Program description
Remote sensing provides a new vantage point to marvel, monitor and measure our world. With the advent of Earth observation and satellite technology, we are now able to view the planet and our impact upon it in real-time digital imagery.
These images allow us to observe and quantify objects and patterns found in the earth, atmosphere, ocean and space. This fast-paced science powers the geospatial information revolution, providing the framework for new technologies like Googleâ„¢ Earth and helping us to better understand things like climate change.
Remote sensing is used at a much smaller scale, producing non-invasive medical imagery such as X-rays, MRIs and scans. This technology has virtually transformed the study of the internal workings of complex organs like the brain.
As a remote sensing student, you will study geography, environmental science and physics, as well as other topics focused on the field. You will also learn to record and interpret images using highly-specialized instruments, some of which are unique to the BSc in remote sensing at the University of Lethbridge.
Faculty members in the department host an extensive suite of fully-equipped laboratories, with dedicated research and graduate student areas. These labs include the latest equipment and software, supporting a variety of earth and environmental science studies.
Student clubs and activities | You are encouraged to take part in a wide variety of activities hosted by the Departments of Geography & Environment or Physics & Astronomy, as well as social events hosted by student clubs.
Possible careers
Employment in remote sensing has an exceptionally bright outlook. This is the only remote sensing program of its kind in Canada; therefore, graduates have unique qualifications for direct employment in private industry, government, and universities, as well as for entry to advanced graduate-level studies. As a graduate in this emerging field, your skills will be in demand across a wide range of sectors — from corporate energy giants to specialized government departments. Here are just a few of the options that may be open to you:
Geospatial Technology Companies (Google, Microsoft)
Survey Firms
Mapping Companies
Aerospace Engineering Firms
Positioning & Navigation Businesses
Building or Defence Contractors
Petroleum & Energy Producers
Mining Corporations
Remote Sensing Companies
Space Agencies
Geographical Information Companies
Computer Graphics Businesses
Public Utilities
Government Departments
Professional disciplines & graduate studies | Your undergraduate degree in remote sensing provides an excellent foundation for management, engineering and environmental law. The University of Lethbridge's School of Graduate Studies offers programs at the master's and doctoral levels spanning over 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 on the internet-based TOEFL (iBT), 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.
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Assessment with a minimum overall score of 60, with a minimum 50 in each of Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and 60 in Writing.
Academic International English Languages Testing System (IELTS) test with a minimum overall score of 6.0, and a minimum 6.0 in each band.
*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.