Environmental Studies Major (Arts)

Back to Program Pathways Index Page   |   Go to Department of Physical & Environmental Sciences Website

[Download PDF]

Program Overview

A major in Environmental Studies focuses on the social context of and potential solutions to problems in the environment. Students will address different topics related to socioeconomics and environmental science while integrating insights from different disciplines and nurturing an interdisciplinary way of thinking. The program also includes many opportunities for experiential learning through problem-solving, case studies, team-based projects and individual research.

Complementary Programs: Major in Environmental Science

Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:

1. Competencies & Skills

  • Critically assess, integrate and mobilize information from an interdisciplinary perspective
  • Utilize relevant project management, monitoring and evaluation techniques
  • Consider environmental policies and principles when engaging in environmental decision making

2. Careers for Graduates

  • Environmental Consulting
  • Private/Public Research and Development
  • Government (Municipal, Regional, Provincial, Federal)
  • Sustainability Management (e.g. Recycling)
  • Transportation Infrastructure and Planning
  • Food and Agriculture

3. Further Education

  • Environmental Studies
  • Environmental Science
  • Sustainability Management
  • Environmental Management
  • Geography and Planning
  • Forestry

Program Pathway

Year 1
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY

2.5 credits of Core Courses as follows:  

DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
Year 2
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY

4.0 credits in Foundations and Skills (completed in year 2 to 3) as follows:

  • 2.0 credits from: ESTC35H3, ESTC36H3, IDSB02H3, STAB22H3 (or equivalent);
  • 2.0 credits from selected courses (see UTSC Calendar for course list).
  • Use Degree Explorer and meet with your Program Advisor to ensure you are on track with your degree.

DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS

APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE

BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)

PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER

  • Gain experience by applying for a summer, part-time or Work Study position via CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment).
  • Considering grad school? Speak to professors and advisors early so you are on track.
  • Explore careers through the AA&CC’s Job Shadowing and In The Field programs.
Year 3

CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY

2.0 credits in Capstone and Applications (completed in year 3 to 4) as follows:

DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
  • Build on your skills and knowledge through relevant events offered through your department, student groups, DSL and the AA&CC.
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
  • Consider running for an elected position in EPSA or another campus club.
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
Year 4 or Final Year
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
  • Apply for the Academic Travel Fund through DSL to conduct research, present at a conference, or engage with the academic community internationally.
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
  • Attend the Summer & Full-time Job Fair in January to meet with potential employers looking to hire students for summer and full-time positions relevant to your field.
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
  • Participate in the AA&CC’s Partners in Leadership program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning into the work field or further education.
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
  • Attend the AA&CC’s Get Hired job search conference in April/May.
  • Attend a Jobs for Grads orientation for a job search “crash course” and for access to full-time job listings.
  • Discuss grad school plans early with staff at the AA&CC and your professors; get your Personal Statement reviewed in the AA&CC.

Contacts

Did You Know

Environmental studies aims to create sustainable and just outcomes, not just reductions in damage or harm to nature.