ENVS& 101 - Introduction to Environmental Science

5 Credits

Introduction to environmental science. It stresses a scientific approach toward understanding nature and contemporary problems in the environment. The course treats environmental science as an interdisciplinary study integrating the natural sciences and social sciences. The course applies physical, chemical, biological and geological principles to understand ecosystems, the impact humans have on ecosystems and how these impacts, in turn, affect the human condition and the world.

Pre-requisite(s) MATH 081 or higher min 2.0
Placement Eligibility Math 91 or higher
Course Note Previously GE SC 105.
FeesScience Materials Fee Science Lab Support Fee

Quarters Typically Offered
Summer Evening
Fall Day, Evening
Winter Day, Evening
Spring Evening

Designed to Serve Students pursuing a career in environmental science or ecology. Students with general interest. Students with interest in global and/or local environmental issues.
Active Date 20240401T16:28:23

Grading Basis Decimal Grade
Class Limit 24
Shared Learning Environment Yes
Contact Hours: Lecture 44 Lab 22
Total Contact Hours 66
Degree Distributions:
AA

Diversity & Globalism
Science
Science Lab

Course Outline

Introduction to Ecology: Populations and Communities
Global Overpopulation
Biomes and Biodiversity
Global Environmental Conservation
Global Food and Agriculture
Global Environmental Health and Toxicology
Global Climate
Global Air Pollution
Water Resources
Water Pollution
Global Energy
Sustainability and Human Development

Student Learning Outcomes
Describe the structure and function of major environmental systems, including flow of energy, cycling of materials, and interconnection of living systems.

Identify and explain local and global environmental problems and evaluate potential solutions by using scientific reasoning.

Critically evaluate local and global environmental problems, ideas and proposals independently and in groups.

Collect, analyze and present environmental data.

Explain the ecological, economic and social impacts of local and global actions by nations, corporations and individuals.

Describe the impact their own lives and the choices they make have on the local and global environment.