Bachelor in Environmental Sciences for Sustainability Study Program
Society, Land and Environment
• Territorial processes and their implications for both the natural environment and social dynamics.
• Developing a holistic perspective on the major environmental challenges facing 21st-century society.
• Multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary foundation of knowledge and analytical techniques. Processes at various geographical scales.
• Emphasis on the interconnectedness between societal activities and their territorial and environmental impacts, with a thorough assessment of these relationships.
• Challenge-based learning approach: analysis of all relevant variables to comprehensively address environmental issues and understand their impact on the Earth System, the environment, and society.
SEMESTER 2
Geology
• Study of the Earth System, with a primary focus on comprehending the diverse endogenic and exogenic processes that have shaped its evolution.
• Investigation of the interactions and dynamics between the Earth System’s subsystems— the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, and pedosphere.
• Exploration of the profound impact of anthropic activities on the equilibrium and functioning of these subsystems.
• Challenge-based learning approach: leverage knowledge of the Earth System to address significant societal challenges, such as sustainable energy, climate change and global warming, and scarcity of water resources.
Physics
• Units, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, waves, and more.
• Theoretical framework for comprehending the environmental challenges posed by magnetic, atmospheric, geological, and astronomical phenomena.
• Approaching, understanding, and resolving problems related to natural phenomena that shape and impact the environment.
Humanities
• Foundations for conducting profound analyses of the world we live in.
• Using critical thinking to dissect others’ ideas and effectively defend your own ideas.
• Focus on the knowledge necessary for comprehending our surroundings as well as skills required to construct and articulate ideas.
• Diverse range of Humanities topics to choose from: History, Art History, Literature, Philosophy, Intellectual History, Theoretical Linguistics, Applied Science, Communication Theory, Musicology, and Film Studies.
• Problem-solving classes and critical discussion sessions, utilizing methods such as the case method, multimedia cases, and virtual reality cases.
Principles of Ecology
• Structure and function of ecosystems and habitats. Relationships between organisms and their physical environment. Interactions among individuals of the same and different species.
• Flows of energy and materials within these ecological systems.
• Challenge-based learning: hierarchical organization of living beings, workings of nature and flows of matter and energy that sustain life.
Databases, Modeling and Big Data
• Data science. Spatial and temporal reasoning, uncertainty management and handling complex environmental datasets.
• Holistic approach to environmental modeling, combining theoretical concepts with real-world case studies.
• Identifying environmental problems, formulating hypotheses and collecting relevant data.
• Employing data exploration, cleaning, validation and transformation techniques for modeling purposes.
• Practical computer exercises, with the opportunity to tackle problem-solving scenarios that are encountered in the field.
Year 2
Biostatistics
• Statistics, probability, and quantitative methods.
• Tackling environmental challenges by employing statistical models, collecting and summarizing data and deriving conclusions from sample data.
• Inferential statistics, sampling methods, sources of error, basic hypothesis testing and the appropriateness of statistical tests for different data types.
• Essential principles of probability and statistics governing biological and environmental phenomena.
• Data collection, summarization and drawing conclusions using techniques such as descriptive statistics, confidence intervals and inferential statistics (hypothesis testing).
• Emphasis on comprehending key probability distributions and basic modeling (regression and prediction) of natural processes.
• Practical problem-solving exercises with the aid of computer applications.
Animal Biodiversity
• Understanding animal form, function and diversity, with particular emphasis on aspects relevant to conservation.
• Models of animal organization, classification and phylogeny. Animal evolution and diversity.
• Morphological characteristics, biology, diversity and factors influencing the distribution of various animal groups.
• Zoology. Understanding the factors impacting animal conservation.
Plant Biodiversity
• Plant diversity: fungi, algae and land plants.
• Understanding the crucial role that plants play within ecosystems and their significance in the environment.
• Classification, taxonomic study, systematic schools and familiarity with the International Codes of Nomenclature.
• Appreciation of the vital role plant diversity plays in the natural world.
Environmental Science Spatial
Modeling
• Use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to investigate the interplay of place, space and time.
• Spatial analysis. Employing formal quantitative techniques to unravel the manifestations of environmental phenomena within specific geographic locations.
• Hands-on learning experience: practical application of GIS software to effectively store, retrieve, manage, display and analyze georeferenced and spatial data.
Technology
• Introduction to disruptive technologies that are addressing urgent social challenges and transforming the structure, management and operations of companies.
• Practical application of technology in society, business and individual contexts, taking a hands-on, human-centered approach.
• Framing, developing and exploring the potential of technology.
• Valuable insights for future projects, business ventures and even the identification or creation of new business models to tackle pressing issues.
• Problem-solving sessions dedicated to societal technological challenges and practical projects focused on technological applications.
Environmental Impact Assessment
• Scientific foundations and applied sciences related to the social, economic, political, and regulatory aspects at both national and international levels.
• Compliance with relevant legislation and regulations specific to the affected territory.
• Challenge-based learning: developing environmental impact assessment procedures for projects, plans, programs, and policies.
Environmental Microbiology
• Microorganisms that hold significance in environmental contexts. Insights into the intricate relationship between microorganisms and their environment.
• Principles of One Health, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health.
• Challenge-based learning: study of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms, as well as viruses, in the environment.
Applied Ecology
• Complexity, dynamics, and stability of ecosystems. How to diagnose, analyze and address environmental challenges from a holistic perspective.
• Focus on population, community and ecosystem ecology. Interconnections within natural systems.
• Application of ecological principles to assess the impacts of human activities on global climate and environmental changes.
• One Health and its relevance to the interconnectedness of human health, animal health and the environment.
• Complexity of ecosystems. Tools to promote sustainability, enhance ecosystem resilience and contribute to the preservation of our planet’s biodiversity.
Instrumental Methods for Environmental Measurement
• Commonly employed instrumental analytical techniques in environmental studies.
• Criteria for selecting the most suitable instrumental methods and analytical techniques to address specific environmental challenges.
• Hands-on computer-based problem-solving sessions that cover various topics, including substance analysis methodology and instrumentation.
Principles of Environmental Systems Engineering
• Interactions between natural and engineered systems in the context of environmental sustainability.
• How to analyze, design and implement engineering solutions that mitigate the environmental impact of human activities.
• Multidisciplinary approach: understanding the complex environmental challenges faced by society and integrating engineering principles with environmental science, policy and economics.
Entrepreneurial Mindset and Practice
• Fundamental principles of entrepreneurship, encompassing both macro and micro perspectives.
• Three core pillars: creativity, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. The foundation for entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of the contemporary business landscape.
• Addressing broader global goals, such as climate and environmental challenges, sustainable energy transition, promoting One Health initiatives, advocating for sustainable cities and nurturing green job opportunities.
• Focus on entrepreneurial skills, knowledge and mindset required to contribute to broader societal and environmental objectives.
Climate change: Meteorology and Climatology
• Climate system: atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, biosphere and cryosphere. Interconnected dynamics that shape weather and climate phenomena.
• Global natural and anthropogenic carbon cycle. Impact of climate variability on the environmental health of Earth systems.
• Consequences of climate change, which extend beyond the natural environment to socioeconomic and political realms.
• Driving forces behind environmental shifts. Need for diverse transformative actions and innovative climate solutions.
Project development and management
• Development of mitigation and adaptation projects for environmental issues. Autonomous and effective management.
• How to strategically organize, plan, direct and control resources to successfully execute environmental projects.
• Evaluating environmental impacts and societal needs and applying responsible sustainable practices.
• Preparing to lead projects that address critical environmental challenges, implement innovative solutions and contribute to the sustainable development of communities and the planet.
Human dynamics and environment
• Applying sociological theory to better understand the impact that human behavior has on environmental problems. Analyzing the impact of environmental alterations on human wellbeing.
• Gaining a clear perspective on the contexts that shape society, to better understand what aspects of behavior affect environmental changes and their consequences.
Environmental Biotechnology
• Theoretical foundations and practical applications of biotechnology in relation to the environment.
• Environmental monitoring, biological waste treatment, bioremediation of contaminated sites and the biodegradation of natural and xenobiotic contaminants.
• Different biological systems used for the removal of pollutants from the environment, waste treatment methods, pollution detectors and tools for toxicity assessment.
• Application of biotechnological approaches to address environmental challenges. Sustainable climate solutions and pollution prevention and remediation.
Environmental Toxicology
• A holistic One Health approach to the use of biotechnological systems to address environmental concerns.
• Emphasis on the interconnection between human, animal and ecosystem health.
• Environmental monitoring, biological waste treatment, bioremediation of contaminated sites and the biodegradation of natural and xenobiotic contaminants.
• Diverse biological systems used to eliminate pollutants from the environment, innovative waste treatment approaches, cutting-edge pollution detection techniques and tools for evaluating toxicity.
• Development and implementation of sustainable solutions that promote the health of ecosystems, humans and animals.
Year 4
Environmental Pollution Analysis and Assessment
• In-depth study of environmental pollution, incorporating topics such as One Health and food security.
• Identification of the primary sources of contamination that impact the atmosphere, soil, water and biota.
• Interconnectedness between environmental pollution and human wellbeing. Addressing pollution to ensure food security and sustainable ecosystems.
• Development of effective strategies for pollution prevention and mitigation, promoting a healthier and more sustainable future.
• Challenge-based learning: identify and characterize major air, water and soil pollutants. Procedures and tools used for their analysis and evaluation.
Electives module
The objective of the electives module is to provide students with a wide range of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary subjects, fostering a transdisciplinary approach that aligns with their interests and professional goals.
Students can design a personal specialization by selecting subjects that allow them to go deeper into their areas of interest and develop the necessary skills for specific professional activities.
Students also have the option to pursue external internships, which are considered equivalent to an additional subject within the module.
Current elective modules:
Global Challenges
ECOLOGICAL TRANSITION
• Global and regional climate change, deforestation, land use changes, biodiversity loss, disruptions in biogeochemical cycles, invasive species and soil degradation.
• Socio-economic foundations of these challenges and their environmental consequences. Mitigation and adaptation measures.
• Normative, economic, social and ecological dimensions of the ecological transition. Relationships between environmental changes, population dynamics and energy utilization.
• Global-scale consequences of climate change, including its impacts on ecosystems.
• Political strategies for climate change mitigation and the adaptation of ecosystems and societies to the expected impacts.
• Critical discussion sessions, practical case studies and debates.
NATURAL CAPITAL AND ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
• Exploration of the connections within natural systems by examining biophysical flows and diverse ecosystem services.
• Capacity of ecosystems to absorb pollutants, regulate essential cycles, sustain food chains and offer recreational opportunities.
• Relationship between the supply of
ecosystem services and society’s demand for them. Importance of sustainable management.
• Economic valuation of ecosystem services and their vital role in global sustainability, through the use of analytical tools.
• Critical discussions, practical case studies and debates.
SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEM
• Analysis of all aspects of food production, processing, distribution, preparation and consumption.
• Need for a sustainable food system giving food security and nutrition for all.
• Innovative approaches and solutions that align with global sustainability goals.
• Critical discussions, practical case studies and debates.
NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS AS A CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION STRATEGY
• Nature-based solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve global sustainability.
• Exploration of the potential of these approaches for climate change adaptation.
• Urgent need to develop carbon removal and negative emission technologies as scientific climate solutions.
• Critical discussions, practical case studies and debates.
Development and Sustainability
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND THE 2030 AGENDA
• Economic development and the environment. Effects of globalization.
• Patterns of economic and social development and the conservation of natural resources and environmental quality.
• Similarities and differences between highincome countries and emerging or lowincome countries.
• Critical discussion sessions, practical case studies and debates.
CITIES: URBAN ECOSYSTEMS
• Urbanized environments, with humans as a central part, function through exchanges of matter, energy, water, and information.
• Comparison of urban ecosystems to natural ecosystems.
• Ecological urban models: morphology, use, organization and efficiency. How to generate social cohesion.
• Critical discussion sessions, practical case studies and debates.
CIRCULAR ECONOMY CONCEPTS: INDUSTRIALIZATION AND SUSTAINABILITY
• New models of goods and services production. The transition from linear to circular or regenerative models.
• Practical approach to analyzing circularity models, technology utilization and other processes.
• Policies as innovation and sustainability tools. Waste material flows from different sectors and industries and the concept of industrial symbiosis.
• Critical discussion sessions, practical case studies, and debates.
WATER RESOURCES
• International cooperation and conflict. The balance between natural water resources and the needs of users who depend on it.
• How to use an ecological perspective, supported by technology, to make water a source of cooperation rather than conflict.
• Critical discussion sessions, practical case studies and debates.
Environmental Technology
ENERGY SOURCES, GENERATION AND STORAGE TECHNOLOGIES
• Processes and facilities that lead us from primary energy sources to final forms of energy. Energy resources and energy services.
• Viable energy options in the short and long term.
• Critical discussion sessions involving practical cases, workshops and debates.
• Hands-on learning: field trip to an energy facility.
CARBON CAPTURE, STORAGE AND UTILIZATION TECHNOLOGIES
• Fundamental principles, technologies and processes involved in capturing carbon dioxide (CO2).
• Potential uses of captured CO2, including its conversion into valuable products or its safe storage underground.
• Critical examination of the ongoing discussion between carbon avoidance, reduction and removal strategies.
• Implementing measures to avoid carbon emissions. Reducing emissions through energy efficiency and clean technologies. Negative emission technologies.
• Challenges related to the verification, validation and accountability of the carbon removal potential.
• Methodologies and tools used to quantify and assess the efficacy of carbon removal techniques. Economic, environmental and ethical considerations.
• Policy and regulatory frameworks to incentivize and support carbon capture, utilization and storage.
SOLID WASTE AND CONTAMINATED SOIL TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES
• Treatment of solid waste and contaminated soil with existing technologies.
• Analyzing and selecting the most appropriate treatment alternative to reduce waste generation.
• Critical discussion sessions involving practical cases, workshops and debates.
• Hands-on learning: field trip to a waste treatment plant or decontamination project.
WATER TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES
• General processes of water characterization and treatment, as well as the different technologies used in water treatment.
• Advantages and disadvantages of different technologies.
• Analyzing characteristic parameters of the water to be treated and understanding the processes involved in different treatments.
• Critical discussion sessions involving practical cases, workshops and debates.
• Hands-on learning: field trip to a water treatment plant.
