Climate science for climate solutions.
Geography professor Christine Dow conducts field work in Antarctica and the Yukon to understand the future of glaciers and ice sheets in our changing climate
Get ready to tackle the climate crisis. In this program, you’ll study the science behind the challenges facing our planet’s environment. 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).
Program highlights
- 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.
- Available as a regular and co-op program
- Graduate with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Climate and Environmental Change
- Offered by the Faculty of Environment
What will you learn?
First-year courses
You’ll take a mix of geography, science, environment, and math courses in first year. After first year, most of your classes will be Geography courses covering topics such as hydrology, ecology, and climatology.
Learn about courses you'll take for your Climate and Environmental Change degree.
Customize your degree
You can add additional areas of expertise to your degree by including one of the specializations within the program.
- Geomatics
- Economy and Society
- Aviation
You can also choose one of the minors available to all Waterloo students.
Co-op = relevant paid work experience
Explore careers in the field by alternating school terms and paid co-op work terms throughout your degree.
You might work as an environmental consultant assistant, water treatment project assistant, environmental services and approvals assistant, or an undergraduate research assistant.
Employers could include Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Public Works and Government Services, Hydro One Inc., Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Natural Resources Canada.
Learn how co-op works.
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Contact a student ambassador
Ask a current student about classes, getting involved, and what it's like to be part of the Faculty of Environment.
What can you do with a climate science degree?
Your career path will depend on your interests. You could continue your education in a variety of areas, including Waterloo’s Master of Climate Change degree or choose to go directly into a career with a wide variety of employers.
Possible job titles
- Climate modeler
- Climate risk scientist
- Policy analyst
- Carbon market analyst
- Renewable energy specialist
- Environmental consultant
Possible employers
- Federal, provincial, and municipal governments
- Local and international NGOs
- Consulting firms
- Research centres
- Colleges and universities
Learn about the future of careers in environment, sustainability, and geography.
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: Low 80s
How to apply
Apply directly to this program on your application.
Not studying in Ontario?
Search our admission requirements.
Connect with us
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Please contact Jaime, our Environment recruitment coordinator who can answer any questions you have.
