Climate science for climate solutions.
Get ready to tackle the climate crisis. In this program, you’ll study the science behind the challenges facing our planet’s environment.
You'll combine biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science with human geography to address challenges such as flooding, permafrost thawing, drought and forest fires, peatland degradation, rising sea levels and coastal change, and changing economic opportunities in climate sensitive sectors.
You’ll master practical tools like computer modelling and hone the skills to build a low-carbon future. Enrich your classroom learning with hands-on experience in labs and fieldwork (and paid work experience through co-op).
Faculty:
Faculty of Environment
Degree:
Bachelor of Science in Climate and Environmental Change
Available as a co-op program?
Yes
Available as a regular program?
Yes
Available as a minor?
No
Study your interests. In your final year, work with a professor on a capstone project or a thesis of personal interest. Complete a research-based thesis and prepare for a master's degree or kick-start your career by choosing a project that connects you with organizations outside the university.
Research-led teaching and learning. Attend research seminars or even apply for co-op work terms with professors who are part of Waterloo's Interdisciplinary Centre on Climate Change.
Co-op = relevant paid work experience
Explore careers addressing climate change by alternating school terms and paid co-op work terms throughout your degree. You'll gain experience, earn money, and discover which career areas interest you.
You might work as an environmental consultant assistant, water treatment project assistant, environmental services and approvals assistant, or an undergraduate research assistant.
Co-op work-study sequence
Starting in second year, you'll normally alternate between school and work every four months, integrating your classroom learning with real-world experience. You can return to the same employer for a couple of work terms to gain greater knowledge and responsibility or work for different employers to get a broad range of experience.
| Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Study | Study | Off |
| Second | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Third | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
| Fourth | Study | Study | Co-op |
| Fifth | Co-op | Study | - |
Your first work term will be halfway through second year (January to April 2027).
Admission requirements
Ontario students: six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including
- English (ENG4U) (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Any Grade 12 U Mathematics (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
- Chemistry or Physics
Recommended courses: Biology, Earth and Space Science, or World Issues
Expected admission range: High 70s
Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements.
How to apply
Apply directly to this program on your application.
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Connect with us
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Please contact Shannon Cary, our Faculty of Environment recruitment co-ordinator who can answer any questions you have.