Academic
Environmental Science
Environmental Science involves the interdisciplinary approach to our world in terms of the history of environmental concerns, biomes, species interaction with each other and their environment, air, water, soil and biological resources, population dynamics, toxicology, energy sources, land use management and other related topics. All different sciences combine to make up the complexities of environmental science and students embarking on this journey will gain a comprehensive understanding of how these interconnected disciplines all interact to create the environment we occupy. Students will take an in-depth look at the function of this planet earth, its atmosphere, composition and structure as well as the inhabitants that occupy it. The class will explore various toxic substances that can affect the delicate balance that results from this complex interconnectivity and understand how just the slightest alteration in one aspect can affect the whole.
This course explores the relationship between man and the environment. Students examine the balance between natural resources and the needs of mankind. Students explore the scientific, political, economic, and social implications of environmental science.
Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:
- Examine the field of Environmental Science in terms of science, theoretical perspectives, economics, and environmental ethics
- Explain the foundations of environmental science
- Examine environmental economics and policies
- Examine population growth and demographic transitions
- Evaluate soil as a system and its importance in the environment
- Describe the function of the earth’s atmosphere, its composition, structure, and the changing global climate
- Examine toxic substances and their effects
- Appraise the importance of water and marine ecosystems
- Examine the biodiversity on earth and conservation biology and its benefits
- Analyze land use and planning for creating livable cities
- Examine non-renewable energy sources, and their impact on the environment
- Examine renewable energy
- Analyze waste disposal methods and the types of waste we generate
This class includes the following eText:
Withgott and Brennan. (2009). Environment: The Science Behind the Stories’ 3/E; ISBN: 0136045316