COURSE CURRICULUM

In the Environmental Science program, Year 1 courses are designed to provide foundational knowledge in ecology, biology, chemistry, and soil science. Required courses include Ecology & Field Biology, which introduces students to ecological concepts and fieldwork techniques; Limnology: Lakes & Rivers, which focuses on the study of freshwater ecosystems; and Managing Rangeland Ecosystems, which covers the management and conservation of rangeland environments. Students will also take Field Botany & Plant Taxonomy, which provides practical skills in plant identification and classification. Other essential Year 1 courses include Scientific Writing & Computer Applications for developing research and communication skills, and Statistics & Data Management to understand data analysis techniques in environmental science. Students will also study Inorganic Chemistry for a solid foundation in the chemical processes affecting the environment and Environmental Mapping & Technology, which focuses on GIS and spatial data analysis. Additionally, Introductory Soil Science introduces the basics of soil science, and Introductory Wildlife provides knowledge of wildlife biology and conservation. There is also an optional Environmental Science Practicum, a work-integrated learning opportunity that can be taken between Year 1 and Year 2, allowing students to gain practical experience and potentially opt out of certain Year 2 courses like BI 210 or SC 301. In Year 2, students will deepen their understanding of environmental science with courses such as Forest Ecology and Fundamentals of Remediation, which focus on ecosystems and strategies for environmental cleanup. The program also includes Invasive Plant Ecology & Management and Applied Hydrology, which teach students about managing invasive species and water resources. Other key Year 2 courses include Environmental Site Assessment, which focuses on assessing contaminated sites, and Resource Industries, which examines the environmental impact of industries. Students will also study Environmental Contaminants, Soil Conservation and Reclamation, Soil Classification & Landforms, and Soil Health & Fertility, all of which focus on soil management and conservation practices to protect the environment. These courses prepare students for careers in environmental science, conservation, and land reclamation.