Bachelor Of Environmental Studies - Environment, Resources And Sustainability 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

Study the environment in one of Waterloo's most flexible programs, where topics range from water and food to energy and biodiversity. This program integrates insights from the natural and social sciences to tackle some of the world’s biggest environmental and sustainability challenges, including water scarcity, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Students will connect practical skills in ecosystem monitoring and restoration with environmental policy analysis and collaborative decision-making. Graduates will be equipped to apply their knowledge in various fields, including green technology, ecological consulting, and environmental law.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Environment, Resources and Sustainability is designed to provide a comprehensive education over a four-year period. The program offers both co-op and regular study options, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience. Key features of the program structure include:

Program Length: Four years
Available as a co-op program, providing relevant paid work experience
Regular program option also available
Opportunity to customize your degree with over 30 minors or a double major
Hands-on experience through case studies, field trips, and community projects

Students will alternate between study and co-op terms, typically starting their first work term in the second year. This structure ensures that students integrate classroom learning with real-world experience effectively.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Environmental Studies program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Co-op program that allows students to gain relevant paid work experience in their field
Field trips that provide practical exposure to environmental issues
Case studies that encourage real-world problem-solving
Community projects that foster collaboration and engagement with local environmental challenges
Access to a network of professors and co-op employers committed to positive change

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Environment, Resources and Sustainability can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Environmental Scientist: Conduct research and analysis to address environmental issues and develop solutions.
Ecologist: Study ecosystems and wildlife to inform conservation efforts and policy decisions.
Sustainability Policy Analyst: Evaluate and develop policies aimed at promoting sustainable practices in various sectors.
Park Naturalist: Educate the public about natural resources and conservation efforts in parks and protected areas.
Environmental Consultant: Advise organizations on environmental regulations and best practices for sustainability.

Additionally, graduates may choose to further their education in fields such as political science, public policy, or law, enhancing their qualifications for advanced roles in environmental advocacy and management.

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 - Environment, Resources and Sustainability 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.
Overall average of 8.3 is required.

For international students, particularly those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, the following general requirements must be met:

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 AND
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!