Elon University - Environmental Studies Program

ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES COURSES

ENS 111. INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 3 sh

This course explores the fundamental principles of the biological and physical sciences behind natural ecosystems. The central focus is the study of ecosystem function, human impact and techniques of environmental assessments. Students consider different world views and the development of solutions. Satisfies the laboratory science requirement for General Studies. Corequisite: ENS 113. Offered fall and spring.

ENS 113. INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE LAB 1 sh

Students will be introduced to techniques for environmental assessment. The focus is on field research as applied to environmental management. One 3-hour laboratory per week. Corequisite: ENS 111. Offered fall and spring.

ENS 215. DIVERSITY OF LIFE 4 sh

This course examines the basic concepts of biological form and function, based on evolutionary relationships and diversity. Students investigate the natural history of local species and their role in community dynamics. Laboratory experiences emphasize field investigations, including sampling techniques, species identification and data analysis. Satisfies the General Studies lab science requirement. This course can be used for the major in Environmental Studies and the Elementary Education concentration in Society and Environment, as well as a minor in Biology. No credit toward the Biology major. Prerequisites: ENS 111/113 or BIO 112/114. (ENS 215 is cross-listed with BIO 215). Offered spring.

ENS 250. INTRODUCTION TO GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS 4 sh

(Cross-listed with GEO 250. See GEO 350 for description.) This course can be applied toward the Studies in Arts and Sciences requirement for Society. It cannot be applied toward the Science requirement. Offered fall.

ENS 310. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES IN SOUTHEAST ASIA 4 sh

This course focuses on the environmental issues facing the island nations and the mainland countries of Southeast Asia. The major environmental problems in this region of the world include deforestation, soil erosion, habitat destruction, habitat fragmentation, water pollution from mineral extraction and industry, unsustainable harvesting practices and rising rates of disease. These issues will be examined in the context of climate, topography, vegetation, societal evolution and human history. Emphasis will be placed on the demographic, cultural, political, religious, economic and ecological reasons for the current state of the environment of Southeast Asia. Practical solutions to reduce environmental degradation and promote sustainable development will be examined. This course cannot be used to satisfy a science requirement. Offered alternate years.

ENS 381. INTERNSHIP IN ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES 2-4 sh

An internship provides work experience at an advanced level in an environmental science field. Prerequisite: junior/senior standing as an ENS major and permission of the Program Coordinator. Offered fall, winter, spring or summer.

ENS 461. SEMINAR: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND POLICY DEVELOPMENT 4 sh

Students cooperate in a semester-long project, conducting a complete field investigation of a land/water development proposal. The course provides an opportunity for the students to apply their knowledge, analytical and problem-solving skills and ethical perspectives in the creation of a report that could be used by a municipal or regional planning organization. Prerequisite: senior standing as an ENS major. Offered fall.