Environmental challenges can seem overwhelming. We’re constantly bombarded with news and information about air and water pollution, climate change, habitat and species loss, food shortages and other problems that threaten humanity.
In the School of Environment, Resources and Sustainability (SERS), we understand the seriousness of these challenges. But we are equally focused on solutions, and on offering the degree programs, skills and knowledge needed to protect, restore, reform and transform the social and ecological systems that we all depend on.
What will an ERS degree mean for you? It means the opportunity to get your boots dirty and participate in hands-on learning in classes, co-op jobs, field work opportunities, and research projects.
It means integrating ecology and social sciences, and connecting practical skills in ecosystem monitoring and restoration, with environmental policy analysis, impact assessment and collaborative decision making.
And it means working with faculty that are nationally and internationally recognized for their expertise in biodiversity conservation and restoration, food systems sustainability, water governance, climate change and energy transitions, and in understanding the politics of social change.
In SERS, we believe it’s possible to navigate to a more sustainable future. Our mission is to help chart that course, and our programs will prepare you for environmental careers with purpose and impact.
Reach out to find out more about our academic programs, the exciting careers available to our graduates (check out our careers page!), and our award-winning research. We hope you’ll join us!
News
Samantha Terry uses ERS 403 project to support cultural and ecological healing
ERS undergrad student Samantha Terry focused her ERS 403 research project on supporting Indigenous families in reclaiming their relationships with Anishinaabeg parenting practices and reconnecting with peatlands.
Eloise Fan earns top academic honour merging theatre and environment
ERS and Theatre student, Eloise Fan, reflects on how studying her twin passions led not only to a BES, but also to academic distinction.
Congratulations to SERS' undergraduate award winners
Join us in celebrating the outstanding ERS undergraduate students who have received awards for their academic achievements at the Spring 2025 convocation.
Blog
Exploring community connections to Hamilton Harbour through creative photography
A photography-based study with Conservation Halton and SERS researchers offered a practical, low-cost engagement method with community members to reflect on connections to Hamilton Harbour and their support for local conservation initiatives culminating with a well-attended exhibition of the photos.
ERS student's journey of reconnection and advocacy
Samantha Terry (BES '25), an Ojibwe student from Temagami First Nation, shares her inspiring journey of reconnecting with her Indigenous identity while thriving in co-op roles and building community at the University of Waterloo.
Thinking critically about urban sustainability in Singapore: A field course
Dr. Leah Jones-Crank reflects on the spring 2025 field trip course which explored the complexity of urban sustainability through a case study of Singapore. As the 10-day field course progressed, the 20 students and two instructors engaged their critical thinking skills to reflect on the environmental, social, and economic connections within Singapore.