Course Catalog

Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field of study that relies on the principles of biology, chemistry and geology; as well as the social sciences, to explain complex natural systems. ENVS 300 is a survey course in this field and discusses how natural systems function with an emphasis on how these systems have been affected by human activity. Recent advances in scientific research indicate that, in addition to the well-known local and regional effects of human activity on the environment, humans are changing the world we live in on a global scale. The possible ramifications of the environmental issues discussed in this course make the material both relevant and controversial. An attempt is made to present information in an objective, scientific manner, allowing students to reach their own conclusions regarding the proper response to environmental threats and to develop a personal environmental ethic. Note: Environmental science majors may not take ENVS 300 to fulfill a requirement in the core curriculum. Students may not take both ENVS 300 and SSCI 301 for credit.