Environmental Science (ENV)

ENV-341 Geographical Information Systems (3 credits)

This hands-on course in which students are given beginning-level opportunities to process, analyze and visualize spatial data and information using commercially-available GIS (Geographic Information Systems) software. In the process, they are introduced to the principles of GIS and its usefulness as an analytical tool and as an effective communication technique in addressing global, environmental and social science questions. The course also explores ethical issues pertaining to confidentiality and privacy when gathering and using GIS data.

Prerequisite(s): 2 courses from Natural Science/Math General Education requirements completed.

ENV-374 ENV Assessment in Effective Citizenship (0 credits)

This assessment takes the form of volunteer research for a community organization. The student works with a community organization to develop a project that will use her environment research skills and benefit the community. They analyze the organization to develop criteria for an effective product, use appropriate research skills, and report their findings in a manner appropriate to the audience.

ENV-397 Independent Study (1-3 credits)

Under the approval and direction of a faculty member, independent study is available to students.

ENV-399 Formal Introduction to Advanced Work (0 credits)

The Advanced-Level Event marks a significant accomplishment as each student proceeds into the work of the major department. When a department determines that a student is ready for advanced work within a discipline, the student is invited to participate in a ceremony that is both a celebration and an explanation of future requirements of the major and support areas. The student registers for this experience at a point determined by the major department: for most majors the registration is connected to the taking of a particular course. Students and faculty gather for an afternoon during Mid-semester Assessment Days. Following a general program, students meet in departmental sessions with their faculty to discuss advanced outcomes, department courses, advising procedures, and so on.

Prerequisite(s): One BI, CH or GE 200-level course

ENV-414 ENV Professional Portfolio (0 credits)

This assessment offers students with a major or a support area in environmental science the opportunity to show that they can effectively use and communicate information. The student assembles a portfolio of communications, including laboratory notebooks, written reports and papers, videotapes of speeches, and abstracts. Students describe the research strategies employed in the portfolio work. Students assess the portfolio, describing personal strengths and areas for improvement.

ENV-491 Integrated Environmental Seminar (3 credits)

In this course the student examines current environmental issues selected by the class. Students integrate what is learned across the curriculum to investigate the scientific, political, economic, ethical, legal, and historical aspects of issues that affect the environment, and develop and evaluate different plans of action. The student also reflects extensively on personal educational experiences and completes a culminating self assessment of undergraduate work.

Prerequisite(s): A 3 credit 300-Level course