ENVS – Environmental Studies
ENVS 120 Introduction to Environmental Science with Lab (4)
Introduction to the structure and function of ecosystems and how they are altered by human activity. Surveys various environmental issues such as human population problems, endangered species and habitats, land and food resources, human health and the environment, water and energy resources, and air pollution. One 3-hour lab per week. (NS, GS, EXP)
ENVS 125 Geology and the Environment with Lab (3)
Introduction to the elementary principles of physical geology, including identification of minerals and the major rock types. Examines applications of geological resources and the associated environmental impact as well as a review of the processes forming them through tectonic activity and geomorphic agents. Reviews events over geologic time and the geologic history of Iowa. Includes a 3 hour lab and weekend field trips. (NS, GS)
ENVS 233 Environmental Health (3)
This course examines the relationships between human health and the environment via the physical, chemical, biological, and behavioral sociological factors of our environment. We will explore the role of the natural and built environment and the impact on health, both local and global. Areas of emphasis include air, water and land pollution, hazardous wastes, and noise and radiation hazards. This multidisciplinary course will draw from the fields of medicine, public health (global health, behavioral health, environmental health, epidemiology, and health policy), environmental sociology, and ecology to investigate global health threats such as climate change, and pollution. This course is designed for students of all majors. (EXP)
ENVS 240 Agriculture and Sustainability (3)
Modern agriculture has been essential in feeding the world’s growing population. But is it sustainable? In this course, we will engage in a holistic examination of agriculture, covering the history of our current system, examine trends in sustainable agriculture and investigate connections between agriculture, the environment, our current socio-economic systems and global health. (GS, WRT)
ENVS 270 Fire and Ice: Stories of Iceland (104)
Iceland occupies a unique place, both geographically and culturally. Tectonic plate separation is visible; frequent volcanic eruptions have implications beyond the country, and Iceland houses large land glaciers. Continually adapting to a harsh physical environment and sustainability challenges relating to climate change, tourism, and economics, artists, scholars, and writers have told their stories. We examine Iceland through the lens of these stories. There is a mandatory May field trip. Variable course 1 – 4 credits. (GS, GPN with minimum 3 credits)
ENVS 380 Environmental Studies Seminar (3)
Prerequisite: ENVS 120 and third-year standing or instructor’s permission. Students select and develop a project through research and examination of current environmental and sustainability issues. Within an interdisciplinary perspective, they will develop a collaborative research proposal, gaining experience in proposal writing and project design and logistics. Specific topics will depend on the interests of the students and instructor. Students will develop writing skills, learn about qualitative and quantitative data analysis and provide critical analysis of existing literature. Students will be required to present and communicate effectively on chosen topics. (WRT, WOC)
ENVS 480 Environmental Studies Senior Seminar (1)
Prerequisite: ENVS 380 or instructor permission. Examines current environmental issues from an interdisciplinary perspective. Students will be required to present and communicate effectively on topics at hand. Specific topics will depend on the interests of the students and instructor(s).