Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (PhD Program)
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
| 2025-05-01 | - |
Program Overview
The PhD in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (NRES) at UNBC offers advanced training in scientific disciplines related to natural environments, emphasizing interdisciplinary integration and understanding of ecological, biological, and physical attributes of natural resources. The program aims to develop graduates who can address complex natural resources and environmental issues from multiple perspectives, preparing them for careers in research, policy analysis, and management.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The PhD in Natural Resources and Environmental Studies (PhD (NRES)) program at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) provides students with advanced training and understanding in scientific disciplines related to natural environments, the processes that govern them, and the human dimensions that interact with them. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary integration and an understanding of the ecological, biological, and physical attributes of natural resources.
Objectives:
- Develop an advanced level of understanding and training in natural resources and environmental studies.
- Promote an integration of social, ethical, political, and cultural dimensions with ecological, biological, and physical attributes of natural resources.
- Enable graduates to address a variety of natural resources and environmental issues from multiple perspectives.
Outline:
Content:
The program covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Natural resource management
- Environmental studies
- Interdisciplinary perspectives
- Scientific disciplines related to natural environments
- Human dimensions of natural resources and environmental issues
Structure:
The program consists of:
- 9 credit hours of interdisciplinary core courses
- 3 credit hours of graduate seminar
- 12 credit hours of PhD thesis
- Additional courses as required by the supervisory committee
Course Schedule:
First Year:
- Core Courses (NRES 801-3, NRES 802-3, NRES 803-3)
- Graduate Seminar (NRES 804-3)
- Qualifying Exam
Second Year:
- Area of Concentration
- Defense of Thesis Proposal
Third to Fifth Year:
- Thesis
Individual Modules with Descriptions:
Core Courses:
- NRES 801-3 Integrated Environmental Systems I: Examines the interdisciplinary nature of natural resource and environmental issues, focusing on the physical and biological sciences.
- NRES 802-3 Integrated Environmental Systems II: Explores the interdisciplinary nature of natural resource and environmental issues, focusing on the social sciences.
- NRES 803-3 Integrated Environmental Systems III: Integrates the physical, biological, and social sciences perspectives on natural resource and environmental issues.
Graduate Seminar:
- NRES 804-3: Provides a forum for students to present and discuss their research and engage with faculty and peers.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Written exams
- Oral exams
- Thesis defense
- Coursework assignments
- Research presentations
Assessment Criteria:
- Knowledge and understanding of natural resources and environmental studies
- Interdisciplinary perspective
- Research skills
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking skills
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Fieldwork
- Research supervision
Faculty:
The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty with expertise in various disciplines related to natural resources and environmental studies.
Unique Approaches:
- Emphasis on interdisciplinary integration
- Focus on real-world problem-solving
- Opportunities for fieldwork and research
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Natural resource manager
- Environmental consultant
- Policy analyst
- Researcher
- Educator
Opportunities:
- Employment in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies
- Opportunities for further research and academic pursuits
- Leadership roles in natural resources and environmental management
University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC)
Overview:
The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is a public university located in Prince George, British Columbia, Canada. It is known for its commitment to research and innovation, its focus on sustainability, and its strong Indigenous presence. UNBC is recognized as one of Canada's top universities, consistently ranking highly in national and international rankings.
Services Offered:
UNBC offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Calendar:
Provides information on academic dates and deadlines.Campus Services:
Includes services such as the library, bookstore, maps, and the Northern Sport Centre.Library:
Offers access to a vast collection of resources, including books, journals, and databases.Bookstore:
Provides textbooks, merchandise, and other academic supplies.Northern Sport Centre:
Offers recreational and fitness facilities for students.Events:
Hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and performances.News:
Provides updates on university news and events.Careers:
Offers career services and resources to students.Admissions:
Provides information on the application process and admission requirements.Programs and Courses:
Offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.Campus Life:
Provides information on student life, including clubs, organizations, and activities.Indigenous:
Offers resources and support for Indigenous students.Research:
Highlights the university's research activities and opportunities.About:
Provides information about the university's history, mission, and values.myUNBC:
Provides access to student accounts and online resources.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UNBC offers a vibrant and supportive campus community. Students can participate in a variety of clubs and organizations, attend events, and enjoy recreational activities. The university also provides housing options for students who wish to live on campus.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Research and Innovation:
UNBC is a research-intensive university with a strong focus on innovation. Students have opportunities to work with faculty on research projects and gain valuable experience.Sustainability:
UNBC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as one of Canada's greenest universities. Students can learn about and contribute to sustainable practices.Indigenous Presence:
UNBC has a strong commitment to Indigenous education and reconciliation. Students can learn about Indigenous cultures and perspectives.Community Engagement:
UNBC is deeply connected to the surrounding community and encourages students to get involved in local initiatives.Global Impact:
UNBC graduates are making a difference in the world, working in a variety of fields and contributing to positive change.Academic Programs:
UNBC offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines, including:
Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities:
Includes programs in English, History, Psychology, Sociology, and more.Science and Technology:
Includes programs in Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, and more.Business and Management:
Includes programs in Business Administration, Marketing, and more.Education:
Includes programs in Elementary Education, Secondary Education, and more.Health Sciences:
Includes programs in Nursing, Kinesiology, and more.Other:
UNBC's motto, "En Cha Huná," emphasizes respect for all forms of life and reflects the university's commitment to academic freedom, diversity, and inclusivity. The university also offers a variety of financial aid options to help students afford their education.
Entry Requirements:
Students will normally be expected to hold a Master’s degree from an accredited post-secondary institution. In exceptional cases, individuals with significant and relevant life experience may be admitted on probation. Normally, applicants must hold a cumulative GPA of 3.33 (B+) from the Baccalaureate and Master’s degree, to be calculated over the last 30 credit hours of graded academic work. Acceptance to the PhD program will be contingent upon the prospective student finding a member of the faculty to serve as their advisor.
