Catalog of Courses for Environmental Sciences
Examination of the fundamental radiative, thermodynamic, and fluid dynamic processes in Earth's atmosphere with an emphasis on climatic time and space scales. Topics include atmospheric composition and radiative transfer, synoptic climatology, atmospheric general circulation, climate change, El Niño, and teleconnections. Prerequisites include EVSC 3300 or an undergraduate science degree.
In this course, students will learn about the behavior, dynamics, and thermodynamics of the tropical atmosphere. A wide range of time and space scales will be examined, from the large-scale energy balance down to cumulus convection and tropical cyclones. Emphasis will be placed on studying atmospheric convection. This course is a foundation for advanced study and research in atmospheric science, meteorology, and atmosphere-related disciplines.
In this course, various aspects of the effects of mountains on weather and climate will be covered. Examples include diurnal mountain wind systems, mountain waves, and cold air pools. Applications of mountain meteorology to other fields (air pollution, carbon cycle) will also be discussed. The students will learn to write up the results of an independent investigation of a research topic related to mountain meteorology and to present the results.
This course provides students with an overview of the use of meteorological research and weather information in various areas in society including agriculture, aviation, and recreation.
This course will introduce students to fundamental atmospheric chemistry and its applications. Topics will span gas kinetics and reaction dynamics, atmospheric oxidation, spectroscopy and photochemistry, heterogeneous chemistry and aqueous-phase trace gases processing, and aerosol properties, dynamics, and radiative effects. Students will practice applying this knowledge to problems in stratospheric ozone chemistry and tropospheric composition.
This course provides the student with an understanding of physical processes in the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL), that part of the atmosphere that is affected by the presence of the earth's surface on a diurnal time scale. These processes are important for understanding the spatial distribution and temporal variability of wind, temperature, moisture, and trace gases in the atmosphere above the surface.
Introduces theoretical meteorology encompassing dry and moist air thermodynamics, the mechanics of atmospheric motion, and the dynamics of atmospheric weather systems. Prerequisite: MATH 1310, 1320 and PHYS 2310, 2320; or equivalent.
This course will focus on the physics of the flow of water through the climate system. Special attention will be paid to the cycling of water through the atmosphere. Hydroclimate phenomena over a range of scales, from planetary to community scales, will be covered.
This course provides the student with an understanding of physical processes in the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL), that part of the atmosphere that is affected by the presence of the earth's surface on a diurnal time scale. These processes are important for understanding the spatial distribution and temporal variability of wind, temperature, moisture, and trace gases in the atmosphere above the surface.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new course in the subject of atmospheric sciences.
In this course, various aspects of the effects of mountains on weather and climate will be covered. Examples include diurnal mountain wind systems, mountain waves, and cold air pools. Applications of mountain meteorology to other fields (air pollution, carbon cycle) will also be discussed. The students will learn to write up the results of an independent investigation of a research topic related to mountain meteorology and to present the results.
This course explores near-surface atmospheric conditions, examining energy balance, radiation, turbulence, and land-atmosphere interactions across spatial and temporal scales. It highlights microclimates' impact on ecosystems, agriculture, urban planning, and climate adaptation. Through theory and real-world applications, students will gain insights into microclimatology's role in addressing environmental challenges.
Synoptic meteorology is the study of the weather systems (high- and low-pressure systems, waves in the jet stream, fronts) that impact day-to-day weather. This class will introduce the foundational theories of synoptic meteorology and allow students to practically apply them to case studies of past and current significant weather events, with a particular focus on North American weather systems.
This course introduces students to research topics in air pollution, including the ozone hole, tropospheric ozone, aerosol chemistry and physics, atmosphere-biosphere interactions, air pollution regulation and control, health impacts, environmental justice, cook stove emissions, and air toxics. Readings are primarily taken from the recent literature. There is an emphasis on understanding the fundamental chemistry and physics of air pollution.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new course in the subject of atmospheric sciences.
Individual or group study in developing or special areas of atmospheric sciences and interrelated areas.
Analyzes the patterns and processes in terrestrial ecosystems. Topic include macro- and micro-meteorological factors such as producer, consumer, and decomposer processes; hydrologic and biogeochemical pathways; and changes through space and time. Three lecture and four field or laboratory hours. Prerequisite: EVSC 3200 or equivalent, and instructor permission.
Explores relationships of microorganisms to similar organisms, dissimilar (macro) organisms, and the physical-chemical environment to demonstrate basic ecological theory and indicate the importance of microbes in maintaining our world. Includes the organisms, microbial habitats, community formation and structure, interspecific relationships, nutrient cycling, and anthropocentric ecology. Prerequisite: EVSC 2800, 3200, 3600, 3300 or equivalent; or instructor permission.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new course in the subject of ecology.
An ecosystem course which treats the ecology of forests and consequences of forest processes in natural and managed systems. The class emphasizes the "pattern and process" concept that is the central theme in modern vegetation sciences at increasing scales: from form and function of leaves and other parts of trees through population, community and landscape ecology to the role of forests in the global climate and carbon-cycling. Pre-requisite: Introductory Ecology or Instructor Permission.
An interdisciplinary course covering the physical, biogeochemical and ecological aspects of coastal estuaries. This class is a companion course to EVSC 4110. Prerequisite: EVSC 3200
A comprehensive treatment of global environmental factors affecting coastal marine systems, including climate change, sea-level rise, alterations in freshwater and sediment transport, disturbance and habitat loss, overfishing, alien species, and eutrophication. Includes case studies providing real-world examples and detailed reviews of the evidence of change and possible solutions.
Examines how spatial patterns and processes influence ecological systems across a broad range of biological organization, including genes, populations, communities, and ecosystems. Investigates the central role of humans in altering spatial ecological processes and the consequences for human wellbeing.
This course will focus on lakes, rivers, streams, and reservoirs as ecosystems. The goal of the course is to provide an understanding through lectures and discussions of the main physical, chemical, and biological processes that determine similarities and differences among inland waters. Major human impacts on inland waters will also be considered. Prerequisites: EVSC 3200 or equivalent, one semester of chemistry, or instructor permission.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new course in the subject of ecology.
This course is an Independent Study for students to learn and utilize Geographic Information Systems to map and monitor the spread of invasive plant species. Students will learn and use Arc/GIS software and assess the ecological causes and implications of invasive plant species migrations.
Individual or group study in developing or special areas of ecology and interrelated areas.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new course in the subject of geosciences.
Studies the processes that shape the land surface and their relationship to human activity. Prerequisite: EVSC 2800 or 3600.
Studies the erosion, transport, and deposition of sediment; initial motion of sediment, bedload and suspended load transport and bedforms; and important sediment-transporting environments. Applies sediment transport theory to problems of geological and environmental interest. Prerequisite: one year of calculus and physics, or instructor permission; corequisite: EVGE 5841.
Studies the principles that govern the distribution and abundance of the elements in the earth's lithosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and atmosphere. Prerequisite: College chemistry and calculus; intorductory earth science or geology recommended.
Investigates natural phenomena by means of stable and unstable isotopes and changes in their abundance, including isotope fractionation. Includes age dating, paleotemperature determination, and isotope tracers in natural systems.
The growth and decay of glaciers and ice sheets impact the hydrosphere, biosphere, atmosphere, and geosphere. This course focuses on physical glaciology, glacial hydrology, glacial geology, landscape evolution, Earth's glacial history, current and future state of glacial ice, and global impacts of ice mass changes. Students will explore these topics through active discussions, scientific reasoning, quantitative exercises, and written communication.
An advanced introduction to the study of soils as a natural system. Topics include the fundamentals of soil chemistry, hydrology, and biology with respect to genesis, classification, and utilization. Students will use fundamental and advanced field and laboratory methods.
This seminar treats topics in the physical processes that shape landscapes. Topics will rotate with each semester, and will initially focus on the Appalachian Mountains and Chesapeake Bay as natural laboratories for studying interrelationships between mountain building, erosion, climate, and sea-level. Lectures & discussions of scientific literature will introduce geologic context, physics and chemistry relevant to particular geomorphic processes.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a enw course in the subject of geosciences.
Oceans submerge over 70% of Earth's surface and hold many clues about major changes in Earth systems over hundreds to millions of years. This course covers the evolution of ocean basins, geological processes that operate in marine environments, marine archives of major Earth system changes, and marine geological resources and hazards. Graduate standing in EVSC or instructor permission
Studies the origin and evolution of the solar system, emphasizing the geology of the planets and satellites of the inner solar system and the satellites of the gaseous planets. Compares and contrasts the Earth with Venus and Mars.
Optional laboratory for Planetary Geology that will expose students to sources and types of information about processes and materials on planetary bodies as well as techniques for interpreting and mapping the surface features and geologic history of planetary objects.
Individual or group study in developing or special areas of geosciences and interrelated areas, emphasizing earth-surface processes.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new course in the subject of hydrology.
This course will cover methods of spatial data handling and modeling for the analysis and management of the environmental resilience of watersheds. Techniques include desktop and cloud commercial and open source GIS and spatial modeling packages. Topical areas addressed will emphasize urban and rural watersheds and ecosystems, freshwater quantity and quality, green infrastructure and carbon sequestration.
Study of the physical, chemical, and biological processes governing the transport and transformation of contaminants at ecosystem and watershed scales. Emphasis placed on the ecohydrological principles and role of human activities governing these processes. We will develop process-based models and analyze data to understand and predict watershed processes. Recommended: EVSC 3600, one year of calculus and one semester of programming, or equivalent experience.
Introduces current theories of the hydrological response of catchments. Using an integrative approach, the course illuminates the derivation of theory in light of the time and location of the process studies on which they were based. Prerequisite: EVSC 3600.
Studies the physical principles governing the transport of dissolved substances and of sediment and particulate matter in the terrestrial portion of the hydrological cycle. Prerequisite: EVSC 2800 and 3600 or equivalent.
Study of hydrologic processes characteristic of forested regions. Prerequisite: Introductory hydrology or instructor permission.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new course in the subject of Hydrology.
Study of energy, water, and carbon exchange between the atmosphere and the land surface. Prerequisite: One year of college physics and calculus, one hydrology or atmospheric science course, or permission of instruct.
Individual or group study in developing or special areas of hydrology and water resource analysis and interrelated areas.
Introduces the principles and basic facts of the natural environment. Topics include earth materials, land forms, weather and climate, vegetation and soils, and the processes of environmental change and their implications to economic and human systems.
Practical concepts and problem solving in environmental sciences through demonstrations, hands-on activities, structured discussions, and problem sets beyond those of traditional lectures or discussion groups. Emphasizes experience and critical thinking in the four core areas: geology, hydrology, atmospheric sciences, and ecology.
Explores the impact of people on the environment in the past and present with projections for the future. Addresses the phenomena and effects of food and energy production and industrial processes, including such topics as lead pollution, acid rain, the greenhouse effect, and the disposal of radioactive waste. Demonstrates how the environment works in the absence of humans and discusses how human use of resources perturbs the environment.
An overview of the atmospheric sciences primarily for non-science majors. Topics include weather forecasting, the greenhouse effect and global warming, ozone depletion, El Niño, air pollution, atmospheric optical effects, global climate, and the impacts of weather on human health. Three lectures per week. No science/math background is required.
Carbon is the building block of life, the way we trap the energy of the sun to feed all biological systems, and the way we power human civilization. It is also the driver of global climate change. How does the climate system work? How has climate changed? How will it change in the coming decades? What are the likely impacts on humanity and the ecosystems on which we depend? What can we do about it? We explore climate change, top to bottom.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new topic in the subject area of environmental science.
Studies the natural history of the Earth's hydrosphere, including its origin, evolution, and importance in Earth processes. Introduces the hydrological cycle and the role of water in a variety of Earth processes. Discusses human influences on the hydrosphere and current topics in hydrological science and water resources, such as contamination and resource allocation, emphasizing the scientific basis for past, present, and future decisions.
To introduce the issues surrounding long-term sustainability with respect to materials, including scarcity, recycling, climate change, and environmental stress on water resources, land resources and pollution. Scope of the issue at the present day will be discussed and projections of the effects of current patterns of material production, consumption, and recycling will be described. Methods of analysis will be developed.
Analyzes the principles that govern the world's oceans and their integration into an understanding of the major marine environments. Topics include marine pollution, global climate, and marine policy.
This class covers the principles of agroecology. We begin with basic plant-science and integrate crop biology into an ecological view of production. We focus on crops but pay some attention to animals. We cover topics such as stress, disease, and genetics. The class is international in scope but highlights agriculture in Virginia, past, present, and future. The class mode is Socratic lecture with a few field trips.
This course will explore the interrelationships between humans and plants. An introduction to basic plant biology provides a framework for exploring the process of plant domestication and the economic and cultural consequences for humans, including plant diversity and use of indigenous plants. The origin and dispersal of major plants used by humans as food, drink, fiber, medicine and fuel will be considered.
Studies ecological science relevant to sustaining populations, species, ecosystems, and the global biosphere. Includes discussion of genetic inbreeding, critical population size, community structure and organization, maintenance of critical ecosystem function, and global biogeochemistry. Case studies from around the world demonstrate links between human-driven environmental change and the health of the biosphere, at all levels, from the organism to the planet.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new topic in the subject area of environmental science.
Studies the composition, structure, and internal processes of earth; the classification, origin, and distribution of earth materials; earth's interior; and the interpretation of geological data for the solution of problems of the natural environment. Recommended: At least one semester of college chemistry with lab such as CHEM 1410, 1420.
Field and laboratory experimentation into the nature of earth materials and processes, especially as applied to use and human problems. Corequisite: EVSC 2800.
This course explores the unique aspects of polar systems (Arctic and Antarctic) and lessons for the larger globe by integrating relevant aspects of climate science, geology, glaciology and cryosphere science, oceanography, ecology, and human-dimensions.
Studies the geologic framework and biophysical processes of the coastal zone, and the role of the major river systems in modifying the coastal environment. Emphasizes human modifications, including case studies along the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific coasts.
Explores the theory of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and their applications in a range of disciplines using various GIS software packages. Example applications are from physical and social sciences, often with a focus on the Charlottesville-Albemarle area. For students interested in immediate applications of GIS in their work. Experience with word processing, file managers, and other computing skills is essential. Prerequisite: The equivalent of the College natural science/mathematics and social science area requirements.
This course explores interactions between biology and the fluid within which terrestrial organisms (air) and aquatic organisms (water) function. Topics covered include locomotion, heat exchange, diffusion and mass exchange, bio-acoustics, and bio-optics in the two different fluids, as well as living at the interface between air and water. Prerequisite: MATH 1190 or MATH 1210 or MATH 1310 or APMA 1090.
This course introduces key topics in environmental and climate justice. This includes the vulnerabilities that marginalized communities are disproportionately exposed to, how power and privilege produce these unjust conditions as well as the history and evolution of the environmental and climate justice movements. The course will also illustrate the various ways in which environmental and climate justice intersect with different areas of study.
Studies energy flow, nutrient cycling and allocation in natural ecosystems, organization of species at the population and community levels, and interaction between people and the biosphere. Prerequisite: One semester of calculus; recommended; at least one semester of college-level chemistry and biology with labs such as CHEM 1410, 1420, and BIOL 2020.
Field and laboratory experimentation illustrative of ecological systems, and their checks, balances, and cycles. Corequisite: EVSC 3200.
Introduces the physical laws governing atmospheric behavior and examines atmospheric variables and their role in the fluid environment of the earth. Prerequisite: MATH 1190 or MATH 1210 or MATH 1220 or MATH 1310 or MATH 1320 or MATH 2310 or APMA 1090 or APMA 1110 or APMA 2120.
Studies the principles of measurements, instrumentation for measuring atmospheric parameters, and methods of observing and calculating atmospheric variables. Corequisite: EVSC 3300.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new topic in the subject area of environmental science.
Studies the physical principles governing the flow of water on and beneath the earth's surface, including fundamental concepts of fluid dynamics applied to the description of open channel hydraulics, ground water hydraulics, and dynamics of soil moisture. Introduces elements of surface water and ground water hydrology and explores humanity's influence on its hydrological environment. Prerequisite: One semester of calculus.
Field and laboratory experimentation illustrative of the hydrological cycle, including energy and mass transfer in surface and ground water. Corequisite: EVSC 3600.
Studies the dynamic processes of Earth's interior and surface and the impact of natural hazards on society. Geological topics, including earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, and floods, will be described. Observations and geological data will be used to make decisions about risk to human life and property. Prerequisite: Required prerequisite course EVSC 2800 or equivalent college-level introductory geology course by transfer credit.
Studies the principles that govern the distribution and abundance of the elements in the Earth's lithosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and atmosphere. Prerequisite: EVSC 2800 encouraged but not required.
A weekly, one-hour seminar series for majors, other interested undergraduates, and the University community dealing with environmental processes, research, issues, careers, and graduate study. Speakers from within and outside of the Department and University will explore topics across the breadth of the environmental sciences and their applications to real world problems.
Introduction to the physics and techniques of remote sensing. Prerequisite: at least one year of college-level chemistry or physics, or instructor permission.
Remote sensing is a technique to obtain data about an object without physical contact with it. It is a powerful tool for extracting quantitative information about Earth's surface and subsurface. As an upper-level class in remote sensing, in this seminar, we will focus on advanced remote sensing techniques at different spatial scales that help to gain information about the biosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere.
Remote sensing is a technique to obtain data about an object without physical contact with it. It is a powerful tool for extracting quantitative information about Earth's surface and subsurface. As an upper-level class in remote sensing, in this seminar, we will focus on advanced remote sensing techniques at different spatial scales that help to gain information about the biosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere.
Study of ecohydrologic processes characteristic of arid and semiarid regions. Prerequisites: Any introductory hydrology course or instructor permission.
In this course, students explore how unmanned aerial systems or 'drones' are being used in various research areas with a focus on environmental research. In addition, students investigate ethical, legal, privacy, and policy issues raised by drone technology. Students will get an opportunity to work in teams to discuss the various uses of drone technology.
Introduces oceanography together with a survey of marine resources and the scientific bases for their management. Prerequisite: One year college-level science.
This course is designed to introduce upper-level undergraduate students to the natural and human-driven perturbations that affect the global carbon cycle. The course covers major factors and aspects of the changing carbon cycle including fossil fuel use, agriculture and land-use change, atmospheric build-up, evolving land biosphere, and ocean uptake. Relevant observational methods, data sets and syntheses, and numerical models are introduced. One semester of college Biology or Chemistry, or permission of the instructor.
Explores advanced Geographic Information Systems concepts through use of Arc/Info, Erdas Imagine, and other GIS software in individual and group projects. Topics include data management, raster modeling, image manipulation, and 3-D visualization. Prerequisite: An introductory GIS course.
Introduction to programming and quantitative techniques for problem solving in environmental sciences, including data processing and visualization, analysis of temporal and spatial data, and simple mathematical models. Students will gain practical experience from problems drawn from each core area of environmental sciences. No previous programming experience is assumed.
Study of the utilization of modern analytical instrumentation for chemical analysis. Includes emission and mass spectrometry, ultraviolet, visible, and infrared absorption spectroscopy, atomic absorption, electrical methods of analysis, chromatography, neutron activation analysis, and X-ray methods. Prerequisites: CHEM 1420 or CHEM 1620 or CHEM 1810.
An ecosystem course which treats the ecology of forests and consequences of forest processes in natural and managed systems. The class emphasizes the "pattern and process" concept that is the central theme in modern vegetation sciences at increasing scales: from form and function of leaves and other parts of trees through population, community and landscape ecology to the role of forests in the global climate and carbon-cycling. Pre-requisites: EVSC 3200, 3400, or 3500 recommended.
A graduate/undergraduate seminar on current topics in coastal ecology.
A comprehensive treatment of global environmental factors affecting coastal marine systems, including climate change, sea-level rise, alterations in freshwater and sediment transport, disturbance and habitat loss, overfishing, alien species, and eutrophication. Includes case studies providing real-world examples, and detailed reviews of the evidence of changes and possible solutions.
Examines how spatial patterns and processes influence ecological systems across a broad range of biological organization, including genes, populations, communities, and ecosystems. Investigates the central role of humans in altering spatial ecological processes and the consequences for human wellbeing.
Surveys the major habitats of marine and estuarine areas and the organisms which have adapted to life in these environments. Emphasizes the organisms and communities which have evolved in response to stress and competition in the sea, and the systematics and natural history of marine organisms. Prerequisite: EVSC 3200 or equivalent.
This course examines the science of restoration ecology and the practice of ecological restoration through lectures and in-class discussion. Emphasis is on application of ecological concepts, models, and methodologies to restoration of degraded and impaired ecosystems. The potential for exploiting restoration projects as large-scale ecosystem experiments and the importance of grounding restoration efforts in basic ecological theory are discussed. Prerequisite: EVSC 3200 or equivalent.
This course will emphasize plant community and ecosystem ecology of water-limited grassland systems and energy-limited tundra systems. Various topics will be covered including water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles, primary production, plant physiology, plant competition, and plant-herbivore interactions. We will examine the environmental factors that control these systems, as well as their geographic distribution throughout the globe. Prerequisite: EVSC 3200 or instructor permission.
Introduces the study of soils as a natural system. Topics include the fundamentals of soil chemistry, hydrology, and biology with respect to genesis, classification and utilization. Prerequisite: EVSC 2800 and 3200; one year college chemistry or instructor permission.
This course will focus on lakes, rivers, streams, and reservoirs as ecosystems. The goal of the course is to provide an understanding through lectures and discussions of the main physical, chemical, and biological processes that determine similarities and differences among inland waters. Major human impacts on inland waters will also be considered. Prerequisite: EVSC 3200 with D- and 1 semester of chemistry or instructor permission.
We will explore how weather and climate impact human health from the individual to the societal level. Topics will include how the human body responds to heat and cold, weather and physiological stress and strain, impacts of poor air quality on human morbidity and mortality, and the role of weather and climate in disease transmission.We will likewise examine extreme weather events at the macro-level & the role of human adaptation to climate. Prerequisites include an introductory course in atmospheric science (EVSC 1300, EVSC 3300, or the equivalent).
Analyzes the principles governing atmospheric processes occurring at small temporal and spatial scales near the Earth's surface, including energy, mass, and momentum transfer. Includes features of the atmospheric environment affecting plants and feedback mechanisms between plants and their local microclimates, trace gas exchange between the terrestrial biosphere and the atmosphere, energy budgets, evapotranspiration, and motions near the surface. Prerequisite: EVSC 3300 or instructor permission.
This is course will introduce undergraduate students to issues in air pollution environmental justice and climate equity from an environmental sciences perspective. Students will consider atmospheric processes and chemical transformations on human scales to identify, describe, and discuss how racism and injustice manifest in the atmosphere.
This course will introduce students to the numerical, statistical, and computational methods used to model variability and change in Earth's climate system. The course will provide a conceptual understanding of the physical principles underlying successful Earth system models and teach students mathematical and computational techniques necessary to interpret and analyze model output for a variety of environmental sciences applications.
This seminar course will review the atmospheric and oceanic processes responsible for large-scale variability and change in Earth's climate system through readings and discussions of recent peer-reviewed scientific publications.
Synoptic meteorology is the study of the weather systems (high- and low-pressure systems, waves in the jet stream, fronts) that impact day-to-day weather. This class will introduce the foundational theories of synoptic meteorology and allow students to practically apply them to case studies of past and current significant weather events, with a particular focus on North American weather systems.
This course introduces students to research topics in air pollution, including the ozone hole, tropospheric ozone, aerosol chemistry and physics, atmosphere-biosphere interactions, air pollution regulation and control, health impacts, environmental justice, cook stove emissions, and air toxics. Readings are primarily taken from the recent literature. There is an emphasis on understanding the fundamental chemistry and physics of air pollution.
This seminar treats topics in the physical processes that shape landscapes. Topics will rotate with each semester, and will initially focus on the Appalachian Mountains and Chesapeake Bay as natural laboratories for studying interrelationships between mountain building, erosion, climate, and sea-level. Lectures & discussions of scientific literature will introduce geologic context, physics and chemistry relevant to particular geomorphic processes.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new topic in the subject area of environmental science.
Study of energy, water, and carbon exchange between the atmosphere and the land surface. Prerequisite: Must have completed EVSC 3300 or EVSC 3600
This class will explore methods in the analysis and provision of water resources systems, building on principles of hydrologic science, global change, and equity. Our understanding of water as an integral component of human society and environment is rapidly changing with climate and land use change, and the increasing recognition of current and past inequity in water access, and exposure to hazard. Prerequisite: EVSC 3600.
In this course we will explore the dimensions of what "sustainability" and "sustainable development" mean in the context of water use and management. We will examine the different ways in which water is used, valued, and governed, examining sustainability through different lenses and perspectives.The course will NOT count for the Math/Science area requirement in the College.
Hydrological instruments are introduced; students employ the instruments to make field measurements and perform a range of data analysis exercises. Prerequisite: EVSC 3600.
This course examines aspects of water quality related to public health with a primary focus on drinking water. Contamination of water by pathogenic microbes is covered, including the historical development of sanitation, modern treatment of drinking water, and how lack of clean drinking water affects populations in developing countries worldwide. Chemical contaminants include metals and organics such as pesticides and endocrine disruptors.
This lecture course focuses on the occurrence and distribution of chemical elements and the processes influencing that distribution among the various reservoirs of the Earth-surface environment, including rocks, soil, water, and air. Prerequisite: CHEM 1410 or CHEM 1420 (one semester of college-level chemistry) and EVSC 2800 (one semester of college-level geology)
Oceans submerge over 70% of Earth's surface and hold many clues about major changes in Earth systems over hundreds to millions of years. This course covers the evolution of ocean basins, geological processes that operate in marine environments, marine archives of major Earth system changes, and marine geological resources and hazards.
Reviews wave generation, wave prediction, wave refraction, transformation, shoaling, and associated inshore currents. Topics include the generation of littoral drift and shallow water surge; beach and barrier island geomorphology and problems of erosion. Includes the historical development of research in coastal processes and a quantitative analysis of spatial patterns along sandy coasts. Prerequisite: EVSC 2800; corequisite: EVSC 4851.
The course examines the geological evolution of the state and mid-Atlantic region in the context of plate tectonics, including stratigraphy, mountain building, metamorphism and deformation, and geomorphic processes. The human impact on this landscape through the exploitation of mineral resources is examined. Field trips to the various provinces of the state will help provide fundamental understanding of the state's foundation. Prerequisite: Required prerequisite course EVSC 2800 or equivalent college-level introductory geology course by transfer credit.
Studies the processes that regulate the cycling of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus within and between oceans, continents, and atmosphere. Prerequisite: One semester of college chemistry and one or two of the EVSC core classes.
Studies the origin and evolution of the solar system, emphasizing the geology of the planets and satellites of the inner solar system and the satellites of the gaseous planets. Compares and contrasts the Earth with Venus and Mars. Prerequisite: Introductory course in geosciences or astronomy.
Optional laboratory for EVSC 4890 students that will expose students to sources and types of information about processes and materials on planetary bodies as well as techniques for interpreting and mapping the surface features and geologic history of planetary objects.
The goal of this class is to rigorously compare real-life conservation program implementation with the theoretical goals of conservation science. This course is a senior-level offering designed to serve as a capstone class for students enrolled in the Environmental and Biological Conservation Specialization program and will be presented in a seminar format where a theoretical presentation of conservation science within the context is presented. Prerequisite: EVSC 3200 (fund. of Ecology) or BIOL 3020 (Evolution and Ecology)
Specialized topics in ecology, atmosphere, hydrology, environmental geology, or environmental systems not normally covered in formal classes under the direction of the faculty. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Original research usually involving a field or laboratory problem in the environmental sciences under the direction of one or more faculty members. The results may form the basis of an undergraduate thesis which is required to partially fulfill the Distinguished Majors Program in environmental sciences. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Provides credit for doing work in pursuit of the undergraduate thesis option for majors in Environmental Science
This is an introductory course focusing on the theory and application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technology. The course combines related theory with practical laboratory assignments.
Provides a firm knowledge of experimental design, hypothesis testing, and the use of statistical methods of data analysis. Prerequisite: MATH 1110, STAT 1120, or equivalent; corequisite: EVSC 5031.
Robust data are a cornerstone for scientific understanding and solutions to environmental problems, but real data are often messy, failing assumptions of classical statistics and challenging clear interpretation. Using R, students will develop a modern statistical toolbox and learn to match appropriate analyses with many common types of imperfect, complex data. Prerequisites: 1 statistics course or equivalent experience.
The principles of oceanography with views on real world applications, covering topical issues such as fisheries, marine protected areas, offshore wind and marine energy, deep-sea mining, and climate change.
An interdisciplinary course covering physical, ecological and biogeochemical processes occurring along coastlines and within coastal ecosystems.
This course will equip students with some of the most commonly used deep learning architectures. We will explore feed-forward networks, convolutional neural networks, UNETs, encoders-decoders, generative adversarial networks and transformers. We will also analyze tools of explainable AI. Focused on environmental applications, students will apply these techniques to real-world data, solving problems in prediction, pattern recognition, and data-driven insights. Solid background in probability, statistics, and in coding (preferably Python) is recommended for enrollment in this course.
This course aims to provide a qualitative and quantitative understanding of the nitrogen cycle in a seminar format.
Studies the physical properties, processes, and structure of the oceans; mass and energy budgets; methods of measurements; and the nature and theory of ocean currents, waves, and tides in the open sea, near shore and in estuaries. Prerequisite: PHYS 2310, 2320 or equivalent, two semesters calculus, MATH 1310, 1320 recommended, or instructor permission.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new topic in the subject area of environmental science.
This course covers the fundamental processes governing biogeochemical cycling of carbon, nitrogen, and inorganic elements across diverse soils: farmlands, forests, and wetlands. This course emphasizes quantitative assessment of pools and fluxes, key biological interactions, and perturbations by humans.
Cover fundamental and recent advances in Soil Biogeochemistry, with an emphasis on literature describing fundamental processes governing abiotic-biotic elemental transformations and key human perturbations.
This course will examine the physical, chemical, and biological factors that affect the fate and transport of contaminants (including toxic metals and organic contaminants) in soils and waters. We will examine human and natural sources, chemical transport, and uptake and toxicity in plants and animals through real examples and standard methods for ecotoxicological risk assessment with respect to Virginia and Federal guidelines and policies. EVSC 4270 or EVSC 3600 are recommended.
Specialized topics in ecology, atmosphere, hydrology, environmental geology, or environmental systems not normally covered in formal classes under the direction of the faculty. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Original research usually involving a field or laboratory problem in the environmental sciences under the direction of one or more faculty members. The results may form the basis of an undergraduate thesis which is required to partially fulfill the Distinguished Majors Program in environmental sciences. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Introduction to the physics and techniques of remote sensing. Prerequisite: At least one year of college-level chemistry or physics, or instructor permission.
Basic concepts have been covered in EVSC 7012 Introduction to Remote Sensing. As an upper-level class in remote sensing, in this seminar, we will focus on advanced remote sensing techniques at different spatial scales (ground, airborne, and space). We will read scientific papers on the application of remote sensing, and provide hands-on training on coding and field spectroscopy and drone flights.
Basic concepts have been covered in EVSC 7012 Introduction to Remote Sensing. As an upper-level class in remote sensing, in this seminar, we will focus on advanced remote sensing techniques at different spatial scales (ground, airborne, and space). We will read scientific papers on the application of remote sensing, and provide hands-on training on coding and field spectroscopy and drone flights.
Study of ecohydrologic processes characteristic of arid and semiarid regions. Prerequisites: Any introductory hydrology class or instructor permission.
The global carbon cycle is changing dramatically due to human and natural processes. Major factors including fossil fuel use, agriculture and land-use change, atmospheric build-up, and land biosphere and ocean uptake. The course emphasizes conceptual and quantitative understanding of the impact of these different factors over the past several centuries and near-term future under a changing climate, environmental, and society.
Geographical data is increasingly important i n understanding our society and our environment. This course will focus on teaching stiudents advanced principles and operation of GIS software. It's a im is to develop students who are prepared to apply GIS to a variety of research problems by expoing them to tools and techniques that go beyond those covered in a basic course on GIS. Prerequisite: EVSC 5020 or equivalent experience
The purpose of this weekly course is to serve as a peer-cohort building introduction to the environmental sciences graduate program and to the university. Students will gain professional development experience, clarity on expectations, and practical information such as resources and graduate milestone expectations to help them acclimate to life as a graduate student and make the most of the experience.
Introduction to programming and quantitative techniques for problem solving in environmental sciences, including data processing and visualization, analysis of temporal and spatial data, and simple mathematical models. Students will gain practical experience from problems drawn from each core area of environmental sciences. No previous programming experience is assumed.
In this seminar course, students will have the opportunity to hear from successful leaders in varied Environmental Science disciplines (traditional and non-traditional) about career paths and opportunities for M.A., M.S., and PhD students. Special focus will be placed on encouraging career discussions that help students recognize opportunities where their research skills gained within our program can be applied.
Studies current problems in environmental research management or public policy as presented by visiting speakers, faculty, or advanced graduate students.
A graduate/undergraduate seminar on current topics in coastal ecology.
This course will introduce students to the numerical, statistical, and computational methods used to model variability and change in Earth's climate system. The course will provide a conceptual understanding of the physical principles underlying successful Earth system models and teach students mathematical and computational techniques necessary to interpret and analyze model output for a variety of environmental sciences applications.
This course provides the opportunity to offer a new topic in the subject area of environmental science.
Specialized topics in ecology, atmosphere, hydrology, environmental geology, or environmental systems not normally covered in formal classes under the direction of the faculty. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Individual or group study in developing or special areas of environmental sciences and related fields.
For master's thesis, taken under the supervision of a thesis director.
Individual or group research on interdisciplinary problems in environmental sciences.
For doctoral research, taken under the supervision of a dissertation director.