British Columbia Institute of Technology

Programme overview

BCIT’s Bachelor of Science in Ecological Restoration is an applied degree focused on repairing ecosystems harmed by urban development, invasive species, industrial contamination and other human impacts. The program builds on two‑year diplomas such as Fish, Wildlife and Recreation (FWR) or Forest and Natural Areas Management (FNAM), or equivalent post‑secondary preparation, and emphasizes field‑oriented learning and applied research in collaboration with external partners.

What you'll study

Coursework and training concentrate on the scientific and technical methods used to restore a wide range of terrestrial and aquatic systems. The program frames restoration practitioners as specialists who apply ecological science alongside hydrology, geochemistry, geomorphology and engineering to diagnose and repair ecosystem health. Students gain extensive hands‑on experience through applied restoration projects across local, regional and international sites.

Entry requirements

Admission is limited to applicants who meet BCIT’s specified academic and English proficiency standards and are assessed on a first‑qualified basis. Typical entry routes include:

• Completion of BCIT’s two‑year Fish, Wildlife and Recreation (FWR) or Forest and Natural Areas Management (FNAM) diploma programs (current full‑time BCIT diploma students may be conditionally accepted pending diploma completion).
• Alternate entry: a two‑year diploma in a relevant discipline from a recognized post‑secondary institution, or successful completion of at least the first two years (minimum 60 university credits with 30 credits at 100 level and 30 credits at 200 level and above) of a relevant university program. Departmental review and prior meeting with the program area are required for alternate applicants.
• A post‑secondary introductory statistics course equivalent to BCIT’s MATH 2453 is required before admission.
• English language proficiency equivalent to English Studies 12 at 67% (Category 2).
• Applicants with international post‑secondary credentials outside selected countries must provide a course‑by‑course evaluation (e.g., ICES) as part of the assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles in ecological restoration and natural resource sectors where applied, field‑based skills are needed. Typical employers include environmental consultancies, government resource agencies, NGOs and industry partners undertaking restoration projects. The curriculum is designed to produce practitioners who can lead and innovate in ecosystem rehabilitation work across British Columbia, Canada and internationally.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

While the program page lists no specific awards, prospective students should investigate institutional scholarships, departmental awards, and externally funded internships or project partnerships tied to applied research. International applicants must secure a valid BCIT study permit; graduates are currently eligible to apply for a Post‑Graduation Work Permit subject to IRCC approval and meeting PGWP criteria.