Athabasca University

What you'll study

Study emphasizes a holistic, systems-based perspective across the atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, geosphere and biosphere and the application of integrated, technology-based solutions to complex global issues. The program is multidisciplinary; specific course selections and research topics depend on route (thesis or course-based) and supervisor or graduate program committee guidance.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree in Science or engineering, or a baccalaureate arts degree with appropriate science content (for example, BA in Geography or Mathematics). Admission by exception is possible where applicants without a traditional baccalaureate can demonstrate equivalent education and experience. Minimum English language proficiency requirements apply. For the thesis route, applicants are expected to identify potential supervisors and thesis admissions normally require supervisor approval; course-route applications are reviewed by the graduate program committee.

• Transcripts: official transcripts submitted directly from institutions are required before an offer of admission; unofficial transcripts may be used to complete an application.
• References: two letters of reference are required; at least one academic reference is expected if academic credentials were completed within the past five years; employer references should address professional skills and research potential; references from family or friends are not accepted.
• International applicants: credentials earned outside North America may require a credential equivalency assessment (Athabasca recommends services such as WES or IQAS) and official English translations where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles in academia, industry and government that require integrated, systems-level understanding of Earth processes and applied, technology-based solutions to environmental problems. Specific career paths depend on route, research focus and prior experience.

Scholarships & funding angle

The source text does not list program scholarships or funding. Prospective students should consult the university’s graduate funding webpages and discuss potential supervisor-supported or department funding opportunities when applying for the thesis route. Non-program graduate study is possible and courses taken as a non-program student may later be applied to the MSc upon admission.