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Bachelor of Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice

Why study Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice?

How Canada has practiced environmental protection and care needs to be challenged. Together we must create a better future for all beings, and that future starts with you. Our existence is intertwined with the rocks, the plants, the finned, the furred, the feathered, the four-legged, two-legged, many legged and no-legged, those who creep and walk and swim and fly - all our relations. 

Support a world that is more respectful and responsive to all beings. Through this degree, you will consider and embrace Indigenous methodologies and world views in your pursuit of thoughtful environmental work, making an impact through skills and experiences grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing and being. Pursue a career in environmental science with a unique combination of perspectives to make an impact throughout Canada.

To see all courses offered in this program, visit our Academic Calendar.

Similar programs of interest: Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Bachelor of Bio-Resource Management, Environmental Engineering.

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Indigenous Ways of Environmental Knowing and Being

 Braid Together Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Practices

Develop a foundational knowledge of theoretical and applied aspects of environmental science, technology, management, land-use and policy development practices that are grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing and being.

 Learn From Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Holders

Learn through field trips to Indigenous communities and organizations, land-based instruction, interactive labs, and participation in discussion circles and ceremony. You will also learn from Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Holders.

 A One-of-a-kind Degree

This program is like no other program in Canada and has been created with Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners in mind. Core courses address Indigenous knowledge systems, land-based teachings and Indigenous-settler relations in Canada, including the legal and political context that surrounds environmental decision-making in our country.

Indigenous Student Centre

Supporting our First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Students

The Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) supports First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students as a home away from home for the Indigenous student community on the U of G campus. The ISC team, including the Indigenous Student Advisor and a variety of Visiting Elders and Knowledge Holders support Indigenous students with personal, academic, financial and cultural matters, programs and events, and making community connections. Learn More about the Indigenous Student Centre (ISC)

What can you do with a bachelor's degree in Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice?

By braiding together Indigenous and non-Indigenous practices, graduates of this program will see the world through multiple perspectives.

Careers our Bachelor of Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice graduates successfully pursue:

  • Environmental scientist
  • Environmental analyst or consultant
  • Environmental policy maker
  • Conservation officer
  • Environmental law and advocacy
  • Environmental educator or interpreter
  • Resource or land manager

Gain Valuable Experience Through Co-op

Our BIESP co-op is a five-year program, with four co-op work terms, providing opportunities to work with a wide variety of employers, including First Nation communities, consulting firms, municipal, provincial, and federal organizations. Co-op is designed to facilitate the transition of students from academic studies to a professional career improving students’ job search skills, work performance and networking abilities, and boosting resume experience.

BIESP Co-op Calendar

Laura Gillis smiling
The Bachelor of Indigenous Environmental Science Program works to focus on Two-Eyed Seeing and combining Western worldviews with Indigenous worldviews to get a holistic view of environmental science. I love seeing non-Indigenous students in the program because it's just such a great step towards reconciliation.

Laura Gillis, Undergraduate Student
Bachelor of Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice
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Marah LaForge sitting on a wooden bench and smiling for the camera
I chose the Bachelor of Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice program because I have always been passionate about the environment and wanted to learn more about the role Indigenous knowledge and culture plays in its protection.

Marah LaForge, Undergraduate Student
Bachelor of Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice
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Admission Requirements

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Scholarships & Bursaries

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