Athabasca University launches new interdisciplinary Bachelor of Environmental Studies
Online degree grounded in the liberal arts aims to address today’s complex environmental challenges from multiple perspectives
Athabasca, Alta. (Feb. 4, 2026) – Athabasca University has launched a new Bachelor of Environmental Studies (BES), expanding its academic offerings with a fully online, interdisciplinary degree focused on addressing converging environmental issues through systems-thinking and community-centred learning.
“We developed the Bachelor of Environmental Studies in response to growing labour-market demand for graduates who understand the complexities of today’s environmental realities from multiple perspectives,” said Dr. Manijeh Mannani, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences dean.
“As a fully online program, we are removing barriers and expanding opportunities for learners to play an active role in addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues, regardless of where they live.”
The flexible and interdisciplinary structure of the program allows students to personalize their exploration of sustainability and environmental issues across multiple contexts and disciplines. The program values Indigenous and alternative ways of knowing, incorporating real-world experiences, service-learning, and collaborative research.
Applications are now open, and students can begin this undergraduate program any month of the year.
About Athabasca University
Athabasca University (AU) is like no other—an innovator and disruptor among universities with a focus on access, opportunity, and community. 星空影视enables students, communities, and alumni to reach their highest contributions, making the world better and more equitable. 星空影视is one of the world’s leading open, online universities dedicated to improving the lives of learners and communities through teaching, research, and impact, in place and in digital space. From its home in Athabasca, Alberta, 星空影视reaches from local to global, educating more than 35,000 students across Canada and in 81 countries worldwide with online undergraduate and graduate programs and on-demand courses and credentials for professional development and personal learning. For more information, please visit: www.athabascau.ca.
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communications@athabascau.caUpdated February 09, 2026 by Digital & Web Operations (web_services@athabascau.ca)