Program description
Environmental science focuses on understanding the Earth’s natural systems and how we, as humans, interact with them.
Environmental scientists study the impact of these interactions on the biosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and atmosphere using an interdisciplinary approach. They provide us with the information we need to address some of the most pressing issues facing humanity today like climate change.
The major in environmental science will provide you with the natural and physical science background needed to understand a multitude of environmental systems, as well as the broad perspective required to appreciate the role of humanity in global environmental change.
As a student of the program, you will have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, including the Alberta Water and Environmental Sciences Building. These facilities house the infrastructure used in ground-breaking research by our award-winning faculty ensuring that you are exposed to cutting-edge, multidisciplinary environmental research throughout your degree.
You will also be given the flexibility to focus on skills from a diverse set of research themes, including stream-side, aquatic and grassland ecology, remote sensing, geographical information science (GIS), biodiversity, conservation, ecophysiology and environmental toxicology using the latest tools and technology.
Geographical Information Science Concentration (Optional). Students in the post-diploma BSc in environmental science program may declare a concentration in geographical information science.
Possible careers
A career in environmental science will provide you with an exciting, thought-provoking role that promotes sustainability. In addition to having a positive impact on the world around you, you'll also be able to get out of the office on a regular basis and, in some cases, travel to research sites around the world. Environmental science will prepare you for numerous careers in the field. Here are just a few of the options open to you once you've earned your degree:
Environmental Impact Analyst
Ecologist
Air & Water Quality Specialist
GIS Specialist/Technician
Hydrologist
Natural Resource Specialist
Environmental Protection Officer
Graduate Research
Wildlife Researcher
Environmental Consultant
Environmental Educator
Interpretive Naturalist
Renewable Resource Manager
Environmental Auditor
Environmental Education Coordinator
Cartographer
Fisheries Biologist
Conservation Biologist
Soil Remediation Technician
Professional disciplines & graduate studies. Your undergraduate degree in environmental science provides an excellent foundation for environmental law, management and education. The University of Lethbridge's School of Graduate Studies offers programs, at the master's and doctoral levels in more than 60 disciplines — so why not consider pursuing grad school right here in Lethbridge! Whether you choose to do your advanced studies at uLethbridge or another institution, know that your undergraduate degree has set you on the path to post-graduate success.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please
September 2025
University of Lethbridge
4401 University Drive,
LETHBRIDGE,
Alberta (AB),
T1K 3M4, Canada
Applicants who complete the equivalent of Grade 12 in high school (secondary school) will be considered for admission. Applicants who have completed secondary qualifications in other countries will be considered for admission under the High School Admission Route. Applicants to undergraduate programs who have completed post-secondary study will be considered for admission under the Post-Secondary Admission Route.
English language Requirements:
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL (iBT)) with a minimum total score of 80, with minimum scores of 16 in each of Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and a minimum score of 18 in Writing.
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic score with a minimum overall score of 54.
Academic International English Languages Testing System (IELTS) test with a minimum overall score of 6.0, and a minimum 6.0 in each band.
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE), with a minimum score of 'C'.
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE), with a minimum score of at 'C'
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
The University of Lethbridge is a leading public Canadian research university where students work directly with experts to tackle global issues.