Master of Science in Bioenvironmental Monitoring & Assessment M.Sc. BEMA

Gain a foundational understanding of the principles, technical aspects and human dimensions of environmental monitoring and assessment. 

The new MSc in Bioenvironmental Monitoring and Assessment (BEMA) is designed to prepare its graduates for future employment in the fields of bioenvironmental monitoring, population assessment, wildlife management, and conservation biology. Many of today’s pressing environmental questions can be addressed either through robust analysis of existing ecological datasets or by conducting original research using especially novel and innovative approaches.

This graduate program is designed to train students to answer questions strategically and efficiently, using state-of-the-art data collection and analytical tools in landscape genetics, population viability and trend analysis, environmental genomics, ecological stoichiometry, and nutrient cycling assessment. The program is thesis-based and is differentiated from traditional MSc programs by stressing how and why our environment is changing. It includes a required experiential learning component through placement with a non-academic partner, and mandatory professional skills workshops on topics of particular relevance to job training. MSc in BEMA graduates will be well-positioned for employment in a variety of bioenvironmental sectors including in government, NGOs and industry. 

Bioenvironmental Monitoring & Assessment website
 

Program Options 

• Full-time studies
• Thesis based program
• Online course options may be available
• Placement requirement (The placement component will provide MSc students with an opportunity to train with a government agency, NGO or industrial partner, pursuing an aspect of work that is related to their research area). 
•  24 months to complete
• September, May and January intake
• For other program options, please see Masters M. BEMA and Graduate Diploma BEMA

​Admission Requirements 

• To be considered for admission, applicants will normally have completed a B.Sc. honours degree (a four year undergraduate bachelor's degree) in Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Science, or Geography from a recognized university
• Minimum B+ (77%) or equivalent in the work of the last four semesters or the last two undergraduate years (last ten full credits)
• A potential supervisor must be chosen as an admission requirement to this program and this must be discussed in your plan of study.  (Please visit our Faculty and Research Page for our listing of faculty and areas of research. An applicant must reach out to a faculty member).

A GRE test score is not required for admission into this program 

Required Documents

Transcripts

Post-secondary transcripts and graduation certificates (where applicable) of all previous undergraduate and graduate work are required.  This includes transcripts for courses taken on a Letter of Permission, for transfer credit, or on an exchange program.   Transcripts must show all course work completed and grades received.   If applicable, evidence of degree completion is required.  Transcript must include a grading scale or transcript legend.

Please note: Transcripts are not required to be official and final when applying to the School of Graduate Studies.   Official transcripts are only required to be submitted if an applicant receives an offer of admission.

Previous or current Trent University students do not need to submit a transcript for degree and course work completed at Trent University.   Transcripts must be submitted for any course work completed at another institution – i.e.) study abroad, letter of permission, transfer credit.

Two Letters of Reference

Academic references are required. Links for your referees to submit an online reference will be sent directly to the referees you have provided on your application. We recommend you contact your referees prior to submitting an application to confirm their availability and contact information. If your referee does not receive the link, you can suggest that your referee check their junk email folder and email setting.  The email may have unintentionally been blocked by their email server.

Proof of English Language Proficiency

Proficiency in English usage, both written and oral, is essential to pursue graduate studies at Trent University. It Is required for applicants to demonstrate an adequate level of English proficiency, regardless of their citizenship status or country of origin. Applicants who completed two or more years of post-secondary education at a university in Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the USA are exempt from this requirement. If you have completed two or more years of post-secondary education at a university where the primary language of instruction is English, the School of Graduate Studies is prepared to consider alternate proof of English language proficiency.

For detailed information about English Language Proficiency requirements, see International Applications. 

Plan of Study    template

Typically 1-2 pages, outlining applicant's objectives in a graduate program. Any specific research interests (if known), relevant experiences, and/or career aspirations can be included. If a potential supervisor has been discussed, please identify this in your plan of study. 

Additional information: 

Proof of Citizenship (ie. copy of passport or birth certificate) will be requested, only if an offer of admission is made.