Grenfell Campus’s Environment and Sustainability program has been named one of the Top 5 in Canada! by Maclean’s magazine. A recent Maclean’s article highlights standout environmental programs across the country that are preparing students to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges — from climate change to sustainable resource management.

Maclean’s has been ranking universities for decades, and their findings are respected and widely recognized. The article suggests that Grenfell’s program is noteworthy because of its connection between social and natural sciences. Students gain a broad understanding of the complex challenges surrounding sustainability and develop the ability to communicate, analyze, and problem-solve across a variety of contexts.

The four-year degree program offers two majors: Environmental Studies and Resource Management. Environmental education is a cornerstone for Grenfell Campus with several degree options at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels, including the B.Sc. in Environmental Science and the M.A. in Environmental Policy.

Dr. Camille Ouellet-Dallaire, program chair, says the ranking provides a rare opportunity for people across the country to learn about our unique program.

“Our program is anchored in applied knowledge,” said Dr. Ouellet-Dallaire. “There are lab courses with the city and courses where we submit our analyses directly to the provincial government. Students are working at the Bonne Bay Aquarium and Research Station getting hands-on experiences with marine science. For us, it is not just about sitting in a classroom and thinking —  it is about getting out there, knowing the environment, and doing what it takes to make a difference.”

Josie Wittmer, an assistant professor in the program, agrees that the program offers unique understanding of complex and pressing issues.

“We are unique as we bring together the sciences and the social sciences,” said Dr. Wittmer. “Students in this program care and are really worried about climate change in particular. We are helping them build not only skills to work in a field, but their ability to think critically and to use their voice about something they feel passionate about.”

For Dr. Ouellet-Dallaire, Dr. Wittmer, and others in the School of Science and the Environment, this recognition is a point of pride for a small program and campus being acknowledged alongside much larger universities.