Welcome to graduate studies at Canada’s largest Faculty of Environment!
Here you’ll be among over 600 of the best and brightest graduate students studying across 20 different course-and researched-based programs while learning from our highly experienced faculty.
Graduate studies faculty and staff in your home department/school and the Faculty of Environment Graduate Office are here to provide you with the support and resources you need to help you succeed.
Academic resources
Writing and Communication Centre
As a Master's or PhD student, or Postdoc you're faced with complex research and large-scale writing projects. Work with us to develop your scholarly voice and to build strategies for tackling your research paper, article, presentation, thesis or dissertation.
The Office of Research is the university's central point connecting scientists on campus or those associated with Waterloo to opportunities for funding and services, including commercialization. Office of Research staff support researchers through the many phases of research including ethics review and managing funds.
Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA)
Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) provides support to students, postdoctoral fellows, staff and faculty who are engaged in graduate work and research at the University of Waterloo.
Student Awards & Financial Aid Office
Student Awards & Financial Aid provides the necessary programs, information and advice to assist students as they pursue their goals at Waterloo. Our programs include government aid, including OSAP; awards, scholarships and bursaries; as well as work-study opportunities.
Graduate Studies Academic Calendar
The Graduate Studies Academic Calendar is the primary contractual document between graduate students and the University of Waterloo. Students are advised that in addition to the Calendar, students’ relationships with the University are governed by University Policies, guidelines, and academic regulations that are established by the University.
A list of all important dates including: final date to drop courses, tuition refund deadline, convocation, first and last day of classes, holidays, co-op dates, and more.
Career and professional development resources
The Centre for Career Action (CCA) supports all students, alumni and employees. Career advisors can help with career planning, career management strategies, graduate and professional school preparation, work search methods and setting meaningful career goals. For more information also visit CareerHub.
We encourage students to discuss their professional development goals and skill development interests with faculty supervisors, and to develop a plan that aligns with their program. You can also visit the GSA’s page on graduate student worker resources for more information about skills development and experience.
GRADventure is a central hub of professional development resources designed specifically for graduate students at the University of Waterloo. It is offered by Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs, in collaboration with campus partners.
The Faculty of Environment and Ten Thousand Coffees are making it easier than ever to meet fellow students and approachable alumni who share your passion. Tap into their experience and networks for career-driven conversations in the ENV Connect community.
Student associations
Environment Graduate Students Association (EGSA)
The Environment Graduate Student Association represents all graduate students in the SEED, SERS and GEM department. Our mandate is to provide a positive and welcoming environment for all graduate students during their time at the University of Waterloo.
The Graduate Student Association – University of Waterloo (GSA-UW) is a student-run not-for-proft and the official representative of graduate students at UWaterloo. We provide graduate students at UWaterloo with academic support, a social community, mental and physical health supports, legal aid, as well as advocacy and representation.
Association of Graduate Planners
The Association of Graduate Planners (AGP) collectively represents graduate planners to the University of Waterloo, the Faculty of Environmental Studies, and to the planning profession at large. The AGP maximizes academic and social benefits for graduate planning students through the development of networks, activities, and partnerships.
Campus services
Library services include study spaces, research and data management, systematic reviews support, copyright support, as well as many workshops for skills-building. The library also offers a department-based guide and an assigned librarian familiar with departmental research initiatives.
The bookstore website allows you to search textbooks by course, term, department, and instructor making the process simple. The Wstore offers services in thesis printing and binding. Here is where you can also browse Waterloo's clothing, school supplies, and tech!
The WatCard office is responsible for the printing and distribution of the University of Waterloo's campus identification card. The WatCard is the University's comprehensive photo ID, and is needed for many of the services provided by the University.
If you require parking, please visit or contact Parking Services in the General Service Complex (GSC) or ext. 33100. There is also pay parking available in specific lots around campus if you are a part-time student. Please use the campus map to help locate these visitors paid parking areas. See Student Permits for more information.
Student wellness
At AccessAbility Services, we design and facilitate your academic accommodation plan by removing barriers and building your capacity for personal success. We work with you, your instructor, and others to ensure your accommodation plan is successfully implemented.
Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO)
As part of the Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion Office, the Director, Sexual Violence Prevention and Response is here to support students staff and faculty for those who have experienced or been impacted by sexual violence. The SVPRO is not a crisis service. If you are in crisis, please view a list of contacts on the Crisis Support Services page.
Counselling Services is a team of professionals that provides programming and services to help you lead a healthy and balanced life. We strive to provide a secure, supportive environment for students of all orientations and backgrounds. Counselling services are provided, at no charge, to students who are currently registered or on a co-op term.