This course introduces students to the essential environmental issues of the 21st century. Students are introduced to core concepts in areas such as environmental degradation and pollution, biodiversity, urbanization, climate change, sustainable development, resources use and consumption, activism, and environmental justice. Each of these topics is taught from an interdisciplinary perspective that examines the interconnections among humans and the environment. (ScS) (SJ)(PJ)

This course focuses on key issues threatening natural resources, biodiversity, and climate in the context of using science as a tool to identify the magnitude of these threats. Students will apply an understanding of the best available science to develop solutions to mitigate these threats and work towards a more sustainable impact on the environment. Students will evaluate scientific literature to inform an understanding as well as develop skills on how to monitor environmental quality. (NS)

This course introduces students to the practice and theory of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as a method for analysis of the environment. Students will examine the fundamentals of GIS and GIS applications, learning the concepts needed to effectively manipulate, query, analyze, and visualize spatial-based data. At the end of the semester students should feel comfortable applying GIS to a range of environmental issues, and have a solid understanding of the procedures and data necessary to conduct geographical analysis. Contributes to Data Analytics and Data Science. (NS)

In this class, we deconstruct the complex cultural, economic, and environmental identity of the Lone Star State. We will explore historical documents and personal narratives that provide multiple perspectives from the point of view of Indigenous, Tejano, and formerly enslaved Texans. We will also compare these with Anglo texts that later came to dominate the narrative of Texas history and the Texas/Mexico border. We will question important symbols of Texan culture such as food, music, and film, but also the symbolism and history of the border itself. In short, we explore how contemporary and historic forces have shaped the Texas environment, culture, and political economy. Contributes to Latin American and Border Studies. (ScS)

The purpose of this course is to expose students to applications of Environmental and conservation Studies through (1) environmental monitoring and (2) conservation/restoration projects. This course examines management and policy issues relating to conservation, while providing scientific background to understand these issues. Students will organize a semester-long project focusing on management of the Southwestern Ecolab.

This course introduces students to concepts in sustainability, environmental justice, and social justice in the context of the European experience. Students will be asked to examine these issues from an interdisciplinary and critical perspective. We will discuss topics such as sustainable food and agriculture, transportation, energy, resource management, and climate resilience. Ultimately, this course also requires students to consider the contradictions of actually existing sustainability in Switzerland-a country simultaneously known for livability and sustainability while also demonstrating a record of xenophobia, racism, and sexism. Contributes to International Studies. Offered in Summer during study abroad. (SJ)(PJ)

This course provides a foundation in the theory and techniques of remote sensing and geospatial data visualization spanning the electromagnetic spectrum. Topics such as aerial imagery, satellites and sensors, image analysis using commercial software, as well as current applications of remote sensing will be covered. Throughout the course, students will become familiar with remote sensing theory as well as the application of remote sensing through labs in Google Earth Engine. Prerequisite: Environmental Studies 49-204.

This course explores the development of environmental policy in the United States since the 1970s. The purpose of this course is to help students (1) conceptualize the economic, political, and cultural issues associated with policy, (2) become aware of the policy process, key actors, and important legislation, and (3) apply this knowledge as capable professionals, scholars, and engaged citizens. The last three weeks of the course focus on contemporary policy issues in Texas such as water use and planning, endangered species protection, and energy policy. Contributes to Legal Studies Certificate. Prerequisite: Environmental Studies 49-104. (Fall) (ScS)

Soil is a complex and dynamic living ecosystem that is essential for life on earth. This course will provide foundational knowledge on soil formation and classification, and cover topics such as soil physical, chemical and biological properties and ecological processes focusing on soil nutrient cycling, interactions between the soil organisms and the environment and anthropogenic impacts on soil health. This course will also introduce students to tools used by soil scientists and land managers to characterize and analyze soil to develop sustainable soil management strategies. Contributes to Biology (Ecology and Evolutionary Biology). Prerequisite: Environmental Studies 49-144. (NS)

Following a brief review of environmental and social planning perspectives, this class explores the application of sustainability discourse and practice as it relates to (1) neoliberal policies and urban governance, (2) social and environmental justice issues, and (3) contemporary sustainability strategies. In the latter part of the semester, the course uses the Austin area as a case study for the evaluation of the promises and pitfalls of sustainable urban development in the 21st century. Topics include urban ecology, segregation and environmental racism, place-making, neoliberal governance, and planning/design issues related to climate change. Contributes to Feminist Studies. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing and above only. (ScS)(SJ)(PJ)

This course explores advanced topics in GIS, remote sensing, and geospatial technology. Students should have a solid foundation in GIS applications and techniques before entering this class. Course material will dive deeper into GIS theory and have a practical application focus. Students will gain experience in field data collection, network analysis, geocomputation, and the interpretation of datasets. Throughout the semester, students will apply these advanced geospatial techniques to a research project of their choosing. Contributes to Data Analytics and Computer-Aided Design & 3D Printing Certificate. Prerequisite: Environmental Studies 49-204. (NS)

This seminar requires students to analyze a local or regional environmental issue from multiple perspectives and it has a strong reading and discussion component. It also encourages environmental activism. Prerequisite: Environmental Studies 49-364. Only seniors majoring in Environmental Studies should register for this class. Offered annually. (WA)