The environmental studies program is an cross-interdisciplinary program drawing from the sciences, humanities, and social sciences. The program is structured to provide students with a foundation in science, policy, ethics, and humanities so that they may develop a comprehensive understanding of the complexity of environmental issues.
Because the program is flexible, the specific four-year paradigm will vary for individual students, and it is not possible to assign most courses to specific years.
Normally, both Introduction to Environmental Studies (ENST 101) and Introduction to Environmental Science (ENVS 111/L111 and 112/L112) should be taken in the first year, the Environmental Studies Practicum (ENST 403) in the junior or senior year, and the Environmental Studies Capstone (ENST 401 and 402) in the senior year.
4.00
An interdisciplinary course that focuses on the social science and humanities disciplines as they are related to the natural environment. Students will study texts from those disciplines to acquire a deeper understanding of the values and beliefs that underlie environmental issues. The course will also investigate the policy-making processes and institutions through which those issues are decided, and the social inequalities in the distribution of environmental problems. Texts to be studied will range from literature, philosophy and film to policy statements, impact reports, community advocacy materials, and investigative journalism.
Open to Environmental Science and Environmental Studies majors, or by permission of instructor. Must be taken concurrently with ENVS L111
3.00
Case study approach to the fundamentals of science applied to the environment. Topics include population and resources, environmental degradation, ecosystems, geologic processes, population dynamics, deforestation, biodiversity, climate change, ozone depletion, air, soil, and water resource management, pollution and risks to health, economics and the environment, politics and the environment, and ethics and the environment. This course is required for all environmental science and environmental studies majors and minors. Other students will be admitted by permission of the instructor.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
Open to Environmental Science and Environmental Studies majors, or by permission of instructor. Must be taken concurrently with ENVS 111
1.00
Laboratory exercises to illustrate topics covered in ENVS 111. Field testing and analysis of environmental samples. Field trips required. This course is required for all environmental science and environmental studies majors and minors and is the laboratory to accompany ENVS 111.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
3.00
Case study approach to the fundamentals of science applied to the environmental. Topics introduced in ENVS 111 will be further developed with a focus on how environmental conditions affect human, animal and ecological health. Areas to be considered include control of environmental contaminants; public health and infectious disease control; antibiotic resistance; health issues associated with food production; contained animal feeding operations; the effects of industrialization on the environment; and the impact of disasters on environmental health. This course is intended for environmental science and studies majors and minors. Normally offered in spring semester Pre-requisites: open to environmental science and environmental studies majors only, or by permission of the instructor. Must be taken concurrently with ENVS L112
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
1.00
Laboratory exercises to illustrate topics covered ENVS 112. Exercises will include analysis of environmental samples for such parameters as heavy metal contamination and evidence of sewage contamination, and analysis of air samples for criteria pollutants. Field trips are required. This course is required for Environmental studies majors and complements ENVS 112. 1 term: 1 credit hours Normally offered in spring semester Pre-requisite: enrollment in ENVS 112
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
Prerequisite: PHIL 119, or 123, or 127.
4.00
An examination of the moral issues involved in the interaction of humans with their natural environment. Topics include: the environmental crisis, human-centered vs. nature-centered ethics, intrinsic value in nature, obligations to future generations, the importance of preserving endangered species and wilderness, radical ecology, eco-feminism, and the role of social justice in environmental issues. Prerequisite: PHIL 119, or 123, or 127. 1 term -4 credits. Normally offered every year.
Occasional
4.00
A course examining a contemporary environmental issue from various disciplinary perspectives. Using a case-study approach, students will develop a proposal to address the identified issue from the perspectives of policy, ethics, justice, science and culture. As appropriate, the proposal will be field tested, demonstrated, or presented to the local community. Possible topics include sustainable development, urban air pollution, sustainable farming, or water conservation.
1.00- 4.00
A continuation of ENST 401
This class fulfills the Expanded Classroom Requirement. Junior standing or above required or consent of the instructor.
4.00
One course to be taken as a practicum or internship. The choice of internship or practicum is to be determined in consultation with the program director.
Expanded Classroom Requirement
BIO-114 and BIO-L114 or instructors permission
3.00
Introduction to the marine environment, its organisms and their specific adaptations. Emphasis on marine and estuarine ecology, intertidal habits, trophic relations, and physiology. Human impacts on the sea; fisheries, mariculture, pollution, law of the sea. Taught only at the R. S. Friedman Field Station Campus, Edmunds, ME. ECR. This course typically meets for three weeks from early to mid-August to early September (before typical Fall courses begin). Taught alternate years.
Offered Fall Term
Expanded Classroom Requirement
BIO-114 and BIO-L114 or instructors permission Must Take BIO-254 Concurrently
1.00
Field trips to local marine environments; field and laboratory observations of marine organisms. Independent student projects. Taught only at the R.S. Friedman Field Station Campus, Edmunds, ME. ECR
Offered Fall Term
Expanded Classroom Requirement
BIO-111 and BIO-L111,
3.00
Viruses and bacteria are surveyed in terms of their ecology, biochemistry, taxonomy, molecular biology and control.
Offered Fall Term
Must take BIO-285 concurrently
1.00
Introduction to microbiological techniques and their applications to health, research and industry.
Offered Fall Term
BIO-114, L114 and CHEM-211, L211, Must take BIO L304 concurrently
3.00
Mechanisms of physiological adaptations to environmental challenges are studied. Examples of gas exchange, osmoregulation, fluid transport, temperature regulation, nervous control, and movement are examined in various animal forms. Spring semester.
Offered Spring Term
BIO-304 must be taken concurrently
1.00
Selected physiological processes and mechanisms or adaptation in invertebrate and vertebrate animals are examined by observation and controlled experiments.
BIO 114 and BIO L114; and BIO 222 or BIO 224 and BIO 224 or BIO 225 and L225 This course fulfills the Expanded Classroom Requirement
3.00
Areas of study include but are not limited to basic principles of population biology, community ecology, trophic dynamics, ecosystem structure and function and evolutionary theory.(note: some aspects of the course may differ depending on if it is a Boston or a FFS offering) ECR. Offered even years at both the Boston campus (Fall semester) and the R.S. Friedman Field Station Campus (FFS),Edmunds, ME (Early Fall offering for three weeks). There is a $475 camping fee associated with the FFS BIO 333 offering.
Offered Fall Term
Expanded Classroom Requirement
BIO 114 &L114, BIO 222 or 224 or 225. Must take BIO 333 concurrently. Fulfills Expanded Classroom Requirement
1.00
Field and laboratory experiences in techniques and concepts relevant to lecture materials; data collecting and report preparation. Group project with data collection, presentation and report preparation is required. (note some aspects of the lab may differ depending on whether it is a Boston or a FFS offering) ECR
Offered Fall Term
BIO 114, L114; BIO L343 MUST BE TAKEN CONCURRENTLY
3.00
The origin, measurement, and extent of biological diversity on Earth, its practical and theoretical importance, and current trends in extinction due to human activities. Anthropogenic influences on individuals, populations, and ecosystems will be considered, as well as strategies for biological conservation on a changing planet.
Offered Fall Term
BIO-114 and BIO-L114;and must take BIO-343 concurrently
1.00
Laboratory exercises dealing with the calculation, of Biodiversity in the environment, as well as with the effects of contaminants on individuals, populations, and model ecosystems. The fates of contaminants in such systems will be explored, as well as the possibility of remediation of adverse effects.
Offered Fall Term
Occasionally, courses are held outside of Suffolk University as part of our participation in the Marine Studies Consortium. Students may discuss this option with the program director.
BIO-354/L354 and BIO-359/L359 are part of the Marine Studies Consortium. Enrollment is with permission of coordinator.
CHEM 112
3.00
Basic theories of structure, bonding, and chemical reactivity as specifically applied to modern organic chemistry. Topics include functional groups, acid/base chemistry, nomenclature, resonance, spectroscopy, and stereochemistry. Significant emphasis placed on the use of the arrow formalism to indicate the location and movement of electrons; serves as a basic introduction to organic mechanisms. Prerequisite: CHEM 112, L112 Concurrent enrollment in CHEM L211 required unless L211 has been previously completed. Concurrent enrollment in CHEM L211 required. 3 hours lecture. 1 term - 3 credits. Normally offered Fall, days/Summer I, evenings.
Offered Fall Term
Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 211.
1.00
Laboratory exercises providing an introduction to synthetic organic chemistry techniques, including melting point determination, distillation, crystallization, extraction, chromatographic separations, and infrared spectroscopy. A component of this laboratory course incorporates discussions of experimental design within the context of environmentally benign (green) organic chemistry. Reports are prepared in professional style. Prerequisite: CHEM 112, L112. Concurrent enrollment in 211 required. 4-hour laboratory. 1 term - 1 credit. Normally offered Fall/Summer, days and evenings.
Offered Fall Term
CHEM 211 CHEM L211
3.00
Builds on the core competencies acquired in Organic Chemistry I, includes detailed discussions of organic mechanisms of substitution, elimination, and addition reactions. Significant emphasis is placed on organic synthesis, structure determination, and spectroscopy. Prerequisite: CHEM 211, L211. Concurrent enrollment in CHEM L212 required. 3 hours lecture. 1 term - 3 credits. Normally offered Spring, days/Summer II, evenings.
Offered Spring Term
CHEM 211/L211
1.00
Builds on the core competencies acquired in Organic Chemistry Laboratory I. Significant emphasis is placed on the characterization of organic molecules via nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. A component of this laboratory course incorporates discussions of experimental design within the context of environmentally benign (green) organic chemistry. Reports are prepared in professional style. Concurrent enrollment in CHEM 212 required. 4-hour laboratory. Normally offered Spring/Summer II, days and evenings.
Offered Spring Term
CHEM 211; CHEM L314 must be taken concurrently.
3.00
Theory and application of analytical instruments: ultraviolet, visible, fluorescence, atomic and emission spectroscopy; chromatographic methods; electrochemical measurements. Prerequisites: CHEM 211; CHEM L314 must be taken concurrently. 3 hour lecture. 1 term - 3 credits. Normally offered Fall/Spring, days.
Alternates Fall & Spring
CHEM L211; CHEM 314 must be taken concurrently
1.00
Laboratory experiments in chemical analysis using instrumental techniques, including spectroscopy and chromatography. Data collection and evaluation includes computer-based methods. Reports are prepared in professional style. Prerequisites: CHEM L112; CHEM 314 must be taken concurrently. 4-hour Laboratory. 1 term - 1 credit. Normally offered Fall/Spring.
Alternates Fall & Spring
CHEM 212/L212 or permission of instructor. CHEM L330 must be taken concurrently.
3.00
This course explores the foundations of biochemistry, including the structure, organization and behavior of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Topics include enzyme kinetics, membrane structure and signal-transduction pathways. Students will be introduced to the biochemical literature and computer-based bioinformatics techniques. Prerequisites: CHEM 212/L212 or permission of instructor. Concurrent enrollment in CHEM L331 required. 3 hours of lecture per week. Offered every Fall, days only.
Offered Fall Term
Must be taken concurrently with CHEM 331. Take CHEM-212 or permission of instructor.
1.00
Laboratory course introducing biochemical techniques. Topics include purification of DNA and proteins, agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, protein quantitation and detection, and enzyme kinetic assays. lab work will be written up in the style of a professional journal article. Offered every Fall, days only.
Offered Fall Term
CHEM 211, or permission of instructor
3.00
A study of the chemical processes (including biologically mediated ones) that affect the cycling and ultimate fate of chemicals in the environment. Topics include air, water, and soil chemistry as well as energy and climate change. The effects of pollutant loads on natural systems and the remediation and treatment methods used to minimize pollutant loads are investigated. 3 hour lecture. Normally offered spring, odd numbered years.
Alternates Fall & Spring
CHEM 355 must be taken concurrently. Take CHEM-L211;
1.00
Laboratory exercises designed to illustrate principles covered by topics in CHEM 355. Prerequisites: CHEM L211, concurrent enrollment in CHEM 355 required. 4-hour laboratory. Normally offered spring, odd numbered years.
Alternates Fall & Spring
Prerequisites: CHEM 212 and BIO 111
4.00
The study of toxic actions of chemicals on biological systems, with discussion of general principles, methodology, and selected topics. Topics will include forensic toxicology, environmental and occupational toxicology, pesticides, neurotoxicants, and carcinogenesis. CHEM 332 and BIO 403 strongly recommended. 3 hours of lecture and 1 hour of recitation per week. Normally offered every other year.
Occasional
Approved computer programming course or permission of instructor.
3.00
This course provides the fundamentals of geographic information science (GIS) including the history of automated mapping. A review of the necessary hardware and software elements used in GIS is presented. Hands-on exercises with computerized mapping software are required.
concurrently with ENVE 325
1.00
Required companion computer laboratory to be taken concurrently with ENVE 325. Prerequisite: Approved computer programming course or permission of instructor.
SCI L173 Must be taken concurrently Knowledge of Windows type Application
3.00
Geographic Information Science (GIS) link information (number of fire hydrants on a block) to features on a map (e.g., a point representing street address) that has a designated geographic location (as designated by global coordinates). Unlike paper maps, GIS software allows the production of interactive maps that allows the user to layer data, to indicate spatial patterns, to analyze trends, and to combine different features of the mapped area in novel ways. For example, a business person may wish to use GIS to determine the optimum location of retail outlet (based on the mapped demographics of a neighborhood), while an environmental engineer may use GIS to describe the location of outfalls to see how they correlate to areas of stream pollution. In this course, students will be introduced to maps, map vocabulary and attributes, and GIS mapping through a series of mapping exercises. A knowledge of Windows-type applications is presumed.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
Must be taken concurrently with SCI-173
1.00
This laboratory illustrates concepts and methods taught in SCI 173. In this lab students will be introduced to maps, map vocabulary and attributes, and GIS mapping through a series of mapping exercises. A knowledge of Windows-type applications is presumed.
Offered Both Fall and Spring
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
Intro Math and must take SCI-L251 concurrently
3.00
Coastal environments will be analyzed with an emphasis on the important environmental characteristics of these areas. Management and environmental problems within the coastal and offshore areas such as beach erosion, beach access, and oil spills will be considered. One required field trip.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
SCI 251 must be taken concurrently
1.00
An introduction to laboratory and field techniques used in the geological study of coastal environments. Field trips will be taken to local coastal areas.
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
B. One course from the following:
Communications and Journalism
4.00
An examination of the public issues involving the environment. Focuses on public relations strategies for government agencies, corporations and other organizations concerned with the environment. Normally offered yearly.
Offered Spring Term
Environmental Studies
4.00
The rise of the Green Party, from its grass-roots beginnings to participation in the federal government. Background on the development of green consciousness in Germany and Europe since the early 20th century. Present governmental policies and programs (e.g., alternative energy sources, organic farming, recycling, dismantling of nuclear power). Cross-listed GER 420 and GVT 420
4.00
A course about how the constitution, common law and statutory law provide for environmental protection and pollution prevention. Students will learn basic skills needed to understand how environmental law works, including constitutional clauses and amendments, landmark civil litigation, the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, landmark civil litigation, and hazardous waste law.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Instructors approval required
4.00
This course is a comprehensive introduction to the economies and ecology of water supply and water pollution control. Topics include watershed management, groundwater protection, and wastewater treatment. The inherent difficulty in applying static laws and regulations to a dynamic natural resource such as water is a recurring theme in the course. Strongly recommended for students interested in environmental management. Normally offered every years. The course available through the Marine Studies Consortium and will be taught on the campus of one of the Consortiums member institutions.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Instructors Consent
4.00
This course presents a survey of a coastal environment, its physical characteristics, natural systems, economic uses, and development pressures. Lectures examine strategies formulated in the U.S. for land and water resource management in the coastal zone. The roles of federal, state and local government, environmental groups and resource users are also explored. Finally, by comparing coastal zone management problems in the U.S. to those elsewhere in the world, students gain a global perspective. Normally offered every years. The course available through the Marine Studies Consortium and will be taught on the campus of one of the Consortiums member institutions.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
The rise of the Green Party, from its grass-roots beginnings to participation in the federal government. Background on the development of green consciousness in Germany and Europe since the early 20th century. Present governmental policies and programs (e.g., alternative energy sources, organic farming, recycling, dismantling of nuclear power). Cross-listed GER 420 and ENST 420
Social Science
4.00
In the 20th century the general public became aware of the need for following a sustainable lifestyle. Non-governmental organizations, governmental institutions and individuals began to study environmental problems and issues to enhance the concept of conservation of nature and the protection of the planets biodiversity among other important concepts. However, as we enter the 21st century, we are finding ourselves involved in new environmental threats such as increasingly disturbing natural disasters, eco-terrorism and endless extreme poverty. This course is aimed at learning the basic environmental aspects that affect society and nature as a whole, along with the new issues that are arising and leading scientists to continue new lines of research in the field of environmental conservation and awareness, knowing also that the key to hope lies in the field of environmental education. Offered on the Madrid Campus only.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
Junior status or above
4.00
This class will examine the role of lobbyist and the media in influencing state and national decision makers and public policy. Focusing primarily on current issues relating to energy and environmental policy, we will discuss and critically examine all sides of todays hot topics- renewable power, climate change, sustainability and others. The goal is not to determine who is right and who is wrong, but rather to get behind the headlines and separate fact from hype and discuss how and why certain policy decisions are made and how policy makers are influenced. Youll gain an appreciation as to how public opinion, lobbyists and the media (even celebrities!) can actually change government priorities- and not always for the better, as rising public opinion and political pressure often collides with well established scientific evidence.
Social Science,BSJ SOCIAL SCIENCE
4.00
An examination of the effects of the city on human life in its broadest as well as its most specific aspects. Greater Boston and similar communities across the nation will be studied as ecological settings, as producers and shapers of change, and as special contexts for understanding sociological ideas. Comparisons will be made among urban places in the U.S. and in other countries.
Occasional
Social Science,Cultural Diversity Opt A
4.00
A course with special interest topics in sociology which changes depending on the professor.
Occasional
4.00
The rise of the Green Party, from its grass-roots beginnings to participation in the federal government. Background on the development of green consciousness in Germany and Europe since the early 20th century. Present governmental policies and programs (e.g. alternative energy sources, organic farming, recycling, dismantling of nuclear power). Cross-list with ENST 420/GVT 420/620.
Offered Spring Term
Humanities & History,Humanities Literature Requirement
Prerequisite: Phil 119, or 123, or 127.
4.00
An examination of the moral problems facing health-care practitioners, their patients, and others involved with the practice of medicine in todays society. Issues include euthanasia, the ethics of medical experimentation, the use of reproductive technologies, genetic counseling and genetic engineering, truth-telling and confidentiality in doctor-patient relationships, the cost and availability of medical care. Prerequisite: PHIL 119, or 123, or 127. 1 term -4 credits. Normally offered every third year.
Occasional
4.00
Environmental justice is an important rising issue within the environmental movement. A course on the path to environmental justice would analyze the evolution of the movement (certainly intrinsically related to discussion of civil rights and equal protection) beginning with a discussion of activists and a series of early environmental injustices. It would move through early legal and legislative attempts at preventing such injustices and their tempered success. Finally the course would move into the present day fight for environmental justice encompassing a discussion of Title VI and the role of federal agencies. Underlying the entire course would be acknowledgement of the interplay between the judiciary, legislative branch, executive branch and both domestic and international not-for-profit organizations.
Class will meet for 75 minutes a week and then travel over spring break. Instructors consent is required
4.00
This course will focus on the history and lasting affect of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) on the physical and political landscape of the United States. From 1933 to 1942 more than 3 million men served in the CCC, and this course will track the progression of their work from the planting of billions of trees to the development of recreational opportunities on federal and state lands. Over time, CCC work progressed from the conservation of natural resources to the conservation of human resources and promotion of recreation on public lands. As the CCC changed over time, so too did public opinion concerning the CCCs work and mission. This class will explore opposition to CCC projects by significant figures in Americas environmental movement such as Aldo Leopold and Bob Marshall, and the resulting influence on the environmental movement in America. We will also look at the role the CCC played in redefining conservation and creating a mainstream environmental movement. In addition, this class will consider the affect that the CCC had on New Deal politics. Finally, this class will study the lasting legacy that the CCC left on the American landscape through the development of other conservation corps programs. Students will also read first hand accounts, view films, and possibly hear directly from a CCC veteran. As a class connected with an Alternative Spring Break trip, this experiential education offering will allow students to experience and complete similar work to that completed by CCC members. During Alternative Spring Break, students will visit important CCC history sites such as the first CCC camp in the country and a major national park development project. During the course, assignments will challenge students to identify CCC sites in Massachusetts or their home states. Local site visits are a possibility for this class. Other assignments will challenge students to identify modern environmental organizations who can trace their origins to the CCC (either
The total required credit hours for the environmental studies major ranges from 44 to 76, depending on course selection.
Note that certain courses required of the major will also meet core curriculum requirements, and can be double-counted toward graduation requirements.
Some courses are part of the Marine Science Consortium. Enrollment is with permission of coordinator.
ENST 420/GVT 420 can fill a Social Science related elective or GER 420 can fill a Humanities/History related elective, but cannot be used to fill both Social Science and Humanities/History related electives.
4.00
An interdisciplinary course that focuses on the social science and humanities disciplines as they are related to the natural environment. Students will study texts from those disciplines to acquire a deeper understanding of the values and beliefs that underlie environmental issues. The course will also investigate the policy-making processes and institutions through which those issues are decided, and the social inequalities in the distribution of environmental problems. Texts to be studied will range from literature, philosophy and film to policy statements, impact reports, community advocacy materials, and investigative journalism.
Open to Environmental Science and Environmental Studies majors, or by permission of instructor. Must be taken concurrently with ENVS L111
3.00
Case study approach to the fundamentals of science applied to the environment. Topics include population and resources, environmental degradation, ecosystems, geologic processes, population dynamics, deforestation, biodiversity, climate change, ozone depletion, air, soil, and water resource management, pollution and risks to health, economics and the environment, politics and the environment, and ethics and the environment. This course is required for all environmental science and environmental studies majors and minors. Other students will be admitted by permission of the instructor.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
Open to Environmental Science and Environmental Studies majors, or by permission of instructor. Must be taken concurrently with ENVS 111
1.00
Laboratory exercises to illustrate topics covered in ENVS 111. Field testing and analysis of environmental samples. Field trips required. This course is required for all environmental science and environmental studies majors and minors and is the laboratory to accompany ENVS 111.
Offered Fall Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
3.00
Case study approach to the fundamentals of science applied to the environmental. Topics introduced in ENVS 111 will be further developed with a focus on how environmental conditions affect human, animal and ecological health. Areas to be considered include control of environmental contaminants; public health and infectious disease control; antibiotic resistance; health issues associated with food production; contained animal feeding operations; the effects of industrialization on the environment; and the impact of disasters on environmental health. This course is intended for environmental science and studies majors and minors. Normally offered in spring semester Pre-requisites: open to environmental science and environmental studies majors only, or by permission of the instructor. Must be taken concurrently with ENVS L112
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
1.00
Laboratory exercises to illustrate topics covered ENVS 112. Exercises will include analysis of environmental samples for such parameters as heavy metal contamination and evidence of sewage contamination, and analysis of air samples for criteria pollutants. Field trips are required. This course is required for Environmental studies majors and complements ENVS 112. 1 term: 1 credit hours Normally offered in spring semester Pre-requisite: enrollment in ENVS 112
Offered Spring Term
NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BA BFA & BSJ,NATURAL SCIENCE FOR BS
Environmental studies offers an honors program. Students participating in the program must meet the following criteria:
Course descriptions may be updated periodically to reflect changes since the last published catalog.
4.00
An interdisciplinary course that focuses on the social science and humanities disciplines as they are related to the natural environment. Students will study texts from those disciplines to acquire a deeper understanding of the values and beliefs that underlie environmental issues. The course will also investigate the policy-making processes and institutions through which those issues are decided, and the social inequalities in the distribution of environmental problems. Texts to be studied will range from literature, philosophy and film to policy statements, impact reports, community advocacy materials, and investigative journalism.
4.00
Environmental justice is an important rising issue within the environmental movement. A course on the path to environmental justice would analyze the evolution of the movement (certainly intrinsically related to discussion of civil rights and equal protection) beginning with a discussion of activists and a series of early environmental injustices. It would move through early legal and legislative attempts at preventing such injustices and their tempered success. Finally the course would move into the present day fight for environmental justice encompassing a discussion of Title VI and the role of federal agencies. Underlying the entire course would be acknowledgement of the interplay between the judiciary, legislative branch, executive branch and both domestic and international not-for-profit organizations.
Class will meet for 75 minutes a week and then travel over spring break. Instructors consent is required
4.00
This course will focus on the history and lasting affect of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) on the physical and political landscape of the United States. From 1933 to 1942 more than 3 million men served in the CCC, and this course will track the progression of their work from the planting of billions of trees to the development of recreational opportunities on federal and state lands. Over time, CCC work progressed from the conservation of natural resources to the conservation of human resources and promotion of recreation on public lands. As the CCC changed over time, so too did public opinion concerning the CCCs work and mission. This class will explore opposition to CCC projects by significant figures in Americas environmental movement such as Aldo Leopold and Bob Marshall, and the resulting influence on the environmental movement in America. We will also look at the role the CCC played in redefining conservation and creating a mainstream environmental movement. In addition, this class will consider the affect that the CCC had on New Deal politics. Finally, this class will study the lasting legacy that the CCC left on the American landscape through the development of other conservation corps programs. Students will also read first hand accounts, view films, and possibly hear directly from a CCC veteran. As a class connected with an Alternative Spring Break trip, this experiential education offering will allow students to experience and complete similar work to that completed by CCC members. During Alternative Spring Break, students will visit important CCC history sites such as the first CCC camp in the country and a major national park development project. During the course, assignments will challenge students to identify CCC sites in Massachusetts or their home states. Local site visits are a possibility for this class. Other assignments will challenge students to identify modern environmental organizations who can trace their origins to the CCC (either
4.00
Permaculture is the design of food systems and social structures to provide for human needs while restoring ecosystem health. Examining the interconnections between environmental, social and economic components, Permaculture is informed by the disciplines of systems ecology, ecological design and ethno-ecology.
4.00
A course about how the constitution, common law and statutory law provide for environmental protection and pollution prevention. Students will learn basic skills needed to understand how environmental law works, including constitutional clauses and amendments, landmark civil litigation, the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, landmark civil litigation, and hazardous waste law.
4.00
A course examining a contemporary environmental issue from various disciplinary perspectives. Using a case-study approach, students will develop a proposal to address the identified issue from the perspectives of policy, ethics, justice, science and culture. As appropriate, the proposal will be field tested, demonstrated, or presented to the local community. Possible topics include sustainable development, urban air pollution, sustainable farming, or water conservation.
1.00- 4.00
A continuation of ENST 401
This class fulfills the Expanded Classroom Requirement. Junior standing or above required or consent of the instructor.
4.00
One course to be taken as a practicum or internship. The choice of internship or practicum is to be determined in consultation with the program director.
Expanded Classroom Requirement
4.00
The rise of the Green Party, from its grass-roots beginnings to participation in the federal government. Background on the development of green consciousness in Germany and Europe since the early 20th century. Present governmental policies and programs (e.g., alternative energy sources, organic farming, recycling, dismantling of nuclear power). Cross-listed GER 420 and GVT 420
4.00
As a result of new environmental and energy concerns championed by the media, politicians and the public government regulators in the US and around the world are being forced to rethink their priorities and react to these outside influences rather than rely on the process they have used for decades. But as we shift to notions such as the precautionary principle and embrace renewable power as a solution to climate change, is this reactionary approach relying too much on what the media and others say and too little on the facts? Are government agencies equipped to analyze these issues and disagree with rising public opinion? Is this a good way to develop public policy? Through discussion and analysis, we will critically examine all sides of these and other current issues and get behind the headlines using real world examples to try to separate fact from hype. Well also probe the roles that politicians, lobbyists, and the media have in framing the debate.
Social Science
An independent study form must be submitted to the CAS Deans Office.
1.00- 4.00
This is an independent study in environmental studies. Topics will vary.
1.00- 4.00
Honors-level study of a topic in Environmental Studies
