Using a hands-on approach to the study of the environment, Advanced Environmental Science involves the study of the interaction between ecosystems and humanity. Environmental science is an interdisciplinary endeavor—it pulls on ideas learned in the three core sciences—and often it incorporates economics, politics, psychology, statistics and ethics into the decision-making matrix. The course will stress scientific writing and communication skills through presentations, video projects, large writing assignments, and debates. We will harness our 500-acre campus to learn about ecology, and will get off campus to see sustainability in action. The class will focus on natural resource use, forest ecology, sustainable development, energy, climate science, and water resource management. Much of this course will allow students to dive deep into these complicated issues and come to their own conclusions as to how we can best solve the complex problems facing today's generation.

Departmental approval required for this course. Open only to seniors.