Students studying Environmental Sustainability at both the graduate and undergraduate level have exciting opportunities to get out into the field, create connections in their communities and engage with sustainability initiatives across the Niagara Region.

A group of six people standing near a field with goats in the background.

Nature Based Solutions in Sustainability

Students in SSAS 5V82 traveled to Niagara Falls to visit one of Ontario Power Generation’s properties to see how they’re using goats to manage the spread of invasive phragmites.

A group of students plants trees in a wetlands area.

Contemporary Environmental Issues

Students in ENSU 3P90 used an app to take photos and log various species around Gonder’s Flats and then participated in a tree planting initiative to increase biodiversity in the wetland.

Gain real-world experience with co-op

Master of Sustainability (SSAS) students enrolled in the MRP & co-op pathway have the exciting opportunity to enhance their academic learning experience with a co-op placement. Gain career-related experience, develop a network of contacts, and develop a better understanding of what it’s like to work in the Environmental Sustainability field. 

Master of Sustainability
Co-op at Brock

The knowledge I obtained on the Niagara River corridor during my co-op really gave me a step up on other job candidates. By the end, I was completely fascinated with the natural history and science behind the Niagara River and gorge, allowing me to transition into my current position very well.”

— Sydney McIntyre (BSc ’22, MS ’24)     

Student standing by a newly planted tree holding a shovel with a Niagara Parks truck in the background.
Read Sydney's story

What types of co-op opportunities are available?

Our Master of Sustainability (SSAS) students have secured co-op placements with a wide variety of employers. For specific positions, check out our current student and alumni profiles, but here are just a couple examples of recent roles:

Allegra Caballero worked with the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) as a Land Planning Associate.

Key responsibilities included:

  • Supporting the NPCA’s full-time Land Planning staff in their implementation of key land planning, acquisition, and public engagement activities
  • Research, policy writing, and drafting text to populate the NPCA’s main webpage

Rebecca Anderson worked for Brock University as the Sustainability Coordinator in the Facilities Management department.

Key responsibilities included:

  • Creating posters and online resources to help educate staff and students on different waste streams
  • Writing a Brock News article highlighting the University’s sustainability efforts
Read more ESRC co-op stories

Other examples of student co-op placements

  • Climate Change Response & Sustainability Student, Halton Region
  • Junior Environmental Officer, Ministry of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks
  • Climate Change Intern, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority
  • Environmental Education Student, Niagara Parks Commission
  • Research Technician, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre

Are you an employer looking to hire a SSAS Co-op Student?

Our Master of Sustainability students in Scheme A are required to do a co-op placement during the Spring/Summer term (May-August). If you are interested in learning more about how your organization could hire a SSAS co-op student, please visit the Prospective Employers webpage or connect with the Co-op Programs Office at 905-688-5550 ext. 4325 or co-op@brocku.ca.