Master of Science - Environmental Sustainability (Thesis) (Optional Co-op) at University of Ottawa - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-09-12

Program overview

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Program overview

The Master of Science in Environmental Sustainability at the University of Ottawa is designed to equip future professionals and scholars with essential skills to tackle complex environmental challenges. This interdisciplinary program combines knowledge from various fields, including science, law, economics, and policy, to develop effective regulatory and policy solutions. Students will gain foundational knowledge and methodological skills to synthesize and integrate information from these disciplines, preparing them to address pressing environmental issues. The program offers two options: a thesis-based MSc and a research paper-based MSc, allowing students to choose the path that best suits their academic and professional goals.

Program structure

The Master of Science in Environmental Sustainability program is structured to provide flexibility and depth in learning. The program options include:

MSc with Thesis: Typically completed in 24 months of full-time study.
MSc with Research Paper: Can be completed in 12 months of full-time study, with the possibility of an additional term if needed.

Students have the opportunity to participate in a CO-OP option, which allows a limited number of students to gain practical work experience through two paid one-term work placements. The program is primarily offered in English, with future plans to provide courses in French. Students can complete examinations, assignments, and their research paper or thesis in either official language, depending on their preference.

Featured Experiences

CO-OP Option: Available to a limited number of students, providing practical work experience through two paid work placements.
Interdisciplinary Approach: Students engage with various disciplines, including science, law, economics, and policy, to develop comprehensive solutions to environmental issues.
Research Collaboration: Opportunities to collaborate with the Smart Prosperity Institute, a national research network focused on advancing practical policies for a sustainable economy.
Capstone Seminar: Involves partnering with organizations to work on real-world sustainability issues, enhancing practical skills and teamwork.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Science in Environmental Sustainability can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Environmental Policy Analyst: Develops and evaluates policies aimed at addressing environmental issues, ensuring compliance with regulations.
Sustainability Consultant: Advises organizations on sustainable practices and strategies to minimize environmental impact.
Environmental Scientist: Conducts research and analysis on environmental issues, providing data to inform policy and regulatory decisions.
Climate Change Specialist: Focuses on strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change impacts, working with governments and organizations.
Natural Resource Manager: Oversees the sustainable management of natural resources, balancing ecological health with economic needs.

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 2025-09-12

Program overview

Academic Requirements

Minimum Requirements

An Honours Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline with a minimum average of B+ (75%), calculated in accordance with FGPS guidelines.
Relevant disciplines include environmental studies, geography, economics, environmental science, political science, international development, environmental engineering, and law.
Candidates with Honours Bachelor’s degrees from other disciplines may also be considered.

Required Documents for Admission Package

Recommendation Letters: 2

It is highly recommended that you contact your referees prior to submitting your application to confirm their email address and availability.

Transcript(s): 1

Upload copies of all transcripts from all universities attended using the uoDoc application.
Transcripts must include all courses and programs (completed or not), exchanges, letters of permission, online or correspondence courses, and records as a non-degree or visiting student.
If transcripts and degree certificates are not in English or French, you must submit a certified translation.
After receiving an offer of admission, if it contains conditions for official documents, you must upload them to uoDoc (with some exceptions).
Previous or current University of Ottawa students do not need to submit transcripts from their Ottawa studies. Professional programs in rehabilitation, however, require all transcripts, including those from uOttawa.

Other Required Documents

An up-to-date resume
Research proposal (maximum 2 pages, single-spaced)
Provide background context on the topic
State a research question
Explain (at a high level) how the question might be answered
Optionally, relate the proposed research to relevant scholarly literature
Used to assess writing, background knowledge, and creativity. Students are not required to conduct research in exactly the same field. Examples of recent student MRPs are available online.
Confirmation of supervision
Students must find a professor willing to supervise their Major Research Paper (MRP) or thesis.
Any professor with graduate supervisory privileges at the University of Ottawa is eligible.
A screenshot of an email from a professor confirming supervision is sufficient.

Language Requirements

TOEFL PBT: 600 / IELTS Overall 7.0 – Individual 7.0
TOEFL iBT: 100 / IELTS Overall 7.0 – Individual 7.0

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!