Indigenous Environmental Studies/Science (Co-op Available)
The natural world is intrinsic to human life, but people’s experience with the environment varies widely and this impacts their values and how they learn to interact with the natural world. IESS at Trent brings together the principles of both Indigenous Knowledge and Western science to explore complex topics such as climate change, community sustainability, and Indigenous health and environment through a cross-cultural, transdisciplinary approach. This degree also offers an additional layer of exploration: co-op work terms. In the Indigenous Environmental Studies/Science Co-op stream, you will participate in three paid placements that will have you engaging in real-world leading environmental workplaces to help you chart the course of your career and consciousness of the natural world. You’ll learn to generate solutions to complex local, regional, national, and international issues facing Indigenous and all peoples and communities around the world.
Accelerated Masters
Fast-track your education, by earning your M.Sc. in Environmental & Life Sciences in only 12-16 months after graduating from your honours B.Sc.
Degrees Offered:
- B.A.
- B.A. (Honours)
- B.Sc.
- B.Sc. (Honours)
- B.A. Co-op (Peterborough Only)
Locations:
- Peterborough
Resume Boosters:
- Explore your strengths and career interests, and graduate with 12 months of work experience (and income) through the new four-year B.A. co-op option, giving you the edge for future career success
- Take hands-on environmental fieldwork courses in Trent’s 12 on-campus nature areas
- Lead a community-based research project and apply your knowledge to assist a local or national organization, including Curve Lake First Nation BandCouncil, Chiefs of Ontario, The AyalikFund, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, or Ontario Public Interest Research Group (OPIRG)
- Volunteer with Trent Aboriginal Cultural Knowledge and Science youth outreach summer camp

"Students are encouraged to open their hearts and understand the world from a greater perspective."
Career Paths:
Featured
Natural Resources Planner
Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers conduct research, prepare reports, provide consultation and advice and administer programs in a variety of areas related to the natural and applied sciences. They are employed by federal, provincial and municipal governments, computer and office furniture manufacturers, educational institutions, research organizations, consulting firms, environmental and conservation organizations, or they may be self-employed.
Career Opportunities
- Indigenous or non-Indigenous Government Policy Specialist
- Environmental Educator
- Natural Resource Manager or Researcher
- Indigenous Corporate Liaison Officer
- Environmental Lawyer; Consultant; Teacher
- Consultant
- Teacher
- Indigenous/ Private Sector Liaison
- Park Warden
- Environmental Activist
Popular Courses:
- Foundations in Indigenous Environmental Studies and Sciences
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems and the Environment
- Indigenous Peoples Health and Environment
- Canada: The Land
- Sustainable Indigenous Communities
- Indigenous Food Systems

Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- A minimum of six Grade 12 4U or 4M courses, including program specific prerequisites
Program Requirements:
- A minimum 70% overall final average
- ENG 4U with a minimum of 60%
Co-op Requirements:
- A minimum 80% overall final average
- ENG 4U with a minimum of 60%
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