Survey of Environmental Science

Course Number: 
ENVS&100
Course Credits: 
5.00
Course Description: 
A course addressing the nature of the physical environment and changes in the environment caused by people. Fundamental considerations of matter and energy are followed by studies of human population dynamics, food supplies, hazardous chemicals, air and water pollution, geological and energy resources, and problems associated with storing waste. Satisfies science distribution area C requirement or specified elective for the AA degree.
Course Prerequisites: 
Prerequisites: Placement in MATH 097 or higher; placement in ENGL&101.
Course Outcomes: 

Upon completion of this course, students will:

  • Understand the nature of science and the scientific method.
  • Define and classify matter and energy and describe how these flow through the environment.
  • Explain evolution in relation to diversity and how species interact in biological communities.
  • Describe the factors that have been responsible for changes in world population.
  • Describe major biomes in relation to climate, energy transfer, and biodiversity.
  • Identify characteristics of nature preserves and conservation strategies.
  • Understand how the production of food affects the environment.
  • Understand how the risks of exposure to toxic chemicals are determined.
  • Describe the structure of the atmosphere and the factors responsible for global climate change.
  • Describe the major types and sources of air pollution.
  • Describe the major types and sources of water pollution.
  • Understand earth formation processes and the geological resources essential for human populations.
  • Describe the environmental effect of obtaining and using conventional and alternate energy sources.
  • Understand the environmental effects of storing waste.