Interdisciplinary Master of Science (MSc) in Environmental Sustainability

During your studies with the Institute of the Environment, you will discover key principles of sustainability in environmental science, economics, law and public policy. You will then create methodologies to integrate and apply this diverse knowledge to address some of the greatest multidimensional environmental challenges and opportunities of our time.

• The MSc with research paper (31.5 units) can be completed in 12 months of full-time studies. If you wish, you can enrol full time for one additional term as necessary to meet the program requirements. 

• The MSc with thesis (19.5 units) can be completed in 24 months of full-time studies.

* Currently, compulsory program courses are only offered in English. 
** If you have excellent academic standing and broad professional expertise in environmental studies, economics, law or public policy, you could be admitted to the part-time program.

At the beginning of your first term, you can request to add a CO-OP option. This will allow you to gain relevant work experience by completing two paid work term placements.
You can also work with the Smart Prosperity Institute, a national research network and think tank that’s part of the University of Ottawa’s Institute of the Environment. The Smart Prosperity Institute produces world-class research and partners with the private and public sectors to promote the adoption of sounder, greener practices in the areas of public policy and the economy. 

General information and program requirements - Interdisciplinary MSc in Environmental Sustainability 

Deadline: February 1 (Canadian students) or December 1 (international students)

Master’s programs with specialization in environmental sustainability

This program is under assessment. Applications are not being accepted at this time.

The Institute of the Environment partners with master’s programs on campus to offer a specialization in environmental sustainability. These programs are for students looking to gain some environmental knowledge in addition to the knowledge gained in their main area of study, and who are already admitted to one of the participating University of Ottawa master’s programs. When you complete both your main program and the specialization, your diploma and transcript include a “specialization in environmental sustainability” mention.

For the specialization you must meet the following requirements: 

• Take EVD 5100 — Seminar in Environmental Sustainability or EVD 5500 — Séminaire en durabilité de l’environnement (3 units)

* EVD 5100 is offered every year. EVD 5500 is offered every second year.

An overview of environmental sustainability issues using climate change as an example. Application of integrated analysis based on concepts in science, law, economics and public policy. A look at the debate about the scientific evidence of climate change and at international efforts to negotiate agreements. 

• Research paper or thesis on an environmental sustainability-related topic.

• Depending on the master’s program you choose, one optional course in environmental sustainability (3 units). 

See the list of pre-approved Institute of the Environment courses (PDF, 724 KB).
The list of pre-approved optional courses includes both courses given in English and those given in French.

For program requirements and general information, see these descriptions of the participating programs.

Telfer School of Management

• Master of Science Management

• Master of Science Health Systems

Faculty of Arts

• Master of Arts Geography

• Master of Science Geography

Faculty of Engineering

• Master of Applied Science Environmental Engineering

• Master of Science in Systems Science and Engineering

Faculty of Science

• Master of Science Biology

• Master of Science Earth Sciences

Faculty of Social Sciences

• Master of Arts Public Administration

• Master of Arts Public and International Affairs

• Master of Arts International Development and Globalization

• Master of Arts Political Science

Doctorate (PhD) in Environmental Sustainability

This interdisciplinary program is centred on educating new leaders and professionals to develop, analyze and evaluate how public policies and institutions address the challenges of the transition to sustainability. You will study environmental problems from the perspective of various disciplines: science, law, economics and public policy, which will deepen your understanding of environmental issues and heighten your critical awareness of the broad range of contributing factors. You will also learn to sharpen your methodology and communicate your findings and solutions effectively.

You can also work with the Smart Prosperity Institute, a national research network and think tank that’s part of the University of Ottawa’s Institute of the Environment. The Smart Prosperity Institute produces world-class studies and partners with the private and public sectors to promote adoption of sounder, greener practices in the areas of public policy and the economy.

This program is offered in English and in French.

General information and program requirements - PhD in Environmental Studies