We have designed an
Environmental Science program that will prepare our graduates to succeed whether they choose to continue their studies in graduate school or go directly into fields such as
environmental education and advocacy, pollution prevention and remediation, or public heath.
The
Environmental Science program is interdisciplinary. Although our
Environmental Science majors will emphasize either Chemistry or Biology, they also will become familiar with socially relevant disciplines such as economics, political science, geography, and philosophy. Our program also features practical application of classroom activities through internships and extended field trips to destinations such as the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Course work
ESCI 110 Environmental Science 4 sem. hrs.
A survey of environmental issues and problems facing today’s society. Includes a study of population biology, ecology, natural resources and energy, environmental quality, land use, and bioethics. Three lectures, one lab per week. Winter
ESCI 211 Introductory Geology 4 sem. hrs.
An introduction to the classification and formation of rocks, strata, and soils. Three lectures, one lab per week. Fall 2008
ESCI 212 Earth Processes 4 sem. hrs.
A survey of the action of various geomorphological processes (such as volcanism, wind, water, and glaciation) which shape our globe. Ecological hazards inherent to land-uses of the landforms associated with these processes will also be discussed. Three lectures, one lab per week. Winter 2008
ESCI 213 Weather And Climate 4 sem. hrs.
An introduction to the daily variation of local atmospheric conditions and the results of the long-term patterns of such. Three lectures, one lab per week. Spring 2008
ESCI 237 General Ecology 4 sem. hrs.
A study of the interrelationships of organisms to their environment and each other at the population, community and ecosystem levels reinforced with a survey of North American biomes. Field observations and lab exercises in natural habitats. Prerequisite: BIOL 111. Three lectures, one lab per week. Fall
ESCI 300 Entomology 4 sem. hrs.
This course is an introduction to the biology, ecology and identification of insects. Lecture topics will also include adaptations, evolution, classification and medical applications of insects. Laboratory and field activities include dissection, sampling, specimen preparation and identification. Three lectures, one lab per week. Fall 2008
ESCI 339 Principles of Microbiology 4 sem. hrs.
An in-depth study of Microorganisms, including ultra structure, growth characteristics, metabolism and genetics. Prerequisites: eight hours of chemistry or permission of the instructor. Not open to students having credit for BIOL 239. Three lectures, two labs per week. Spring
ESCI 412 Field Botany 4 sem. hrs.
An introduction to the classification, nomenclature and identification of vascular plants. Taxonomic and biogeographical relationships of families, genera and species will also be discussed. The laboratory will be devoted to an examination of the spring flora by emphasizing the identification and recognition of ferns, trees, shrubs and herbs. Proper collection and herbarium techniques will be practiced as students prepare specimens for a required plant collection. Three lectures, one lab per week. Spring 2009
ESCI 175, 275, 375 Independent Study/Extended Field Trip
PSCI 401 Environmental Law And Policy 3 sem. hrs.
A discussion of major environmental legislation and its impact. Fall 2009
