Course Description

This in-depth environmental science course examines how people use science to understand how they relate to the environment. The course explores relationships between people and ecosystems, and the science behind how ecosystems work. It reviews the historical development of the environmental movement, interactions between humans and natural ecosystems, and more specifically, the role of a growing population and associated pressures on natural resources. This course further examines how economics, natural systems, and conservation are interrelated. The many forms of pollution as well as types of energy resources are addressed. This course challenges students to consider the impact of lifestyle choices on environmental sustainability.

This undergraduate course is 5 weeks.

PLEASE NOTE:
Attendance and participation are mandatory in all university courses, and specific requirements may differ by course. If attendance requirements are not met, a student may be removed from the course. Please review the Course Attendance Policy in the Catalog for more information.

Course Objectives

Environmental Science and Human Population

• Describe the historical development of the environmental movement.
• Explain the role of science in environmental decision-making.
• Explain the concept of carrying capacity and the implication a changing human population may have on the environment.
• Explain how individual choices affect natural ecosystems.

Ecosystem Structure, Function, and Change

• Describe the structure and function of ecosystems.
• Associate how humans affect the cycling of matter in ecosystems.
• Examine the implication of species interactions on ecosystems.

Natural Resources and Energy

• Examine how the human population affects natural resources.
• Describe water supply, use, and management.
• Describe how agricultural practices impact the environment.
• Compare fossil fuels with alternative energy resources.
• Examine sustainable practices for natural resource management and energy use.

Environmental Pollution

• Examine the various types and sources of environmental pollution.
• Determine the effects of environmental pollution on human and ecosystem health.
• Explain the greenhouse effect, climate change, and its effects.
• Identify treatments and preventative measures for environmental pollution.

Environmental Choices and Policies

• Evaluate the role of economics in environmental issues.
• Explain how cities function as systems and ways to make them more livable and sustainable.
• Describe the effect of lifestyle choice on natural resource sustainability.

Disclaimers

The University of Phoenix reserves the right to modify courses.

While widely available, not all programs are available in all locations or in both online and on-campus formats. More information about eligibility requirements, policies, and procedures can be found in the catalog.

Transferability of credit is at the discretion of the receiving institution. It is the student’s responsibility to confirm whether or not credits earned at University of Phoenix will be accepted by another institution of the student’s choice.