Environmental Science

Degrees and Certificates

Courses

ENVS110W: Introduction to Environmental Science

Introduction to Environmental Science is an introductory course in environmental science involving an interdisciplinary study of how entities in nature are interconnected. It provides an integrated study of environmental problems, connections, and solutions.

ENVS202W: Water Resources and Hydrology

Water is essential to life and many of the processes that occur on Earth. Water Resources and Hydrology takes a detailed look at the occurrence, distribution, and circulation of water near the Earth's surface. This course covers the basics of limnology, water as a critical resource, threats to the resource, water treatment resources, and basic water-flow calculations. Laboratory work consists of field visits to both lotic and lentic systems, as well as the collection and analysis of rainfall and runoff data.

ENVS204W: Environmental Sampling and Reporting

Environmental Sampling and Reporting is a hands-on, practical course that equips students with the skills and knowledge to collect, analyze, and report environmental data effectively. This course focuses on the methodologies and techniques used in environmental monitoring, including sampling air, water, soil, and animal populations. Students learn how to follow standard operating procedures, ensure quality control, and follow regulatory standards for environmental data collection. Through laboratory and field exercises, students gain practical experience in various sampling techniques, such as grab sampling, composite sampling, and passive sampling. The course emphasizes the tools and technologies used in modern environmental sampling, including sensors, GPS, and data loggers. In addition to technical skills, the course covers the essentials of data analysis and interpretation, ensuring students can present their findings in clear, comprehensive reports. Students learn to communicate technical data to diverse audiences, from scientists and regulators to the general public, while understanding the ethical considerations in environmental reporting.

ENVS205W: Conservation Biology

Conservation Biology takes an in-depth look at the causes and consequences of the loss of biodiversity. Students examine the importance of biodiversity and the loss of it from a genetic to an ecosystem perspective. In addition to studying the challenges for species management, students explore endangered ecosystems, the eventual cause of extinctions, and the roles of economic and social factors in environmental conservation.

ENVS209W: Environmental Toxicology

Environmental Toxicology is an interdisciplinary course introducing students to the basic scientific principles of toxicology as they relate to the environment and public health. This course explores the mechanisms by which chemical, biological, and physical agents can harm ecosystems, wildlife, and humans. It emphasizes the fate and transport of contaminants through air, water, and soil. The course also covers the pathways through which toxins enter organisms, the effects of exposure at different biological levels (from molecular to ecological), and the methods used to assess and manage environmental risks. Topics covered include chemical interactions, dose-response relationships, biomagnification, risk assessment, and regulatory frameworks for environmental protection.

ENVS210W: Environmental Project

A student-directed capstone course, Environmental Project asks students to apply the knowledge and skills they learned while fulfilling their Environmental Science degree requirements. In cooperation with their faculty advisor, students design and complete a comprehensive project related to their area of interest.