Bachelor Of Environmental Studies - Climate And Environmental Change at University of Waterloo - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

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Program overview

Get ready to tackle the climate crisis with the Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Climate and Environmental Change. This program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze environmental challenges and develop effective climate solutions. You will study a combination of biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science alongside human geography, addressing critical issues such as flooding, drought, and rising sea levels. The program emphasizes practical tools like computer modeling and offers hands-on experiences through labs and fieldwork, ensuring you graduate with relevant experience and a strong foundation in climate science.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Climate and Environmental Change is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a four-year period. The program includes:

Hands-on experience through labs and fieldwork.
Paid co-op terms to gain relevant work experience.
Opportunities to customize your degree with specializations such as Geomatics, Economy and Society, and Aviation.
Research-led teaching and learning, including seminars and co-op work terms with professors.

Students will alternate between study and co-op work terms, typically starting in the second year. This integration of classroom learning with real-world experience is designed to enhance your educational journey and prepare you for a successful career in environmental studies.

Featured Experiences

Co-op program offering paid work experience to enhance learning.
Field courses starting in the first year for practical experience.
Optional international experience in upper years for a global perspective.
Research seminars and opportunities to work with professors involved in climate change research.
Hands-on experience in labs and fieldwork to apply theoretical knowledge.

Career Options

Graduating with a degree in Climate and Environmental Change opens up a variety of career paths in Canada. Here are some potential job titles and brief descriptions:

Climate Modeler: Develops and analyzes models to predict climate changes and impacts.
Climate Risk Scientist: Assesses risks associated with climate change and advises on mitigation strategies.
Policy Analyst: Researches and analyzes policies related to environmental issues and climate change.
Carbon Market Analyst: Evaluates carbon markets and develops strategies for carbon trading.
Renewable Energy Specialist: Focuses on the development and implementation of renewable energy solutions.
Environmental Consultant: Provides expert advice on environmental regulations and sustainability practices.

These roles can be found in various sectors, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, consulting firms, research centers, and educational institutions.

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

Visit University of Waterloo official website

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Environmental Studies - Climate and Environmental Change program at the University of Waterloo, the following Academic Requirements apply:

Minimum GPA: Not specified.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Prerequisite courses:
- English and Mathematics with a minimum grade of 7.5 in each.

International students, including those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, should be aware of the following requirements:

General requirement: Bàng Tốt Nghiệp Phố Thông Trung Học (Secondary School Graduation Certificate).

It is advisable to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is considered. For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

English Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at the University of Waterloo. Success in our programs requires a high level of English language proficiency.

You need to provide an English language test score if:

your four most recent years of full-time education have NOT been in an English-language school system
your first language is NOT English.

Required English Language Scores

Tests that do not appear on this chart are not accepted for admission consideration.

Official test scores must be sent by the testing agency directly to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar. Emails, faxes, and student copies of test scores are not accepted for admission.

Test	Minimum Score	How to Send Test Results
Internet-based TOEFL (iBT), including Home Edition and Paper Edition	90 overall, 25 writing, 25 speaking	Waterloo's institution code is 0996 and our department code is 00. We do not accept electronic TOEFL scores for undergraduate admissions.
IELTS Academic	6.5 overall, 6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening	We accept the electronic Test Report Form (TRF). Waterloo's e-transfer institution name is University of Waterloo – Undergraduate OR University of Waterloo Admissions.
CAEL or CAEL online	70 overall, 60 per band, 70 writing, 70 speaking	You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo as a recipient institution.
PTE Academic	63 overall, 65 writing, 65 speaking	Send your Score Report Code or Registration ID to myapplication@uwaterloo.ca.
Cambridge English test (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)	180 overall, 176 writing, 176 reading, 176 speaking, 176 listening	Go to the Candidate Results Online portal, input your ID and secret number then click on "Send my result."
Duolingo English test	The minimum requirement for tests completed before July 1, 2024 is an overall score of 120, with minimum Literacy and Production scores of 110. Tests completed after July 1, 2024 require an overall of 120 with Literacy and Production scores of 125 for direct entry to a Waterloo program.	Results will not be accepted without subscores. You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo – Undergraduate as a recipient institution.
EFAS - English for Academic Success	75% overall in 400 levels, 75% in each of academic, oral, and writing	Your scores will be sent to us automatically by the English Language Institute.

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!