Lakehead University

Overview

The Education for Change – Environmental and Sustainability Education (ESE) is a Master of Education (MEd) program at Lakehead University designed for educators and education professionals passionate about teaching, researching, and leading sustainability-focused initiatives. This program emphasizes developing evidence-based approaches to environmental and sustainability education through a mix of research-informed coursework and practical completion routes, such as a thesis, portfolio, or course option.

• Award: Master of Education (MEd) – Environmental and Sustainability Education (ESE)
• Study mode: Full-time or flex-time (availability may vary)
• Delivery: On-campus and/or online courses available depending on the term
• Typical duration: Approximately 24 months (varies by chosen route and course load)
• Program focus: Environmental and sustainability education, climate change pedagogy, environmental justice, and educational research
• Completion routes: Thesis, Portfolio, or Course route
• Language of instruction: English
• Application notes: Competitive admission; early application is encouraged for international students

What you'll study

The MEd ESE program is tailored for current educators and education professionals, allowing you to complete the degree through one of three routes: Thesis, Portfolio, or Course. You can choose to study on a full-time or flex-time basis.

• Graduate core in environmental/sustainability education: Covers learning theory, sustainability education frameworks, and critical approaches to teaching and learning.
• Research methods and inquiry: Focuses on tools for educational research, analysis, and evidence-based decision-making.
• Integration of research and practice: Involves assignments that connect educational theory to real-world classroom, community, or program contexts.
• Special topic coursework: Explores how sustainability learning is influenced by culture, place, and social justice.

Indicative topic areas

• Environmental and Sustainability Education
• Climate Change Pedagogy
• Ecopedagogy
• Environmental Justice Education
• Food Education
• Humane Education
• Outdoor Education
• Place-based Education
• Educational Research, Theory, and Practice

Entry requirements

• Academic background: A recognized university degree equivalent to a Lakehead University 4-year degree.
• Minimum GPA: 75% or 3.0 on a 4.0 Canadian scale.
• English language proficiency:
  • Duolingo English Test: 110
  • TOEFL iBT: 100
  • IELTS (Academic): 6.5
• Admission status: Competitive; international applicants are advised to apply early.
• Thesis route note: If you intend to pursue the thesis route, it is highly recommended to contact a potential supervisor in advance.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MEd ESE program are well-equipped to pursue various careers in education, including roles as sustainability educators, curriculum developers, educational researchers, and leaders in environmental education initiatives. The program prepares you to contribute meaningfully to the field of education, particularly in promoting sustainability and environmental awareness across diverse educational settings.