One of two required courses that introduce students to the topics studied and methods employed in environmental science and policy. Emphasis on scientific ways of knowing; the systems, cycles, flows, and interfaces that characterize the atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere; the analysis of human impacts on these systems; and the nature of scientific uncertainty and methods of quantifying environmental processes.

Intended for students interested in pursuing career or graduate research opportunities that will include identifying/querying/processing environmental datasets, detailed spatial analysis of environmental data, and applications of predictive environmental modeling. Students will learn necessary skills to analyze and process environmental data through hands-on training in commonly used software and a series of topical case studies. Data analysis and data processing will be taught using publicly available real-world environmental data sets.

An overview of environmental law, from its common law roots to its role in the modern regulatory state, including an examination of major federal environment statutes and the policy debates inherent in them. Other areas covered include civil and criminal enforcement, standing to sue, land use control, and regulatory takings.

Exploration of the science, policy, and ethical aspects of water resource protection and management. Focus on water pollution, water availability, ecosystems, and sustainability

In-depth interdisciplinary study of the public health issues related to water use for global food production. Topics will include accessibility and availability of safe water for agriculture worldwide, potential microbiological and chemical hazards in agricultural water, alternative water sources such as reclaimed wastewater and return flows, food safety approaches to managing agricultural water, and agricultural influences on surface and groundwater quality. Political, social, and economic factors relating to agricultural water will be addressed, with special focus on regions that are leaders in innovative water management and regions where access to clean water for agriculture is a major challenge.

Integration of physical, biological, and social sciences with applications to environmental science and policy. Problem-solving and multi-disciplinary case study evaluations pertinent to contemporary and future issues related to the environment.