BSc (Agricultural and Environmental Sciences)

BSc (Agricultural and Environmental Sciences) McGill University

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BSc (Agricultural and Environmental Sciences)

Six majors ...
20 specializations, 2 options, 7 domains–
customized to fit your interests!
So what are you passionate about?



Are you committed to environmental issues, passionate about agriculture and the rural community, or looking for a career in business?

McGill's Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (FAES) has a program to meet your needs!

Let's get started. Students may design their own program by choosing one of the six majors and at least one of the specializations, options or domains that are paired with them. Click on the links below to learn more about the possibilities offered through the FAES.

MAJORS

  • AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS (with Options)

    The agri-food system and the environment are facing increasing complex problems. Agricultural Economics is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with the knowledge and analytical and decision making skills required for a career in many fields available in both the private and public sectors. Students will receive training in economic theory and in applied areas such as marketing, finance, public policy, ecology, natural resources and international development.
    More info

  • AGRO-ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES (with Specializations)

    More than ever, agriculture is at the forefront of human endeavour. Farmers and others working in agriculture must not only feed the increasing human population, but must also be able to supply fibre, fuels and even plastics and medicines made from plants to the world, and all without causing damage to the environment. McGill agricultural graduates work all over the world. Some choose to work helping farmers to take care of their soils and water or to improve the yield and nutritional quality of their crops and livestock. Others work in research, finding better crops with more pest and disease resistance, or better ways to take care of animals to supply our needs for dairy products and meat in a humane way.
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  • ENVIRONMENT (with Domains)

    The Major in Environment is offered through the McGill School of Environment (MSE). Situated on both of McGill’s Campuses (downtown Montreal and the Macdonald Campus in Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue), the MSE brings together the sharpest environmentally focused minds to give students the finest education possible in the environmental sciences. The MSE’s approach is to introduce students to a broad range of ideas, giving them a foundation upon which more specialized knowledge can be built. Students will gain an understanding of the complexity of environmental problems and be given the opportunity to apply their knowledge in analyzing contemporary problems.
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  • ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY (with Specializations)

    Environmental Biology is all about biology, diversity and ecology. From plants and vertebrate animals, to insects, fungi and microbes, this major touches them all. A strong emphasis is placed on ecosystems, the species that inhabit them and the limits the physical environments and environmental changes impose. With significant field components and a unique physical setting, students will have an unequaled opportunity for practical learning.
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  • INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SYSTEMS (with Specializations)

    Food and agriculture are fundamentally important to the well-being and economic development of communities and countries, particularly in Africa, Asia and Latin America. In this major, students will study the ways that agriculture can help define ecologically sound and sustainable solutions to food insecurity, malnutrition, poverty and underdevelopment. The program includes ample opportunities for internships and independent research so students can gain a hands on understanding of agricultural and food systems in developing countries.
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  • LIFE SCIENCES (with Specializations)

    One of the most appealing aspects of the Major in Life Sciences (Biological and Agricultural) is its comprehensive nature. Students will receive a strong foundation in the biological sciences, will build their scientific literacy, communication and lab skills and be able to undertake research projects in laboratories. Flexibility of course choice, allows for students to follow interests in the environment, animal or plant health, animal or plant biology, biotechnology, or agriculture.
    More info
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SPECIALIZATIONS

Agriculture and Food Systems (Multidisciplinary)

  • This specialization will appeal to students interested in international agriculture and development. It’s a flexible specialization, offering a balance between food systems, consumption and agricultural production. Students can select courses in economics, nutrition, the ethical and environmental implications of food systems, and the fundamentals of animal and plant production.

    Agriculture and Food Systems is a suggested specialization for the following major: International Agriculture and Food Systems
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Animal Biology

  • This specialization provides students with the necessary tools to understand animal physiology and function, and is intended for students who wish to focus their studies on the basic biology of large mammals and birds. Students will take courses concerning animal disease, physiology, and nutrition, and will thus gain a solid grounding to enter the work force, pursue postgraduate studies in biology or apply to a veterinary college (recognized by most North American veterinary colleges)

    Animal Biology is a suggested specialization for the following major: Life Sciences
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Animal Health and Disease

  • This specialization is offered for students wishing to understand general animal physiology and function, the susceptibility of animals to various diseases, methods for limiting and controlling potential outbreaks, and the resulting implications for the animal, the consumer and the environment. Students interested in caring for animals or working in laboratories that research animal diseases will find this to be extremely appealing. This specialization offers students an entry into the animal health field, and may be especially interesting for students who wish to continue in veterinary studies.

    Animal Health and Disease is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Agro-Environmental Sciences and Life Sciences
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Animal Production

  • The proper treatment of animals has become a major concern over the last quarter-century. The Specialization in Animal Production will teach how animal nutrition, physiology and breeding can be addressed in a context that respects animal-welfare issues as well as environmental concerns. These issues are dealt with as they apply to livestock production, at both the national and international levels.

    Animal Production is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Agro-Environmental Sciences and International Agriculture and Food Systems
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Applied Ecosystem Sciences

  • From soil and water management to waste management and insect diversity, the specialization in Applied Ecosystem Sciences teaches students about ecosystem processes and systems ecology. The goal of this specialization is to allow students to understand, design and manage our interactions with ecosystems, recognizing the role of humans in these systems.

    Applied Ecosystem Sciences is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Environmental Biology
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Agricultural Economics

  • The practice of modern agriculture requires knowledge of global economics just as any other professional field does. The Specialization in Agricultural Economics provides this knowledge by teaching the workings of the economy at large. Students thus gain the confidence to handle agricultural economic issues in any future career path. This specialization is also designed to help students understand the business of the agri-food industry and in particular the interaction between the economy and the natural resource base.

    Agricultural Economics is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Agro-Environmental Sciences and International Agriculture and Food Systems
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Ecological Agriculture

  • How are weeds, pests, and diseases controlled in an organic farming system? What is the best way to maintain and improve the quality of both soil and water resources? This specialization examines these questions while revolving around an essential idea: farms are complex ecosystems that can be managed and that proper management skills can be acquired. Students in this specialization learn these skills through courses that provide the scientific foundations of ecological agriculture, combined with practical experiences on successful organic farms. Graduates can choose to work on a farm, for government or pursue postgraduate studies in this field.

    Ecological Agriculture is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Agro-Environmental Sciences and International Agriculture and Food Systems
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Entomology

  • With over one million known species of insects inhabiting the planet, there is no shortage of crop invaders or vectors of disease for pest control experts to keep at bay. Many species of insects are beneficial, however, and perform many important ecological functions. Pest control management will continue to be a global priority well into the future, and students entering the Specialization in Entomology will be well-positioned for careers in the field. This specialization will give students expertise in insect biology, ecology, evolution, and behaviour. Insect taxonomy and systematics will be studied in the field and in the classroom.

    Entomology is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Life Sciences , Environmental Biology and Agro-Environmental Sciences
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Environmental Biology (Multidisciplinary)

  • This specialization is designed for students with broad and general interests in biology. It’s a flexible specialization that offers a balance between organisms, their ecology and ecosystem processes and applications. Biology and ecology of a variety of taxonomic groups will be examined. Students will be exposed to ecosystem management and issues related to environmental change.

    Animal Production is a suggested specialization for the following major: Environmental Biology
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Health and Nutrition

  • The Specialization in Health and Nutrition offers students a foundation of knowledge in nutrition, heath and disease in both animals and humans. Specifically, the major focuses on nutrition and health throughout a lifespan, and on nutritional requirements in relation to health and disease prevention. Students will learn about metabolism, toxicology, herbs, sanitation and a host of related topics from globally recognized leaders in this field, preparing them for a wide variety of professional opportunities.

    Health and Nutrition is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Life Sciences and International Agriculture and Food Systems
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

International Agriculture

  • What better way to study the practice of agriculture in a tropical setting than by going to a tropical destination? Students in this specialization have that opportunity via four field semesters, one in Africa, one in Panama and two in Barbados, although space is subject to a selection procedure and students must cover costs. Be it in the field or in the classroom, the curriculum covers a fascinating range of topics in tropical farming, allowing students to sharpen skills for career opportunities ahead. Students will learn about water resources, sustainable development, nutrition, planning and development, and a host of other topics.

    International Agriculture is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Agro-Environmental Sciences
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Life Sciences (Multidisciplinary)

  • The Life Sciences (Multidisciplinary) specialization has been specifically designed to offer students flexibility, both in terms of study options and career choice. Students can opt for either a broad program that spans several disciplines, or can choose a more specialized program. A wide range of courses are offered within two life sciences categories: fundamentals and applications. This specialization will open up opportunities in a variety of bioscience industries, postgraduate programs or professional schools.

    Life Sciences (Multidisciplinary) is a suggested specialization for the following major: Life Sciences
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Microbiology

  • Some of the most fascinating life forms on earth can only be seen – and studied – with a microscope. This specialization provides the opportunity to learn about both the fundamental principles and the applied aspects of microbiology. Students will have the flexibility to focus on different areas such as environmental microbiology, microbial genetics or pathogenicity, or on applied areas such as molecular biology and biotechnology. At the end of their studies, students will have access to multiple career paths. Whether they are interested in working on projects such as environmental clean-up or bio-fuels within governmental, university or industrial research laboratories; embarking on a career within the pharmaceutical, food or fermentation industries; or continuing into postgraduate studies or professional biomedical schools, many choices are available for them.

    Microbiology is a suggested specialization for the following major: Life Sciences
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Molecular Biotechnology

  • The expanding fields of biotechnology and molecular biology, both of which constitute the core of this specialization, have astounding potential for scientific progress. This specialization will educate and train students in the fundamental aspects of these fields, preparing them to become the vanguard in tomorrow’s exciting discoveries. Students can choose to focus on basic molecular biology or aspects of biotechnology such as bioinformatics. Graduating students have a range of career options such as working in universities or government, in industrial research laboratories, or the pharmaceutical industry. Students can also go on to postgraduate studies or professional biomedical schools.

    Molecular Biotechnology is a suggested specialization for the following major: Life Sciences
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Plant Biology

  • Students in this specialization will study plants from the cellular to organismal level. The latest techniques in plant biology – covering the development, classification, and ecology of plants – will be taught. The opportunity for high-level lab work is an especially appealing aspect of this specialization. Students will be able to conduct lab exercises at the Morgan Arboretum, the McGill Herbarium, the Lods Centre, the Horticultural Centre, the Plant Science greenhouses, and McGill field stations – all first-rate facilities. Students can also undertake a research project under the guidance of a Department member. Upon graduation, students can find work in a diverse range of fields, including botany, mycology, ecology, environmental science, and plant molecular biology. Postgraduate studies are also an option.

    Plant Biology is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Life Sciences and Environmental Biology
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Plant Production

  • Want to enter a flourishing agricultural field? Then consider the Specialization in Plant Production. The plant industry is swiftly becoming a burgeoning component of both the Canadian and global economies. Students in this specialization will gain the knowledge and skills for tomorrow’s top positions in the industry. From biology to physiology to breeding as well as the propagation and management of plants, students will be prepared for employment in horticulture, field crop development, production and management, or in government services. Becoming a consultant or pursuing postgraduate studies are also attractive options.

    Plant Production is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Agro-Environmental Sciences and International Agriculture and Food Systems
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Plant Protection

  • One way to increase the world’s food supply is to reduce the enormous amount of waste in the food system. Protecting plants in the field is the first step in this process. Students in this specialization will learn about the biology of plants and of the insects and disease organisms that attack them. The competitive and defensive interactions of plants with their environment, with each other, and with their attackers will be explored at the organismal and molecular levels as well as manipulating the crop and the environment, to limit the use of potentially toxic chemicals.

    Plant Protection is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Agro-Environmental Sciences and Environmental Biology
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Professional Agrology

  • Professional agrologists are scientists and economists who work either directly with farmers or with government agencies as consultants for improving crops and soil fertility, managing livestock, and enhancing the economic well-being of farmers and agricultural enterprises.
    NOTE: This specialization is required, along with one other specialization, for students wishing to become members of the Ordre des agronomes du Québec.

    Professional Agrology is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Agro-Environmental Sciences
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Soil and Water Resources

  • Is there any more essential relationship in agriculture than the one between soil and water? The interaction between the two in managed ecosystems forms the basis of the Specialization in Soil and Water Resources. Students will examine the conservation and management of soils, issues affecting watershed management and decision making, and how to remedy contaminated soils.

    Soil and Water Resources is a suggested specialization for the following majors: Environmental Biology, Agro-Environmental Sciences and International Agriculture and Food Systems
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator

Wildlife Biology

  • Students interested in advanced training about the ecology and biology of fish, mammals, and birds will be interested in Wildlife Biology. This specialization is about vertebrate conservation biology. Field studies are at the core of this specialization, as is the management of wildlife species in the face of changing environments.

    Wildlife Biology is a suggested specialization for the following major: Environmental Biology
    Questions? Email the Specialization Coordinator
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OPTIONS (Agricultural Economics Major only)

Environmental Economics

  • Responding to the environmental challenges we face means making choices, and economics plays a central role in these choices. What are the costs and benefits of doing something about global warming? This specialization integrates biological and environmental sciences with economics to give students the tools they need for careers with NGO's or government, related to the design and evaluation of environmental policies and the management of natural resources.

Agri-Business

  • What is behind the world food crisis? Why does food seem to travel so far to get to the table? With the economic dynamics at play today, those with a role in the agriculture and food system require solid financial and market analysis and appropriate policies. This specialization gives students the skills to respond to these needs, by providing a broad understanding of agriculture and food systems, including international development, and specialized skills in business management. Career opportunities include farm and agribusiness management, banking and finance, and marketing positions in the agri-food industry.

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DOMAINS (Environment Major only)

Biodiversity and Conservation

  • This Domain links the academic study of biological diversity with the applied field of conservation biology. The study of biological diversity, or "biodiversity," lies at the intersection of evolution with ecology and genetics, combining the subdisciplines of evolutionary ecology, evolutionary genetics and ecological genetics. It has two main branches, the creation of diversity and the maintenance of diversity. Both processes are governed by a general mechanism of selection acting over different scales of space and time. This gives rise to a distinctive set of principles and generalizations that regulate rates of diversification and levels of diversity, as well as the abundance or rarity of different species.

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Ecological Determinants of Health

  • This Domain considers the interface between the environment and human well-being, with particular focus on the triad that ties human health to the environment through the elements of food and infectious agents. Each of these elements is influenced by planned and unplanned environmental disturbances.There are two streams available: Population and Cellular.

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Environmetrics

  • In view of the crucial need for sound study design and appropriate statistical methods for analyzing environmental changes and their impacts on humans and various life forms and their ecological relationships, this program is intended to provide students with a strong background in the use of statistical methods of data analysis in environmental sciences. Graduates will be capable of effectively participating in the design of environmental studies and adequately analyzing data for use by the environmental community.

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Food Production and Environment

  • The business of food production is an area of human activity with a large and intimate interaction with the environment. Modern agriculturalists must strike a delicate balance between trying to provide food for themselves, their families and urban dwellers while trying to minimize environmental damage. When negative effects due to agricultural activities do occur, they are not usually the classic point source effects that we have come to associate with industry or large cities. Rather, the effects are over extremely large land areas cumulating, perhaps, in pollution of river systems or lakes some distance away. As world populations grow, and as diets change, potentially negative interactions between agricultural systems and other facets of the environment will become more frequent. In the same way, urban sprawl will make conflicts between agriculture and urbanites more common.

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Land Processes and Environmental Change

  • This domain introduces students to the interacting physical and biogeochemical processes at the atmosphere-lithosphere interface, which fashion land surface habitats and determine their biological productivity and response to anthropogenic or natural environmental changes. Through an appropriate selection of courses, students can prepare for graduate training in emerging research areas such as earth system sciences, environmental hydrology and landscape ecology.

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Renewable Resource Management

  • Renewable resource management is an emerging field that focuses on the ecosystem structures and processes required to sustain the delivery, to humanity, of ecosystem goods and services such as food, clean water and air, essential nutrients, and the provision of beauty and inspiration. This Domain provides students with an understanding of: 1) the interactions between physical and biological factors that determine the nature and dynamics of populations and entities in the natural environment; 2) the ways in which ecosystems can be managed to meet specific goals for the provision of goods and services; 3) the economic and social factors that determine how ecosystems are managed; 4) the ways in which management of natural resources can affect the capability of natural ecosystems to continue to supply human needs in perpetuity; and 5) the approaches and technologies required to monitor and analyze the dynamics of natural and managed ecosystems.

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Water Environments and Ecosystems

  • To educate students in both the ecological and physical facets of the water environment, this domain offers two streams, with students choosing one or the other facet. Those electing the Biological Stream will concentrate on the mechanisms regulating the different forms of life in water bodies. Students will acquire, as well, a good understanding of the physical mechanisms controlling water properties. Students interested in studying the transport and transformation mechanisms of water on the planet, from rivers to the oceans and atmosphere, will select the Physical Stream. They will acquire, as well, a solid background in the biological processes taking place in water bodies.

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