What is Environmental Science?
Environmental science examines natural processes in our environment. It also looks at how society depends on nature, as well as our human impact on nature.
Environmental Science at Augustana
Students in this program will look at environmental issues from a variety of different perspectives. Developed with associations like the Canadian University Environmental Science Network and Environmental Career Organization Canada in mind, this program was designed to help students reach their environmental employment goals.
Program Information
Environmental Science is available as a:
- Major in the Bachelor of Science degree program
- Contributing Discipline in the Bachelor of Arts Sustainability Studies Major
Academic Innovations
All programs at Augustana include a wide-ranging liberal arts and sciences core, taught within our unique “3-11” calendar.
Careers
An undergraduate degree majoring in Environmental Science from Augustana will prepare you for careers where your “office” can be with or without walls!
- Conservation Officer
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Health Officer
- Park / Wildlife Official
- and many more!
Environmental Science AlumnA
Land Use Officer
“I didn't know my job existed when I graduated from University,” Tamara laughs, “I now realize that the environmental science program at Augustana set me up very well for this job.”
Courses
Introduction to fundamentals and applications of Geographic Information Systems. Topics include the nature of geographic data, geo-referencing systems, geographic modelling, data collection and management, and spatial analysis. Practical applications of GIS will be emphasized with the use of appropriate computer software.
Examination of scientific principles and concepts underlying parks, wilderness and other protected area systems with emphasis on Canada. Topics include history, philosophy, conceptual frameworks, roles in sustainability, and types of biological and geographic designations.
A 3-week field course that provides students an opportunity to develop skills in research and study design in the field of Environmental Science and Ecology. Students will live in a field camp to allow them to fully immerse themselves in their research projects, which could cover the range of ecology, botany, geography, environmental science and/or environmental studies. Course content also includes instruction in key aspects of conservation biology and resource management.
Introduction to the biological, chemical and physical features of freshwater ecosystems, and how they relate to ecological processes in and adjacent to aquatic systems. The course will examine the role of ecological patterns in lakes, ponds, rivers and streams, with an emphasis on freshwater systems and their management in western Canada.
History and theory of environmental impact assessment; legislative and policy frameworks; role in resource planning; methods and techniques for the assessment of impacts; future directions.
More courses in the Course Catalogue.
Related Information
Glen Hvenegaard, PhD
Dr. Hvenegaard's research interests include environmental interpretation, protected areas, ecotourism, bird biogeography, and rural sustainability.
Visit their websiteGreg King, PhD
Dr. King's research interests include dendrochronology, forest ecology, urban ecology and northern ecosystems.
Visit their websiteMohammed Qasem, PhD
Mohammed Qasem teaches in the areas of computer science, including web design and development, parallel and distributed systems, algorithm design and analysis, computer architecture and operating system Concepts. His research centers mainly on computational intelligence.
Visit their websiteElizabeth McGinitie, PhD
Elizabeth McGinitie teaches general, physical and inorganic chemistry courses. Her research focuses on catalyst development and continuous-flow chemistry.
Visit their websiteAnne McIntosh, PhD
Dr. Anne McIntosh teaches in the areas of plant biology, biological diversity, and ecology. Her research focuses on the recovery of forested and grassland ecosystems after disturbance.
Visit their website