360: Conservation Biology. Goal: To understand the reasons why many species are endangered, to examine possible solutions, and to consider the ethical and ecological ramifications of species extinctions. To appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of conservation biology by considering issues ranging from the level of the gene to the scale of the entire biosphere. Content: Students read, review, and discuss current literature in this speaking-intensive course. Students will conduct both laboratory- and field-based studies. Topics include defining diversity, threats to biodiversity, population genetics of rare species, conservation strategies and nature preserves, and legal and ethical issues. Taught: Spring. Alternate years. Prerequisites: BIO 110 and 112; or ESC 150 Credit: 4 hours; cross-listed BIO 360. 396, 397: Special Topics in Environmental Studies Goal: To provide an opportunity to explore topics outside those offered elsewhere within the environmental studies curriculum or to explore in greater detail a subject covered by another course. Content: An in-depth examination of a special topic within environmental studies. Topics will vary from semester to semester. Taught: Offered occasionally Prerequisites: ESC 150 or permission of the instructor Credit: 3, 4 hours 410: Senior Integrative Project in Environmental Studies
Goal: To provide a capstone experience for majors in which students complete an interdisciplinary project that encourages the student to make connections among the various parts of her course of study.
Content: In consultation with a faculty project advisor, each student will design an interdisciplinary project that integrates her general education and elective courses, major courses, and, where appropriate, workplace experience. The project will also require that the student incorporates material from at least two of the three disciplinary areas of study in the major. Taught: Fall. Prerequisites: Declared major in Environmental Studies; Senior class academic standing; ESC 150. Credit: 1 hour. 451: Directed Independent Study.
Goal: To enable an intensive exploration of a topic of special interest. To promote original, independent, creative, and critical thinking from an environmental perspective. To solve real problems in a scientific manner. To provide an opportunity to conduct independent laboratory work and to learn new techniques. Content: Directed independent work of a critical or analytical nature. Under careful faculty supervision, qualified student are encouraged to develop originality of thought and thoroughness of method. Some emphasis is placed on research methods. Taught: Upon request of student, with approval of sponsoring faculty. Prerequisites: Permission of the program director. Credit: 1-6 hours. 452: Field Study.
Goal: To afford actual experience in an environmental laboratory, consulting, or advising capacity. Content: Applied areas in environmental science may be considered for internship credit. The student must submit a brief plan including objectives, anticipated activities, a list of readings, and the nature of the reports to be submitted to the sponsor. Taught: Offered occasionally. Prerequisites: Permission of advisor, program director, faculty sponsor, and the Director of Career Development. Credit: 1-9 hours. 499: Honors Thesis. (Fee required)
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