This “hands-on” interdisciplinary course explores environmental (and, to a lesser degree, social and economic) sustainability in higher education generally and at the University of Michigan specifically in a dynamic, interactive way. Drawing upon theory and practice in sustainability, environmental management, organizational change and social advocacy, students conduct a substantial, hands-on group project in conjunction with a university sponsor. Past projects — available atwww.graham.umich.edu/education/campus.php — have led to the creation of the “How to be a Green Wolverine Guide”, the planting of a campus garden, a campus sustainability interactive map and many other direct outcomes. Through site visits, guest lectures, discussions, lectures and this project, this course addresses the real life challenges of campus environmental sustainability. The focus is on active, participation-based learning, and students leave the course with an understanding of the campus as a lever for environmental change and with the personal tools to act as change agents. Beyond directly impacting the campus, this course helps develop professional skills in environmental project management.

Course Requirements:

Group Project; Research Paper; 2 Response Essays

Intended Audience:

All students who have completed at least one environmental or sustainability-related course, and are willing to work on an intensive group project for the academic term.

Class Format:

Discussion; Site Visits; Workshops; Lectures; Guest Presentations