Natural Sciences and Environmental Management Minor (HBSc)
Admissions Category: Physical & Environmental Sciences
Program Overview
This Minor is designed to provide students with a multidisciplinary education encompassing the origin and natural history of the Earth, environmental science and environmental management, with emphasis on how these branches of study relate to one another. Building on foundational courses in natural and environmental science, students will develop decision-analysis techniques and a broad perspective on human impact on the environment. In upper years, knowledge of natural, environmental and social sciences is implemented in analyses of real-world issues through integrative environmental studies courses. The program is well suited to complement degree programs in Management, Economics for Management Studies and the Social Sciences. First-year students are strongly advised to check prerequisites for B- and C-level courses before choosing their A-level courses.
Complementary Programs:
Program in Physical and Human Geography; GIS Programs; Programs in Economics and Management
Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:
Competencies & Skills
- Understand astronomical concepts , their evolution, as well as basic parts of physics, chemistry, etc.
- Understand models and methods of study of the universe
- Understand the composition and structure of the Earth
- Apply knowledge to understand positive and negative environmental effects
- Understand physical and social science perspectives on the environment, sustainability, and environmental problems and solutions.
Careers for Graduates
- Environmental management and policy
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Analyst
- Geographer
- Agricultural Scientist
- Conservation Officer
Further Education
- Graduates of the Minor Program can further their education through graduate experiences in environmental sciences and environmental studies.
Program Pathway
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4Choose Your Courses Wisely
1.0 credit from the following:
ASTA01H3 Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics I: The Sun and Planets;
ASTA02H3 Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics II: Beyond the Sun and Planets;
EESA06H3 Introduction to Planet Earth;
EESA09H3 Wind;
EESA10H3 Human Health and the Environment;
EESA11H3 Environmental Pollution;
ESTB01H3 Introduction to Environmental Studies
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Attend Facilitated Study Groups.
- Schedule an appointment with your Program Librarian for in-depth library research assistance.
- Writing support is available at the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL) Writing Centre.
Apply Theory to Practice
- Attend the UTSC Faculty Mix & Mingle Fair to connect with professors and learn more about their specialties.
- Start building your Co-Curricular Record (CCR) and search for Experiential Learning opportunities.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Join the Environmental and Physical Sciences Students’ Association (EPSA) and get involved in their activities.
- Volunteer in the Alternative Reading Week program to gain experience and knowledge about social change and community development.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Volunteer with organizations to explore your interests; check listings on CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment).
- Attend the UTSC Get Experience Fair in September and register with SCSU's Volunteer Network Program to explore opportunities.
Year 2
Choose Your Courses Wisely
1.5 credits from the following:
ASTB03H3 Great Moments in Astronomy;
EESB05H3 Principles of Soil Science;
EESB15H3 Earth History;
EESB16H3 Feeding Humans - The Cost to the Planet;
EESB18H3 Natural Hazards;
EESC13H3 Environmental Impact Assessment and Auditing;
EESC34H3 Sustainability in Practice
Notes:
*ASTB03H3 cannot be taken in combination with any other AST course in the program.
**Students in the Minor in Natural Sciences and Environmental Management must take EESA06H3 as the prerequisite for these courses.
***The prerequisites for this course are BIOA01H3 and BIOA02H3, which are not included in the requirements for the Minor.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Check the Research Catalogue and jobs on CLNx for possible research opportunities.
- Drop by the Math & Statistics Learning Centre to have your course-related questions answered.
Apply Theory to Practice
- Check out Global Research Abroad opportunities through the International Student Centre (ISC) to gain valuable international and research experiences.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Look into Global Learning opportunities, such as the Summer Abroad, Explore, or Student Exchange programs.
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 choose the right courses.
- Explore careers through the AA&CC’s Job Shadowing and In The Field programs.
Year 3
Choose Your Courses Wisely
1.5 credits from the following:
ESTC35H3 Environmental Science and Technology in Society;
ESTC36H3 Knowledge, Ethics and Environmental Decision-Making;
POLC53H3 Canadian Environmental Policy;
ESTD16H3 Project Management in Environmental Studies;
ESTD17Y3 Cohort Capstone Course in Environmental Studies;
PSCD02H3 Current Questions in Mathematics and Science;
PSCD11H3 Communicating Science: Film, Media, Journalism, and Society
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Enter to win the UTSC Library Undergraduate Research Prize or Poster Forum.
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
- Plan a career path with a staff member at the AA&CC.
- Check CLNx for networking events and employer information sessions to attend.
- Attend the Graduate & Professional School Fair in September to explore your options.
Year 4
Choose Your Courses Wisely
1.5 credits from the following:
ESTC35H3 Environmental Science and Technology in Society;
ESTC36H3 Knowledge, Ethics and Environmental Decision-Making;
POLC53H3 Canadian Environmental Policy;
ESTD16H3 Project Management in Environmental Studies;
ESTD17Y3 Cohort Capstone Course in Environmental Studies;
PSCD02H3 Current Questions in Mathematics and Science;
PSCD11H3 Communicating Science: Film, Media, Journalism, and Society
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.