34
Programs of Study
34.8
BSc in Environmental and Conservation Sciences
34.8 BSc in Environmental and Conservation Sciences
34.8.1 General Information
The BSc in Environmental and Conservation Sciences program is for students interested in the natural world, its management, conservation and ecological perspectives. Graduates have a strong background in basic and applied sciences. They are able to evaluate effects of human land use on plant, soil, water, animal, and human resources and to assess and facilitate conservation, reclamation and remediation measures for natural, managed and damaged ecosystems. They are not only reactive but also agents for positive, responsible stewardship and change.
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The BSc in Environmental and Conservation Sciences program requires coursework in basic sciences, environmental sciences, resource assessment, environmental philosophy, environmental policy, and natural resource/environmental economics. Students must choose a major by their second year of study. Students should consult with Student Services (2-06 Agriculture-Forestry Centre) about selection of Approved Program Electives. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Requirements of the BSc in Environmental and Conservation Sciences Program Core (
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69)Notes
REN R 299 is a spring course normally taken between second and third year. | |
See §34.1 for program planning and structure details. | |
All majors in the ENCS program have a minimum |
34.8.2 Conservation Biology Major
This major builds the foundation in ecological sciences and natural resource management required to understand conservation priorities for both protected areas and lands managed for multiple values. Students are exposed to the competing demands on natural environments and the challenges in developing integrative approaches towards wildlife and habitat conservation. The program places an emphasis on understanding, planning, and managing the complex ecological relationships of natural environments and strategies aimed at securing their biological integrity and sustainability. Graduates are prepared for careers with government and nongovernment agencies concerned with land management and wildlife and fisheries issues on managed lands or protected areas, as well as advanced degrees in the fields of wildlife ecology and conservation. Employment opportunities also exist with industry and consulting firms.
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34.8.3 Environmental Economics and Policy Major
Graduates choosing this major develop skills in the economic analysis of environmental problems and the policy process associated with environmental issues. The interaction among economic, social, political, and legal elements of environmental problems is addressed. The Environmental Economics and Policy major builds on the Environmental and Conservation Sciences Core with a block of courses intended to provide the background for economic, social, and legal approaches to environmental problems and to build quantitative and analytical skills. Extensions into advanced economic theory, political theory, social theory, and other policy sciences are selected from groups of Approved Program Electives.
Graduates are prepared for careers in government and private industry in environmental economic analysis, policy analysis, and other related areas.
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Note: For students in BSc Environmental and Conservation Sciences - Bilingual, ECONE 369 is taken and an Approved Program elective is given in its place.
34.8.4 Human Dimensions of Environmental Management Major
Students in this major will learn about the role of collective action, institutions, policy, and management approaches to address environmental and natural resource issues. A firm foundation in the natural sciences allows students to understand the complexities of environmental change and then focus on the social context and organization through which environmental problems are addressed. Students will take a variety of courses that will prepare them to work in the areas of natural resource management, parks planning, management and interpretation, public outreach for environmental and parks policies and programs, and in other settings as liaisons between members of the public and resource management agencies. See §34.10 for information on the BSc in Environmental and Conservation Sciences/BA in Native Studies combined degrees with the Human Dimensions of Environmental Management major.
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34.8.5 Land Reclamation Major
This major combines the natural and applied sciences to understand, assess, and minimize the impacts of anthropogenic activities on natural resources, with emphasis on soil, plant and water components of the ecosystem. The program emphasizes understanding, planning, rebuilding and managing the complex ecological relationships of natural and anthropogenically disturbed environments. Graduates will be able to conduct and/or direct remediation, soil reclamation, revegetation and conservation measures to maintain quality environments and to reclaim disturbed and damaged ecosystems.
Graduates are prepared for careers in organizations and deal with a broad range of issues related to soil and water pollution and contamination, land reclamation, revegetation, remediation and soil and water conservation. Graduates will contribute natural science expertise to environmental assessments and land-use planning.
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34.8.6 Northern Systems Major
Canada’s North is experiencing unprecedented rates of change in environmental, social, and economic conditions. This major is offered in partnership with Yukon College, and primarily delivered in Whitehorse, Yukon. The program applies a systems perspective to understanding the implications of rapid change affecting the North, and developing responses that promote resilience and adaptation. Strong foundations in natural and social sciences provide a platform for exploring approaches to conservation and sustainability in northern regions. Students will experience a learning environment respectful of the area’s ecological, cultural and socio-economic realities. Graduates are prepared for careers in federal, territorial and First Nations governments, with resource industries, conservation organizations, and consulting companies operating in the North, and in environmental education and outreach.
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34.8.7 Wildlife and Rangeland Resources Management Major
The Wildlife and Rangeland Resources Management major introduces the theory and practice of sustainably managing soil-plant-animal relationships on both private and public lands. Students will gain an understanding of important multiple use issues, including the integration of cattle grazing and wildlife management with intensive agriculture, forestry, recreational activities and other forms of natural resource use. This major examines the means to increase both the productivity and sustainable use of wild plants and animals within an ecosystem management framework.
Graduates are prepared for careers with government agencies, agricultural conservation associations, agri-businesses or other private firms dealing with management of wildlife and rangeland resources.
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