Environmental Studies (Arts) Major (HBA)
Admissions Category: Physical & Environmental Sciences

Program Overview
A major in Environmental Studies focuses on the social context of and potential solutions to problems in the environment. Students will address different topics related to socioeconomics and environmental science while integrating insights from different disciplines and nurturing an interdisciplinary way of thinking. The program also includes many opportunities for experiential learning through problem-solving, case studies, team-based projects and individual research.
Complementary Programs:
Major in Environmental Science
Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:
Competencies & Skills
- Critically assess, integrate and mobilize information from an interdisciplinary perspective
- Utilize relevant project management, monitoring and evaluation techniques
- Consider environmental policies and principles when engaging in environmental decision making
Careers for Graduates
- Environmental Consulting
- Private/Public Research and Development
- Government (Municipal, Regional, Provincial, Federal)
- Sustainability Management (e.g. Recycling)
- Transportation Infrastructure and Planning
- Food and Agriculture
Further Education
- Environmental Studies
- Environmental Science
- Sustainability Management
- Environmental Management
- Geography and Planning
- Forestry
Program Pathway
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4Choose Your Courses Wisely
2.5 credits of Core Courses as follows:
- 1.5 credits from EESA01H3, [MGEA01H3 or MGEA05H3], *ESTB01H3;
- 0.5 credit from: *ANTB01H3, [ESTB02H3 or GGRB18H3], GGRA03H3, POLA01H3, POLA02H3, *POLB80H3;
- 0.5 credit from: EESA06H3, EESA07H3, EESA09H3, EESA10H3, EESA11H3,*EESB18H3 (*check Calendar for prerequisites).
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
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Attend Facilitated Study Groups.
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Use the Physics Aid Centre for support.
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Schedule an appointment with your Program Librarian for in-depth library research assistance.
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Writing support is available at the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL) Writing Centre.
Apply Theory to Practice
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Attend the UTSC Faculty Mix & Mingle Fair to connect with professors and learn more about their specialties.
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Start building your Co-Curricular Record (CCR) and search for Experiential Learningopportunities.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
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Join the Environmental and Physical Sciences Students’ Association (EPSA) and get involved in their activities.
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Volunteer in DSL’s Alternative Reading Week program to gain experience and knowledge about social change and community development.
Plan for Your Future Career
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Volunteer with organizations to explore your interests; check listings on CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment).
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Attend the UTSC Get Experience Fair in September and register with SCSU’s Volunteer Network Program to explore opportunities.
Year 2
Choose Your Courses Wisely
4.0 credits in Foundations and Skills (completed in year 2 to 3) as follows:
- 2.0 credits from: ESTC35H3, ESTC36H3, IDSB02H3, STAB22H3 (or equivalent);
- 2.0 credits from selected courses (see UTSC Calendar for course list).
- Use Degree Explorer and meet with your Program Advisor to ensure you are on track with your degree.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Check the Research Catalogue and jobs on CLNx for possible research opportunities.
- Drop by the Math & Statistics Learning Centre to have your course-related questions answered.
Apply Theory to Practice
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Check out Global Research Abroad opportunities through the International Student Centre (ISC) to gain valuable international and research experiences.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Look into Global Learning opportunities, such as the Summer Abroad, Explore, or Student Exchange programs.
Plan for Your Future Career
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Gain experience by applying for a summer, part-time or Work Study position via CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment).
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Considering grad school? Speak to professors and advisors early so you are on track.
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Explore careers through the AA&CC’s Job Shadowing and In The Field programs.
Year 3
Choose Your Courses Wisely
2.0 credits in Capstone and Applications (completed in year 3 to 4) as follows:
- [ESTD16H3 or ESTD19H3], ESTD17Y3, ESTD18H3.
- Use Degree Explorer to ensure you are on track with your degree.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Enter to win the UTSC Library Undergraduate Research Prize or Poster Forum.
Apply Theory to Practice
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
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Consider running for an elected position in EPSA or another campus club.
Plan for Your Future Career
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Plan a career path with a staff member at the AA&CC.
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Check CLNx for networking events and employer information sessions to attend.
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Attend the Graduate & Professional School Fair in September.
Year 4
Choose Your Courses Wisely
- Use Degree Explorer to ensure you are on track to graduate.
- Ensure you have fulfilled your breadth requirements.
- Register your “Intent to Graduate” on ACORN by the deadline.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Apply for the Academic Travel Fund through DSL to conduct research, present at a conference, or engage with the academic community internationally.
Apply Theory to Practice
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Attend the Summer & Full-time Job Fair in January to meet with potential employers looking to hire students for summer and full-time positions relevant to your field.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
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Participate in the AA&CC’s Partners in Leadership program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning into the work field or further education.
Plan for Your Future Career
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Attend the AA&CC’s Get Hired job search conference in April/May.
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Attend a Jobs for Grads orientation for a job search “crash course” and for access to full-time job listings.
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Discuss grad school plans early with staff at the AA&CC and your professors; get your Personal Statement reviewed in the AA&CC.