Join an interdisciplinary master’s program that challenges you to look at natural, socio-cultural and built environments differently. In this program, centred on an individual Plan of Study, you will learn how to redefine the boundaries of environmental research to create-positive social and environmental change.
Critical Issues
Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Transitions
Take action on the climate emergency and advance sustainable energy transitions through the Sustainable Energy Initiative and other projects
Environmental, Climate, and Indigenous Justice
Engage in critical analyses of power relations and environmental processes to address injustice to Indigenous peoples, around climate change, extractive industries, urbanization, and displacement
Urban and Regional Planning and Infrastructures
Analyze complex and changing urban processes and planning in neighborhoods, communities, cities and metropolitan regions to advance social justice and environmental sustainability.
Ecological Economics and Sustainability Analytics
Redefine the relations between economies and ecosystems to advance sustainability and wellbeing using, for example, analytical tools developed through EUC’s Ecological Footprint Initiative.
Environmental Arts, Culture, and Justice
Deploy arts, culture and the humanities as creative ways to understand and change the complex relationships between human societies and the natural environment.
Critical Theories of International Development and Global Inequities
Undertake critical analyses of contemporary capitalism, colonialism, imperialism, geopolitics, and global development to build just and sustainable global relations.
Environmental Management and Conservation
Rethink natural resources management and biodiversity conservation through environmental and ecological analysis to better protect pollinators, wildlife, habitats, forests, and freshwater.
Sustainable Food Systems
Build a sustainable and just food system that delivers food security for all in Canada and around the world.
Environmental Education
Advance teaching and awareness to build knowledge and inspire action for sustainability and social justice.
In place of a fixed set of curriculum offerings, the MES approach to learning supports students’ ownership of and responsibility for their education through a Plan of Study. You will develop your own Plan of Study with the support of a faculty advisor, who will provide personalized guidance as you transition through your studies, including internship opportunities. The program also offers the flexibility to complete your MES research work as a thesis, major paper, project or portfolio.
The MES Program
2 Years
Full Time
Fall Entry
Master in Environmental Studies (MES)
Learn More
The Graduate Program in Environmental Studies at York is an exciting environment to pursue innovative, socially engaging, career-ready education. Contact our Graduate Program Assistant to learn more.