University of Guelph

What you'll study

This programme blends Indigenous knowledge systems, land-based pedagogy and scientific training in ecology, hydrology, soil science and environmental monitoring. Core topics include Indigenous worldviews and governance, ecological principles, environmental sampling and analysis, geographic information systems (GIS), statistics for environmental data, and applied field methods. Students participate in land-based courses and community-engaged projects that emphasise hands-on skills such as sampling design, water and soil testing, species and habitat assessment, and collaborative research methods respectful of Indigenous protocols.

First-year courses build foundational skills in biological and physical sciences, quantitative methods and Indigenous studies. Upper-year work moves toward specialised electives and applied learning: modules typically cover traditional ecological knowledge, climate change impacts on Indigenous territories, restoration ecology, environmental policy and law, resource stewardship planning, and project-based capstone experiences where students co-design and deliver community-relevant research or management plans.

• Indigenous knowledge systems and ethics
• Field ecology and biodiversity assessment
• Hydrology and watershed science
• Soil science and landscape processes
• GIS, remote sensing and spatial analysis
• Environmental monitoring methods and laboratory techniques
• Statistics and data analysis for environmental applications
• Community-based research methods and Indigenous protocols

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school academic record. Typical requirements include a high-school diploma with university-preparatory (U) level courses in English and recommended background in sciences such as biology, chemistry or environmental science, and mathematics. Mature applicants, college-transfer students and applicants from Indigenous communities are encouraged to apply and may follow designated pathways or provide supplementary documentation describing community involvement or relevant experience.

Specific prerequisite courses and minimum grade expectations vary by applicant category and applicant country; prospective students should consult the University of Guelph admissions pages for the exact subject prerequisites, language proficiency requirements and the process for applicants who self-identify as Indigenous.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers that integrate Indigenous stewardship and environmental science. Common roles include community environmental coordinator, resource and land stewardship technician, environmental monitoring specialist, conservation biologist, GIS analyst, and policy or program staff in Indigenous organisations, non-governmental organisations, consulting firms, and municipal, provincial or federal agencies.

The degree also provides a foundation for further study at the graduate level in fields such as ecology, environmental science, Indigenous governance, natural resource management and environmental policy. Many graduates work on collaborative projects that support Indigenous-led research, land claims implementation, reclamation and restoration initiatives, and climate adaptation planning.

Why study at University of Guelph

The University of Guelph is recognised for its strengths in environmental and agricultural sciences and for an emphasis on experiential, community-engaged learning. The Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice programme is designed in collaboration with Indigenous knowledge holders and community partners, offering land-based learning opportunities, applied research projects and pathways to work directly with communities on stewardship priorities.

Students benefit from hands-on field training, access to laboratory and spatial-analysis facilities, and faculty with expertise across ecology, hydrology, Indigenous studies and community-based research. The university's regional networks and collaborative partnerships support practicum placements and employment connections within Indigenous organisations, government agencies and environmental NGOs.