Courses in Environmental Studies
(Division 366)


The quest for harmony between humans and the natural world requires understanding of nature, society, and our individual selves. The program in Environmental Studies encourages students to supplement their training in particular academic disciplines by exploring aspects of natural science, social science, and the humanities. The Program is not a concentration program, although a student may emphasize environmental studies in the LS&A Individual Concentration Program (ICP).

Environmental Studies 123, 124, and 320 offer broad overviews of the field and serve as introductions to more advanced work. Environmental Studies 420 and 421 offer opportunities for independent study. In these courses the student is responsible for defining a plan of study, enlisting others with similar interests if appropriate, and locating a faculty member willing to supervise the work. Environmental Studies 450 is a Capstone Seminar providing the opportunity for seniors, particularly those pursuing ICPs, to work together to compare diverse perspectives on human values and the environment.

Courses on environmental issues are offered by many different departments and programs in LS&A as well as in other colleges of the university. Students interested in the environment should explore each issue of the Time Schedule thoroughly, because many appropriate courses are offered at irregular intervals under unpredictable headings. Of particular interest are some of the University Courses.

124/Geol. 124/AOSS 124. Environment, People, Resources. (2). (NS). (BS).
Human interaction with the natural environment, emphasizing our dependence on Earth's biological resources. Topics include: the history of environmental change and the political processes that affect the way we exploit natural resources, an introduction to ecology, population growth and limiting processes, food and agriculture, and the harvesting of biological resources. Instruction is by lectures, films, assigned reading, and computer exercises. Grades are based on homework and frequent short quizzes. The text is Environmental Science: A Global Concern (3rd edition) by W.P. Cunningham and B.W. Saigo, William C. Brown Publishers, 1995. Cost: 2 WL:1 (Walker)

360/Geol. 280. Mineral Resources, Economics and the Environment. (4). (NS). (BS). (QR/2).
See Geology 280. (Kesler)