Water Sciences
Plants, animals, and humans all require fresh water to survive, and many living species make water ecosystems their home. As a student in this program, you’ll learn about topics that are foundational to efforts to conserve our most precious resource: freshwater, which accounts for less than two per cent of the Earth’s water supply. Complete a series of practical and theoretical courses drawn from four primary subjects (biology, chemistry, geography, and environmental science) important to examining the science of water and the aquatic environment. By studying at Trent, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of contemporary water challenges, as well as the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to aquatic issues in Canada and around the world.
Accelerated Master's Degree
Earn your M.Sc. in Environmental & Life Sciences in only 12-16 months after graduating from your B.Sc.
Degrees Offered:
- B.Sc. (Honours)
Locations:
- Peterborough
Resume Boosters:
- Gain real experience in the study of water and the aquatic environment in the lab and out in the field
- Get hands-on in your undergrad at the most comprehensive mass spectrometry facility in Canada, as you analyze biological materials and build industry connections
- Make an impact in the community through a capstone research project with a community environmental organization or supporting on-campus research in start-up companies like Noblegen
- Take your education global – study abroad and complete an international research placement

“Not only is Trent the number one school in Canada for Environmental Science, but we also have this awesome campus to use right at our fingertips."
Career Paths:
Featured
Hydrologist
Geoscientists include geologists, geochemists and geophysicists who conduct programs of exploration and research to extend knowledge of the structure, composition and processes of the earth, to locate, identify and extract hydrocarbon, mineral and groundwater resources and to assess and mitigate the effects of development and waste disposal projects on the environment. Oceanographers conduct programs of exploration and research on ocean processes and phenomena, biological, chemical and physical characteristics of oceans, interactions with atmospheric and geological environments and impacts of human activity on oceans and marine ecosystems. Geoscientists are employed by petroleum and mining companies, consulting geology, geophysics and engineering firms and by governments and educational institutions, or they may be self-employed. Oceanographers are employed by governments, educational institutions and private companies engaged in exploration of seafloor deposits and seafarming areas, or they may be self-employed.
Career Opportunities
- Environmental Impact Assessment Consultant
- Hydrologist
- Fisheries Manager
- Drinking Water Policy Specialist
- Regional Land and Water Resources Manager
- Water Quality Analyst
- Watershed Planner
- Aquatic Recovery Analyst
Popular Courses:
- Limnology
- Global Change of Aquatic Ecosystems
- Aquatic Environmental Chemistry
- Hydrology
- Water Policy

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%
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