Developing and Managing Integrated [Interdisciplinary/Transdisciplinary] Graduate Programs in Environmental Science and Management in a Collaborative Context

Abstract

This paper draws on the lessons from 15 years of experience at Ryerson University with graduate programs (master’s and doctoral) in Environmental Applied Science and Management (EnSciMan). The program incorporates 80 faculty members from 21 departments and schools in each of the university’s six Faculties. The paper has three principal objectives. First, to outline the conceptual framework for the environment programs which, in contrast to traditional, highly specialized “I-shaped” curriculum developed within the traditional academic structure, follows a “T-shaped” curriculum: providing problem-solving and research depth in one area while incorporating overall breadth in perspective and skills. Second, since the programs operate independently outside, but concurrent with, existing academic departments and schools, to discuss the challenges in developing cooperation and collaboration for integrated (interdisciplinary/transdisciplinary) graduate programs within a collaborative context. Finally, in this context, to describe the key metrics used to evaluate the degree of program success.