Environmental Science Course Descriptions

One of the foundation courses in Environmental Science, Earth Systems, focuses on the physical processes that shape Earth’s surface. Topics vary from the basics for rocks and minerals, to streams, groundwater and desert landforms. Students will learn to read and interpret topographic and geologic maps. The laboratory component is project oriented with students completing multiweek investigations culminating in a self-designed research project. (4 credits) Fall

This course examines the effects of human populations and sociocultural variables on contemporary environmental changes at global and local scales with an emphasis on the sustainable use and management of natural resources and ecosystem services. Topics covered include human demographics, land use and land cover change, energy generation and use, agricultural production, biodiversity loss, water management, pollution and global climate change. These topics will be discussed in an interdisciplinary context to emphasize interrelationships among the economic, political, philosophical and ecological dimensions of environmental change and the sustainability of human populations and ecosystems. (3 credits) Fall

This course provides an introduction to the four interrelated disciplines (biology, chemistry, geology and physics) that make up the science of oceanography. Through this course, students come to understand the complex characteristics and dynamic processes of the world’s ocean. (3 credits) Fall, Spring

The goal of this two-semester course (offered in conjunction with EDU 211/212) is to integrate a broad base of science knowledge with the positive attitudes and skills needed for teaching science successfully in the elementary school. Coursework focuses on inquiry-based learning through active participation in environmental research focused on Mt. Hope Bay.

Investigates the relationship of the crime laboratory to the criminal justice system. Students learn the services provided by a crime lab; the scientific and legal constraints placed upon criminalistsn; the theory and practice of collecting, preserving, and analyzing of physical evidence. Laboratory experiences include analysis of microscopic evidence; identification and individualization of physical and chemical objects; development of latent fingerprints; rolling and classification of fingerprints; some instrumental analysis; and thin layer and paper chromatography. (4 credits) Fall, Spring

Concepts and methods for the allocation, management and utilization of marine resources. Emphasis will be placed on biological, chemical, and geological resources in coastal and nearshore water of New England. (3 credits) Fall

An introduction to geology and marine geology emphasizing our current understanding of plate tectonics and the importance of paleoceanography in the study of global climate change. (3 credits) Alternate Fall

Biogeochemical cycling combines the disciplines of biology, geology and chemistry to investigate the movement of important elements (such as Carbon, Nitrogen and Phosphorous) through the atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere. The course begins with evidence for and discussion of the evolution of the early Earth, from initial differentiation to the rise of oxygenic photosynthesis. Topics include, rock weathering and the release of nutrients for the biosphere, the role life beneath Earth’s surface, the nature of biogeochemical reservoirs (e.g. carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and oceans) and mechanisms of exchange between those reservoirs. (3 credits) Alternate Spring.

An introduction to weather and climate. Meteorological topics include the structure and composition of the atmosphere, cloud formation, fronts and severe storms and the reading and interpretation of weather maps. Also discussed are climate patterns, such as El Niño, climate forcing mechanisms and the evolution of Earth’s climate on time scales up to several million years. (3 credits) Alternate Spring

Investigates how to measure and evaluate the health and function of an ecosystem. To this end, a series of lectures/discussions examine how to design, analyze and critique ecological experiments and sampling programs. These lectures are accompanied by studies in the laboratory and field where students will participate, hands-on, in designing, carrying out and analyzing real experiments and sampling programs .(4 credits) Alternate Fall

This course serves as an in-depth exploration of soils as unique habitats for life with a focus on understanding variables that affect the abundance, diversity and interactions of terrestrial organisms and, in turn, their influence on soil physicochemical properties, biogeochemical cycles and other variables that impact the well-being and sustainability of human societies (e.g., agricultural production, clean water availability). Topics to be covered include soil food webs, microbial ecology, soil aggregate formation, carbon and nitrogen cycling, relationships between soils and aboveground ecology, and the effects of human activities on soil biodiversity. During laboratory sessions, students will explore the basic biology of soil organisms, conduct research projects, and learn methods for sampling soils and soil organisms in the field. (4 credits) Alternate Fall

Fundamentals and principles of toxicology including absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of toxic chemicals in mammalian systems. The course will investigate the molecular mechanisms, cellular targets, and biological consequences of exposure to toxic agents. It will also cover the molecular mechanisms, toxic action, risk assessment and regulatory procedures. (4 credits) Alternate Spring

Original independent research in the environmental sciences. Project chosen in consultation with a research advisor. May be repeated for credit (1-3 credits) Offered on Demand

This course serves as a capstone experience for outstanding students in the major. Working closely with a faculty mentor, students engage in original research on a topic of their choice. The research may involve laboratory experiments, field work, or computer simulations. This course provides experience in designing and conducting experiments, critically analyzing data, reviewing published scientific literature, and communicating scientific information. The culmination of the course is a formal written thesis and a public oral presentation. (3 credits) Fall, Spring