UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA · CANADA
Environmental Studies Graduate Programs
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- MA, MSc, and PhD degrees availableProgram Options
- Focus on interdisciplinary research and actionApproach
- Collaboration with Indigenous knowledge systems, First Nations, government, and NGOsPartnerships
- Opportunities for fieldwork and hands-on learningLearning Style
- Thesis-based for MA/MSc, dissertation-based for PhDResearch Focus
The University of Victoria offers Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs in Environmental Studies. These programs focus on developing effective environmental action through a blend of natural and social sciences, incorporating Indigenous knowledge systems. Students engage in original research, collaborating with faculty, First Nations communities, government bodies, and NGOs to transform knowledge into tangible positive change. The programs emphasize hands-on learning, research initiatives, and interdisciplinary approaches to address complex environmental issues.
Curriculum
The Master's programs (MA/MSc) are research-intensive degrees typically lasting 24 months but often taking 30-36 months to complete, with a maximum of 60 months allowed. Students must complete 18 units of study, including required core courses and electives, culminating in a thesis. The PhD program is a longer, research-focused degree, typically 48 months but often taking around 60 months to complete, with a maximum of 84 months. It requires a minimum of 30 units (if entering with a Master's degree), including core courses, with a focus on dissertation research. All students are required to attend an initial overnight field trip.
- Master's - Year 1
- Perspectives on Environmental Theories, Methods and Skills IES 500
- Perspectives on Environmental Theories, Methods and Skills IIES 501
- Research ColloquiumES 503
- Master's - Completion
- Thesis Proposal PreparationES 593
- Masters ThesisES 599
- PhD - Core Coursework
- Perspectives on Environmental Theories, Methods and Skills IES 600
- Perspectives on Environmental Theories, Methods and Skills IIES 601
- PhD Research ColloquiumES 603
- PhD - Research Components
- Candidacy ExaminationES 693
- PhD DissertationES 699
Careers
Graduates are prepared for a variety of impactful careers, contributing to environmental policy, conservation, sustainable business practices, education, and participatory research.
- Environmental policy and decision-making
- Conservation and environmental management
- Sustainable practices design and implementation
- Environmental education
- Participatory research leadership
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the Environmental Studies Master's programs?
- Admission is highly competitive. While specific details should be consulted via the Faculty of Graduate Studies, applicants typically need a strong academic record. Finding a faculty supervisor is also a crucial part of the application process.
- What are the estimated tuition fees for international students?
- International graduate students pay a total degree program fee divided into installments charged each term. Specific amounts are not listed and vary by program, with tuition rates effective May 1, 2026. Ancillary fees and mandatory temporary medical insurance are charged in addition to tuition.
- How long do the Master's programs typically take to complete?
- Master's programs are typically 24 months but often take 30-36 months to complete, with a maximum of 60 months allowed. All students are required to attend an initial overnight field trip.
- What are the application deadlines for international students?
- The application deadline is January 15 for September entry. The program typically starts in September.
- What career paths can graduates pursue?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in environmental policy and decision-making, conservation and environmental management, sustainable practices, environmental education, and participatory research leadership.
- Are there opportunities for financial support or scholarships?
- Yes, merit-based UVic Fellowships of up to $20,000 per year are available and considered automatically upon application. Teaching and Research Assistantships are also awarded to graduate students, and external awards can be applied for separately.
Entry requirements
MA/MSc/PhDAdmission is highly competitive and typically only offered to students who meet or exceed minimum requirements. Specific details should be consulted via the Faculty of Graduate Studies and program links.
IELTSNot specified, consult Graduate Studies English requirements
Finding a faculty supervisor is a crucial part of the application process. While not a formal residency requirement, students are expected to be living in or near Greater Victoria during their first two terms, and residency during the first year is encouraged.
Fees
Tuition (international)Graduate students pay a total degree program fee, divided into installments charged each term (September, January, May). Most Master's programs require a minimum of 5 fee installments, and most PhD programs require a minimum of 7.5 installments. Specific amounts are not listed and vary by program. Tuition rates are effective May 1, 2026.
Tuition (home)Graduate students pay a total degree program fee, divided into installments charged each term (September, January, May). Most Master's programs require a minimum of 5 fee installments, and most PhD programs require a minimum of 7.5 installments. Specific amounts are not listed and vary by program. Tuition rates are effective May 1, 2026.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program or fees pages.
Ancillary fees, including U-Pass and mandatory health/dental plans, are charged in addition to tuition. International students also have a mandatory temporary medical insurance plan (MTMI) for their first term.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the specific requirements for the MA, MSc, or PhD programs in Environmental Studies. Consult the Faculty of Graduate Studies and the program's graduate calendar.
2. Identify a Faculty SupervisorResearch faculty members' research interests and contact potential supervisors to discuss your research ideas and their willingness to supervise your studies. This is a crucial step for admission.
3. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, which typically include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of interest or research proposal, and proof of English language proficiency if applicable.
4. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application through the University of Victoria's admissions portal by the stated deadline.
5. Await DecisionApplications are reviewed by the School of Environmental Studies and the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Admission is competitive.
Scholarships
UVic FellowshipsUp to $20,000 per year
Teaching AssistantshipsVaries
Research AssistantshipsVaries
External Awards & FellowshipsVaries
BursariesVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the Environmental Studies Master's programs?
+
Admission is highly competitive. While specific details should be consulted via the Faculty of Graduate Studies, applicants typically need a strong academic record. Finding a faculty supervisor is also a crucial part of the application process.
What are the estimated tuition fees for international students?
+
International graduate students pay a total degree program fee divided into installments charged each term. Specific amounts are not listed and vary by program, with tuition rates effective May 1, 2026. Ancillary fees and mandatory temporary medical insurance are charged in addition to tuition.
How long do the Master's programs typically take to complete?
+
Master's programs are typically 24 months but often take 30-36 months to complete, with a maximum of 60 months allowed. All students are required to attend an initial overnight field trip.
What are the application deadlines for international students?
+
The application deadline is January 15 for September entry. The program typically starts in September.
What career paths can graduates pursue?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in environmental policy and decision-making, conservation and environmental management, sustainable practices, environmental education, and participatory research leadership.
Are there opportunities for financial support or scholarships?
+
Yes, merit-based UVic Fellowships of up to $20,000 per year are available and considered automatically upon application. Teaching and Research Assistantships are also awarded to graduate students, and external awards can be applied for separately.