Master of Science in Environment and Geography

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Environment and Geography program offers an integrative approach to environmental sciences and physical geography. Students explore topics such as biogeography, environmental chemistry, atmospheric science, and geomatics, culminating in a thesis that contributes to the field. The program emphasizes the interconnections between physical and natural sciences, providing a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Science in Environment and Geography is the appropriate science-stream graduate program option for those interested in furthering their academic training in the areas of environmental sciences, including physical geography. It is an integrative program with strong linkages between physical geography, environmental science and many disciplines within the physical and natural sciences, including earth and agricultural sciences, chemistry, biology, physics and applied mathematics.

Outline:

Content:

• Biogeography and terrestrial ecology
• Socio-ecology of risk, restoration ecology of prairie, riparian forest and urban habitat, population dynamics and dispersal of invasive species.
• Environmental chemistry and toxicology
• The chemical processes, and transport of contaminants across environmental interfaces, ecotoxicology; ecological risk assessment and water quality.
• Atmospheric science and surface-atmosphere coupling
• Surface climates, biogeophysics of surface heat and mass exchange, atmospheric dynamics, thermodynamics and severe weather.
• Sea ice, glaciology and ocean science
• Sea ice geophysics, glacier and ice sheet dynamics, polar marine systems, trophic structure, paleoclimate through ice cores, energy and contaminant flows.
• Geomatics and remote sensing
• Closely integrated with the other five themes, this involves the development of techniques for the gathering and analysis of information.

Structure:

• All students must complete and orally defend a thesis that makes a distinctive contribution to the fields of environment and/or geography.
• Students must present their thesis research at a seminar offered and advertised at the department level prior to their defense.
• Students are also encouraged to present at an academic or a professional conference or seminar as approved by their advisory committee.

Course Schedule:

• Sample course offerings:
• GEOG 7500: Biogeography
• GEOG 7480: Advanced Methods in Remote Sensing
• GEOG 7440: Climate Change
• GEOG 7470: Techniques in Climatology
• GEOG 7380: Advanced Ecotoxicology: Understanding Stress Ecology
• For full course descriptions, please visit the Academic Calendar.

Individual Modules with Descriptions:

• Biogeography and terrestrial ecology:
This module explores the distribution of plants and animals on Earth, and the factors that influence their distribution. Topics covered include climate, soil, topography, and human activity.
• Socio-ecology of risk, restoration ecology of prairie, riparian forest and urban habitat, population dynamics and dispersal of invasive species:
This module examines the social and ecological factors that contribute to environmental risks, and the strategies that can be used to mitigate these risks. Topics covered include climate change, pollution, and habitat loss.
• Environmental chemistry and toxicology:
This module provides an overview of the chemical processes that occur in the environment, and the effects of these processes on human health and the environment. Topics covered include air pollution, water pollution, and soil contamination.
• Atmospheric science and surface-atmosphere coupling:
This module explores the interactions between the atmosphere and the Earth's surface. Topics covered include climate change, air pollution, and weather forecasting.
• Sea ice, glaciology and ocean science:
This module examines the physical and chemical properties of sea ice, glaciers, and oceans. Topics covered include sea ice formation and melt, glacier dynamics, and ocean circulation.
• Geomatics and remote sensing:
This module provides an overview of the techniques used to collect and analyze spatial data. Topics covered include GPS, GIS, and remote sensing.

Assessment:

• The assessment methods and criteria used in the program vary depending on the specific course or module.
However, all students are required to complete a thesis, which is a major research project that demonstrates their understanding of the field of environment and geography.