Graduates of this program will have the skills to meet the challenges of environmental and cultural issues faced by communities, industries, and services in northern areas. The research focus of the program will be the boreal north - the area covered by the boreal forest and the ecotone between the forest and tundra - although research in the Arctic and far north will not be excluded. Areas in other parts of the world with characteristics similar to those in the boreal north will also be considered as appropriate locations for study.

Applicants for admission must be graduates of a recognized university, college, or institute as well as show evidence of scholarly achievement. Except where otherwise stated in the Admission Requirements of a particular program, degree students must have a four year bachelor's degree or its equivalent with at least second class standing (B) based on their last 20 half courses or equivalent. An applicant holding a degree other than one in the discipline area to which admission is sought will be considered on the basis of courses taken and academic standing. A Qualifying Year at the undergraduate level may be required to meet the admission standards. Courses taken as part of a Qualifying Year can not be used as credit towards a graduate degree. Meeting the minimum requirements does not necessarily guarantee admission. No candidate will be admitted unless the academic unit recommends admission. All applicants will be advised by the Office of Graduate Studies in writing of their admission status.