Start dates
Fall (October), Winter (January), Spring (April), Summer (July)
Program length
18 months
Program Delivery
On-campus, Online
Awards and Scholarships
More than 15 million in 2025
Heal the environment for a sustainable future
Take the lead in making innovative and crucial steps in healing our planet by improving the physical systems around us. The Master of Regenerative Sustainability (MRegS) will give you a deeper understanding of renewable energy, the circular economy, and sustainable business practices.
Whether you want to learn on campus or prefer the convenience of online study, the MRegS program provides a flexible pathway that never compromises on quality or experiential learning.
Study options
On-campus
Location
All on-campus programs are delivered at the University of Niagara Falls Canada campus in downtown Niagara Falls. Students attend in-person classes, access labs, collaborate with peers, and engage directly with faculty. Certain programs include specialized equipment and lab components, which are provided by the university.
Schedule
Courses follow a structured weekly schedule. Most classes use a flipped-classroom model, meaning students complete pre-class learning and then apply concepts through active, in-person sessions. Expect approximately two hours of in-person class time per course each week, with additional guided activities, labs (where applicable), and independent study. Exams for on-campus courses are conducted in person.
Timeline
UNF follows a four-term academic year. Terms consist of 10 weeks of instruction, followed by an additional final evaluation period that is typically one to two weeks.
Break term: One scheduled break term is included annually.
Study terms: Students typically complete three study terms each year.
Graduate programs are structured for 18-month completion, while undergraduate programs follow a four-year honours pathway. Students may take longer within the approved maximum duration for their program.
Course content
Each course includes a detailed syllabus outlining learning outcomes, weekly topics, assessments, and required materials. Coursework blends theory with applied learning, supported by case studies, simulations, hands-on activities, and real-world assignments. Some programs also include labs or specialized equipment, all provided by UNF.
Participation
On-campus learning is highly interactive. Students engage through discussions, group projects, presentations, and applied challenges. Collaboration is central, approximately a 60/40 split between individual and group assessments is typical. Students also meet with instructors during scheduled classes and can arrange additional meetings as needed. Faculty integrate real-world tools, AI applications, analytics platforms, and industry-focused technologies into classroom activities.
Assessments
While individual courses vary, depending on the subject matter and instructor, students can expect a mix of quizzes, exams, presentations, case studies, projects, and applied assignments. Undergraduate programs generally include more quizzes and exams, while graduate programs emphasize applied work such as projects, research, and capstones. Assessment weights vary by course, typically ranging from five to 50 percent per component.
Learning environment
Studying on campus provides direct access to faculty, student services, academic advising, and the Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Office. Students form networks through peer collaboration, challenge-based learning, and internship or practicum opportunities (where applicable). Capstone projects are completed under faculty supervision as the culminating applied component of each master’s program.
Technology and resources
On-campus students use the same learning technologies as online learners, including D2L Brightspace and industry-relevant digital tools. Additional equipment or lab access is provided for programs that require it. Students benefit from a full suite of on-campus supports, including tutoring, writing assistance, and program hubs.
Online
Location
This is a fully online program. You can complete your coursework from anywhere.
Schedule
There will be no scheduled classes. Asynchronous learning means you can study at your own pace. All course materials will be made available at the start of term, except for exams and quizzes.
Timeline
Weeks 1-10: You will be able to access your course content online and complete tasks throughout this period.
Weeks 11-12: You will need to complete any review activities and final assessments, including exams and final projects.
Course content
Each course will have a syllabus as well as additional course materials that will be made available at the start of the term, except for exams and quizzes.
Participation
While components vary depending on the individual course, you can expect to use discussion forums and group chat platforms, participate in videoconferences, as well as utilize project management tools. There will be group assignments in addition to individual assignments.
Course highlights
Term one courses
Sustainability Science Techniques
Using examples from the literature, students will examine quantitative and qualitative research methods commonly used in interdisciplinary areas like Regenerative Sustainability. The various elements of the research process (question, design, accessing and evaluation of information and data, methodologies, data collection, ethics, interpretation and dissemination) are examined.
Regenerative Sustainable Development and the Circular Economy
Regenerative sustainability aims to restore and enhance natural and social systems, moving beyond simply reducing environmental impacts. This contrasts with the circular economy, which focuses on minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency within existing systems. This course explores these concepts from historical, technical, and ethical perspectives, comparing their strengths and weaknesses in transitioning to a more sustainable future.
Organizational Theory and Leadership
This course explores organizational theory and leadership, examining how structures, processes, and culture influence individual and group behavior. It delves into principles of organizational change and provides practical tools for managers, including organizational design, HR practices, training, and DEI initiatives. Students will also develop practical skills in self-awareness, communication, negotiation, and leadership.
Term two courses
Climate Change and Zero Carbon
Achieving net zero emissions is a critical step toward safeguarding our planet and ensuring a sustainable future for all. The underlying science of climate change and the role of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is examined. Addressing climate change is explored through the lenses of adaptation, mitigation, impacts, governance, finance and technology.
Sustainability in Logistics and Supply Chains*
This course explores how sustainable supply chains provide a strategic advantage, enhancing long-term viability and resilience. It contrasts linear with closed-loop models (reduce, reuse, repair, remanufacture, recycle, recover), analyzes leading companies, and examines the role of AI, IoT, and big data in improving sustainability. The impact of legislation, societal expectations, and effective measurement metrics for sustainable supply chains are also investigated.
Selected Studies in Materials, Production, and Waste*
This course examines cradle-to-cradle management of plastic and steel, two critical materials. It analyzes the complexities of their value chains, from resource extraction to end-of-life, focusing on resource optimization and sustainability. The steel value chain is explored through life cycle assessment and circular economy principles. Students apply these concepts to other material flows, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable resource management.
Improving Energy Systems
The role of energy systems in the transition to a decarbonized economy is examined. The energy system is examined from production through transportation and transmission to end uses. Techniques for managing demand and emissions including carbon capture and digital innovations are explored.
*Students will select one of these two courses, based on availability
Term three courses
Urban Development and Smart Cities
This course explores the concept of the ideal sustainable city, examining urban metabolism—the flow of materials and energy within urban systems. It delves into industrial ecology, urban ecology, and critical urban sustainability studies, considering social justice and equity. The course analyzes policy levers, emerging technologies, and case studies of sustainable cities worldwide to understand how to create more resilient and equitable urban environments.
Smart Travel and Tourism
Smart tourism refers to digitally enabled experiences using information and communication technology to enhance the travel experience and promote sustainable practices by minimizing waste and energy consumption. The travel and tourism sector presents an ideal candidate for significant improvement given the length of the value chain. The concept of tourism as an ecosystem is examined where the focus is on regeneration.
Case Study 1
Guided by faculty members, students will work in small teams on a case study that deepens their understanding of a particular field. It may be completed as a written document or field study in partnership with a sponsoring organization.
Term five courses
Water Security and Innovation
This course explores UN Sustainable Development Goal 6, focusing on ensuring access to clean water for all. It examines water innovation, including desalination, reuse, and emerging technologies, alongside water security considerations like governance, cooperation, and climate change impacts. Indigenous perspectives are integrated. Case studies analyze the application of capture, reuse, treatment, efficiency, AI, and good governance to enhance water security.
Reconstructive Agriculture and Food Systems
With the world’s population projected to reach more than nine billion, the balancing of food production and resource usage will need to be enhanced. Opportunities for improvement in the food supply chain are examined by looking at design issues, digitalization of supply chains, new business models, waste management and reverse logistics. Case studies of successful implementations of these ideas are analyzed.
Case Study 2
Under the guidance of faculty members, individual students will work on a case study that deepens their understanding of a particular field. It may be completed as a written document or field study in partnership with a sponsoring organization.
Term six course
Capstone Project
The capstone project is a team effort with individual pieces of work. Project initiation is in the term before the final term and all deliverables are due in the final term.
These course highlights provide a glimpse into the Master of Regenerative Sustainability program, your actual schedule may vary. There is a program break during Term 4. For full course descriptions and schedules, consult the Academic Calendar.
Admission requirements for the Master of Regenerative Sustainability
Academic information
Applicants must meet the following minimum conditions for admission:
- Bachelor’s degree – Completion of a recognized undergraduate degree equivalent to the four-year honours degree standard, or relevant bridging studies, with CGPA of 3.0 (on 4.33 scale) or better.
Document checklist
Applicants must submit:
- A completed application form
- Official transcripts from all post- secondary institutions attended
- Official documentation confirming professional designations, where applicable
- Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
International information
Applicants who completed undergraduate studies outside Canada must also submit:
- Certified translations of any documents not in English
- Documentation confirming award of their previous degree(s), if not already indicated on official transcripts
- A credential evaluation from a recognized service, if required by the registrar
Tuition information
Choosing to pursue a university education is a big commitment that impacts every aspect of your life – including your finances. Our fees are determined by the total cost of individual credits per academic year. All fees are listed in Canadian dollars and these rates are subject to change.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
The Office of the Registrar had dedicated more than $15 million in scholarships, awards and financial support to students in 2026. Entrance Awards are for newly admitted international and domestic students, while Academic Scholarships are for those entering the second term of their program.
Career highlights
Prepare for an in-demand career focused on balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. You can drive sustainable change in a variety of industries.
Development
Governance
Finance
Agriculture
Career paths after graduating with a Master of Regenerative Sustainability
Career opportunities relating to sustainability are experiencing significant growth in Canada.
Research forecasts a 44% increase in environmental jobs between 2020 and 2030, driven by new opportunities and the need to replace retiring workers.
And according to estimates by the Royal Bank of Canada, the transition to a net-zero economy could create up to 400,000 new jobs in Canada by the end of this decade.
Career path and salary
- Environmental economist - $153,667
- Sustainability manager - $84,550
- Sustainability analyst - $89,763
- Environmental engineer - $85,481
- Renewable energy consultant - $92,000
Sources: Salary.com, Glassdoor, Talent.com, Indeed
Frequently asked questions
What is the Master of Regenerative Sustainability program about?
This master’s degree in Regenerative Sustainability goes beyond simply maintaining and sustaining environmental status-quo systems. Instead, it trains graduates to regenerate ecological and social systems so they can restore, redesign, or rethink systems so they can thrive rather than just endure.
How long does it take to get a master’s in regenerative sustainability?
The MSS is an 18-month graduate degree program that is delivered over the course of six terms. There is a one-term break for students at the end of the first year.
What are the most in-demand sustainability skills?
Here are some of the key skills graduates can expect to develop in this program, which are increasingly sought after by employers: systems thinking and design thinking for regeneration, applied project experience, solution-oriented mindset, quantitative and qualitative analytical skills, stakeholder engagement, collaborative leadership, and change management.
What are the admission requirements for regenerative sustainability?
Applicants to the MRegS program need to have completed a recognized undergraduate degree, equivalent to the four-year honours degree standard identified in the Ontario qualifications framework, with a CGPA of 3.00 on a 4.33 scale, or better. For more information regarding admission requirements, refer to the Graduate Admission Requirements page.
Is sustainability a good career choice?
Yes! Demand for green skills and sustainability-related roles is rising in Canada, and globally. These roles are present across sectors, including private industry, government roles, and non-profits. This is also an area where consulting is a strong option. Because the regenerative sustainability field is still emerging, roles may not always be clearly labelled as ‘regenerative sustainability specialist’, but graduates will be able to enter broader sustainability, environment, design or strategy roles that can be shaped towards regenerative outcomes.
What is the focus of the MRegS program, and how does it differ from traditional sustainability programs?
The MRegS program goes beyond traditional sustainability by emphasizing regenerative principles. This means the program focuses not only on minimizing environmental impact, but also on restoring and enhancing natural systems, while simultaneously creating social and economic value. It integrates concepts from the circular economy, aiming to eliminate waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use, and regenerate natural systems.
What kind of career opportunities are available for graduates of the MRegS program?
Graduates of the MRegS program are well-prepared for careers in various sectors, including sustainability consulting, environmental management, circular economy businesses, government agencies, non-profit organizations, research and academia, and corporate social responsibility.
What is the program structure and coursework like?
The program consists of 10 core courses covering key areas like climate change, energy systems, water security, and circular economy principles. Students also complete two directed case studies and a final capstone project. The curriculum integrates theory with practical application through real-world case studies and projects.
How does the program incorporate work-integrated learning?
The program emphasizes work-integrated learning through real-world case studies based on local challenges, partnerships with local organizations for case studies and capstone projects, and opportunities to interact with industry professionals and explore career paths.
What are the key learning outcomes of the MRegS program?
The program’s key learning outcomes include collaboration and communication, leadership, systems thinking and complexity, ethics, global perspectives, digital mindset, and knowledge and application.
Does the MRegS program have a technological focus?
The applications of big data, digitalization, and AI are all components of the MRegS program courses. However, there’s also a significant focus on the social and cultural implications of sustainability, including social justice and indigenous ways of knowing and being.
When will the final capstone project begin?
The capstone project will begin in Term Five, with all deliverables due in Term Six. There will be no other courses in Term Six.
What is the focus of the MRegS online program, and how does it differ from traditional sustainability programs?
The MRegS program goes beyond traditional sustainability by emphasizing regenerative principles. This means the program focuses not only on minimizing environmental impact, but also on restoring and enhancing natural systems, while simultaneously creating social and economic value. It integrates concepts from the circular economy, aiming to eliminate waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use, and regenerate natural systems.
Will I have to come to campus?
This program is fully online. You will not have to attend our downtown Niagara Falls campus. Projects will be completed online, and you will be able to connect one-on-one with your professor virtually on a regular basis.
What kind of career opportunities are available for graduates of the MRegS online program?
Graduates of the MRegS online program are well-prepared for careers in various sectors, including sustainability consulting, environmental management, circular economy businesses, government agencies, non-profit organizations, research and academia, and corporate social responsibility.
What is the program structure and coursework like?
The program consists of 10 core courses covering key areas like climate change, energy systems, water security, and circular economy principles. Students also complete two directed case studies and a final capstone project. The curriculum integrates theory with practical application through real-world case studies and projects.
Is faculty interaction the same in the online and on-campus programs?
Our online students have plenty of opportunities to interact with faculty, even though they’re not in the same physical environment. This includes regular online office hours.
What are the key learning outcomes of the MRegS online program?
The program’s key learning outcomes include collaboration and communication, leadership, systems thinking and complexity, ethics, global perspectives, digital mindset, and knowledge and application.
Does the MRegS online program have a technological focus?
The applications of big data, digitalization, and AI are all components of the MRegS online program courses. However, there’s also a significant focus on the social and cultural implications of sustainability, including social justice and Indigenous ways of knowing and being.
When will the final capstone project begin?
The capstone project will begin in Term Five, with all deliverables due in Term Six. There will be no other courses in Term Six.
Will my classes be delivered on a schedule?
Our online program is delivered asynchronously, allowing you to access your coursework on-demand in a way that best suits your schedule and lifestyle.
Talk to a Student Advisor
This institution has been granted a consent by the Minister of Colleges and Universities to offer this program for a five-year term starting Dec. 10, 2025. Prospective students are responsible for satisfying themselves that the program and the degree will be appropriate to their needs (e.g., acceptable to potential employers, professional licensing bodies or other educational institutions.)
