The Faculty of Environmental Sciences began its journey with the separation of the Department of Architecture and the Department of Environmental Management from the Faculty of Engineering. This strategic move marked the beginning of a new era, one that emphasized specialized education and research in the environmental sciences. The faculty later expanded with the addition of the Department of Estate Management and the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, further solidifying its commitment to addressing the diverse challenges facing our environment.

Each of these departments commenced with their respective undergraduate programs, and through relentless dedication, they have progressed to offer postgraduate programs up to the PhD level. This evolution reflects the faculty’s commitment to academic excellence and its ability to adapt to the ever-changing demands of environmental sciences.

Pioneering Research and Scholarly Contributions

One of the hallmarks of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences is its strong emphasis on research. The faculty has actively encouraged interdisciplinary cooperation among its various departments, fostering an environment where knowledge is shared, and new ideas are born. This is exemplified by the establishment of the African Journal of Environmental Research, a scholarly journal that has become a platform for cutting-edge research in the environmental sciences. The journal not only highlights the faculty’s research output but also serves as a bridge between academia and the broader environmental community.

The faculty has also been instrumental in organizing the biennial international conference for the environmental sciences (FESCON). This conference brings together experts, scholars, and practitioners from around the world to discuss pressing environmental issues, share research findings, and collaborate on solutions. The faculty’s commitment to research and scholarly contributions has earned it a reputation as a leader in the field of environmental sciences.

Leadership and Vision

The remarkable growth and success of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) are a direct result of the visionary leadership of its deans. From the pioneering efforts of Professor Uchegbu Smart, who served as the inaugural dean from 2011 to 2012, to the impactful tenure of Professor Ndu Umeche (2012-2014), the faculty has been steered by leaders dedicated to excellence.

The transformative leadership of Professor Muoghalu Leonard N. (2021-2024) further propelled the faculty to new heights, laying a strong foundation for continued success. Under the current leadership of Professor Okonkwo Augustina Ukamaka, who took over in 2024, the faculty has continued its upward trajectory. Notably, the number of professors has grown significantly, from just one in 2011 to over eight in 2024. This increase in faculty strength underscores the faculty’s commitment to academic advancement and its ability to attract and retain top talent in environmental sciences.

A Commitment to Excellence in Education

The faculty’s mission is to inspire its staff to continually seek out the best possible ways to engage students and produce graduates who are confident, knowledgeable, and equipped to make a difference in the world. This mission is underpinned by a philosophy that emphasizes free inquiry, a strong research base, integrity, cooperation, community participation, and societal impact. These values are not just words on paper; they are the guiding principles that shape the faculty’s approach to education and research.

Students at the Faculty of Environmental Sciences are not only taught the theoretical aspects of their disciplines but are also encouraged to engage in practical, hands-on experiences that prepare them for the challenges they will face in their careers. The faculty’s programs are designed to be rigorous and comprehensive, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to excel in their chosen fields.

Admission and Opportunities

The Faculty of Environmental Sciences offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs designed to cater to the diverse interests of students. Admission to the undergraduate programs requires a pass in the relevant JAMB subjects and six credits in WASC/SSCE exams, including English and Mathematics. Additionally, specific departments have additional requirements: Architecture requires a credit in Physics, Environmental Management requires a credit in Chemistry, Estate Management requires a credit in Economics, and Urban and Regional Planning requires a credit in Geography.

For those interested in pursuing postgraduate studies, the faculty offers programs up to the PhD level, with admission requirements outlined in the university’s Postgraduate Handbook. The faculty also facilitates admission deferment, transfer, and registration procedures, ensuring a smooth and accessible process for all students.

Achievements and Future Targets

Throughout its history, the Faculty of Environmental Sciences has achieved numerous milestones, including the successful establishment of new departments and the creation of its research journal. These achievements are a reflection of the faculty’s commitment to excellence and its ability to adapt and grow in response to the needs of the field.

Looking to the future, the faculty has set ambitious goals, including the addition of new departments and finding innovative ways to increase enrollment in its programs. These targets are aligned with the faculty’s vision of maintaining its leadership role in environmental education and research, both in Nigeria and beyond.

A Hub of Learning and Innovation

The Faculty of Environmental Sciences is home to several departments, each of which plays a crucial role in the faculty’s mission to provide top-tier education and research in the environmental sciences. The Department of Architecture, the Department of Environmental Management, the Department of Estate Management, and the Department of Urban and Regional Planning all contribute to the faculty’s interdisciplinary approach to environmental education.

In addition to its academic programs, the faculty is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance the learning experience. These include modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and dedicated spaces for research and collaboration. These facilities provide students and faculty with the resources they need to excel in their studies and research.