Courses

ENV 100
Physical Geography: Beholding the Body of the Earth (3)
Deepening our natural understanding of the earth as a living system, this course explores Gaia Theory and the new cosmology of the earth that is emerging in science. Within this framework we explore the formation of the earth—geomorphology and geophysiology—or one could say the “digestion,” “circulatory” and other systems of Gaia. This new vision in Western science can reawaken understanding and reconfirm our commitment and reciprocity with the earth. Required for entry into ENV major.

ENV 207
History of the Environmental Movement (3)
An examination of the history of the environmental movement from a U.S. and global perspective. Fundamental elements that inform and shape environmental movements around the world and the impact on people and their response are studied. Required for ENV majors.

ENV 215
Sustainability (3)
An introduction to the definitions and principles of sustainability, this course explores models and dimensions of sustainability in both the natural world and in human societies. Current examples of sustainable design and development in different parts of the world are offered to inspire students to “think sustainability” and to be alert to it in every aspect of their learning. Personal impact on the environment and personal sustainability are examined as aspects of developing a sustainable vision for the present and the future. Required for ENV majors.

ENV 220
Ecology and Systems Science (3)
This science course introduces students to the basic principles of ecology and natural cycles in the earth, soil, water, air and living systems. It also introduces the basic principles of systems theory. Students develop a strong foundation in basic ecology and systems thinking for the subsequent field science courses and applied courses in horticulture. Required for ENV majors. Prerequisite:
ENV 100.

ENV 236
Green Building (3)
An introduction to green construction practices and design and a wide range of green
technologies that contribute to sustainable living. The course includes practical hands-on experience and field trips.

ENV 245
Geography: Pilgrimage and Sacred Landscape (3)
Religious and cultural worldviews play a significant role in shaping our understanding of and impact on the earth. Students explore the world through the lens of pilgrimage and sacred landscape. Geography is a discipline of storytelling of the earth. Thus, we engage in listening, reading, writing and telling stories to recall and awaken our connection with the earth. Required for entry into
the ENV major.

ENV 250
Nature, the Sacred and Contemplation (3)
An exploration of the individual, cultural and contemplative dimensions of the human-nature relationship. It provides the contemplative tools of mindfulness meditation, sensory awareness exercises and other nature-based awareness practices in order for students to examine and refine their own experiences of nature and the sacred. A three-day retreat in September with a solo contemplative nature walk is a required part of the course. Course fee. Required for ENV majors.

ENV 253
Environmental Economics (3)
An examination of how conventional economic theory, as well as alternative economic theories, applies to natural resource use and the environment. Fundamental principles of economic relationship to natural resources, externalities, limits to economic growth, the trade-off between growth and the environment, globalization and global ecological issues are studied. Students learn tools of economic analysis and their application to environmental issues and problems.

ENV 260
Introduction to Permaculture (3)
This course introduces a core set of principles that help us to design human living environments that are increasingly self-sufficient while reducing our society's reliance on industrial systems of production and distribution that are fundamentally damaging to the planet's ecosystems. This design system known as Permaculture covers basic agro-ecological design theory. We explore this in a hands-on way while creating edible landscapes, diverse gardens, compost systems and growing food on the campus. This course also includes field trips and demonstrations. Materials fee. Required for ENV majors.

ENV 302
Environmental Pollution and Solutions (3)
An examination of the key issues of pollution in all of earth’s systems—air, water, soil, earth and human habitation. Students engage the key issues, understand the chemistry and explore the social dilemmas. This course particularly seeks to explore solutions, both technical and social. Students learn to become attentive monitors of pollution and creative problem-solvers in the context of community and governmental approaches to solutions. Required for ENV majors. Prerequisite: ENV 220.

ENV 311
Plant Ecology (3)
This field course introduces students to the principles of plant identification and the ecosystems of the Boulder region. Field trips are the central aspect of this class. We visit the diverse array of ecosystems of this region at various elevations. Students learn to read and understand the plant distribution patterns of this region. Prerequisite: ENV 220.

ENV 318
Deep Ecology (3)
This course serves as an exploration of the philosophical dimensions of the human-nature relationship. While Deep Ecology serves as the primary framework for this exploration, other approaches, such as ecofeminism and social ecology, are considered. Deep ecology alternatives for addressing ethical and ecological problems are examined along with options for effective and compassionate action. Required for ENV majors.

ENV 321
Geology (3)
This field course introduces students to the basic principles of geology through exploring the Front Range, and using the world class rock exposures found in this area. Students learn to identify rocks and minerals as well as landscapes shaped by streams, wind and glaciers. We study the vast expanse of geologic time in the context of the history of the Rocky Mountains. Field trips are a central part of this course. Prerequisite: ENV 220.

ENV 342
Permaculture Design (3)
This hands-on, applied course builds on the work of Introduction to Permaculture and examines mycology, orchard design, soil development, water management, natural pest management, crop rotation and other areas in the context of a variety of gardening models including permaculture and biodynamic farming. Students develop skills for sustainable food growing. The course also includes field trips and demonstrations. Materials fee. Prerequisite: ENV 260.

ENV 355
Environmental Justice (3)
An examination of contemporary issues of environmental justice/racism in the United States and throughout the world. The environmental justice movement is based on social justice/multicultural issues. Required for ES majors. Prerequisite: ENV 207.

ENV 357
Creating a Learning Community (noncredit)
This course provides support structures, allowing students to integrate further their academic and personal journey. Malidome Some defines community as “any group of people meeting with the intention to connect to the power within.” It is through the attentive and caring lens of others that we can come to truly know ourselves and be seen for who we are. Through community practices and engagement, action projects and activities, students have the opportunity to develop deeper relationships with their peers, share information and ideas, collaborate on projects and celebrate their journey together. ENV majors are required to take this course four times, usually in the junior and senior years.

ENV 363
Indigenous Environmental Issues (3)
An exploration of the historical relationship between indigenous peoples and their environment in each of the ecosystems under consideration; change in the relationship as a result of European contact; modernization and development; and the current integration of these areas into the present global market economy. Prerequisite: ENV 355.

ENV 370
Ecopsychology (3)
This course highlights key theories and core practices associated with the emerging field of ecopsychology. A basic tenet of ecopsychology is that personal and planetary well-being are inseparable. The theory and practice of ecopsychology is directed toward enhancing the health of the human-nature relationship. The work of ecopsychology is to understand, heal and develop the psychological dimensions of the human-nature relationship through connecting with natural processes in the web of life.

ENV 399
Independent Study (1–4)
Recommended for students majoring in Environmental Studies. Best taken after required courses in this area.

ENV 420
Environmental Service Learning: Ecological Restoration (3)
This course requires students to apply their skills from classroom learning and to engage in hands-on environmental work while developing their leadership skills and contemplative approaches to environmental action. Students engage in real issues and learn through practical experience about environmental problem solving, community concerns and teamwork. In this service-learning team project, students engage with community partners in ecological restoration work in our community. Students are responsible for project planning and design, implementation and final presentation of outcomes to the community partners. Required for ENV majors.

ENV 480
Senior Project Course (3)
The Senior Project Course is a capstone project–based course in which students demonstrate their cumulative knowledge, skills and abilities in a specific environmental-based research or action project. Students meet in a course format and work independently and collectively on a research project. Students are expected to follow guidelines for the research project and meet specific course criteria. Required for ENV majors.