About Environmental Science

What is Environmental Science?

Study the science behind nature and our human impact. Environmental science examines interactions among natural processes in our environment, with a goal of understanding and addressing environmental challenges facing our world today.

Why Choose This Program?

If you enjoy learning about the environment and natural sciences while gaining experience in the field, this program is for you.

Environmental science explores holistic approaches to engaging with environmental issues. During your studies, you will develop skills desired by employers through hands-on experiences offered by field courses, Community Service-Learning and research projects. Students have a high success rate in reaching their employment goals within industries like ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ Environment, Parks Canada and private consulting firms.

Major Map

View what studying in this program could look like each year, from courses to experiential learning to career development.

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Program Information

Degree

Bachelor of Science

Major

Environmental Science

Specializations

  • Chemistry
  • Physics

Minors (Optional)

  • Management
  • Music


Students in this program are eligible for 150+ Augustana awards (totalling over $490,000)


Low 70s program admission-average range


Conduct independent research in a nearby provincial park


Community Service-Learning and outdoor experiences in most courses

Program Objectives

In this program, you will:

  1. Identify and interpret the fundamental physical and biological principles of natural processes.
  2. Recognize and evaluate human interactions with the environment.
  3. Consider various approaches for creating practical solutions to environmental problems of the times.

Learning Outcomes

You will leave this program with the ability to:

  1. Use rigorous scientific methods and tools to evaluate environmental problems.
  2. Apply appropriate environmental ethics and respect for diversity.
  3. Communicate clearly and effectively about environmental topics through verbal and written materials for a variety of audiences, using appropriate sources and technologies.

Careers

An undergraduate degree in environmental science is great for entry into the workforce or graduate and professional programs. Potential career options include:

Course Highlights

AUENV 218 - Introduction to Geographic Information Systems

Introduction to fundamentals and applications of Geographic Information Systems. Topics include the nature of geographic data, geo-referencing systems, geographic modelling, data collection and management, and spatial analysis. Practical applications of GIS will be emphasized with the use of appropriate computer software./p>

AUENV 320 - Parks and Wilderness

Examination of scientific principles and concepts underlying parks, wilderness and other protected area systems with emphasis on Canada. Topics include history, philosophy, conceptual frameworks, roles in sustainability, and types of biological and geographic designations.

AUENV 334 - Field Studies in Environmental Science and Ecology

A 3-week field course that provides students an opportunity to develop skills in research and study design in the field of Environmental Science and Ecology. Students will spend much of the course at the Augustana Miquelon Lake Research Station to allow them to fully immerse themselves in their research projects, which could cover the range of ecology, botany, geography, environmental science, and/or environmental studies. Course content also includes instruction in key aspects of conservation biology and resource management.

AUENV 354 - Freshwater Ecology and Management

Introduction to the biological, chemical and physical features of freshwater ecosystems, and how they relate to ecological processes in and adjacent to aquatic systems. The course will examine the role of ecological patterns in lakes, ponds, rivers and streams, with an emphasis on freshwater systems and their management in western Canada.

AUENV 431 - Science of the Climate Crisis

Climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity. This course provides students an opportunity to develop familiarity and critical reasoning about the empirical evidence for and science behind the global climate crisis. With a global reach, we will consider the international scope of climate change, but a focus will be placed on developing a Canadian context. This is a seminar-style course - one driven by discussion and in which students will take on leadership roles of introducing materials and guiding discussions.

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Glen Hvenegaard

Featured Faculty

Glen Hvenegaard

Glen Hvenegaard is a professor of environmental science. His research is on environmental interpretation, protected areas, ecotourism, bird biogeography and rural sustainability.

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Students on lawn with large green and gold 'U of A' sign at ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ Augustana campus

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