Program Overview
Trent University's Freshwater Science degree equips students with the knowledge and skills in the fundamental areas of biology, chemistry, geography, and environmental science to address contemporary water challenges. By leveraging on-campus aquatic ecosystems and renowned water scientists, the program fosters practical experience and research in water-related fields. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as hydrologists, environmental impact assessment consultants, fisheries managers, and other water-related professions.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Fresh water is essential for all life on Earth, and this degree teaches students the knowledge and skills needed to respond to contemporary water challenges in Canada and around the world. In this program, you will complete a series of practical and theoretical courses which draw fundamental knowledge for examining the science of water and the aquatic environment from four primary subjects: biology, chemistry, geography, and environmental science. With diverse aquatic ecosystems right on campus and a variety of lakes nearby in the Kawarthas, Trent provides the ideal environment for you to gain firsthand experience, learning alongside internationally recognized water scientists.
Careers:
- Featured:
- Hydrologist: Geoscientists include geologists, geochemists and geophysicists who conduct programs of exploration and research to extend knowledge of the structure, composition and processes of the earth, to locate, identify and extract hydrocarbon, mineral and groundwater resources and to assess and mitigate the effects of development and waste disposal projects on the environment. Oceanographers conduct programs of exploration and research on ocean processes and phenomena, biological, chemical and physical characteristics of oceans, interactions with atmospheric and geological environments and impacts of human activity on oceans and marine ecosystems. Geoscientists are employed by petroleum and mining companies, consulting geology, geophysics and engineering firms and by governments and educational institutions, or they may be self-employed. Oceanographers are employed by governments, educational institutions and private companies engaged in exploration of seafloor deposits and seafarming areas, or they may be self-employed.
- Salary Range: $24.00-$72.12/hr
- Jobs in Canada: 34,900
- 10YR Job Outlook: 15,700
- Source: Government of Canada
- Career Opportunities:
- Environmental Impact Assessment Consultant
- Hydrologist
- Fisheries Manager
- Drinking Water Policy Specialist
- Regional Land and Water Resources Manager
- Water Quality Analyst
- Wetland Monitoring Specialist
- Watershed Planner
- Aquatic Recovery Analyst
Other:
- Accelerated Master's Degree: Earn your M.Sc. in Environmental & Life Sciences in only 12-16 months after graduating from your B.Sc.
- Degrees Offered: B.Sc. (Honours)
- Locations: Peterborough
- Resume Boosters:
- Develop practical research skills in state-of-the-art labs and learning facilities, including the Trent Water Quality Centre – the most comprehensive mass spectrometry facility in Canada – as well as outdoor living labs, such as wetlands and the Otonabee River right here on campus
- Advance your expertise on a specific topic by completing an honours thesis research project, exploring topics in hydrology, biology, limnology, and marine life, as a few examples
- Make an impact in your community with a capstone research project supporting a community environmental organization, including conservation authorities and local non-profits
- Popular Courses:
- Limnology
- Global Change of Aquatic Ecosystems
- Environmental Chemistry
- Hydrology
- River Environments and Processes
- Water Policy
- Water Resources
- Related Programs:
- International Development Studies (Co-op Available)
- Political Studies (Co-op Available)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Environmental & Resource Science / Studies
- Environmental & Life Sciences M.Sc.
- Environmental & Life Sciences Ph.D.
