Program Overview

Introduction to the Environmental Engineering Program

The University of British Columbia offers an undergraduate environmental engineering degree program (ENVL) that focuses on the application of engineering principles to support the health of natural systems. This program aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability.

Program Overview

Environmental engineering is a broad field that involves soil, water, and air pollution control within urban, agricultural, and industrial settings. The program's curriculum is designed to support the environment at every scale, including:

• Site-specific concerns
  • The management of drainage basins
  • The design of treatment facilities
  • Modelling future impacts
  • Informing the development of environmental policies
  • And more…

History and Scope of Environmental Engineering

The field of environmental engineering dates back to Roman times, with the construction of aqueducts to prevent droughts and provide clean water. The scope of environmental engineering includes:

• The provisions of a safe and potable water supply and adequate sanitation
• Waste water management
• Air and water pollution control
• Contaminated soil remediation and contaminant transport
• Recycling and resource recovery
• Environmental assessment and environmental law

Environmental Engineers' Role and Responsibilities

Environmental engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology, geology, hydraulics, microbiology, and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental problems and issues. Their tasks may include:

• The design of facilities, management systems, and information systems
• The performance of impact assessments (including regulatory, sustainability, environmental, social, and risk)
• Sustainability planning and design
• Environmental policy formulation

Career Opportunities and Research Areas

An undergraduate degree in environmental engineering from UBC provides students with a foundation for a wide range of career choices or research opportunities. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability, making them valuable assets in various industries and research fields.