WINNIPEG, MB – The University of Winnipeg Senate has approved the reclassification of Environmental Studies (ES) from a program to a department, recognizing it as a distinct academic entity housed within UWinnipeg’s Faculty of Science. The newly named Department of Environmental Studies and Sciences currently offers interdisciplinary degree programs leading to Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees within six distinct streams, as well as a joint applied program with Red River College. The department currently offers more than 20 courses and has seen enrollments increase by 60% since 2009.
Dr. Darshani Kumaragamage will continue in her role as Director of the ES program, reporting to James Currie, Dean of Science. Including Dr. Kumaragamage, Environmental Studies and Sciences currently has two full-time and three 50% appointed faculty members, all of whom are interdisciplinary environmental scientists. The change from program to departmental status will have no cost implications for the University.
UWinnipeg’s Environmental Studies program was founded in 1970 and was one of Canada’s first interdisciplinary undergraduate environment programs. Its mission is to maintain and restore the health of the ecosphere and its people through education and training, the creation and dissemination of knowledge, and the engagement of communities at all levels. The program is planning to seek national accreditation and has been approved to offer Honours degrees.
“We are pleased to confer this departmental status, as it affirms the University of Winnipeg’s commitment to Environmental Studies and recognizes our place as a Canadian leader in this growing field with global significance,” said University of Winnipeg President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Lloyd Axworthy. “We are very proud of the excellent work being done by our faculty in teaching, research, and curriculum.”
“This will strengthen the identity of Environmental Studies and Sciences,” said Dr. Kumaragamage. “It will not only serve to enhance our national profile, but also help us further attract excellent students, and position our graduates to be highly competitive in the global job market.”
Find out more about UWinnipeg’s Department of Environmental Studies and Sciences.
