The world is heating up, and so is the pressure to act. From rising temperatures to plastic-filled oceans, the problems we face are urgent and growing. Climate change, microplastics, energy demand, and rapid urban growth affect every corner of life. Since pre-industrial times, global temperatures have risen by 1.2°C. Each year, 11 million metric tons of plastic end up in the ocean. By 2050, energy demand could grow by nearly 50%, and 68% of people will live in cities.
Solving problems on this scale requires bold ideas and the right education. That’s where York University comes in. Ranked among the top 40 universities globally, York is home to over 8,700 international students from more than 160 countries, all of whom are looking to make a difference. Central to this mission is the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change (EUC), a place where education meets action. It’s one of York’s smallest faculties, but also one of its most passionate.
EUC focuses on real-world impact, taking an approach that equips students with the tools and experience to lead. Whether they become researchers, planners, or policymakers, EUC graduates are ready to take on the world’s toughest environmental and urban challenges.
“The experiential learning opportunities offered within EUC have enabled me to build valuable connections with esteemed faculty and like-minded peers,” says Kira Jordun, a third year Global Geography (BA) student. “These immersive experiences have not only equipped me with strong research skills but also instilled in me a passion for environmental stewardship, preparing me to make a tangible impact in the field.”
The Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change builds a community of engaged, solution-driven students committed to creating a better world. Source: York University
EUC students have access to a wide range of experiential education options. These include co-op programmes, work-study placements, research assistant roles, and hands-on training through partnerships with over 500 community organisations.
One standout opportunity is the Dean’s Changemaker Placements, which allow students to take on paid positions with EUC’s living labs. These labs include initiatives like the Ecological Footprint Initiative, the Zig Zag Gallery, Maloca Garden, Waste Wiki, and the Las Nubes EcoCampus. The idea is simple: give students the chance to apply their academic knowledge to design projects that can bring about real change.
That’s exactly what recent Environmental Arts and Justice graduate Kaitlin Pal did. She joined the Ecological Footprint Initiative and managed the lab’s social media accounts, presenting complex data in a way that people could easily connect with. She also developed a long-term strategy for the team and created her own research project. Using environmental metrics, she estimated the biocapacity of land involved in a claim by the Saugeen Ojibway Nation. Her work aimed to show the ecological value of the land being discussed in the case.
Pal didn’t stop there. She continued to work with the team until graduation and has already presented her findings at one major event, with more to come. “Initially, I was pretty nervous (then) about presenting, but they’ve given me a lot of opportunities that have allowed me to improve,” she says. “I’ve grown in terms of confidence in a professional setting”. Pal certainly has grown academically and professional during her placement and will be starting her Juris Doctorate (JD) programme with York’s Osgoode Hall Law School this Fall with a focus on human rights and international law.
The Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change offers a unique, student-focused, and research-driven education rooted in inclusivity and social impact. Source: York University
This type of growth is made possible by the diverse and interdisciplinary nature of EUC’s faculty. Geographers, scientists, artists, and policy experts collaborate to address today’s most complex environmental and urban issues. Their work spans sustainability, climate action, social justice, and circular economies, and students are invited to engage with it firsthand.
One such space is the Circular Innovation Hub Living Lab. It’s designed for students to experiment, collaborate, and create sustainable solutions. Here, circular economy principles come to life through projects related to waste reduction, sustainable design, and resource recovery.
The Living Lab is also a community. It brings together students, faculty, industry leaders, and community partners in a shared space for collaboration and experimentation. For students, it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to sustainability efforts before they graduate.
International students are welcomed to thrive in this dynamic faculty. The university’s International Student and Scholar Services Team provides expert guidance and personalised support to help students navigate life in Canada. From settling in and finding resources to building friendships and professional networks, international students are supported every step of the way.
“My time at the EUC has been transformative, making me feel like a true changemaker,” says Luisa Regina Anota Guzmán, a Sustainable Environmental Management graduate, now in the Master in Environmental Studies programme, completing EUC’s new 3+2 year combined bachelor’s and master’s programme . “As an international student, the welcoming community, experiential education courses, and networking opportunities have made me feel valued and helped bring my ideas, goals, and career plans to life.”
Learn more about York University’s Faculty of Environmental & Urban Change.
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