Course

Credit Type:
Course
ACE ID:
UPIS-0025
Version:
1
Organization's ID:
ENV 121
Organization:
UPI Study
Location:
Online
Length:
44 hours
Minimum Passing Score:
70
ACE Credit Recommendation Period:
Credit Recommendation & Competencies
Level Credits (SH) Subject
Lower-Division Baccalaureate 1 Introduction to Environmental Science
Description

Objective:

The objective of this course is to introduce students to the core concepts and challenges of environmental science, emphasizing the scientific, ethical, and policy-based approaches to sustainability. Students will examine the relationship between Earth’s resources, ecosystems, and human activity while applying critical thinking through case studies and scientific methodologies. The course equips students with the tools to analyze environmental issues and contribute to sustainable solutions.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Define and explain core environmental science principles, including ecosystems, sustainability, and the impact of human activity on natural systems.
  • Apply the scientific method to investigate environmental issues and propose evidence-based, practical solutions.
  • Analyze the ecological, economic, and ethical dimensions of environmental challenges to develop a holistic understanding of sustainability.
  • Compare global and local environmental issues, such as climate change, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss, using regional and international perspectives.
  • Evaluate and recommend sustainable practices in areas like agriculture, urban planning, energy, and waste management to support long-term environmental resilience.

General Topics:

  • Foundations of Environmental Science
  • The Building Blocks of Life and Energy
  • The Web of Life: Ecosystems and Biomes
  • Populations and Communities in Ecology
  • Biodiversity and Conservation
  • Environmental Risks and Human Health
  • Water: A Precious Resource
  • Feeding the World
  • Rethinking Agriculture
  • Air Quality and Global Change
  • Powering the Future
  • Waste and Its Management
  • Economics, Laws, and the Environment
  • Building Sustainable Cities
Instruction & Assessment

Instructional Strategies:

  • Case Studies
  • Computer Based Training
  • Learner Presentations
  • Lectures

Methods of Assessment:

  • Examinations
  • Quizzes
  • Written Papers
Supplemental Materials
Equivalencies