Program Overview
La Trobe University's Environmental Humanities program explores the interrelationships between nature and culture, equipping students with ethical approaches to address environmental issues. Drawing insights from multiple disciplines, the program develops critical thinking, communication skills, and a comprehensive understanding of environmental challenges and solutions, preparing graduates for careers in environmental advocacy, sustainability, and more.
Program Outline
Environmental Humanities at La Trobe University: A Comprehensive Breakdown
Degree Overview:
- Program name: Environmental Humanities
- Description: This program explores the interrelationships between nature and culture, equipping students with ethical approaches to address environmental issues and protect the natural world. Drawing insights from history, literature, cultural studies, politics, and social sciences, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of environmental challenges and solutions.
- Objectives:
- Develop critical thinking about the relationship between humans and the environment.
- Apply ethical approaches to environmental challenges.
- Understand the historical, social, and cultural contexts of environmental issues.
- Communicate effectively about environmental issues.
- Contribute to the protection and sustainability of the environment.
Outline:
- Modules:
- Environmental Philosophy: Examines the foundational concepts and theories related to human-environment interactions.
- Environmental History: Analyzes the historical development of environmental thought and action.
- Environmental Literature and Culture: Explores the representations of the natural world in literature and cultural expressions.
- Environmental Politics and Policy: Investigates the political and policy aspects of environmental governance.
- Environmental Justice: Examines the social and ethical dimensions of environmental issues and solutions.
- Structure:
- Offered as a major or minor in the Bachelor of Arts.
- Available as a major in various other degrees, including Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Global Studies, and Bachelor of Social Work.
- Can be combined with other subjects to create a personalized degree.
- Course Schedule: Varies depending on the program and major selected.
Assessment:
- Assessment methods:
- Essays
- Presentations
- Critical analyses
- Group projects
- Research papers
- Assessment criteria:
- Quality of research and analysis
- Creativity and originality
- Critical thinking and engagement
- Effective communication
- Collaboration and teamwork
Teaching:
- Teaching methods:
- Interactive lectures
- Tutorials
- Seminars
- Field trips
- Guest speakers
- Faculty: Experienced and qualified academic staff with expertise in environmental humanities.
- Unique approaches: Focus on real-world problem solving, ethical considerations, and interdisciplinary perspectives.
Careers:
- Potential career paths:
- Environmental educator
- Journalist
- Environmental advocate
- Sustainability consultant
- Natural resource manager
- Community engagement coordinator
- Policy analyst
- Environmental research
- Education and communication
- Possible employers:
- Government departments and agencies
- Media networks
- Primary and secondary schools
- Wildlife and conservation organizations
- Sustainability consulting companies
- La Trobe has over 50 majors and minors to choose from, allowing for a personalized degree.
- Students can gain practical experience through professional placements in Australia and overseas.
- The program is strongly aligned with addressing the climate crisis, offering a dedicated climate change major.
Conclusion:
The Environmental Humanities program at La Trobe University offers a comprehensive and engaging curriculum that prepares students to make a positive impact on the environment. With its focus on ethics, interdisciplinary perspectives, and real-world experiences, this program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in various environmental fields.