Teaching Environmental Literacy with Social Sensibility.
The Environmental Science minor fosters a sense of place and a sense of social responsibility informed by an understanding of nature, the history of life and humanity, and the complexities of human-environment interactions. The Environmental Science minor complements a wide range of majors, from education, business, and communications to sociology, psychology, history, creative writing, global studies, and the arts. Building on core classes, students choose electives in areas of personal interest and can focus on exploring environmental issues from the perspectives of biology and chemistry, the earth sciences, or health, with many field-based options. Students may focus on marine science by including courses offered by the Marine Studies Consortium. Exciting opportunities for travel study and study abroad to remote tropical environments (Guyana) are also available.
Featured Courses
CNSCI 2100 Humans and the Environment
This course provides an interdisciplinary focus on the interactions between humans and the environment. Topics of consideration include an overview of ecosystems; population growth; species extinction and preservation; air, water, and soil pollution and control; agriculture and world food production; and preservation, conservation, and sustainable resource management. Specific case studies will be considered as well as the view of different cultures toward their physical surroundings.
CPHYS 1104 Earth Science with Lab
Topics in geochemistry, crystal structure, and the molecular nature of minerals and ores introduce students to the physical nature of soils and rocks. Plate tectonics and continental drift provide a holistic model of the evolution and dynamic nature of the earth's geology and climate. A survey of planetary geology widens this model to include consideration of other planets. A student project is required. This course meets for four hours weekly in order to integrate laboratory experiences.
Faculty Spotlight
Frank Trocco
Associate Professor of Social Study of Science
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David Morimoto
Associate Professor of Biology, Director of College of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies Natural Science and Mathematics Division
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