Bachelor of Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice (Honours) Co-Op

University of Guelph

The Bachelor of Indigenous Environmental Science and Practice BIESP is an interdisciplinary science degree that focuses on the development of leaders in areas of environmental science, land-use and policy development who are grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing and being. This science degree emphasizes the respectful and consensual braiding of Indigenous and Western knowledge systems to address complex environmental issues and challenges. It focuses on the responsible use and protection of the natural environment through practices based on Indigenous ways of knowing and doing and the practice of Indigenous land ethics grounded in Indigenous epistemologies, ontologies, traditions and aspirations. By explicitly recognizing the inherent validity and value of Indigenous ways of knowing and doing, this interdisciplinary program offers a critical, yet constructive, view of environmental science, grounded in Indigenous knowledge systems, methodologies, priorities and values and oriented towards concrete action. In addition to their studies of natural and applied science, students will examine the historical and contemporary relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada and the legal, political and economic context of environmental science and practice. 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.