Why ESST at Acadia?

We are a dynamic program born of the efforts of a diverse group of faculty committed to address environmental and sustainability issues as part of their teaching, research, community service and personal lifestyles. This is what we offer...

  • Small Classes with Award Winning Faculty:

    It makes a huge difference. There are approximately 30 students entering the ESST program each year, meaning that you get to know both your peers and your instructors. There are opportunities for honours projects, independent studies and fourth year projects, giving you flexibility and the opportunity to be creative in your degree.

  • Hands-On, Engaged Learning:

    Beginning in your first semester, you will participate in a full-day camp experience off-campus including guest speakers and group activities centred around environmental values. In several courses you will have field trips and opportunities to create projects that make a difference right on campus and in local communities. We also partner with the Acadia Sustainability Office on a number of hands-on initiatives.

  • Choice in Your Program:

    In addition to taking ESST through either the BA or the BCD program, students in the BA program also have the option of adding a second major and all BA students need to have a minor. This gives more opportunity to customize your degree to your interests.

  • The Natural Setting:

    Acadia may well be the most beautiful campus in Canada with a spectacular view of Cape Blomidon, the ancestral home of Glooscap, god of the Mi'kmaq. We are nestled amidst the attractive town of Wolfville on the Minas Basin, which has the highest tides in the world. On campus is the K.C. Irving Environmental Sciences Centre, and the Harriet Irving Botanical Gardens and Woodland Trails. Within two minutes of your classroom or residence, you can be in a comfortable, beautiful wild setting. The wider Annapolis Valley offers innumerable nearby opportunities for hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and generally enjoying the natural world.

  • A Passport to Many Careers:

    As an interdisciplinary major, there is a lot of possibilities within a growing field.