Laurier and Fleming College renew diploma-degree pathway for Environmental Studies students

Oct. 5, 2021
For Immediate Release

Waterloo – Wilfrid Laurier University is renewing its partnership with Fleming College to continue offering its “2+2” pathway for students interested in earning a diploma and degree in four years.

Under the agreement, graduates of six Fleming College programs can enter directly into the third year of Laurier’s Honours Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies, offered on Laurier’s Waterloo campus, allowing them to complete their degree in only two years.

The pathway option is available to students in Fleming College’s two-year (technician) and three-year (technology) diploma programs in the School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences: Environmental Technician and Technology; Ecosystem Management Technician and Technology; and Fish and Wildlife Technician and Technology.

“Increasingly, students are finding this pathway to Laurier’s Environmental Studies program and we are pleased to work with a highly motivated group of excellent students,” said Mary-Louise Byrne, professor and chair in Laurier’s Department of Geography and Environmental Studies. “They will be uniquely prepared to enter the workforce with the combination of skills and environmental knowledge needed to work in environmental management at this critical time as climate change unfolds.”

“We are pleased to extend this pathway opportunity with Laurier for another two years,” said Maureen Adamson, president of Fleming College. “Our changing climate has created an urgency and put an increased focus on the protection of our environment and natural resources through sustainable growth. With the renewal of our agreement, we will continue to train future leaders in the field whose knowledge and expertise will be in high demand.”

Laurier’s BA in Environmental Studies program combines natural and social sciences to better understand the human relationship with the natural environment. Students and researchers focus on issues of sustainability in the management of land and water, the formulation of environmental policy and how environmental management decisions can be improved to ensure a healthy future for humans and nature. Students participate in field courses, where they design and carry out original research projects, and they also develop applied skills, such as how to use geographic information systems and drones.

Fleming graduates in Laurier’s degree program will be required to take core Geography and Environmental Studies courses such as environmental theory, hydrology, geographic information systems and research methods to expand their knowledge and skills.

The pathway program has been renewed from September 2021 to September 2023.

About Wilfrid Laurier University

Wilfrid Laurier University is committed to academic excellence. Laurier’s holistic approach to learning integrates innovative programming with hands-on experience outside the classroom to ensure Laurier graduates are not only ready for the future but​ are inspired to leave their mark on the world. Community is at the heart of all we do. Laurier inspires students to engage in campus life and the broader community, leading to high levels of student satisfaction and engaged alumni who carry the Laurier legacy throughout the world. As a community of researchers, leaders and educators, Laurier builds knowledge that serves society and creates connections that have a lasting impact. 

Learn more about Laurier’s 20,000+ students in nine faculties and federated university college throughout Waterloo, Brantford, Milton, Kitchener and Toronto at wlu.ca.                      

About Fleming College

Fleming College respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg lands and territory. Located in the heart of Central Ontario, Fleming College has campus locations in Peterborough, Lindsay, Cobourg and Haliburton. Named for famous Canadian inventor and engineer Sir Sandford Fleming, the college features more than 100 full-time programs in Arts and Heritage, Business, Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, General Arts and Sciences, Health and Wellness, Justice and Community Development, Skilled Trades and Technology, and Continuing Education. Fleming College has more than 6,800 full-time and 10,000 part-time students, and 80,000 alumni. flemingcollege.ca.