Bachelor of Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice (B.I.E.S.P.)
Admission Requirements
Ontario Requirements
Out of Province Requirements
International Requirements
Indigenous Ways of Environmental Knowing and Being
Braid Together Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Practices
Develop a foundational knowledge of theoretical and applied aspects of environmental science, technology, management, land-use and policy development practices that are grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing and being.
Learn From Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Holders
Learn through field trips to Indigenous communities and organizations, land-based instruction, interactive labs, and participation in discussion circles and ceremony. You will also learn from Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Holders.
A One-of-a-kind Degree
This new University of Guelph degree is like no other program in Canada and has been created with Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners in mind. Core courses address Indigenous knowledge systems, land-based teachings and Indigenous-settler relations in Canada, including the legal and political context that surrounds environmental decision-making in our country.
What Can You Do with a Degree in BIESP?
By braiding together Indigenous and non-Indigenous practices, graduates of this program will see the world through multiple perspectives.
Here are just a few careers BIESP program graduates can pursue:
- Environmental scientist
- Environmental analyst or consultant
- Environmental policy maker
- Conservation officer
- Environmental law and advocacy
- Environmental educator or interpreter
- Resource or land manager
Why BIESP?
How Canada has practiced environmental protection and care needs to be challenged. Together we must create a better future for all beings, and that future starts with you. Our existence is intertwined with the rocks, the plants, the finned, the furred, the feathered, the four-legged, two-legged, many legged and no-legged, those who creep and walk and swim and fly -all our relations. Support a world that is more respectful and responsive to all beings. Through this degree, you will consider and embrace Indigenous methodologies and world views in your pursuit of thoughtful environmental work, making an impact through skills and experiences grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing and being.
Students interested in the BIESP program may also be interested in studying Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Bachelor of Bio-Resource Management, Environmental Engineering, or other majors.
Gain Valuable Experience Through Co-op
Our BIESP co-op is a five-year program, with four co-op work terms, providing opportunities to work with a wide variety of employers, including First Nation communities, consulting firms, municipal, provincial, and federal organizations. Co-op is designed to facilitate the transition of students from academic studies to a professional career improving students’ job search skills, work performance and networking abilities, and boosting resume experience.
Meet A Professor
Be prepared for some incredible experiences, like no other, that reach beyond the conventional classroom while embracing multiple ways of knowing and seeing the world to support reconciliation and truly transformation of environmental science.
Hear From A BIESP Student
The classes designed specifically for my program are so fun. They are very focused on land-based learning. We spend the whole period walking around the Arboretum learning how to ID plants and looking at trees and making observations of bugs and organisms. We learn about habitats, and how Indigenous people view the land.
Scholarships
In addition to the $42.7 million general University of Guelph awards, students studying Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice have access to 183 awards worth over $175,000.
Tour Our Campus
Through virtual tours, presentations, webinars and in-person tours, get familiar with U of G campus.
Have Questions?
Learn more about how to connect, discover, and engage with programs, facilities and life at the U of G.
Supporting our First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Students
The Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) supports First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students as a home away from home for the Indigenous student community on the U of G campus. The ISC team, including the Indigenous Student Advisor and a variety of Visiting Elders and Knowledge Holders support Indigenous students with personal, academic, financial and cultural matters, programs and events, and making community connections. Learn More about the Indigenous Student Centre (ISC)
Talk to a Current Student
Don’t just take it from us – hear from one of our many students on their experiences with Guelph, integrating into U of G life, and much more. Start chatting with students from Canada or international students.