Master's Degree in Environmental Practice
Advance your environmental career with a flexible, fully online master’s that blends science, policy, and real-world impact.
At a Glance
Delivery: Online
Credential: Degree
Credits: 60
Next Start: September 8, 2026
The Master’s Degree in Environmental Practice (MEP), offered in partnership with Royal Roads University, equips you with the advanced knowledge, interdisciplinary perspective, and practical experience needed to lead in today’s complex environmental landscape.
Choose the pathway that aligns with your career goals:
- Master of Arts (MAEP): Focus on policy, leadership, and the social, economic, and governance dimensions of sustainability
- Master of Science (MScEP): Focus on scientific, technical, and data-driven approaches to environmental challenges
Both programs are delivered fully online, allowing you to advance your education while continuing to work and manage your commitments.
You can further enhance your degree by earning a Graduate Certificate in Science and Policy of Climate Change along the way, and may be eligible to pursue professional certification with ECO Canada upon graduation.
Completion timelines are flexible, with most students finishing within two years depending on their schedule.
Why take your Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Practice at Royal Roads University?
An Exceptional Student Experience
Royal Roads University is ranked #1 among Canadian public universities for Active and Collaborative Learning and Level of Academic Challenge (NSSE 2013). You’ll benefit from a supportive, engaging environment designed to help you apply what you learn in real-world contexts.
A Flexible, Modern Learning Model
At Royal Roads University, it’s not just one thing that sets the experience apart. From flexible admission to a unique, applied learning model and strong online delivery, everything is designed to fit your life while supporting meaningful, career-focused learning.
A Change Your Life Experience
A Royal Roads education goes beyond subject expertise. It builds self-awareness, practical skills, and the confidence to grow both professionally and personally, preparing you to lead in your field and make a lasting impact.
Choose Your Pathway
Master of Arts (MAEP)
Best for careers in policy, leadership, and sustainability strategy:
- Environmental policy and governance
- Leadership and decision-making
- Stakeholder engagement and communication
- Social, economic, and regulatory aspects of sustainability
Master of Science (MScEP)
Best for technical, analytical, and science-based environmental roles:
- Environmental assessment and management
- Data analysis and applied research
- Scientific and technical problem-solving
- Sustainability systems and environmental technologies
About the Master's Degree in Environmental Practice
Program Details
The Master’s Degree in Environmental Practice (MEP) is designed for professionals ready to lead in a rapidly evolving environmental sector. This interdisciplinary program combines science, policy, and practical application to equip you with the skills to assess, manage, and solve complex environmental challenges.
Master of Arts (MAEP):
- Focus on policy, leadership, and governance
- Explore social, economic, and regulatory dimensions of sustainability
- Ideal for roles in strategy, consulting, and public sector leadership
Master of Science (MScEP)
- Focus on scientific, technical, and analytical approaches
- Build expertise in data, environmental systems, and applied science
- Ideal for technical, research, and specialist roles
Delivery format
- 100% online, fully flexible
- Designed for working professionals
- Study from anywhere while maintaining your career
- Part-time structure with one course at a time
Learning experience
- Interdisciplinary curriculum across science, policy, and management
- Real-world assignments tied to current environmental challenges
- Collaborative learning with professionals across industries
- Immediate application of skills in your current role
Completion options
Choose how you finish your degree:
- Research paper: Deep dive into a specialized topic
- Practicum: Gain hands-on experience in a professional setting
Additional opportunities
- Earn a Graduate Certificate in Science and Policy of Climate Change during your studies
- Learn within a program aligned to national occupational standards through ECO Canada
- Become eligible for Environmental Professional (EP®) certification upon graduation
Timeline
- Most students complete the program within two years
- Flexible pacing based on your schedule and commitments
Learn More About the Program
Admission Requirements
The Master’s Degree in Environmental Practice (MEP) is designed for professionals with a strong academic foundation and a demonstrated interest in environmental work.
Standard admission
- A four-year (or equivalent) undergraduate degree from a recognized post-secondary institution
- Minimum GPA of B (3.0/4.33)
- At least two years of relevant work or volunteer experience
Applicants who meet the academic requirements but do not meet the GPA threshold may be required to complete Academic Writing and Critical Thinking prior to starting the program.
Flexible admission
Applicants without a traditional academic background may be considered based on a combination of:
- Relevant professional experience
- Education and training
- Demonstrated ability to succeed in graduate-level studies
Additional preparatory coursework, such as Academic Writing and Critical Thinking, may be required before beginning the program.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you must meet the university’s English language requirements to be eligible for admission.
Additional recommendations
This program is best suited for individuals who:
- Have a strong interest in environmental sustainability and climate-related issues
- Bring experience in environmental, technical, policy, or related fields
- Are ready to apply leadership and problem-solving skills in real-world contexts
As a guideline, applicants are encouraged to have at least three years of experience working with environmental or sustainability-related issues.
Learn More About the Program
Graduate Ready: Education Designed for the Workforce
The partnership between Royal Roads University and ECO Canada is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled environmental professionals across Canada. By combining academic excellence with industry insight, the Bachelor’s in Environmental Practice (BEP) delivers practical, career-ready training informed by ECO Canada’s national workforce research and professional standards.
This collaboration ensures the program aligns with the competencies required across the environmental sector, helping you build the knowledge and experience employers are actively seeking.
Upon completion, you’ll meet the academic requirements for Environmental Professional (EP®) certification, positioning you to accelerate your career and connect with a national network of environmental professionals.
Where This Degree Can Take You
Master of Arts (MAEP)
Policy, leadership, strategy-focused roles
- Environmental Policy Advisor
- Sustainability Manager
- Environmental Consultant
- Climate Policy Analyst
- Public Engagement Specialist
- ESG / Sustainability Advisor
- Environmental Program Manager
- Indigenous Relations Advisor
- Corporate Sustainability Manager
- Government Policy Analyst
Master of Science (MScEP)
Technical, analytical, and science-based roles
- Environmental Scientist
- Environmental Analyst
- Environmental Impact Assessment Specialist
- Climate Change Analyst
- Sustainability Data Analyst
- Environmental Consultant (Technical)
- Air Quality Specialist
- Water Resources Specialist
- Environmental Compliance Officer
- GIS / Environmental Data Analyst
POSSIBLE CAREERS
MAEP
- Manager of Environmental Tools and Economics
- Environmental Planner
- Public Engagement Manager
- Oceanographic Data Manager
- Environmental Advisor
MScEP
- Environmental
Impact Assessment - Pollution Prevention
- Hazardous Waste Management
- Climate Change
- Biodiversity