The Master of Science (Environmental and Life Sciences) degree (MELS) is an interdisciplinary program that provides students with the following:

• Technical skills in applied and theoretical research, project design and reporting; • The ability to integrate and apply knowledge and techniques across a suite of disciplines to selected areas of interest within the environmental and life sciences; • Courses integrating knowledge and techniques drawn from the traditional disciplines of biology, chemistry, environmental science, geography, and geology; • An interdisciplinary thesis that investigates the interactions within and among organisms and/or the environment at scales from the molecular to planet-wide; • Training in the application of life and environmental science technologies.

A thesis is required, describing the outcome of an interdisciplinary research project. The focus of research projects and coursework will be on the interactions within and among organisms and the environment at scales from the molecular to planet-wide. The program will allow the application of cutting–edge life science technologies and expertise to the study of the environment. Program graduates will meet learning objectives in the areas of research methodology, scientific problem solving, project planning, scientific writing and expression, and data interpretation and analysis. Graduates will possess strong research skills and will receive the level of professional preparation required to undertake doctoral studies or gain employment in the growing Life Sciences and Environmental sectors.