Join the movement, meet the moment.
Explore how people shape the planet we live on. Delve into the dynamics of the Earth’s physical systems. Help solve many of the world’s most pressing problems, such as climate change, water scarcity, resource management, global population growth, natural resource sustainability, and more.
Ranked 5th in Canada for research and reputation (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024), Waterloo's Geography and Environmental Management department is one of Canada's largest. Follow us on Instagram to learn about our 70+ geography courses, including lots of field studies, as well as gaining paid work experience through co-op.
Use the program's flexibility to focus your degree with specializations and options or even add another major. You’ll quickly connect with other students in the Faculty of Environment’s welcoming and close-knit community.
Faculty:
Faculty of Environment
Degree:
Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Geography and Environmental Management
Available as a co-op program?
Yes
Available as a regular program?
Yes
Available as a minor?
Yes
30+ possible minors. Include additional interests and skills by adding one of more than 30 minors to your degree. Or do a double major. Or add an option. So go ahead: customize your degree to your interests!
Study in Asia or the Canadian Arctic. Gain experience with environmental issues around the world through field studies in the Arctic or in countries such as Nepal or Indonesia.
Co-op = relevant paid work experience
Waterloo's co-op program, the largest in North America, is an amazing way to explore potential careers, learn to interview for jobs, graduate with up to two years of valuable experience — and make money!
Sample co-op job titles
- Aquatic research technician
- Forester/forest technician
- Agroclimate analyst
- GIS technician
- Habitat data officer
- Lakewide management support
- Sustainability projects coordinator
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 | Co-op | Study |
| 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
- Any Grade 12 U English (minimum final grade of 70% is required)
Admission average: 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.