The Faculty of Environmental studies was established with a view to meet a national need for
environmentalists/environmental skilled people who can address the environmental challenges. This idea came after realizing that improper planning and management of socio-cultural, economic and ecological activities has over the years contributed to environmental problems.

This faculty comprises three departments namely environmental Management and Conservation, Emergency and Disaster Management, and Rural Development. These departments are designed to equip the students with professional knowledge, skills and techniques necessary to plan, manage and maintain a balanced, sustainable, and productive environment. The students will be introduced to the core idea in development and to the theoretical issues concerning environment, hazards and disaster. They will study key issue in Environmental management, Emergency and Disaster Management, development policy and practice which will focus on aspect of development practice.

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION

About the program

In light of increasing environmental damage to nature, wildlife and people; the Department of Environmental Management and Conservation at UNILAK is meant to contribute to sustainable solutions for addressing the complexity of modern environmental issues in Rwanda and in the region and ensure that they respond to the needs and interests of the community.

Length of study program and degree awarded

The department of Environmental Management and Conservation offers a three years training leading to a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Management and Conservation.

Graduates career prospects

There are plentiful and varied opportunities for graduates from the Department of Environmental Management and Conservation. They may find work as: Environmental scientist/analyst, Environmental manager, Environmental planner, Environmental consultant, Natural resources manager/specialist, Environmental educator, Park naturalist, Ecologist, Nature conservation officer, Recycling officer, Waste management officer, Conservation scientist, Landscape architect, Water quality scientist, Emergency Response Manager, Pollution Control Specialist, Soil Conservationist/Scientist, Wetlands/Watershed Resources Manager, Wildlife Biologist/Aquatic Ecologist, etc. They can also be self-employed.

DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT

About the program

 In response to the threat posed by the natural or technological disasters and crises, UNILAK has started the Department of Emergency and Disaster Management. In this Department, students learn how to identify emergencies and disaster situations, draw up emergency plans, oversee resource distribution and emergency health services when disaster strikes, manage delivery of emergency services, cope with the after-effects of humanitarian crises and natural disasters.

Length of study program and degree awarded

The Department of Emergency and Disaster Management is a three year undergraduate program leading to the award of a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency and Disaster Management.

Graduates career prospects

There is a variety of job prospects for graduates with a Bachelor’s degree in Emergency and Disaster Management. Typical positions for these graduates include Emergency Management Coordinator, Emergency service manager/coordinator, Public safety officer, Hazardous materials manager, Emergency planner, Business continuity planner, firefighter, Law enforcement officer, trainer, consultant, Disaster program manager, coordinator of emergency and disaster related projects, etc.

DEPARTMENT OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT

 About the program

Efforts to secure sustainable growth, food security, and equitable development cannot be achieved without giving priority to the rural areas. It is in this regard that UNILAK started the Department of Rural Development designed to greatly contribute to the development of
rural areas and help improve the standard of living of rural population. This Department aims at preparing skilled and committed rural development professionals capable of bringing about structural change in rural areas, contributing to sustainable improvement in the quality of life of rural population, improving local capacity for sustainable economic development, and enhancing
community empowerment and citizen participation.

Length of study program and degree awarded

Successful completion of a three year undergraduate program in Rural Development leads to the award of a Bachelor of Arts in Rural Development.

 Graduates career prospects

There are diversified career opportunities for graduates from the Department of Rural Development. They can works as managers, policy makers, consultants, researchers, project coordinators/officers, trainers, analysts, etc.