Associate of Arts in Environmental Studies - Direct Transfer Agreement (LASDTAA)

Program Overview

The Environmental Studies Associate of Arts program at Seattle Central College provides students with a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues, their social, political, and economic dimensions, and the skills to address them critically. The program combines coursework in natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, culminating in a capstone project that applies knowledge to real-world environmental challenges. Graduates are prepared for careers and further education in the environmental field.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Environmental Studies - Associate of Arts (AA)

This two-year program is designed for students who wish to gain a broad understanding of environmental issues and their social, political, and economic dimensions. The program provides a foundation in the natural sciences but focuses more of its studies on the social sciences, policy studies, environmental design, and the humanities. This enables graduates to critically analyze environmental challenges and develop solutions that address not only the scientific aspects but also the human and societal factors involved.

Objectives:

• Equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the natural environment and its interaction with human societies.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address environmental challenges.
• Explore the social, political, and economic dimensions of environmental issues.
• Foster a sense of environmental responsibility and global citizenship.
• Prepare students for further education and careers in environmental fields.

Description:

The program combines coursework in natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities to provide a holistic understanding of environmental issues. Students will delve into topics such as ecology, climate change, environmental policy, sustainability, environmental justice, and ethics. They will develop skills in critical thinking, communication, research, and analysis to address complex environmental challenges. The program culminates in a capstone project, where students apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world environmental issue. This project allows students to demonstrate their understanding of the course material and their ability to apply it to practical situations.

Outline:

Program Content:

• Natural Sciences: Students will gain a foundation in ecology, biology, chemistry, and geology to understand the natural environment and its processes.
• Social Sciences: Students will explore the social, political, and economic dimensions of environmental issues, including environmental policy, environmental justice, and sustainable development.
• Humanities: Students will develop critical thinking and communication skills through courses in environmental ethics, environmental literature, and environmental history.

Program Structure:

• The program consists of 90 quarter credits, typically completed over six quarters (two years).
• Students will take a combination of core courses and electives to fulfill the program requirements.
• Core courses provide a foundation in environmental science, policy, and social justice.
• Elective courses allow students to explore specific areas of interest within the environmental field.
• Students are encouraged to participate in internships, research opportunities, and other experiential learning activities to enhance their understanding of environmental issues.

Course Schedule:

• The program follows a quarter system, with courses offered in the fall, winter, spring, and summer quarters.
• Students can typically take 15-18 credits per quarter, depending on their individual schedules and course availability.
• A sample schedule is provided in the program information, but students are encouraged to work with an advisor to develop a personalized plan that meets their needs and goals.

Individual Modules:

• Module 1: Introduction to Environmental Science: This module provides an overview of the environment, its processes, and its interaction with human societies.
• Module 2: Environmental Policy and Law: This module explores the legal and policy frameworks governing environmental protection and sustainability.
• Module 3: Environmental Justice and Social Equity: This module examines the social and economic dimensions of environmental issues, including environmental justice and the disproportionate impact of environmental burdens on marginalized communities.
• Module 4: Sustainable Development: This module explores the concept of sustainable development and its application to environmental challenges.
• Module 5: Environmental Ethics: This module examines the ethical principles and values that guide human interactions with the environment.
• Module 6: Environmental Communication and Advocacy: This module develops students' skills in communicating environmental issues effectively and advocating for environmental change.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Examinations: Students will take written exams to assess their understanding of course material.
• Assignments: Students will complete various assignments, including essays, research papers, presentations, and projects, to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.
• Participation: Active participation in class discussions and activities is an important part of the assessment process.
• Capstone Project: The capstone project is a culminating experience where students apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world environmental issue.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills: Students' ability to analyze environmental issues critically and develop solutions.
• Communication skills: Students' ability to communicate their ideas effectively both orally and in writing.
• Research skills: Students' ability to conduct research, evaluate information, and synthesize findings.
• Professionalism and ethical conduct: Students' ability to demonstrate professionalism and ethical behavior in their academic and professional endeavors.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures: Faculty will deliver lectures to introduce key concepts and theories.
• Discussions: Classe