There are three program options (Programs I, II and III) that are designed to allow flexibility for students with different backgrounds. All options draw upon a common pool of core courses. Also, as part of their course requirements, all students will take two sessions of the course EES 1100H, Advanced Seminar in Environmental Science (worth 0.5 full course equivalents). This two semester course is designed to foster group cohesion, maximize contact between faculty and students, introduce students to specialist practitioners in the environmental field and develop students' communication skills.
All three options consist of lectures, seminars and laboratory modules including individual field and laboratory projects. The lectures and seminars focus on theory, while the laboratory and field exercises emphasize the application of technology to practical issues in environmental science. In all programs, students will be required to complete a total of 5.5 FCEs (full course equivalents).
This program requires the completion of:
Each student within this option will choose a Research Supervisor, who in consultation with the Program Director, will select appropriate courses for completion over two terms of instruction. The intensive research necessary for the Research Paper will normally be completed in the final summer semester. This will allow completion of the M.Env.Sc. in 12 months of full-time study. Frequently, one of the 7 half-courses will be EES 1114H Directed Readings in Environmental Science on a topic that will support the research project EES 1101Y.
The Internship option is well-suited to anyone who wishes to move into a professional position immediately upon graduation. This program requires the completion of:
A key element in this program is the internship placement in private industry, government or a non-governmental organization (NGO). This placement will normally be completed in the final summer semester, ideally, once all course work has been completed. It will consist of a minimum of 4 consecutive months. Students are expected to search out and obtain their own placement, but can expect significant assistance from our dedicated placement officer, both in the personal preparation and the search for appropriate positions. Successful completion of the internship is based on an assessment completed by the student's work supervisor and the satisfactory completion of a substantial written project report on the results of a project executed while on placement.
Experience to date has been that all students who wish to pursue an internship have been successfully placed. Furthermore, the internship option has proven to be an excellent route to full-time employment.
As potential applicants may wish to upgrade their skills while remaining in full-time employment, a part time program is available. A significant number of courses will be taught in the mid to late afternoon and evenings, wherever possible. Also, keep in mind that many employers are very flexible and receptive to "study leave time" for skills training in a program such as this.
Students in Part-Time Studies will choose either Program I or Program II. Students are allowed to take 2 courses (or less) per session for their annual fee. However, students should be aware that they are required to pay a cumulative tuition fee over their program that is at least the same amount as a full-time student would pay in a one-year program. This may require payment of a balance of degree fee prior to graduation.