About the Environmental Science Department

1. History and Development

Following the initial approval to admit students to the Bachelor's program in Natural Resources Engineering – Environmental Science in 2001, the Department of Environmental Science at the University of Kurdistan was established in 2006 with the aim of training specialists in the environmental field. The department officially commenced its activities in October 2007 by admitting students to the Bachelor's program in Natural Resources Engineering – Environmental Science (renamed Environmental Science and Engineering in 2016). In 2008, the department took a significant step in developing its graduate studies by obtaining approval to admit students to the Master's program in Environmental Engineering.

In 2015, the Master's specializations were expanded to include Biodiversity Management and Conservation, and Environmental Pollution. In 2016, the Land Assessment and Planning specialization was also added. In 2022, with the launch of the Ph.D. program in Environmental Science and Engineering, the department became one of the leading centers for environmental education and research in western Iran.

Today, with seven full-time faculty members (three associate professors and four assistant professors) and well-equipped laboratories, the department is recognized as one of the scientific hubs for environmental science in Iran.

2. Message from the Head of the Department

"Iran and the Kurdistan region, with their unparalleled natural treasures, are today facing complex challenges such as drought, biodiversity loss, water and soil pollution, and habitat degradation. These challenges are a call to action for all of us to prioritize the protection of this heritage through collective wisdom and national commitment. The Department of Environmental Science at the University of Kurdistan, drawing on over a decade of educational and research experience, sees itself not only as a center for training specialists but also as a home for generating ideas and providing practical solutions. We believe that the light of knowledge can illuminate the darkness of environmental challenges when it is situated within the triangle of interdisciplinary education, applied research, and direct interaction with the community and executive bodies. Today, we are proud to witness the growth of graduates who have become champions of environmental protection on national and international stages. Our well-equipped laboratories provide a platform for discovery and innovation, and our cross-border collaborations have opened a window to the latest global knowledge. We invite all concerned individuals, talented students, and like-minded institutions to join us. Let us work together not only to mitigate damages but also to restore nature and design a sustainable future. We are building the environmental future of this land together."

3. Vision and Goals

Vision:

  • To become one of the top three environmental science departments in Iran by 2031.

  • To develop international collaborations with reputable scientific centers in the environmental field.

  • To play a key role in solving the environmental problems of western Iran and the country as a whole.

Key Objectives:

  • To train committed and efficient human resources at the Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. levels.

  • To conduct applied research in the fields of biodiversity conservation, environmental pollution, and sustainable land management.

  • To interact with environmental organizations and institutions (such as the Department of Environment, Ministry of Energy, General Directorate of Natural Resources, municipalities, etc.) to implement joint projects.

  • To develop specialized laboratories and increase scientific publications in reputable international journals.

4. Specializations and Activities

  • Bachelor's Level:

    • Environmental Science and Engineering

  • Master's Level:

    • Environmental Science and Engineering

      • Biodiversity Management and Conservation

      • Environmental Pollution

      • Land Assessment and Planning

  • Ph.D. Level:

    • Environmental Science and Engineering

Key Activities:

  • Research on the conservation of endangered species.

  • Studies on water and soil pollution in Kurdistan Province.

  • Participation in land use planning projects for the sustainable development of Kurdistan Province.

5. Position within the Faculty and University

The department is part of the Faculty of Natural Resources at the University of Kurdistan and collaborates closely with the departments of Rangeland and Watershed Management, Forestry, and Fisheries. In terms of the number of scientific articles, research projects, and student enrollment, it is considered one of the most dynamic and leading departments in the Faculty of Natural Resources and the University of Kurdistan. The department's laboratories are equipped with advanced facilities for analyzing pollutants and conducting environmental studies.

6. Scientific and Research Areas

  • Biodiversity Conservation:

    • Wildlife ecology studies.

    • Wildlife population dynamics studies.

    • Habitat assessment and management.

    • Conservation biology.

  • Environmental Pollution:

    • Monitoring the quality of surface water resources (dams and rivers) and groundwater in Kurdistan Province.

    • Waste management and industrial pollutants.

    • Soil pollution.

    • Air pollution.

  • Land Assessment and Planning:

    • Environmental planning for urban and rural development.

    • Ecological capability assessment of Kurdistan Province.

    • Assessment of development impacts on natural habitats.

In summary, the Department of Environmental Science at the University of Kurdistan, with its rich history, expert faculty, and advanced facilities, is one of the effective scientific centers for solving the environmental challenges of Iran and the Kurdistan region. By relying on education, research, and community engagement, the department is on its way to becoming a national and international scientific hub.