University of Victoria

Overview

Industrial Ecology (MEng) at the University of Victoria (UVic) equips students with the skills to tackle real-world sustainability challenges through systems thinking. This program examines how industries and urban areas utilize resources and produce waste, fostering the ability to design lower-carbon, circular, and resilient solutions.

• Degree: MEng (Master of Engineering) in Industrial Ecology
• Location: University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
• Credits/Length: Typically completed in 12 months with a final graduate project (exact duration and credit requirements may vary by study plan)
• Delivery: On-campus (check UVic program page for the current format)
• Language of instruction: English
• Application: Submit through UVic’s graduate admissions portal; confirm current intake dates
• Tuition/fees: Tuition is assessed based on program and student status (domestic/international); confirm the current fee schedule

What you'll study

Typical curriculum focus: The program emphasizes core industrial ecology concepts, applied methods, data skills, and electives that align with your interests, culminating in a graduate project.

Core course themes may include:

• Industrial Metabolism and Global Environmental Change
• Industrial Symbiosis and Recycling Technologies
• Urban Metabolism and Sustainable Cities
• Methods, Tools and Data for Industrial Ecology

Supporting foundations (as applicable):

• Biology
• Chemistry

Graduate project / capstone: In the final term, students complete a graduate project that integrates sustainability analysis with applied problem-solving.

Electives and study plan: Students may choose additional courses focused on sustainability assessment, decarbonization, circular economy systems, and other related topics (subject to availability and program requirements).

Entry requirements

• Academic background: Typically an undergraduate degree in engineering. Applicants with degrees in science, geography, environmental studies, business, or economics may also be considered.
• Minimum academic standing: B+ average in the last two years of university study.
• English language proficiency (minimums):
  • IELTS: 6.5 overall
  • TOEFL iBT: 90 overall
  • TOEFL (paper-based): 575 overall
  • PTE Academic: 65 overall
• Documents commonly required: transcripts, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), and other materials requested by UVic for graduate admission (e.g., CV/resume and supporting documents). Check UVic’s current checklist for exact requirements.
• Deadlines and intake: Application deadlines depend on the term you apply for; confirm the current intake dates on UVic’s graduate admissions page.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Industrial Ecology program are well-equipped to pursue careers in various sectors, including environmental consulting, urban planning, and sustainability management. The skills gained through this program enable professionals to contribute to the development of sustainable practices and policies, addressing critical global challenges related to resource management and environmental impact.