soil, plant and water components of the ecosystem. The program emphasizes understanding, planning, rebuilding and managing the complex ecological relationships of natural and anthropogenically disturbed environments.

Field of study: Land Use Planning and Management/Development

The Land Reclamation program at the University of Alberta is designed to prepare students for a dynamic and evolving field that focuses on restoring and managing disturbed land areas. This interdisciplinary program combines principles from geology, environmental science, engineering, and ecology to equip graduates with the skills necessary to rehabilitate land affected by mining, agriculture, urban development, and industrial activities. Throughout the program, students will explore topics such as soil science, hydrology, environmental assessment, sustainable land use practices, and reclamation techniques. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications through laboratory work, field courses, and internships that provide hands-on experience in real-world settings. Students will learn how to develop reclamation plans that comply with environmental regulations and promote biodiversity, ecosystem stability, and land productivity. The program also covers the use of modern technologies and innovative practices, including GIS mapping, remote sensing, and environmental modeling, to assess land conditions and design effective reclamation strategies. Graduates of the Land Reclamation program will be well-prepared for careers in government agencies, consulting firms, mining companies, environmental organizations, and research institutions. They will have the expertise to assess environmental impacts, develop sustainable reclamation solutions, and contribute to policies aimed at restoring degraded landscapes. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of environmental laws and ethical considerations associated with land management, ensuring that graduates can operate responsibly and effectively in their respective fields. With a rigorous academic foundation and practical training, the Land Reclamation program at the University of Alberta aims to foster professionals dedicated to the sustainable management and restoration of our planet’s lands, supporting environmental health and community development worldwide.

Program Requirements:

The Land Reclamation undergraduate program at the University of Alberta is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary for sustainable land management and reclamation practices. Admission prerequisites include a high school diploma with a strong background in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. Applicants are expected to have achieved competitive grades in these subjects to demonstrate their readiness for university-level coursework.

Once enrolled, students must complete a series of core courses that cover essential topics such as soil science, hydrology, environmental engineering, ecology, and geotechnical engineering. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, encouraging students to develop problem-solving skills pertinent to land reclamation projects. Laboratory and fieldwork are integral components of the program, providing hands-on experience in assessing land conditions, designing reclamation strategies, and implementing sustainable solutions.

In addition to technical courses, students are required to undertake courses in environmental policy, project management, and sustainability principles to prepare them for interdisciplinary collaboration and effective decision-making in the field. The program also includes a capstone project, where students demonstrate their ability to integrate knowledge and skills in a real-world reclamation scenario.

Internships and cooperative education placements are strongly encouraged, offering students valuable industry exposure and networking opportunities. To graduate, students must accumulate a specified number of credits as outlined by the university’s academic policies, successfully pass all required courses, and demonstrate competence in both practical and theoretical aspects of land reclamation. Continuous assessment through assignments, presentations, exams, and project work ensures that students meet the high standards set by the program.

Graduates of the Land Reclamation program are prepared for careers in environmental consulting, government agencies, construction, and resource development sectors, addressing land degradation issues and promoting ecological restoration. The program aims to produce professionals committed to sustainable land use practices and innovative reclamation solutions that balance economic development with environmental stewardship.

The University of Alberta offers comprehensive information regarding the financing of its Land Reclamation program, designed to assist students in understanding the various financial aspects involved in their studies. Tuition fees for this program vary depending on the student's residency status. For domestic students, the annual tuition typically ranges between $5,000 and $7,000 Canadian dollars, while international students may expect to pay between $20,000 and $30,000 per year. These fees cover access to lectures, laboratories, and other academic resources essential for the successful completion of the program. In addition to tuition, students should account for mandatory ancillary fees that support campus facilities and services, which can add approximately $1,000 to $2,000 annually.

The university offers a range of financial aid options to reduce the burden of educational expenses. Scholarships and awards are available based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and financial need. Some scholarships are specifically designated for students pursuing environmental or land reclamation studies, providing targeted financial support. Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources as well, such as government grants and private sponsorships, which can supplement their income and lessen reliance on loans.

For students requiring additional financial assistance, the university provides access to student loans through government programs, available to eligible Canadian citizens and residents. International students may access scholarships and bursaries designed specifically for their academic and cultural backgrounds, although they may have limited options for government loans. Part-time employment opportunities on or near campus can help students manage living expenses and gain relevant work experience.

The university also emphasizes the importance of financial planning and provides resources, including financial advising and workshops, to help students budget effectively throughout their studies. Students are advised to consider all costs associated with their education, including housing, textbooks, health insurance, and personal expenses, when preparing their budget. Overall, the University of Alberta aims to support students financially through a combination of scholarships, bursaries, employment opportunities, and counseling services, ensuring that students pursuing Land Reclamation can focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial stress.

The University of Alberta offers a comprehensive program in Land Reclamation that prepares students to address the environmental, technical, and social challenges associated with restoring disturbed or degraded land. This program emphasizes the principles of sustainable land management, environmental protection, and the development of innovative reclamation techniques suitable for various ecosystems and industrial landscapes. Students are introduced to the ecological aspects of land health, soil science, hydrology, and plant ecology, gaining a multidisciplinary understanding of how to rehabilitate surfaces affected by mining, forestry, agriculture, and urban development. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical fieldwork, laboratory analyses, and project-based learning, ensuring graduates possess both the knowledge and hands-on skills necessary for careers in environmental consulting, government agencies, resource industries, and research institutions.

Throughout the program, students learn about regulatory frameworks, environmental policy, and best practices in land reclamation, along with emerging technologies such as GIS, remote sensing, and environmental impact assessment. The faculty at the University of Alberta are renowned experts in environmental management and land reclamation, providing mentorship and facilitating research opportunities that contribute to innovative solutions for land restoration. The program also emphasizes the importance of community engagement, sustainable development, and ethical considerations in land use planning. Graduates of the Land Reclamation program are well-equipped to contribute to reclaiming impacted sites while balancing economic development with environmental stewardship. The program ultimately aims to foster environmentally responsible professionals capable of leading efforts in restoring land integrity and ensuring long-term ecological viability.