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"Acquire the knowledge to create a sustainable future.
The reasons why are all around you."
With the new Bachelor of Environmental Studies program at the University of Prince Edward Island you will learn to make environmental connections across academic fields and to analyze environmental challenges we face today. In the classroom, field, and community, you will lead the way in finding innovative solutions—making a positive impact toward sustainability in your personal life, locally and globally.
Environmental issues typically do not respect traditional academic boundaries and require scientific, technical, human and social perspectives to address. As an interdisciplinary liberal arts and science program, the Bachelor of Environmental Studies will provide students with the opportunity to integrate knowledge across faculties of Arts, Science, and Business.
Degree Description
A student enrolled in the BES will require a total of 120 credit hours or 40 Courses which includes a minimum of 42 credit hours or 14 discipline specific courses with a designation of Environmental Studies (ENV). Of these 14 ENV courses, at least 6 must be at the 3000 level or above, including at least 2 at the 4000 level. There are 5 required core (ENV) courses included as part of the 14 discipline specific courses, one of which requires a 30 hour internship working with a community partner engaged in the environmental field (ENV 3010). There are requirements from the Faculties of Arts, Science, and School of Business. Students are required to choose one of three specializations:
Note: Each specialization has specific required courses (see Specializations tab).
Degree Requirements
ALL BACHELOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES (BES) MAJORS
A total of 120 credit hours or 40 Courses which includes a minimum of 42 credit hours or 14 discipline specific courses with a designation of Environmental Studies (ENV). Of these 14 ENV courses, at least 6 must be at the 3000 level or above, including at least 2 at the 4000 level. There are 5 required core (ENV) courses included as part of the 14 discipline specific courses.
Five Core Environmental Studies Courses (ENV) = 15 Hours Credit
At least nine (9) additional Environmental Studies (ENV) courses = 27 Hours Credit. Please note that these 9 courses can be taken as part of a specialization requirement (see Specialization tab) or as an ENV elective to fulfil the requirements indicated above.
CHOICE OF ONE (1) SPECIALIZATION - (see Specialization tab for description and required courses for each Specialization)
REQUIRED COURSES IN OTHER DEPARTMENTS – ALL BES MAJORS
3 Foundational Cognate Courses = 9 Hours Credit (Please note that these courses are required in addition to the other requirements for the BES)
1 Course in Statistical Methods = 3 Hours Credit
4 Foundational Courses from Science and Business that fit the following criteria = 12 Hours Credit (Please note that these courses are required in addition to the other requirements for the BES)
4 Foundational Courses from Arts that fit the following criteria = 12 Hours Credit (Please note that these courses are required in addition to the other requirements for the BES)
GENERAL ELECTIVES
The remaining number of semester hours required to complete the requirements for the Bachelor of Environmental Studies (120 credit hours) will be made up from courses selected by the students.
WRITING INTENSIVE COURSE
COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION
Students are expected to apply for a particular specialization at the beginning of their second year. However, it is possible for students to declare a specialization until the end of their third year. Please note that ENV courses taken as part of a specialization requirement can be used to fulfil the ENV requirements for the BES.
See the Suggested Course Sequence tab for each specialization's suggested sequence.
ENVIRONMENTAL INNOVATION AND CHANGE MANAGEMENT SPECIALIZATION
The specialization in Environmental Innovation and Change Management focuses on learning how to live within the limits of our environment, and develop innovations to manage the interaction of human activities with and upon the environment in a positive way; to challenge the conventional and move organizations, businesses and communities to invoke positive change.
Two Core Specialization Courses = 6 Hours Credit
9 credit hours chosen from the following list OR other course with permission of Director:
ENVIRONMENTAL THOUGHT AND PRACTICE SPECIALIZATION
The specialization in Environmental Thought and Practice focuses on the exploration of the values, attitudes and beliefs of people in relation to the environment in order to provide answers to pressing environmental concerns.
Two Core Specialization Courses = 6 Hours Credit
9 credit hours chosen from the following list OR other course with permission of Director:
ISLAND ENVIRONMENTS AND SUSTAINABILITY SPECIALIZATION
The Island Environments and Sustainability specialization focuses on the diverse characteristics of islands and islanders’ interaction with the environment in order to gain an understanding of lessons for sustainability in all places.
Two Core Specialization Courses = 6 Hours Credit
9 credit hours from the following list OR other course with permission of Director:
REQUIREMENTS FOR MINOR IN ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
A minor in Environmental Studies will be recognized when a student has successfully completed 21 semester hours of courses drawn from Environmental Studies courses and cross-listed courses.
These courses must include:
1) Two core introductory Environmental Studies courses (Environmental Studies 1010 and 2030)
2) A minimum of 6 semester hours in approved courses within the Faculty of Science; and
3) A minimum of 6 semester hours in approved courses within the Faculty of Arts; and
4) A minimum of 3 semester hours in approved courses within the Faculty of Arts or Faculty of Science
APPROVED COURSES ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES MINOR: Students who do not have the required prerequisites for particular courses that are cross-listed in the Environmental Studies Program are encouraged to consult with the instructors of these courses to seek their permission to enrol. Instructors may choose to admit students to these courses based upon alternative prerequisites that are judged to provide the student with sufficient background preparation for the course.
Faculty of Science
** Students may only credit either Biology 1010 or Biology 1320 toward their minor.
Faculty of Arts
Recommended List of Science, Business, and Arts courses for the BES
First Year
ENV 1010 (3 hours credit)
BIO 1010 (3 hours credit)
Either SOC 1010 or ANTH 1050 (3 hours credit)
STAT 1210 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2120 (3 hours credit)
One of UPEI 1010, 1020 or 1030 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives (3 to 6 hours credit)
Second Year
ENV 2030 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2040 (3 hours credit)
PHIL 2030 (3 hours credit)
Either EC 2110 or EC 2150 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives
Third Year
ENV 3010 (3 hours credit)
ENV 3320 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
Three of: ENV 2240, ENV 2420, ENV 3510, ENV 3540, ENV 4330, ENV 4950, ENGN 1410, BUS 1410, BUS 2650, BUS 3730, PHYS 2610, S/A 3410 (9 hours credit)
General Electives
Fourth Year
ENV 4010 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled, one writing Intensive course, for example, ENG 3810 or BUS 2110 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled:
ENV electives to complete at least 4 at 3000 level (6 hours credit)
One ENV elective at 4000 level (3 hours credit)
ENV electives to complete a total of 14 ENV courses
General Electives
Second Year
ENV 2030 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2040 (3 hours credit)
PHIL 2030 (3 hours credit)
Either PSYCH 1010 or PSYCH 3330 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives
Third Year
ENV 3010 (3 hours credit)
SOC/ANTH 3410 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
Three of: ENV 2420, ENV 2310, ENV 3420, ENV 4110, ENV 4330, ENV 4950, ENG 3220, ENG 3620, HIST 4830, PHIL 2060, PHIL 3710 (9 hours credit)
General Electives
Fourth Year
ENV 4010 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled, one writing Intensive course, for example, ENG 3810 or BUS 2110 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled:
ENV electives to complete at least 4 at 3000 level
One ENV elective at 4000 level (3 hours credit)
ENV electives to complete a total of 14 ENV courses
General Electives
Second Year
ENV 2030 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2040 (3 hours credit)
PHIL 2030 (3 hours credit)
IST 2010 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives
Third Year
ENV 3010 (3 hours credit)
Either POLS 2330 or ENV 3340 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
Three of ENV 2120, ENV 2310, ENV 3110, ENV 3210, ENV 3510, ENV 4110, BIO 2220, BIO 3270, BIO 3910, BIO 4520, BIO 4620, SOC 3050 (9 hours credit)
General Electives
Fourth Year
ENV 4010 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled, one writing Intensive course, for example, ENG 3810 or BUS 2110 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled:
ENV electives to complete at least 4 at 3000 level
One ENV elective at 4000 level (3 hours credit)
ENV electives to complete a total of 14 ENV courses
General Electives
RECOMMENDED LIST OF SCIENCE, BUSINESS, AND ARTS COURSES for the BES
Unless otherwise indicated, students who do not have the required prerequisites for particular courses that are approved for the Bachelor of Environmental Studies are encouraged to consult with the instructors of these courses to seek their permission to enrol. Instructors may choose to admit students to these courses based upon alternative prerequisites that are judged to provide the student with sufficient background preparation for the course.
SCIENCE COURSES:
Applied Human Sciences:
Foods and Nutrition 2230 - Nutrition and Dietary Behaviour
Biology: (please note that Biology 1310-1320 are required as prerequisites for the other Biology courses below)
1010 - Current Issues in Environmental Biology
1310 - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology
1320 - Introduction to Organisms
2220 - Ecology
2020 - Botany
2040 - Zoology
3110 - Plants and People
3140 - Plant Community Ecology
3270 - Field Coastal Ecology
3510 - Ornithology
3710 - Life of Mammals
3910 - Marine Biology
4110 - Principles of Wildlife Biology
4520 - Biogeography and Macroecology
4540 - Biodiversity and Conservation Biology
4620 - Watershed Ecology
4650 - Marine Community Ecology
4850 - Environmental Toxicology
Chemistry: (please note that Chemistry 1110-1120 are required as prerequisites for the other Chemistry courses below)
1110 - General Chemistry I
1120 - General Chemistry II
2020 - Environmental Chemistry
2430 - Organic Chemistry for the Life Sciences
Engineering:
1520 - Engineering and the Biosphere
2120 - Geology for Engineers
Physics:
2610 - Energy, Environment and the Economy
BUSINESS COURSES:
1010 - Introduction to Business
1410 - Marketing
1710 - Organizational Behaviour
2110 - Business Communication
2510 - Introduction to Management Science
2650 - Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
2750 - Introduction to Biotechnology
3730 - Tourism Management
ARTS COURSES:
Economics:
2110 - Introduction to Resource Economics
2150 - Environmental Economics
2830 - Agricultural Economics
3520 - Applied Resource Economics
English:
3220 - English Canadian Poetry
3310 - The Literature of Atlantic Canada
3350 - British Romantic Literature
3620 - 19th century American literature, 1830-1910
History:
2310 - The Atlantic Region
3310 - History of Prince Edward Island: Pre-Confederation
3320 - History of Prince Edward Island: Post-Confederation
4830 - History of the Environmental Movement
International Development Studies:
2010 - Introduction to International Development Studies
Island Studies
2010 - Introduction to Island Studies
Modern Languages:
2110 - Latin American Studies: South America
Philosophy:
1020 - Introduction to Ethics and Social Philosophy
1050 - Technology, Values, and Science
1110 - Critical Thinking
2030 - Environmental Philosophy
2060 - Animal Ethics
3010 - Philosophy of Science
3710 - Community-Based Ethical Inquiry
Political Science:
1010 - Introductory Politics I: Government and Politics in Liberal Democracies
1020 - Introductory Politics II: Political Ideologies in Liberal Democracies
2530 - Introduction to Political Theory
Psychology:
1010 - Introduction to Psychology: Part I
2420 - Introduction to Social Psychology
3330 - Ecopsychology
3620 - Ergonomics
Religious Studies:
1020 - Religions of the World: Eastern Traditions
Sociology:
1020 - Introduction to Sociology II
2710 - Self and Society
2820 - Social Psychology
3050 - Population and Society
3320 - Methodology and Research II
3720 - Collective Behaviour and Social Movements
3920 - Media and Society
Sociology/Anthropology:
2220 - Native Canadians
2660 - Science, Culture and Society
3410 - Technology, Society, and the Environment
"Acquire the knowledge to create a sustainable future.
The reasons why are all around you."
With the new Bachelor of Environmental Studies program at the University of Prince Edward Island you will learn to make environmental connections across academic fields and to analyze environmental challenges we face today. In the classroom, field, and community, you will lead the way in finding innovative solutions—making a positive impact toward sustainability in your personal life, locally and globally.
Environmental issues typically do not respect traditional academic boundaries and require scientific, technical, human and social perspectives to address. As an interdisciplinary liberal arts and science program, the Bachelor of Environmental Studies will provide students with the opportunity to integrate knowledge across faculties of Arts, Science, and Business.
Degree Description
A student enrolled in the BES will require a total of 120 credit hours or 40 Courses which includes a minimum of 42 credit hours or 14 discipline specific courses with a designation of Environmental Studies (ENV). Of these 14 ENV courses, at least 6 must be at the 3000 level or above, including at least 2 at the 4000 level. There are 5 required core (ENV) courses included as part of the 14 discipline specific courses, one of which requires a 30 hour internship working with a community partner engaged in the environmental field (ENV 3010). There are requirements from the Faculties of Arts, Science, and School of Business. Students are required to choose one of three specializations:
Note: Each specialization has specific required courses (see Specializations tab).
Degree Requirements
ALL BACHELOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES (BES) MAJORS
A total of 120 credit hours or 40 Courses which includes a minimum of 42 credit hours or 14 discipline specific courses with a designation of Environmental Studies (ENV). Of these 14 ENV courses, at least 6 must be at the 3000 level or above, including at least 2 at the 4000 level. There are 5 required core (ENV) courses included as part of the 14 discipline specific courses.
Five Core Environmental Studies Courses (ENV) = 15 Hours Credit
At least nine (9) additional Environmental Studies (ENV) courses = 27 Hours Credit. Please note that these 9 courses can be taken as part of a specialization requirement (see Specialization tab) or as an ENV elective to fulfil the requirements indicated above.
CHOICE OF ONE (1) SPECIALIZATION - (see Specialization tab for description and required courses for each Specialization)
REQUIRED COURSES IN OTHER DEPARTMENTS – ALL BES MAJORS
3 Foundational Cognate Courses = 9 Hours Credit (Please note that these courses are required in addition to the other requirements for the BES)
1 Course in Statistical Methods = 3 Hours Credit
4 Foundational Courses from Science and Business that fit the following criteria = 12 Hours Credit (Please note that these courses are required in addition to the other requirements for the BES)
4 Foundational Courses from Arts that fit the following criteria = 12 Hours Credit (Please note that these courses are required in addition to the other requirements for the BES)
GENERAL ELECTIVES
The remaining number of semester hours required to complete the requirements for the Bachelor of Environmental Studies (120 credit hours) will be made up from courses selected by the students.
WRITING INTENSIVE COURSE
COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION
Students are expected to apply for a particular specialization at the beginning of their second year. However, it is possible for students to declare a specialization until the end of their third year. Please note that ENV courses taken as part of a specialization requirement can be used to fulfil the ENV requirements for the BES.
See the Suggested Course Sequence tab for each specialization's suggested sequence.
ENVIRONMENTAL INNOVATION AND CHANGE MANAGEMENT SPECIALIZATION
The specialization in Environmental Innovation and Change Management focuses on learning how to live within the limits of our environment, and develop innovations to manage the interaction of human activities with and upon the environment in a positive way; to challenge the conventional and move organizations, businesses and communities to invoke positive change.
Two Core Specialization Courses = 6 Hours Credit
9 credit hours chosen from the following list OR other course with permission of Director:
ENVIRONMENTAL THOUGHT AND PRACTICE SPECIALIZATION
The specialization in Environmental Thought and Practice focuses on the exploration of the values, attitudes and beliefs of people in relation to the environment in order to provide answers to pressing environmental concerns.
Two Core Specialization Courses = 6 Hours Credit
9 credit hours chosen from the following list OR other course with permission of Director:
ISLAND ENVIRONMENTS AND SUSTAINABILITY SPECIALIZATION
The Island Environments and Sustainability specialization focuses on the diverse characteristics of islands and islanders’ interaction with the environment in order to gain an understanding of lessons for sustainability in all places.
Two Core Specialization Courses = 6 Hours Credit
9 credit hours from the following list OR other course with permission of Director:
REQUIREMENTS FOR MINOR IN ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
A minor in Environmental Studies will be recognized when a student has successfully completed 21 semester hours of courses drawn from Environmental Studies courses and cross-listed courses.
These courses must include:
1) Two core introductory Environmental Studies courses (Environmental Studies 1010 and 2030)
2) A minimum of 6 semester hours in approved courses within the Faculty of Science; and
3) A minimum of 6 semester hours in approved courses within the Faculty of Arts; and
4) A minimum of 3 semester hours in approved courses within the Faculty of Arts or Faculty of Science
APPROVED COURSES ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES MINOR: Students who do not have the required prerequisites for particular courses that are cross-listed in the Environmental Studies Program are encouraged to consult with the instructors of these courses to seek their permission to enrol. Instructors may choose to admit students to these courses based upon alternative prerequisites that are judged to provide the student with sufficient background preparation for the course.
Faculty of Science
** Students may only credit either Biology 1010 or Biology 1320 toward their minor.
Faculty of Arts
Recommended List of Science, Business, and Arts courses for the BES
First Year
ENV 1010 (3 hours credit)
BIO 1010 (3 hours credit)
Either SOC 1010 or ANTH 1050 (3 hours credit)
STAT 1210 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2120 (3 hours credit)
One of UPEI 1010, 1020 or 1030 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives (3 to 6 hours credit)
Second Year
ENV 2030 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2040 (3 hours credit)
PHIL 2030 (3 hours credit)
Either EC 2110 or EC 2150 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives
Third Year
ENV 3010 (3 hours credit)
ENV 3320 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
Three of: ENV 2240, ENV 2420, ENV 3510, ENV 3540, ENV 4330, ENV 4950, ENGN 1410, BUS 1410, BUS 2650, BUS 3730, PHYS 2610, S/A 3410 (9 hours credit)
General Electives
Fourth Year
ENV 4010 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled, one writing Intensive course, for example, ENG 3810 or BUS 2110 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled:
ENV electives to complete at least 4 at 3000 level (6 hours credit)
One ENV elective at 4000 level (3 hours credit)
ENV electives to complete a total of 14 ENV courses
General Electives
Second Year
ENV 2030 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2040 (3 hours credit)
PHIL 2030 (3 hours credit)
Either PSYCH 1010 or PSYCH 3330 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives
Third Year
ENV 3010 (3 hours credit)
SOC/ANTH 3410 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
Three of: ENV 2420, ENV 2310, ENV 3420, ENV 4110, ENV 4330, ENV 4950, ENG 3220, ENG 3620, HIST 4830, PHIL 2060, PHIL 3710 (9 hours credit)
General Electives
Fourth Year
ENV 4010 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled, one writing Intensive course, for example, ENG 3810 or BUS 2110 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled:
ENV electives to complete at least 4 at 3000 level
One ENV elective at 4000 level (3 hours credit)
ENV electives to complete a total of 14 ENV courses
General Electives
Second Year
ENV 2030 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2040 (3 hours credit)
PHIL 2030 (3 hours credit)
IST 2010 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives
Third Year
ENV 3010 (3 hours credit)
Either POLS 2330 or ENV 3340 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
Three of ENV 2120, ENV 2310, ENV 3110, ENV 3210, ENV 3510, ENV 4110, BIO 2220, BIO 3270, BIO 3910, BIO 4520, BIO 4620, SOC 3050 (9 hours credit)
General Electives
Fourth Year
ENV 4010 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled, one writing Intensive course, for example, ENG 3810 or BUS 2110 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled:
ENV electives to complete at least 4 at 3000 level
One ENV elective at 4000 level (3 hours credit)
ENV electives to complete a total of 14 ENV courses
General Electives
RECOMMENDED LIST OF SCIENCE, BUSINESS, AND ARTS COURSES for the BES
Unless otherwise indicated, students who do not have the required prerequisites for particular courses that are approved for the Bachelor of Environmental Studies are encouraged to consult with the instructors of these courses to seek their permission to enrol. Instructors may choose to admit students to these courses based upon alternative prerequisites that are judged to provide the student with sufficient background preparation for the course.
SCIENCE COURSES:
Applied Human Sciences:
Foods and Nutrition 2230 - Nutrition and Dietary Behaviour
Biology: (please note that Biology 1310-1320 are required as prerequisites for the other Biology courses below)
1010 - Current Issues in Environmental Biology
1310 - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology
1320 - Introduction to Organisms
2220 - Ecology
2020 - Botany
2040 - Zoology
3110 - Plants and People
3140 - Plant Community Ecology
3270 - Field Coastal Ecology
3510 - Ornithology
3710 - Life of Mammals
3910 - Marine Biology
4110 - Principles of Wildlife Biology
4520 - Biogeography and Macroecology
4540 - Biodiversity and Conservation Biology
4620 - Watershed Ecology
4650 - Marine Community Ecology
4850 - Environmental Toxicology
Chemistry: (please note that Chemistry 1110-1120 are required as prerequisites for the other Chemistry courses below)
1110 - General Chemistry I
1120 - General Chemistry II
2020 - Environmental Chemistry
2430 - Organic Chemistry for the Life Sciences
Engineering:
1520 - Engineering and the Biosphere
2120 - Geology for Engineers
Physics:
2610 - Energy, Environment and the Economy
BUSINESS COURSES:
1010 - Introduction to Business
1410 - Marketing
1710 - Organizational Behaviour
2110 - Business Communication
2510 - Introduction to Management Science
2650 - Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
2750 - Introduction to Biotechnology
3730 - Tourism Management
ARTS COURSES:
Economics:
2110 - Introduction to Resource Economics
2150 - Environmental Economics
2830 - Agricultural Economics
3520 - Applied Resource Economics
English:
3220 - English Canadian Poetry
3310 - The Literature of Atlantic Canada
3350 - British Romantic Literature
3620 - 19th century American literature, 1830-1910
History:
2310 - The Atlantic Region
3310 - History of Prince Edward Island: Pre-Confederation
3320 - History of Prince Edward Island: Post-Confederation
4830 - History of the Environmental Movement
International Development Studies:
2010 - Introduction to International Development Studies
Island Studies
2010 - Introduction to Island Studies
Modern Languages:
2110 - Latin American Studies: South America
Philosophy:
1020 - Introduction to Ethics and Social Philosophy
1050 - Technology, Values, and Science
1110 - Critical Thinking
2030 - Environmental Philosophy
2060 - Animal Ethics
3010 - Philosophy of Science
3710 - Community-Based Ethical Inquiry
Political Science:
1010 - Introductory Politics I: Government and Politics in Liberal Democracies
1020 - Introductory Politics II: Political Ideologies in Liberal Democracies
2530 - Introduction to Political Theory
Psychology:
1010 - Introduction to Psychology: Part I
2420 - Introduction to Social Psychology
3330 - Ecopsychology
3620 - Ergonomics
Religious Studies:
1020 - Religions of the World: Eastern Traditions
Sociology:
1020 - Introduction to Sociology II
2710 - Self and Society
2820 - Social Psychology
3050 - Population and Society
3320 - Methodology and Research II
3720 - Collective Behaviour and Social Movements
3920 - Media and Society
Sociology/Anthropology:
2220 - Native Canadians
2660 - Science, Culture and Society
3410 - Technology, Society, and the Environment
"Acquire the knowledge to create a sustainable future.
The reasons why are all around you."
With the new Bachelor of Environmental Studies program at the University of Prince Edward Island you will learn to make environmental connections across academic fields and to analyze environmental challenges we face today. In the classroom, field, and community, you will lead the way in finding innovative solutions—making a positive impact toward sustainability in your personal life, locally and globally.
Environmental issues typically do not respect traditional academic boundaries and require scientific, technical, human and social perspectives to address. As an interdisciplinary liberal arts and science program, the Bachelor of Environmental Studies will provide students with the opportunity to integrate knowledge across faculties of Arts, Science, and Business.
Degree Description
A student enrolled in the BES will require a total of 120 credit hours or 40 Courses which includes a minimum of 42 credit hours or 14 discipline specific courses with a designation of Environmental Studies (ENV). Of these 14 ENV courses, at least 6 must be at the 3000 level or above, including at least 2 at the 4000 level. There are 5 required core (ENV) courses included as part of the 14 discipline specific courses, one of which requires a 30 hour internship working with a community partner engaged in the environmental field (ENV 3010). There are requirements from the Faculties of Arts, Science, and School of Business. Students are required to choose one of three specializations:
Note: Each specialization has specific required courses (see Specializations tab).
Degree Requirements
ALL BACHELOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES (BES) MAJORS
A total of 120 credit hours or 40 Courses which includes a minimum of 42 credit hours or 14 discipline specific courses with a designation of Environmental Studies (ENV). Of these 14 ENV courses, at least 6 must be at the 3000 level or above, including at least 2 at the 4000 level. There are 5 required core (ENV) courses included as part of the 14 discipline specific courses.
Five Core Environmental Studies Courses (ENV) = 15 Hours Credit
At least nine (9) additional Environmental Studies (ENV) courses = 27 Hours Credit. Please note that these 9 courses can be taken as part of a specialization requirement (see Specialization tab) or as an ENV elective to fulfil the requirements indicated above.
CHOICE OF ONE (1) SPECIALIZATION - (see Specialization tab for description and required courses for each Specialization)
REQUIRED COURSES IN OTHER DEPARTMENTS – ALL BES MAJORS
3 Foundational Cognate Courses = 9 Hours Credit (Please note that these courses are required in addition to the other requirements for the BES)
1 Course in Statistical Methods = 3 Hours Credit
4 Foundational Courses from Science and Business that fit the following criteria = 12 Hours Credit (Please note that these courses are required in addition to the other requirements for the BES)
4 Foundational Courses from Arts that fit the following criteria = 12 Hours Credit (Please note that these courses are required in addition to the other requirements for the BES)
GENERAL ELECTIVES
The remaining number of semester hours required to complete the requirements for the Bachelor of Environmental Studies (120 credit hours) will be made up from courses selected by the students.
WRITING INTENSIVE COURSE
COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION
Students are expected to apply for a particular specialization at the beginning of their second year. However, it is possible for students to declare a specialization until the end of their third year. Please note that ENV courses taken as part of a specialization requirement can be used to fulfil the ENV requirements for the BES.
See the Suggested Course Sequence tab for each specialization's suggested sequence.
ENVIRONMENTAL INNOVATION AND CHANGE MANAGEMENT SPECIALIZATION
The specialization in Environmental Innovation and Change Management focuses on learning how to live within the limits of our environment, and develop innovations to manage the interaction of human activities with and upon the environment in a positive way; to challenge the conventional and move organizations, businesses and communities to invoke positive change.
Two Core Specialization Courses = 6 Hours Credit
9 credit hours chosen from the following list OR other course with permission of Director:
ENVIRONMENTAL THOUGHT AND PRACTICE SPECIALIZATION
The specialization in Environmental Thought and Practice focuses on the exploration of the values, attitudes and beliefs of people in relation to the environment in order to provide answers to pressing environmental concerns.
Two Core Specialization Courses = 6 Hours Credit
9 credit hours chosen from the following list OR other course with permission of Director:
ISLAND ENVIRONMENTS AND SUSTAINABILITY SPECIALIZATION
The Island Environments and Sustainability specialization focuses on the diverse characteristics of islands and islanders’ interaction with the environment in order to gain an understanding of lessons for sustainability in all places.
Two Core Specialization Courses = 6 Hours Credit
9 credit hours from the following list OR other course with permission of Director:
REQUIREMENTS FOR MINOR IN ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
A minor in Environmental Studies will be recognized when a student has successfully completed 21 semester hours of courses drawn from Environmental Studies courses and cross-listed courses.
These courses must include:
1) Two core introductory Environmental Studies courses (Environmental Studies 1010 and 2030)
2) A minimum of 6 semester hours in approved courses within the Faculty of Science; and
3) A minimum of 6 semester hours in approved courses within the Faculty of Arts; and
4) A minimum of 3 semester hours in approved courses within the Faculty of Arts or Faculty of Science
APPROVED COURSES ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES MINOR: Students who do not have the required prerequisites for particular courses that are cross-listed in the Environmental Studies Program are encouraged to consult with the instructors of these courses to seek their permission to enrol. Instructors may choose to admit students to these courses based upon alternative prerequisites that are judged to provide the student with sufficient background preparation for the course.
Faculty of Science
** Students may only credit either Biology 1010 or Biology 1320 toward their minor.
Faculty of Arts
Recommended List of Science, Business, and Arts courses for the BES
First Year
ENV 1010 (3 hours credit)
BIO 1010 (3 hours credit)
Either SOC 1010 or ANTH 1050 (3 hours credit)
STAT 1210 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2120 (3 hours credit)
One of UPEI 1010, 1020 or 1030 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives (3 to 6 hours credit)
Second Year
ENV 2030 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2040 (3 hours credit)
PHIL 2030 (3 hours credit)
Either EC 2110 or EC 2150 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives
Third Year
ENV 3010 (3 hours credit)
ENV 3320 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
Three of: ENV 2240, ENV 2420, ENV 3510, ENV 3540, ENV 4330, ENV 4950, ENGN 1410, BUS 1410, BUS 2650, BUS 3730, PHYS 2610, S/A 3410 (9 hours credit)
General Electives
Fourth Year
ENV 4010 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled, one writing Intensive course, for example, ENG 3810 or BUS 2110 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled:
ENV electives to complete at least 4 at 3000 level (6 hours credit)
One ENV elective at 4000 level (3 hours credit)
ENV electives to complete a total of 14 ENV courses
General Electives
Second Year
ENV 2030 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2040 (3 hours credit)
PHIL 2030 (3 hours credit)
Either PSYCH 1010 or PSYCH 3330 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives
Third Year
ENV 3010 (3 hours credit)
SOC/ANTH 3410 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
Three of: ENV 2420, ENV 2310, ENV 3420, ENV 4110, ENV 4330, ENV 4950, ENG 3220, ENG 3620, HIST 4830, PHIL 2060, PHIL 3710 (9 hours credit)
General Electives
Fourth Year
ENV 4010 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled, one writing Intensive course, for example, ENG 3810 or BUS 2110 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled:
ENV electives to complete at least 4 at 3000 level
One ENV elective at 4000 level (3 hours credit)
ENV electives to complete a total of 14 ENV courses
General Electives
Second Year
ENV 2030 (3 hours credit)
ENV 2040 (3 hours credit)
PHIL 2030 (3 hours credit)
IST 2010 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
General Electives
Third Year
ENV 3010 (3 hours credit)
Either POLS 2330 or ENV 3340 (3 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Science and Business (3 or 6 hours credit)
Foundational courses from Arts (3 or 6 hours credit)
Three of ENV 2120, ENV 2310, ENV 3110, ENV 3210, ENV 3510, ENV 4110, BIO 2220, BIO 3270, BIO 3910, BIO 4520, BIO 4620, SOC 3050 (9 hours credit)
General Electives
Fourth Year
ENV 4010 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled, one writing Intensive course, for example, ENG 3810 or BUS 2110 (3 hours credit)
If not already fulfilled:
ENV electives to complete at least 4 at 3000 level
One ENV elective at 4000 level (3 hours credit)
ENV electives to complete a total of 14 ENV courses
General Electives
RECOMMENDED LIST OF SCIENCE, BUSINESS, AND ARTS COURSES for the BES
Unless otherwise indicated, students who do not have the required prerequisites for particular courses that are approved for the Bachelor of Environmental Studies are encouraged to consult with the instructors of these courses to seek their permission to enrol. Instructors may choose to admit students to these courses based upon alternative prerequisites that are judged to provide the student with sufficient background preparation for the course.
SCIENCE COURSES:
Applied Human Sciences:
Foods and Nutrition 2230 - Nutrition and Dietary Behaviour
Biology: (please note that Biology 1310-1320 are required as prerequisites for the other Biology courses below)
1010 - Current Issues in Environmental Biology
1310 - Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology
1320 - Introduction to Organisms
2220 - Ecology
2020 - Botany
2040 - Zoology
3110 - Plants and People
3140 - Plant Community Ecology
3270 - Field Coastal Ecology
3510 - Ornithology
3710 - Life of Mammals
3910 - Marine Biology
4110 - Principles of Wildlife Biology
4520 - Biogeography and Macroecology
4540 - Biodiversity and Conservation Biology
4620 - Watershed Ecology
4650 - Marine Community Ecology
4850 - Environmental Toxicology
Chemistry: (please note that Chemistry 1110-1120 are required as prerequisites for the other Chemistry courses below)
1110 - General Chemistry I
1120 - General Chemistry II
2020 - Environmental Chemistry
2430 - Organic Chemistry for the Life Sciences
Engineering:
1520 - Engineering and the Biosphere
2120 - Geology for Engineers
Physics:
2610 - Energy, Environment and the Economy
BUSINESS COURSES:
1010 - Introduction to Business
1410 - Marketing
1710 - Organizational Behaviour
2110 - Business Communication
2510 - Introduction to Management Science
2650 - Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management
2750 - Introduction to Biotechnology
3730 - Tourism Management
ARTS COURSES:
Economics:
2110 - Introduction to Resource Economics
2150 - Environmental Economics
2830 - Agricultural Economics
3520 - Applied Resource Economics
English:
3220 - English Canadian Poetry
3310 - The Literature of Atlantic Canada
3350 - British Romantic Literature
3620 - 19th century American literature, 1830-1910
History:
2310 - The Atlantic Region
3310 - History of Prince Edward Island: Pre-Confederation
3320 - History of Prince Edward Island: Post-Confederation
4830 - History of the Environmental Movement
International Development Studies:
2010 - Introduction to International Development Studies
Island Studies
2010 - Introduction to Island Studies
Modern Languages:
2110 - Latin American Studies: South America
Philosophy:
1020 - Introduction to Ethics and Social Philosophy
1050 - Technology, Values, and Science
1110 - Critical Thinking
2030 - Environmental Philosophy
2060 - Animal Ethics
3010 - Philosophy of Science
3710 - Community-Based Ethical Inquiry
Political Science:
1010 - Introductory Politics I: Government and Politics in Liberal Democracies
1020 - Introductory Politics II: Political Ideologies in Liberal Democracies
2530 - Introduction to Political Theory
Psychology:
1010 - Introduction to Psychology: Part I
2420 - Introduction to Social Psychology
3330 - Ecopsychology
3620 - Ergonomics
Religious Studies:
1020 - Religions of the World: Eastern Traditions
Sociology:
1020 - Introduction to Sociology II
2710 - Self and Society
2820 - Social Psychology
3050 - Population and Society
3320 - Methodology and Research II
3720 - Collective Behaviour and Social Movements
3920 - Media and Society
Sociology/Anthropology:
2220 - Native Canadians
2660 - Science, Culture and Society
3410 - Technology, Society, and the Environment