Applicants must possess an Honours Bachelors degree or its equivalent in some environmentally related field, with at least a 75% average in the last two years. The equivalent of at least one year of related work experience is strongly recommended. Acceptance into the program will depend on academic standing, letters of reference, the student's subject area of interest in relation to expertise which can be offered through the MES program, and the availability of financial assistance if such is needed. Applications should be made as early as possible in the academic year for which admission is sought. The deadline for submission of an application is February 1 of the same year for Fall admission. Later applications may be considered if openings remain.
For students whose first language is not English, evidence of English Language proficiency is normally required. A score of at least 600 (250 on the computerized version) is required in the Test of English as a Foreign Lanuage (TOEFL) and 5.0 on the TWE. (See Academic Regulations - English Language Proficiency Certification for other acceptable tests of English.)
The MES program degree requirements are as follows:
- completion of ERS 669 Team Research Project, ERS 670 Thesis Development and ERS 680 Implications of a Sustainable Society for Environment and Resource Studies;
- completion of two one-term elective courses; maintenance of an academic average of at least 75%; and
- completion and successful defence of a Master's Thesis
The minimum period of full-time enrollment is three terms (one year) or its equivalent. Normally degree requirements are to be completed within a maximum of six terms (two years) for full-time study or within 15 terms (five years) for part-time study. Most full-time students complete their course requirements within their first two terms and are prepared to begin thesis research in their third term.