COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Environmental Studies (Honours) at Trent University is a 20.0-credit interdisciplinary program that explores environmental issues through Indigenous Knowledge systems alongside social science and environmental perspectives. The program emphasizes the relationships between land, people, and sustainability, preparing students to understand and respond to environmental challenges in culturally informed and academically rigorous ways. Students complete 10.5 required Indigenous Environmental Studies (IESS) credits, which include foundational and advanced courses such as IESS 1001H, 2601Y, 3631H, 3632H, 3731H, 3732H, 4730Y, and the capstone-level IESS 4740Y. These courses provide progressive training in environmental systems, Indigenous methodologies, and land-based learning approaches. The program also includes 1.0 credit in Earth and Environmental Science (ERSC 1010H and 1020H), ensuring a grounding in scientific principles. In addition, students complete 2.0 credits in Indigenous Studies (INDG 1001H, 1002H, and 3813Y), strengthening their understanding of Indigenous governance, culture, and knowledge systems. Further depth is provided through 0.5 credit in biology or environmental science and 1.0 credit at the 3000 level or higher in ERST or ERSC, along with an additional elective in ERST, ERSC, or INDG. Recommended courses include IESS 3635H, 3636H, 4630H, INDG 4050H, and Indigenous language study. The program prepares graduates for careers in environmental leadership, policy, research, and community-based sustainability initiatives.