Natural Sciences and Environmental Management Minor (HBSc)
Admissions Category: Physical & Environmental Sciences
Program Overview
This Minor is designed to provide students with a multidisciplinary education encompassing the origin and natural history of the Earth, environmental science and environmental management, with emphasis on how these branches of study relate to one another. Building on foundational courses in natural and environmental science, students will develop decision-analysis techniques and a broad perspective on human impact on the environment. In upper years, knowledge of natural, environmental and social sciences is implemented in analyses of real-world issues through integrative environmental studies courses. The program is well suited to complement degree programs in Management, Economics for Management Studies and the Social Sciences. First-year students are strongly advised to check prerequisites for B- and C-level courses before choosing their A-level courses.
Complementary Programs:
Program in Physical and Human Geography; GIS Programs; Programs in Economics and Management
Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:
Competencies & Skills
- Understand astronomical concepts , their evolution, as well as basic parts of physics, chemistry, etc.
- Understand models and methods of study of the universe
- Understand the composition and structure of the Earth
- Apply knowledge to understand positive and negative environmental effects
- Understand physical and social science perspectives on the environment, sustainability, and environmental problems and solutions.
Careers for Graduates
- Environmental management and policy
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Analyst
- Geographer
- Agricultural Scientist
- Conservation Officer
Further Education
- Graduates of the Minor Program can further their education through graduate experiences in environmental sciences and environmental studies.
Program Pathway
Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4Choose Your Courses Wisely
1.0 credit from the following:
Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics I: The Sun and Planets;
Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics II: Beyond the Sun and Planets;
Introduction to Planet Earth;
Wind;
Human Health and the Environment;
Environmental Pollution;
Introduction to Environmental Studies
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Attend Facilitated Study Groups.
- Schedule an appointment with your Program Librarian for in-depth library research assistance.
- Writing support is available at the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL) .
Apply Theory to Practice
- Attend the UTSC Faculty Mix & Mingle Fair to connect with professors and learn more about their specialties.
- Start building your Co-Curricular Record (CCR) and search for Experiential Learning opportunities.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Join the (EPSA) and get involved in their activities.
- Volunteer in the Alternative Reading Week program to gain experience and knowledge about social change and community development.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Volunteer with organizations to explore your interests; check listings on (>Jobs & Recruitment).
- Attend the UTSC Get Experience Fair in September and register with to explore opportunities.
Year 2
Choose Your Courses Wisely
1.5 credits from the following:
Great Moments in Astronomy;
Principles of Soil Science;
Earth History;
Feeding Humans - The Cost to the Planet;
Natural Hazards;
Environmental Impact Assessment and Auditing;
Sustainability in Practice
Notes:
* cannot be taken in combination with any other AST course in the program.
**Students in the Minor in Natural Sciences and Environmental Management must take as the prerequisite for these courses.
***The prerequisites for this course are and , which are not included in the requirements for the Minor.
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Check the Research Catalogue and jobs on for possible research opportunities.
- Drop by the to have your course-related questions answered.
Apply Theory to Practice
- Check out opportunities through the International Student Centre (ISC) to gain valuable international and research experiences.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Look into Global Learning opportunities, such as the , Explore, or Student Exchange programs.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Gain experience by applying for a summer, part-time or Work Study position via (>Jobs & Recruitment).
- Considering grad school? Speak to professors and advisors early so you choose the right courses.
- Explore careers through the AA&CC鈥檚 Job Shadowing and In The Field programs.
Year 3
Choose Your Courses Wisely
1.5 credits from the following:
Environmental Science and Technology in Society;
Knowledge, Ethics and Environmental Decision-Making;
Canadian Environmental Policy;
Project Management in Environmental Studies;
Cohort Capstone Course in Environmental Studies;
Current Questions in Mathematics and Science;
Communicating Science: Film, Media, Journalism, and Society
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Enter to win the or .
Apply Theory to Practice
- Build on your skills and knowledge through relevant events offered through your department, student groups, DSL and the AA&CC.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Consider running for an elected position in or another campus club.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Plan a career path with a staff member at the AA&CC.
- Check for networking events and employer information sessions to attend.
- Attend the Graduate & Professional School Fair in September to explore your options.
Year 4
Choose Your Courses Wisely
1.5 credits from the following:
Environmental Science and Technology in Society;
Knowledge, Ethics and Environmental Decision-Making;
Canadian Environmental Policy;
Project Management in Environmental Studies;
Cohort Capstone Course in Environmental Studies;
Current Questions in Mathematics and Science;
Communicating Science: Film, Media, Journalism, and Society
Develop Your Academic & Research Skills
- Apply for the Academic Travel Fund through DSL to conduct research, present at a conference, or engage with the academic community internationally.
Apply Theory to Practice
- Attend the Summer & Full-time Job Fair in January to meet with potential employers looking to hire students for summer and full-time positions relevant to your field.
Become an Engaged Citizen (Locally & Globally)
- Participate in the AA&CC鈥檚 program to learn and network with an alumni mentor about transitioning into the work field or further education.
Plan for Your Future Career
- Attend the AA&CC鈥檚 Get Hired job search conference in April/May.
- Attend a Jobs for Grads orientation for a job search 鈥渃rash course鈥 and for access to full-time job listings.
- Discuss grad school plans early with staff at the AA&CC and your professors; get your Personal Statement reviewed in the AA&CC.