Environmental Science explores the impact of human activities on our planet through the study of biology, chemistry, physics, and physical geography. You will gain comprehensive training in the sciences needed to address urgent environmental and urban challenges, and practical experience generating and communicating solutions.
The Environmental Science program offers two streams of study, and you select your stream in Year 2 of the program:
- In the Environmental Dynamics stream, you will explore the interactions between land, air, water, and biological organisms to understand how the natural environment responds to stressors.
- In the Biodiversity and Conservation stream, you will learn how organisms and ecological communities are impacted by environmental stressors and become familiar with applying this knowledge to protect species and biodiversity.
Program Overview
In your Environmental Science program, you will get first-hand experience in data collection, research, and scientific analysis in the field and in the laboratory. You will learn to work collaboratively and develop effective communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills while better understanding climate, ecological, and biophysical systems. Our graduates are prepared to make transformative environmental change in careers within the private and public sector.
You have a variety of options on the types of degrees you wish to pursue. For example, you may wish to complete a 90-credit Bachelor of Science (BSc) which typically takes three years to finish, or a 120-credit degree (Honours BSc) which typically takes four years to complete. You have several choices on how to complete the Honours BSc program; for instance, you can double major or major/minor in two different programs.
Topic of study includes:
- Climate change impacts and adaptation
- Biodiversity loss and conservation of species and habitats
- Water security/availability and water quality
- Pollution
- Erosion
The program (your major) is structured around a sequence of required core courses starting in your first year of study, as well as elective courses that you can choose. These core courses will provide the foundation to your scholarly and professional development in the program.
- Physical Geography: Weather and Climate
- Physical Geography: The Dynamic Earth
- Cells, Molecular Biology and Genetics
- Evolution, Ecology, Biodiversity, and Conservation Biology
- Chemistry or Physics
- Math
- Computer Science
- Hydrosphere
- Vegetation and Soils
- Biogeochemical Cycles
- Geomorphology
- Environmental Assessment
- Disasters! The Earth’s Extreme Natural Events
- Conservation Biology
In addition to the first year core courses which focuses on building knowledge in the field and your academic skills, you will complete additional hands-on, in the field and laboratory studies such as:
- York University Co-op Program provides students in environmental science with an opportunity to integrate their classroom learning with hands-on, paid, work experiences.
- Students measure and analyze environmental samples in multiple field course options with the same equipment and techniques used in professional settings. In field study courses, such as Hydrosphere in second year, students measure energy flows, precipitation patterns, soil moisture, snow cover and streamflow on York’s campus. Whereas in another course, Water Quality and Stream Ecosystems, students conduct physical, chemical, and biological sampling of Black Creek.
- The Aquatic Biogeochemistry Lab provides hands-on training on lab analytical equipment under the supervision of a senior technician. Students routinely use the facility to conduct independent projects on soil and water for course work.
- In our Flume lab students use a research-grade hydraulic flume to model river dynamics for course work and career-readiness training.
- Semester Abroad at the Las Nubes EcoCampus in Costa Rica
Career Path
The environmental sector is one of the fastest growing in the world. With issues of climate crisis, loss of biodiversity, and equity at the forefront of the public conscious, more organizations and businesses are looking to hire environmental professionals. By developing technical, hands-on scientific experience in research and analysis along with transferrable skills in communication, critical thinking, and leadership, our graduates are working in both the public and private sector in a variety of fields such as science, technology, education, government, and business.
Sample Career
- Aquatic Scientist
- Conservationist
- Environmental Control Specialist
- Laboratory Technician
- Climate Change Scientist
- Hydrologist
- Wildlife Biologist
- Environmental Consultant
To help you succeed, our Experiential Education Coordinator provides a variety of career support services to our students including resume help, interview prep, and career planning workshops, and maintains an exclusive job board just for our students.
The Official Environmental Science Playlist
Have you ever wondered... which songs represent #YorkUEUC programs the best? Listen to The Official Environmental Science Playlist 🎶
Student Testimonials
Kira Jordun
3rd year Global Geography (BA)
Emily Carr Secondary School
The experiential learning opportunities offered within EUC have enabled me to build valuable connections with esteemed faculty and likeminded peers. These immersive experiences have not only equipped me with strong research skills but also instilled in me a passion for environmental stewardship, preparing me to make a tangible impact in the field.
Julian De Lisio
3rd year Cities, Regions, Planning (BES)
Father Bressani Catholic High School
Through the Cities, Regions, Planning and Schulich PMMP (4+1 Pathway) program, I aim to integrate urban planning principles with sustainable practices to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship, ensuring healthy ecosystems andvibrant communities.
Luisa Regina Anota Guzman
Sustainable Environmental Management (BES ‘24)
Masters in Environmental Studies Candidate
Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey
My time at the EUC has been transformative, making me feel like a true changemaker. As an international student, the welcoming community, experiential education courses, and networking opportunities have made me feel valued and helped bring my ideas, goals, and career plans to life.
Alumni Testimonials
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2009
My journey has been driven by a passion for addressing climate change impacts, advocating for vulnerable communities and shaping international climate policy. From coordinating national climate strategies to negotiating on behalf of small island states, I’ve dedicated myself to environmental justice and sustainable development. I’m proud to have played a role in influencing global climate targets and continuing to champion critical issues in international discussions.
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2019
[Getting involved within faculty-student programs] can be incredibly beneficial. These programs offer opportunities to build meaningful relationships beyond just academic acquaintanceships. Especially during stressful times, like navigating university life, having a supportive community can make all the difference. It's reassuring to know that others are facing similar challenges and that genuine connections can be formed.
Bachelor in Geography 2017
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2018
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2018
"The path to life is like entropy, order and disorder. The order is the instinctive pathway in life you choose, and the disorder is the variety of directions you take to achieve your goal."
Master of Science in Geography 2004
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2020
“Take advantage of Student Counselling, Health & Well-being services. There are many resources available to students, ask questions and advocate for yourself, because there are staff and faculty who will help you along the way.”
Master in Environmental Studies 2022
I look at how film production integrates into community, movements, and society to create change
Bachelor in Geography 2014
My advice to students is to explore the variety of career paths that are available with a geography degree
PhD in Environmental Studies 2022
Bachelor in Environmental Studies 2012
"As you start and continue your journey at EUC, learn with a purpose because what you learn can be useful beyond your grades. Find ways to prove what you have learned in your classes and build on your learning with volunteer placements and internships. Finally, network and don’t forget to be a good friend to your peers along the way because these friendships may last you a lifetime."
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Key Contact Information
| Name | Title | Extension | Office No. | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joshua Thienpont | Assistant Professor | 22002 | HNES 241 | eucenvsci@yorku.ca | |
| Brittany Giglio | Recruitment & Admission Officer | 22671 | HNES 125 | eucapply@yorku.ca | |
| Sharrieffa Sattaur |
|
30397 | HNES 130 | EUAdvise@yorku.ca | |