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Environmental Science

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.
3 students are in a lake examining rocks

3 or 4 years of study

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Offered full time and part time and in collaboration with the Faculty of Science

Accepts applications for Fall (September), Winter (January), & Summer (May) Entry

Co-op available

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.

Learn More

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

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

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

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

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Key Contact Information

Name Title Extension Office No. Email
Joshua Thienpont Assistant Professor 22002 HNES 241 eucenvsci@yorku.ca
Brittany Giglio Recruitment & Admission Officer 22671 HNES 125 eucapply@yorku.ca
Sharrieffa Sattaur
Administrative and Records Assistant - Undergraduate Program
30397 HNES 130 EUAdvise@yorku.ca