Sustainability Minor

The course provides an overview of the theoretical foundation and applied use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). At the conclusion of the course, students will have working knowledge of GIS and their appropriate application in various disciplines and organizational settings. The historical development of innovative and collaborative geographic information tools that assist with managing the challenges associated with positional data will also be introduced. Students will demonstrate acquired knowledge via application of the fundamental and principal concepts of geographical information systems by completing a series of lab assignments and a culminating research project. Prerequisites: EGR 121 and CIS 265. (3 units; Fall)

This course explores diverse aspects of agriculture and agriculture sustainability, primarily from various natural science perspectives. Techniques of organic and sustainable agriculture will be emphasized. This course also touches on the social, political, and economic forces that relate to farming communities, food production and distribution, and consumption. (3 units; Spring, odd years)

This laboratory experience is designed to teach students about the basic concepts of urban agriculture. Students will gain hands on experience in the field of urban agriculture ranging from topics such as hydroponics, soil quality, composting, worm farming, erosion control, plant cloning and propagation, micro-greens, and how to grow food in planter boxes or small containers. Students will be taught a wide range of agricultural principles related to urban farming, urban gardening, and how to grow and distribute food locally in a sustainable system. Additional lab fee. (1 unit; Fall)

This course assesses the importance of soil and water as natural resources for ecosystems and societies. Soil and water resources, soil erosion, government conservation programs, water conservation, irrigation, salinity and drainage will be discussed. Understanding the principles of the soil water cycle to improve water use efficiency of dry land and irrigate systems. Understand how to utilize soil resource assessment tools to make land management decisions. Prerequisite: ENV 110. (3 units; Spring, even years)

Sustainability and Conservation is the science of preserving biodiversity and sustaining the earth. This is an interdisciplinary course that examines the human impact on biodiversity and the earth. The course synthesizes the fields of ecology, environmental science, evolution, genetics, philosophy, economics, sociology, and political science, with emphasis on the development of strategies for preserving populations, species, biological communities, and entire ecosystems. (4 units; Spring, odd years)