Master Of Arts In Natural Resources And Environmental Studies - Environmental Studies at UNBC - University Of Northern British Columbia - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

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Last updated on 2025-12-08

Program overview

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (MA NRES) at the University of Northern British Columbia provides a unique opportunity for students to explore the social and humanities dimensions of human-environment interactions. This program emphasizes the importance of understanding historical and contemporary resource and environmental issues. Students are encouraged to delve into the social, cultural, ethical, economic, and political dynamics that influence resource and land use, as well as environmental change. The MA NRES program is designed to foster critical thinking and analytical skills, preparing graduates to address complex environmental challenges.

Program Structure

The MA NRES program is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience over a flexible duration that accommodates the needs of graduate students. Key components of the program include:

Required Courses: Students must complete foundational courses that cover research philosophy and methods.
Elective Courses: A total of 6 credits at the 600 and 700 level, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests.
Thesis Requirement: Students are required to write and defend an independent research thesis, which is a critical component of the program.

Additionally, students have the option to take elective courses from other academic units at UNBC or from other universities, enhancing their learning experience and broadening their academic horizons.

Featured Experiences

The MA NRES program offers several unique features that enhance the educational experience:

Research Opportunities: Students engage in independent research that contributes to the field of natural resources and environmental studies.
Interdisciplinary Learning: The program encourages collaboration across various disciplines, allowing students to gain diverse perspectives.
Fieldwork: Opportunities for practical field experiences may be available, providing hands-on learning in real-world settings.
Networking: Students can connect with professionals and researchers in the field, fostering valuable relationships for future career opportunities.

Career Options

Graduates of the MA NRES program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Environmental Consultant: Advises organizations on environmental best practices and compliance with regulations.
Policy Analyst: Analyzes and develops policies related to natural resources and environmental management.
Conservation Officer: Works to protect wildlife and natural habitats through enforcement of laws and regulations.
Research Scientist: Conducts research on environmental issues, contributing to scientific knowledge and policy development.
Community Engagement Coordinator: Facilitates communication and collaboration between communities and organizations on environmental initiatives.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make meaningful contributions to environmental sustainability and resource management.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2025-12-08

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Master of Arts in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies - Environmental Studies program, the following academic requirements apply:

International students must provide a Senior Secondary School Graduation Diploma (Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Phổ Thông Trung Học) with a minimum average grade of 5 or higher in English 12, three academic subjects, and an elective.
Transfer applicants need to have completed a minimum of 15 credit hours of acceptable university-level coursework from a recognized post-secondary institution.
It is recommended that applicants provide grades from their final two years of upper secondary school for prerequisite purposes.
Official documents must be submitted prior to the start of the semester.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support regarding these requirements, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must be able to demonstrate an acceptable level of proficiency in English. The following tests are accepted as evidence of English language proficiency:

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 90 or higher in the internet-based test, with not less than 20 in each of the Reading, Listening, Writing, or Speaking components; score of at least 230 in the computer-based test or at least 570 in the paper-based test.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Academic score of at least 6.5 overall, with not less than 6.0 in any of the four modules.
Duolingo English Test score of 105 or higher.
A final grade of 2.00 (C) or better in the UNBC English Language Studies 50 and English Language Studies 170.
A final grade of 2.00 (C) or better in an articulated BCCAT EAP (BC Council on Admissions and Transfer English for Academic Purposes) 4 program.
A final grade of 50% or better in English Studies 12 from the British Columbia high school system.
A final grade of 75% (B) or better in a University-transferable English course.
A final grade of 75% or better in CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) / CISCE (Council for The Indian School Certificate Examinations) Class XII English Core.
Completion of two full years of full-time degree level studies or equivalent at a recognized institution where English is the language of instruction.
A final grade of 2 or better in AP (Advanced Placement) English Literature and Composition or AP Literature and Composition.
A final grade of 3 or better in IB (International Baccalaureate) English A1 or A2 (higher or subsidiary level).
MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery) score of at least 80, with a minimum of 3 on the Speaking Rating Scale.
CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language) or the CAEL CE (Computer Edition) Assessment score of at least 70, with no subtest below 60.
A grade of B or better on Cambridge English Qualification C1 Advanced.
PTE (Pearson Test of English - Academic): overall score of 65, with not less than 60 in each of reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!