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FAQ

FAQ for current students

MAJOR DECLARATION

REPEAT/DUPLICATION

CLASS WITHDRAWAL

WQB

ACADEMIC STANDING

GRADE APPEALS

UNIT/CREDIT LOADS

TAKING CLASSES AT ANOTHER INSTITUTION

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

TEACHING

CO-OP EDUCATION

GRADUATION

MAJOR DECLARATION 

I read on goSFU that I must declare a major by completion of second year. Is that true and why?

It is, indeed, the case that you should be approved to a major, a joint major, two extended minors, an extended minor and a minor or two minors (with at least one extended minor or minor in FENV) by the time you have completed 60 units. However, most students in the Faculty of Environment are admitted directly to their major at the time of admission. If you're not, then speak to the advisor of the program in which you're interested.

I know I want to declare a major in Archeology, but I can’t do that until I have completed all the lower division required courses, right?

While the lower division requirements have to be completed, not all departments/schools/programs in the FENV expect you to have completed the classes before being accepted to a major. Please speak with your intended program advisor. 

I am interested in lots of subjects and I don’t think I want to complete a major. Is there another option?

Yes, within a BA you can complete a joint major, two extended minors, an extended minor and a minor or two minors (with at least one minor in FENV), rather than a major. You'll need to talk to every advisor for every program you're interested in to ensure you've got the details necessary to declare all programs. Start with the Faculty of Environment's advisor first, if you need direction.

Although I am in the Faculty of Environment, I actually want to complete a degree in another faculty. What do I do?

To ensure that you are taking the correct classes to be admitted to your first choice faculty, you need to obtain academic advice from that faculty.

For further info visit:

You are encouraged to work on completing the requirements for your second choice (e.g. major in Geography) in case you are not successful in gaining entry to your first choice area (e.g. English).

REPEAT/DUPLICATION

I tried to enroll in EVSC 100 and the system would not let me. I know I have the correct prerequisites as I got the class without a problem the last two times I enrolled. Why can’t I enroll in it?

You are not permitted to enroll in a class for a third time without approval from the department/school/program involved. Some areas in FENV are very strict and rarely allow students a third attempt at a class. To seek permission, contact the specific department advisor. However, you are cautioned that if you have to take a class for a third time you should reconsider whether your academic goal is feasible.

If I get permission from the department to take EVSC 100 for a third time then I will not have any more enrollment problems, right?

Perhaps. If, however, the third attempt at the class is also a 6th or subsequent repeat, you have another problem. The goSFUsystem gives you a warning when you sign on that you are not permitted to take a sixth or subsequent repeat. You are not allowed to take any more than FIVE repeats in your degree. Please be aware that permission for a sixth or subsequent repeat is rarely given. If you need to make a request, however, please contact your academic advisor.

My friend told me he saw that message about the repeats on goSFU, but he was allowed to go ahead and enroll – nothing stopped him. Can’t I just enroll in the class like my friend?

Well, technically, you are correct. There is nothing to stop a student, barring other issues such as a third attempt at a class/prerequisites not met etc., from actually enrolling in a 6th or subsequent repeat. However, as per your degree requirements, this is not allowed and can lead to that course being declared "illegal" (yup, that's the term we use) and the grades and credits won't count toward your degree requirements nor your CGPA. There are serious consequences to violating this rule: do check with your advisor if you're in this situation.

If I ignore the message, and enroll in a sixth or subsequent repeat, what might happen?

You might be taken out of the class. You might be left in it, but at graduation time find that the ‘illegal’ repeat will not count toward the degree. It is not advisable to ignore this rule.

CLASS WITHDRAWAL

This doesn’t seem fair to me. It wasn’t my fault that I had to repeat the class twice before – I was sick. Are there any other remedies?

You may have grounds to be retroactively withdrawn from the class or classes in which performed poorly due to illness. For further information on withdrawals, both timely (within the term) and retroactively (after completion of the term), please visit the Withdrawal under Extenuating Circumstances section of the Student Services website.

WRITING, QUANTITATIVE AND BREADTH (WQB) REQUIREMENTS

What are the WQB requirements for Environment students? I heard they're different for EVSC, Bachelor of Environment and double minor students.

The complete, full and final WQB requirements can be found in the calendar (search for WQB) : www.sfu.ca/calendar

What's important to note for those students who are in working toward a Bachelor of Environment, are in the BA Double Minor or the Environmental Science program is that both follow the "Special WQB Circumstances", which is the same for Joint or Double Majors and is listed next...

JOINT OR DOUBLE MAJORS, HONOURS AND EXTENDED/DOUBLE MINORS

Students completing joint or double majors and honours, two extended minors or a double minor, will not be required to complete double W, Q and B requirements. W, Q and B designated courses in either one or both disciplines of the major, honours or minor programs may be used to satisfy the writing, quantitative and breadth requirements. Additional breadth requirements can also be met within the two disciplines. For example, a student completing a double major in English and Physics may count B-Sci designated physics courses as B-Sci, and B-Hum designated English courses as B-Hum, W designated English for the lower and upper division W requirement, and Q designated physics courses toward the Q requirement.

ACADEMIC STANDING

I have been having a hard time academically and I think that I might end up on probation. What will this mean to me?

This is a very important question. It is important to educate yourself about the ramifications of a poor academic performance. Please review the Guide to Academic Standing and Continuance to find out more.

I’ve been told that if my poor performance continues I will be kicked out of SFU. Is this true?

Yes. This status is called “Required to Withdraw” (RTW). Being required to withdraw from the University is a very serious academic situation. Please review the Guide to Academic Standing and Continuance for further information.

GRADE APPEALS

I got a poor grade on one of my classes but I don’t think I was given the correct grade. Is there anything I can do about that?

Yes. You should read the Policies and Procedures relating to grading practices and grade appeals to ensure that you follow the correct procedures.

If I follow the policy and procedures as set out, but I do not think I have been treated fairly do I have any other options?

You can seek assistance, about grading and other issues, from the Ombuds Office which is “… an independent and autonomous agency funded by students through the Student Society. The role of the Office is to ensure that all members of the university community receive fair and equitable treatment on campus.” The Ombuds Office is located in the Maggie Benston Centre (Room 2205). You can also contact the Ombuds Person via e-mail.

UNIT/CREDIT LOADS

I am anxious to finish my degree requirements and want to take about 20 units next summer. Is that a problem?

Students may take as many as 18 units in a term without any special permission. A student wishing to complete 19 units, or more, must seek permission for a course overload from Leigh McGregor in the Faculty of Environment Dean's Office AFTER they have consulted with their academic advisor. 

It is important to note that overloads are calculated on the basis of contact units. During the summer there are three enrollment options:

  • Summer Term – regular 13-week term that takes place from early May until late July.
  • Intersession – begins at the same time as Summer Term but is approximately six weeks in length – ending about mid June. 
  • Summer Session – ends when Summer Term ends but is approximately six weeks in length beginning approximately mid June.

A student enrolling in a 3-unit, Intersession class, or Summer Session class, will attend class twice as frequently, over six weeks, as a student doing the same class in Summer Term (13 weeks). This is important for the purposes of calculating overloads.

TAKING CLASSES AT ANOTHER INSTITUTION

I want to take a class elsewhere. Can I do that?

If you wish to complete courses at another institution, you will need to apply for a Letter of Permission (LOP) from SFU to take courses elsewhere. Please read the information about LOPs and then download and complete the Request for Letter of Permission form and submit it to Student Services (MBC 3200). Permission is not automatic: you must have a good reason for needing to take a course at another institution.

You should attach a course outline (syllabus) for each course that you plan to complete at the other institution, so that the courses may be evaluated by the appropriate departments for course equivalence.

How long will it take for me to get an answer?

The University recommends that you submit the LOP six to eight weeks in advance to your needing to present proof of approval to the institution that you plan to attend. You are encouraged, however, to submit the request as early as you can.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

I want to find our more about career opportunities. How do I do that?

An excellent resource is Career Services, located in the Maggie Benston Centre 0300. You can make an appointment with a career advisor by calling (778) 782-3106.

TEACHING

I am interested in teaching – what do I do?

You are strongly encouraged to attend a PDP Information Session, offered through the Faculty of Education. Any questions that pertain to teaching can be directed to the Faculty of Education advisor.

CO-OP EDUCATION

How do I get information on co-op?

Please contact Environment Co-op or contact the Faculty of Environment Co-op Coordinator, Paul DeGrace.

GRADUATION

How to I go about letting the University know that I want to graduate?

You must apply for graduation and pay your graduation fee via credit card, directly through goSFU. Be sure to check the graduation deadline, as your application to graduate will be cancelled if you do not pay your grad fee on time You should apply for graduation during the term in which you are completing your last course (the first deadline is during second month of classes). Remember to double-check with your advisors to confirm that your degree requirements will be indeed complete.

Note that you must apply to graduate for EACH credential you want to complete. For example, you need to apply for your BSc AND for your Certificate, if appropriate. You are welcome to apply for graduation as soon as the requirements for each program is finished: you do not have to wait to complete your final credential.

If I later change my mind and decide not to go ahead, what do I need to do?

You need to cancel your application for graduation by the first day of classes of the term following your graduation term. A refund of the graduation application fee will be triggered once you cancel your graduation through goSFU. When you are ready to graduate you will need to apply for graduation again.

FAQ for incoming secondary school students

Orientation

Enrolment

Dropping and adding classes

Grades and standing

Choosing a major

Transfer to another faculty

Co-operative education

Financial assistance

Residence

Orientation

I've just been admitted to the university; what do I do now?

Congratulations on your offer of admission to SFU! All students who are currently holding offers of admission for the Fall term should attend Information Evening, which is traditionally held at the end of May; you'll be sent information about it from Admissions. We are sure you will have lots of questions about starting your studies at SFU this September and we will be there in person to answer your questions.

With over 100 departments/schools/programs and service units available to chat with you and tell you about our programs, you will find answers to questions you never even thought to ask. The Education Fair at Information Evening is an excellent opportunity for you and your family to visit SFU and find out more about what the University has to offer.

As well as attending Information Evening, you should complete SFU 101, the online non-credit "course" where you will be shown how to plan your schedule and how to enroll in classes through the goSFU system. Additionally, it contains useful information to assist you with the transition from secondary school to university.

I live out of town and cannot attend the Education Fair (Info Eve). What can I do?

SFU 101, the online, non-credit "course" you will be invited to take part in after admission contains quite a lot of information that we'd be sharing in person at the event: you won't miss out. And if you have any questions after, contact your advisor.

I've completed SFU 101 but I am still not sure what to take in my first term; is there a template that I could use as a guide?

Please see the graduation requirements for each program: Archaeology, Environmental Science, Geography, Geography-Environmental Specialty, Physical Geography and for those completing the Bachelor of Environment. While these don't contain term-by-term suggestions, they do group your requirements so you can see exactly what you'll need over the course of your degree. Then you can explore the schedule of classes for other interesting courses that appeal to you: you might even discover a passion that leads to a joint major or a minor or a certificate. Talk to your advisor about those options.

If you are undecided, but know you're likely to seek a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Envrionment, you may find it useful to to sample courses from every area you're interested in to get a feel for them. Note that every term we offer a selection of first and second year courses that aren't just in degree programs: we offer courses in Development & Sustainability (DEVS), Resource and Environmental Management (REM), Environment (ENV) and Sustainable Community Development (SCD) that might be a good complement to your chosen degree program.

Those pursing a Bachelor of Science are advised to begin their studies in the appropriate Science courses right from the start to ensure timely completion.

Enrolment

Once I've decided on my classes does it matter when I enroll?

Definitely, since classes fill up quickly. As an incoming secondary school student you will be given a priority enrollment appointment for your first term. The enrollment appointment is the first time you are able to access the system to enroll in classes. Remember, if you do not enroll at your first opportunity the selection of classes will rapidly diminish as other students, with a less opportune appointment date, enroll.

How do I know when my enrollment day is, and where do I find the details on how to enroll?

You will be notified by email of your enrollment appointment date.

Is it necessary to have a long list of class choices?

As mentioned previously, for your first enrollment you have been given an excellent enrollment appointment. However, it is always a good idea to work out a few schedules in case what you want is not available.

If a class is full, can I get in later?

Perhaps. Students frequently make adjustments to their schedules, particularly in the first week of classes, and a spot you are trying to pick up may become available. You can keep checking class availability through goSFU.

Some departments use waiting lists for some/all of their classes. If the class you are trying to get has a waiting list then you can try the waiting list process. For further info on the waiting list process, please see goSFU.

Once I've enrolled and I'm happy with my schedule is that it?

It is always a good idea to confirm your enrollment, by visiting goSFU, a few times before classes start. Unfortunately, sometimes classes have to be cancelled or moved and that will be reflected in your record on gosfu.

How many units should I take in my first term?

That depends. Each student has different abilities, study skills, and responsibilities (such as work, volunteer commitments and family obligations).

Generally speaking, in your first term we recommend that you enroll in three or four courses. Where five courses is considered a "typical" university student's load, taking on that much in your first term may be too much of an adjustment.  You may think that this does not sound like much, however, there will be a lot asked of you in terms of reading, homework, assignments, etc. It is best to start off with a lighter load. If you find that manageable, then you can undertake more units in subsequent terms.    

Note that scholarships and awards and education savings assistance plans can have minimum requirements in place for your studies. For example, students with entrance scholarships are usually required to take 12 units (usually four courses). Make sure you're well versed in the requirements of these.

I always did well in secondary school, so I think I can do more than a full load. Will the gosfu system allow me to enroll in as many units as I want?

No. The goSFU system will allow you to enroll in up to 18 units, but no more.

If I enroll in less than a full load in a term will that not put me behind?

Not necessarily. The trimester system allows you to take classes year round. The majority of students do not enroll in fifteen units each fall and spring. If you take less than a full load one term, you can take additional classes at other times.

Dropping and adding classes

If part way through the term I realize I have enrolled in too many units and I withdraw from a class, will this affect my grade point average?

In the first three weeks of classes there is no notation on your record if you withdraw from a class. After week three, there is a notation but it does not affect your grade point average. After week 5, day 5, you must have permission and a very good reason to drop a class. If you are allowed to withdraw from a class at this point it will show on your record as "WE" which means you were approved for a Withdrawal under Extenuating Circumstances. This will not affect your grade point average. For further information on dates, please visit the Deadlines for Undergraduates website.

If I want to drop a class later in the term and I am refused permission, what if I just don't go to class anymore?

That would be a poor decision. If you abandon a class you will receive an "N" grade (meaning incomplete), which means you did not complete the class and this will have a very negative impact on your grade point average - the same impact as an "F" grade.

Grades and standing

 If I fail a class or get an "N" grade, can't I fix that?

Generally speaking yes, but you may not have the later opportunity to repeat the class (also called duplicating) for a few terms and in the meantime you might be placed on Academic Probation or will be Required to Withdraw.

But if I'm on probation it takes quite a while before I get kicked out of the University, right?

Wrong. There is very little time to recover from being on Academic Probation before you might be Required to Withdraw. Get acquainted with the policies pertaining to students in academic difficulty.

Everybody deserves a second chance. If I'm required to withdraw it is easy to get back in, isn't it?

While it may be true that everyone deserves a second chance, it is not the case that it will be easy to gain reentry to the University. The best approach is to manage your class load so that you do not get into this predicament in the first place. Get acquainted with the policies pertaining to students in academic difficulty.

How many repeats am I allowed?

You need to be careful about repeating classes. You are allowed a maximum of five repeats in your entire degree. This regulation is strictly enforced in the Faculty of Environment. Further, more than one repeat of a specific class is not allowed unless you are given special permission by the department involved.

I've heard that at University the only thing that matters is grades, grades and grades. Is that true?

Performing well academically is certainly desirable. However, there should be more to your university experience than getting good grades. You will have ample opportunity at SFU to get involved with activities outside the classroom. You can volunteer, join clubs, study overseas by participating in exciting exchanges and fields schools, etc. You want to grow through your experience at SFU and your future employer will expect you to be well rounded. Co-opemployers, for example, desire a well-rounded student who is engaged in a diverse range of activities.

Choosing a major

I have no idea what I want to study, is that a problem?

No. In your first two years at SFU we suggest that you explore different disciplines. It is important, however, to be thinking about what you will ultimately major/minor in. You are required to have declared a major, a joint major, two extended minors, an extended minor and a minor or two minors (with at least one extended minor or minor in FENV) by the time you have completed 60 units.

Once I make up my mind on my major/minors, what do I do?

That varies by program. Please see the advisor for the program for full details.

How do I know what the requirements are for my specific area of interest?

Always refer to the SFU calendar. It is your responsibility to know what is required and the calendar is the best source of information.

I've heard from my friends that the calendar is too confusing to bother with. Is there somewhere else I can get the information?

The calendar can be overwhelming. However, you should still refer to it on an ongoing basis - it will become easier to use. Your advisor can assist you, too.

Where can I get a Calendar?

The SFU calendar is available online.

Transfer to another faculty

I have been admitted to the Faculty of Environment, but I actually want to complete a degree in another faculty. What do I do?

To ensure that you are taking the correct classes to be admitted to your first choice faculty, you need to obtain academic advice from that faculty.

For further info visit:

You are encouraged to work on completing the requirements for your second choice (e.g. major in Evironmental Resource Management) in case you are not successful in gaining entry to your first choice area (e.g. Business). Talk to the advisor of your first-choice program about ways you can still incorporate that subject into your studies through a minor or certificate, too.

Co-operative education

Is co-op education available to students in the Faculty of Environment? 

Absolutely! You are strongly encouraged to think about becoming involved in an Environmental Co-op education opportunity.

What exactly is Co-op?

Co-op Education is a program that enhances academic learning with related work experience and represents a co-operative relationship between students, the employer and the University. Co-op students benefit from practical experience in their area of study as well as career exploration and networking opportunities. The Co-op program is non-credit and offers full-time, paid employment with a diverse range of local, national and international organizations.

At what point in my degree am I eligible for Co-op?

Students must have completed one semester (at least 9 units) of classes here at SFU and have a CGPA of 2.75 or greater before applying to Co-op.

How do I get more information on Co-op?

You can visit the Environment Co-op website or contact the Faculty of Environment Co-op Coordinator, Paul DeGrace (778-782-3115, degrace@sfu.ca)

Financial assistance

How do I find out about financial assistance?

Please visit the Financial Aid website.

Residence

How do I find out about residence?

Please visit the Residence website.

FAQ for incoming transfer students

PROGRAM SELECTION

COURSE SELECTION

TRANSFER CREDIT

TRANSFER TO ANOTHER FACULTY

BECOMING A TEACHER

PAYING DEPOSIT, BUS PASS, LIBRARY CARD


PROGRAM SELECTION

What program options are available in the Faculty of Environment?

You can complete a major, a joint major, two extended minors, an extended minor and a minor or two minors (with at least one extended minor or minor in FENV) as part of your Bachelor of Arts. A Bachelor of Science can be earned with a major or honours program and the Bachelor or Envrionment can be earned with a major or joint major.

COURSE SELECTION 

Where can I get an SFU calendar?

The SFU calendar is available online.

I have been admitted late and most students have already enrolled for the upcoming term – how can I get classes?

Your first enrollment at SFU will be challenging if most class seats have already been taken. Please do not be discouraged. After this term things will improve. Follow these steps:

1. Have a look at the undergraduate timetable, on goSFU or check the schedule of classes. The undergraduate timetable gives information on which classes are offered for the upcoming term.

2. Once you have determined which classes are of interest take a look at the detailed class/course outlines. These are generally available on the web site of each department in FENV and the University at large.

3. Keep checking for spaces through the goSFU system. Once the grades for the current term are posted some classes will become available as students, whose status is changed to “required to withdraw”, are removed from their classes for the upcoming term. Those classes are then available for other students to pick up. Also, be sure to put yourself on waiting lists if that is an option.

4. Normally, our colleagues in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences posts a list of Upper Division Elective Classes, which highlights all the courses that are available without a specific course prerequisite. This list is posted approximately one week prior to the beginning of the enrolment period for the upcoming term.

I want to declare a major in Archeology, with a minor in Geography. How do I go about getting the major and minor added to my transcript?

Please contact the advisor of the minor program once you've discussed the option with your major program advisor.

If I cannot get the classes I need in my first term, do I have ‘room’ to take lower division elective classes without extending my degree completion time?

Perhaps. To determine whether or not you have room for lower division electives you need to calculate the following:

-the number of transfer units you have brought with you, plus
-any outstanding lower division requirements you must still take for your major/minor program and any additional minors you wish to complete, plus
- the upper division requirements for your major/minor program and any additional minors you wish to complete. Please note that at a minimum you need 45 upper division units for a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Environment and 44 upper division units for the Bachelor of Science.

If you total the above and arrive at a figure that is less than 120 units then you have that much room for lower division electives.

If you total the above and arrive at a figure of more than 120 units then you do not have room for lower division electives.

If I do not have room for electives, but wish to take lower division electives, can I?

Absolutely. However, if you wish to complete your degree in as timely a manner as possible, you will not want to take additional lower division courses. If that is the case, you must make every effort to try to pick up the required classes.

I am not yet ready to declare my major, Geography, and do not have room for lower division electives. Are there any courses outside of Geography, at the upper division level, that do not require a prerequisite?

There are a number of classes available each term that do not have a specific course prerequisite and may require completion of 30, 60 or 90 units only. Each term, our colleagues in the Faculty of Arts makes a list of these classes available to students. You can find it under their advising section (Upper Division Electives List).

How do I know if I have room for upper division electives?

Basically, by going through the process used to determine if you have room for lower division electives. Take what you have, plus what you need, and this will tell you if you have room for upper division (UD) electives. For example, an Archeolgoy major requires 32 UD units and a BA requires 45 UD units. You will have room for 13 UD elective units.  This means, that in this example, you have a possible 13 UD units than can be taken outside of Archeology. Note that a Bachelor of Science requires 44 UD units and the Bachelor of Environment 45 UD units.

TRANSFER CREDIT 

Some of my transfer classes show on my transcript as Engl 1XX-3 or Math 2XX-3. Why? Can I use these classes to fulfill specific requirements and as prerequisites?

That depends. Generally, when you are given 1XX (or 2XX or 3XX) for a class it is because your transfer class is not exactly the same as an existing SFU class, but the credit does transfer (Engl 1XX indicates the English class you took was at the 100 level; Math 2XX indicates the Math class was at the 200 level; Hist 3XX indicates the History class you took was at the 300 level). If you see this kind of notation on your transcript it means that you have been given what we call unassigned credit for the class and it will generally count toward degree completion.

To be sure whether an unassigned credit will fulfill the appropriate requirements for a program, please check with the appropriate academic advisor.

WRITING, QUANTITATIVE AND BREADTH (WQB) REQUIREMENTS

What are the WQB requirements for Environment students? I heard they're different for EVSC and double minor students.

The complete, full and final WQB requirements can be found in the calendar (search for WQB): www.sfu.ca/calendar

What's important to note for those students who complete the Bachelor of Envrionment or the BA Double Minor or the Environmental Science program is that these programs follow the "Special WQB Circumstances", as listed below in "Joint or Double...".

JOINT OR DOUBLE MAJORS, HONOURS AND EXTENDED/DOUBLE MINORS

Students completing joint or double majors and honours, two extended minors or a double minor, will not be required to complete double W, Q and B requirements. W, Q and B designated courses in either one or both disciplines of the major, honours or minor programs may be used to satisfy the writing, quantitative and breadth requirements. Additional breadth requirements can also be met within the two disciplines. For example, a student completing a double major in English and physics may count B-Sci designated physics courses as B-Sci, and B-Hum designated English courses as B-Hum, W designated English for the lower and upper division W requirement, and Q designated physics courses toward the Q requirement.

TRANSFER TO ANOTHER FACULTY

I have been admitted to the Faculty of Environment, but I actually want to complete a degree in another faculty. What do I do?

To ensure that you are taking the correct classes to be admitted to your first choice faculty, you need to obtain academic advice from that faculty.

For further info visit:

You are encouraged to work on completing the requirements for your second choice (e.g. major in Environmental Science) in case you are not successful in gaining entry to your first choice area (e.g. Engineering Science).

BECOMING A TEACHER

I am interested in teaching – what do I do?

You are strongly encouraged to attend an orientation for teachers, offered through the Faculty of Education. For date information, please visit the website for the Faculty of Education. Any questions that pertain to teaching can be directed to the Faculty of Education advisor.

Paying Deposit, Bus Pass, Library Card

How do I take care of other details such as paying my deposit, getting my bus pass, library card etc?

Check out the information for new students on the Student Services website.

WHAT DO I NEED TO GET A DEGREE

BACHELOR OF ARTS

Students can meet the Bachelor of Arts requirements through one of the following options:

  • a major program
  • a joint major program
  • double minor program (with at least one minor from FENV)

In addition to the degree requirements set out below, students may also fulfil the requirements for one or more additional extended minor(s) or minor(s). Please see the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Degree section for honours program requirements.

For all BA options at least 120 units are required, which include:

  • at least 60 units that must be completed at SFU
  • at least 45 upper division units, of which at least 30    
  • upper division units must be completed at SFU
  • satisfaction of the writing, quantitative, and breadth requirements
  • an overall CGPA and upper division CGPA of at least 2.0
  • a program (major, joint major, extended minor, minor) CGPA and upper division CGPA of at least 2.0

Students also have the option of completing two major programs (double major), if they wish. Students completing two majors will graduate with one BA degree.     

BACHELOR OF ENVIRONMENT

Students can meet the Bachelor of Environment requirements through one of the following options:

  • a major program
  • a joint major program

In addition to the degree requirements set out below, students may also fulfil the requirements for one or more additional extended minor(s) or minor(s). There is currently no option for an Honours Bachelor of Environemnt Degree.

For all BEnv options at least 120 units are required, which include:

  • at least 60 units that must be completed at SFU
  • at least 45 upper division units, of which at least 30 upper division units must be completed at SFU
  • satisfaction of the writing, quantitative, and breadth requirements
  • an overall CGPA and upper division CGPA of at least 2.00
  • a program (major or joint major) CGPA and upper division CGPA of at least 2.0

Students also have the option of completing two major programs (double major), if they wish. Students completing two majors will graduate with one BEnv degree.

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE

Students can meet the Bachelor of Science requirements only through:

  • a major program

In addition to the degree requirements set out below, students may also fulfill the requirements for one or more additional extended minor(s) or minor(s). Please see the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Degree section for honours program requirements.

For all BSc options at least 120 units are required, which include: 

  • at least 60 units that must be completed at SFU
  • at least 44 upper division units, of which at least 30 upper division units must be completed at SFU
  • satisfaction of the writing, quantitative, and breadth requirements
  •  an overall CGPA and upper division CGPA of at least 2.0
  •  a program (major, joint major, extended minor, minor) CGPA and upper division CGPA of at least 2.0

Students also have the option of completing two major programs (double major), if they wish. Students completing two majors will graduate with one BSc degree.

HONOURS DEGREES

A student must apply and be accepted into an honours program. Acceptance is contingent upon satisfying the entrance requirements of the department concerned. Applicants normally have a 3.00 CGPA in subject (s) of the honours field. In order to continue, this 3.00 CGPA must be maintained. Failure to do so will place the student in the corresponding general degree program. Students will still be subject to the regulations of the original graduating calendar. If a student is subsequently reinstated into the honours program, the graduating calendar is that which was in effect at the time of the original program acceptance.

BACHELOR OF ARTS (HONOURS) DEGREE

Requirements in addition to those listed under the Bachelor of Arts degree:

  • at least 120 units, but may require 132 units (check program requirements)
  • at least 60 units in upper division courses, which must include at least 50 units in approved upper division courses in a Faculty of Environment honours program; no more than 15 upper division units transferred from another institution can be used toward this requirement
  • lower division requirements for at least one Faculty of Environment honours program
  • an overall CGPA and upper division CGPA of at least 3.00 and an honours program CGPA and upper division CGPA of at least 3.00
  • Any additional requirements as listed in calendar for the program of your choice

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS) DEGREE

Requirements in addition to those listed under the Bachelor of Science degree:

  • at least 120 units, may require 132 units (check program requrirements)
  • at least 60 units in upper division courses, which must include at least 48 units in approved upper division courses in a Faculty of Environment honours program; no more than 15 upper division units transferred from another institution can be used toward this requirement
  • lower division requirements for at least one Faculty of Environment honours program
  • an overall CGPA and upper division CGPA of at least 3.00 and an honours program CGPA and upper division CGPA of at least 3.00
  • Any additional requirements as listed in calendar for the program of your choice

NOTES

  • Honours students who obtain an overall CGPA and upper division CGPA of at least 4.00 will graduate with the designation "First Class with Distinction"
  • Honours students who obtain an overall CGPA and upper division CGPA between 3.50 and 3.99 will graduate with the designation "with Distinction"
  • Joint Honours students must also complete the lower division requirements for both honours programs and must maintain a 3.00 CGPA and upper division CGPA in each program area of the joint honours program.
  • A department may designate up to 12 units of program-related upper division courses offered by other departments as being acceptable in fulfilling part of the required upper division units in the honours program.

JOINT MAJORS

A joint major is a combination of two program areas. Students complete at least 20 upper division units in each of the two joint major program areas. Students are advised to check individual department listings for possible additional requirements.

Requirements in addition to those listed under the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Environment degree sections:

  • lower division requirements for both joint major programs
  • at least 20 upper division units in each of the two joint major programs, of which at least 10 upper division units must be completed at SFU in each program area
  • no more than 15 upper division units transferred from another institution may be used toward this program

Note: Students choosing to complete two separate majors (double major) will complete two major programs, with at least one major subject in the Faculty of Environment. Therefore, students will complete at least 30 units of upper division courses in each of the two major subjects. Students completing two majors will graduate with one degree.

DOUBLE MINOR DEGREE (BA)

Students wishing to prepare themselves in two program areas, but not desiring to undertake a major or a joint major program, may complete a program consisting of two extended minors, an extended minor and a minor, or two minors for the Bachelor of Arts degree, at least one of which must be in the Faculty of Environment.  Students interested in this option must meet with a Faculty of Environment advisor.

A minor program requires at least 15 upper division units within a single program area unless otherwise specified in the Calendar. An extended minor consists of the lower division requirements for a major, plus the upper division requirements for a minor.

Requirements include those listed under the Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree below as well as these additional requirements:

  • the lower division requirements for each extended minor and/or minor programs
  • 21 upper division units taken in Faculty of Environment courses, of which at least 12 must be completed at SFU
  • no more than 8 upper division units transferred from another institution may be used toward an extended minor or minor

SECOND UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

Students who hold a bachelor’s degree may complete a second Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree. Students are encouraged to determine whether a second BA or a BSc degree is actually required for their purposes (in many cases, post-degree studies may be more appropriate). For information regarding second BA or a BSc degrees and/or post-degree studies, students should seek advice from the Faculty of Environment Advisors in the program of your choice.

A student may not enrol in a second BA or a BSc degree in a subject in which they already hold a degree. A student who has a minor in a particular subject may enroll in a second BA or a BSc degree with a major or honours program in that subject.

ADMISSION

First, you will need to apply for formal admission to SFU as a degree holder.

Your initial program status upon admission will be “Environment Non-Degree Seeking”. As soon as you have been granted this admission status, you will need to contact the department advisor for your intended major and provide a copy of your first undergraduate degree transcript. You will then work with the advisor to complete a Second Degree approval form outlining the specific requirements for your program.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Students admitted into a second BA degree will be required to complete a minimum total of 45 upper division units. Students admitted into a second BSc degree will be required to complete a minimum total of 44 upper division units.  Prior completion of lower division requirements for the major program may be required or may be waived at the discretion of the department.

Second degree students must complete one upper division writing (W) course and one quantitative (Q) course.

In order to satisfy residency requirements for the second degree, students must complete at least two thirds of their upper division units at SFU.

TRANSFER CREDIT

Courses not used towards a previous degree (as determined by the institution awarding that degree) may be used to reduce the number of courses required in the second BA or BSc degree where applicable. Courses extra to previous degrees may be counted towards the second BA or BSc degree if completed before admission into the second BA or BSc degree, to a maximum of 15 units, in accordance with Faculty regulations. Students must obtain written approval from the Faculty of Environment Advisors.

CONCURRENT DEGREES

Students have the option of completing two undergraduate degrees concurrently by meeting the requirements of a first bachelor’s degree and the requirements of a second Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree. Students choosing this option will complete both degrees simultaneously and apply for graduation from both degrees in the same term.  

In some instances, instead of two concurrent degrees, it may be preferable to complete two extended minors, a joint major, a double major or a joint honours program leading to one bachelor’s degree. Students are encouraged to determine whether a second BA or a BSc degree is actually required for their purposes (in many cases, post-degree studies may be more appropriate).  

For information regarding concurrent degrees and/or post-degree studies, students should seek advice from the Faculty of Environment Advisors.

WHAT DO I NEED TO GET A CERTIFICATE

Certificates may be completed on a full- or part-time basis. Students in a certificate program complete the equivalent of between one-half and one full year of university study (18 to 30 units). Students pursuing a degree while pursuing a certificate may be able to count some courses toward both credentials. See the advisor for details.

UNDERGRADUATE CERTIFICATES

GRADUATE CERTIFICATES

 

Note that most certficates are earned while pursuing a degree program and, as a result, the courses are spread out over several terms of study: it is unusual to finish a certificate on its own in under one year of study. Admission as an undergraduate student is required for these certificates.

WHAT DO I NEED TO GET A POST BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA

ADMISSION

First, you will need to apply for undergraduate admission to SFU as a degree holder. (If you are currently an SFU student, talk to the advisor.)

Upon admission, your program will be “Environment Non-Degree Seeking”. That's because admission to the PBD is a two-step process. Apply to SFU and apply to SCD separately, but at the same time.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

  • Completion of at least 30 units of upper division (third- and fourth-year) courses (and/or graduate courses, if appropriate). 
  • A minimum grade point average of 2.50 on courses applied towards the diploma.
  • Completion of lower division requirements, if required for completion of upper division courses.
  • Completion of the diploma within 5 years of admission to the program.
  • At least 18 out of the 30 required upper division units for the diploma must be completed at SFU, including 9 units in SCD.
  • Any other continuation requirements for the program as outlined in the SFU Calendar

TRANSFER CREDIT

  • Transfer credit for work done at other institutions, before or after admission to the program, may be approved toward fulfillment of the program provided that at least 18 of the 30 required upper division units, including at least nine units in SCD, be taken at Simon Fraser University. Note that credit used toward a degree or diploma is not acceptable.
  • Transfer credit is normally only valid for approved courses taken within ten years of the diploma student’s completion term.
  • Transfer credit for use toward the diploma is granted only on approval of the Registrar, SCD, and the Dean of the Faculty of Environment.
  • Credit for work done at Simon Fraser University or transfer credit for work done elsewhere prior to admission to the program may be approved provided that at least 15 of the 30 required upper division units, including at least eight units in SCD, normally be taken after admission to the program.

Units applied to one diploma may not be applied to another Simon Fraser University certificate or diploma or degree, and vice versa.

WHAT DO I NEED TO GET A SECOND UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE

Students who hold a bachelor’s degree may complete a second Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree. Students are encouraged to determine whether a second BA or a BSc degree is actually required for their purposes (in many cases, post-degree studies may be more appropriate). For information regarding second BA or a BSc degrees and/or post-degree studies, students should seek advice from the Faculty of Environment Advisors in the program of your choice.

A student may not enrol in a second BA or a BSc degree in a subject in which they already hold a degree. A student who has a minor in a particular subject may enroll in a second BA or a BSc degree with a major or honors program in that subject.

ADMISSION

First, you will need to apply for formal admission to SFU as a degree holder.

Your initial program status upon admission will be “Environment Non-Degree Seeking”. As soon as you have been granted this admission status, you will need to contact the advisor for your intended major and provide a copy of your first undergraduate degree transcript. You will then work with the advisor to complete a Second Degree approval form outlining the specific requirements for your program.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Students admitted into a second BA or BEnv degree will be required to complete a total of 45 upper division units. Students admitted into a second BSc degree will be required to complete a total of 44 upper division units.  Prior completion of lower division requirements for the major program may be required or may be waived at the discretion of the department.

Second degree students must complete one upper division writing (W) course and one quantitative (Q) course.

In order to satisfy residency requirements for the second degree, students must complete at least two thirds of their upper division units at SFU.

TRANSFER CREDITS

Courses not used towards a previous degree (as determined by the institution awarding that degree) may be used to reduce the number of courses required in the second BA or BSc degree where applicable. Courses extra to previous degrees may be counted towards the second BA or BSc degree if completed before admission into the second BA or BSc degree, to a maximum of 15 units, in accordance with Faculty regulations. Students must obtain written approval from the Faculty of Environment Advisors.

Second degree students may not complete courses at another institution through a Letter of Permission.

WHAT DO I NEED TO GET A CONCURRENT DEGREE

Students have the option of completing two undergraduate degrees concurrently by meeting the requirements of a first bachelor degree and the requirements of a second Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree from the Faculty of Environment. Students choosing this option will complete both degrees simultaneously and apply for graduation from both degrees in the same term.  

In some instances, instead of two concurrent degrees it may be preferable to complete two extended minors, a joint major, a double major or a joint honours program leading to one bachelor degree. Students are encouraged to determine whether a second BA or a BSc degree is actually required for their purposes (in many cases, post-degree studies may be more appropriate).  

For information regarding concurrent degrees and/or post-degree studies, students should seek advice from the Faculty of Environment Advisors.

ALL PROGRAMS IN THE FACULTY

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS

BACHELOR OF ENVIRONMENT (BENV)

BACHELOR OF ARTS (BA)

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (BSC)

 

ENHANCE YOUR DEGREE

CERTIFICATES

MINORS IN ENVIRONMENT

 

MASTERS AND DOCTORAL PROGRAMS

POST BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

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