The online catalog includes the most recent changes to courses and degree requirements that have been approved by the Faculty Senate, including changes that are not yet effective.
School of the Environment
environment.wsu.edu
Webster Physical Science Bldg, 1226
509-335-3009
Director and Career-Track Associate Professor, A. B. King; Associate Director for Undergraduate Education and Career-Track Associate Professor, K. M. Whitman; Associate Director for Research and Graduate Studies and Professor, L. A. Shipley; Professors, S. M. Bollens, A. K. Fremier, C. K. Keller, M. Ostrom, C. T. Robbins, J. Vervoort; Associate Professors, H. D. Adams, C. M. Cooper, C. S. Goldberg, J. Harrison, S. Henderson, M. Kramer, S. P. Long, J. McIntyre, K. Moffett, S. Roley, G. Rollwagen-Bollens, R. D. Sayler, M. Swanson, D. H. Thornton; Career-Track Associate Professors, M. Berger, J. Padowski, M. Pelch; Assistant Professors, H. Haemmerli, J. Haemmerli, J. Manning, A. Meddens, J. Scott, D. Singh; Career-Track Assistant Professors J. Menard, J. Rosso, A. Stahl; Lecturers, M. Billings, M. Ritts, W. Schlosser, B. Walker, S. Woodley; Adjunct Faculty, H. Brenkert-Smith, S. Caddy, J. Chappell, S. Converse, R. Cook, D. Dauble, R. Everett, J. Forbey, R. Gootee, B. Green, J. Gross, C. Grue, L. Heinse, T. Johnson, E. Laija, B. T. Maletzke, O. Neill, T. Paveglio, P. L. Pavek, P. Regan, J. L. Rachlow, L. Reed, T. S. Ridel, M. Rowe, M. A. Schroeder, S. Self, E. W. Shallenberger, K. Strickler, B. Tissot, T. N. Tollefson; Affiliate Faculty, J. Bishop, C. Bustamante, L. Carpenter-Boggs, A. Felsot, J. Freed, J. Garcia-Pabon, J. Goldberger, T. Hudson, P. Jacoby, C. Mack, L. New, T. Norton, A. Perleberg, C. Shultz, J. Stark, S. Sylvester, P. Thiers, K. Zobrist; Professors Emeriti, D. M. Baumgartner, K. A. Blatner, W. Budd, R. C. Chapman, F. F. Foit, A. Ford, D. Gaylord, D. P. Hanley, L. H. Hardesty, G. W. Hinman, P. Larson, B. Moore, J. R. Pratt, P. E. Rosenberg, R. L. Shew, A. Watkinson, G. D. Webster, J. A. Wolff, G. I. Young.
Humans are rapidly altering planetary biogeochemical processes and earth systems without fully knowing the consequences. Environmental challenges include food, water, and energy shortages, changing climate and weather patterns, rising and acidifying oceans, depleted soil and forest resources, and endangerment of a third or more of all the natural biological diversity of life on Earth. In response, society is shifting priorities to address these issues and students are looking for degrees that provide interdisciplinary training to tackle these emerging problems. Never before has there been such urgent need to address complex, multidimensional environmental and social problems.
The WSU School of the Environment strives to create synergy by integrating research, teaching, and extension efforts to ensure an ecologically sound, socially responsible, and economically viable future for communities in Washington. The School integrates the geosciences (the physical context for global change), ecosystem and natural resource sciences (the biological context), and social/sustainability sciences (the human context). School faculty are located throughout WSU – in Pullman, Tri-Cities, Vancouver, and the WSU research and extension centers.
Faculty and students in the School are:
- Generating fundamental knowledge about the Earth, environmental and ecological processes, natural resources, and human-environment interactions.
- Developing solutions to state, national, and global environmental problems (e.g., sustainable use of water, forests, wildlife, and other natural resources).
- Providing cutting-edge interdisciplinary undergraduate and graduate training to the next generation of research scientists, environmental and natural resource managers, environmental leaders, policy makers, and global citizens.
- Facilitating the integrated research and education necessary to support the Land Grant mission to achieve a sustainable future.
- Promoting the long-term conservation and enhancement of biological diversity and natural resources in an ecologically sustainable manner.
The WSU School of the Environment has defined several core themes to better address new and emerging challenges in the study of earth, environment, and ecology. These include:
•“Water: Connecting Earth and Life,” current strengths in eco-hydrology: modeling land and water interactions, biophysical, chemical and ecological dynamics in freshwater ecosystems and water resources in the Columbia River Basin.
•“Global Change: Sustaining Healthy Landscapes and Communities,” existing strengths in landscape and spatial ecology, wildlife ecology and conservation of biodiversity, restoring ecosystems, and environmental social science.
•“Dynamic Earth,” Earth system science, with existing strengths in earth system chemistry, planetary evolution and deep time, and geologic and environmental hazards.
Specific information below describes courses and majors under the Bachelor of Science in Earth and Environmental Sciences.
BS in EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
The School of the Environment offers a BS in Earth and Environmental Sciences with majors in: Earth Sciences, Environmental and Ecosystem Sciences, Forest Ecology and Management, and Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences. Additional information about the School can be found at: http://environment.wsu.edu/.
Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the School of the Environment are concerned with the diverse environmental challenges confronting the future of all life on Earth. Students learn to communicate and use critical thinking and creative problem solving to address pressing issues confronting global ecology and sustainability on a dynamic and changing Earth. Students apply scientific methods, quantitative and symbolic reasoning, and decision-making processes as individuals or teams to explore complex scientific and environmental issues and analyze problems in both the natural and social sciences. We emphasize realistic experiential education (e.g., hands-on labs, field trips and camps) to prepare students for graduate studies or employment in the fields of natural resources, environmental science or earth sciences. Graduates achieve expertise in a professional specialty and develop the technical skills and a deeper understanding of the science and environmental management needed to succeed in a global society increasingly dependent on developing a sustainable future.
Web Link: http://environment.wsu.edu/outcomes/
Earth Sciences Major
Earth Science is the study of the Earth, its composition, processes, structure, origin and evolution. Virtually every aspect of modern life is in some way dependent on the science of geology. The geologic record provides the context for understanding episodes of past rapid global change. It is also the geologist’s job to evaluate groundwater quality and quantity for drinking water supply, discover new reserves of energy and raw materials, assess geologic hazards in land-use planning and unravel the mechanisms of volcanism, earthquakes, plate tectonics and the origins of life.
In addition to the University Common Requirements (UCORE), basic science courses and the School of the Environment common core, students majoring earth sciences complete a series of 300-400-level courses designed to provide training for professional geological work as well as preparation for postgraduate study.
The School of the Environment has well-equipped geological laboratory facilities, including electron microprobe, X-ray diffraction and fluorescence instruments, a laser ablation cell and 6 mass spectrometers for the determination of trace elements, isotope ratios, and organic compounds. There are active research programs in volcanology, geochemistry, tectonics, groundwater and contaminant hydrology, sedimentology, stratigraphy, and astrobiology.
Earth Sciences majors are expected to graduate with a complete understanding of earth, including its constituent materials, environments, and processes through which these materials form and interact, and its physical, chemical, and biological evolution. Students are expected to be capable of examining and interpreting relations among geologic materials in the field. Problem solving and critical thinking will be applied in the classroom, laboratory, and field, and effective communication skills will be expected. Students will demonstrate quantitative understanding of earth materials and processes.
The Geology Club is open to all students interested in geology and allied sciences. It provides additional opportunities for our students to learn about local and regional geology. Weekend field and mineral collecting trips take advantage of the very diverse geology of the inland northwest region, and provides other out-of-class opportunities for students to informally interact with each other, faculty and professionals outside of WSU.
As preparation for work toward an advanced degree in geology, a student should have completed, or plan to take without graduate credit, the following or their equivalents: SOE 102, 207, 210, 315, 320, 340, 350, 356; one year of general physics; one year of general inorganic chemistry; mathematics through two semesters of calculus. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is normally required for admission.
Environmental and Ecosystem Sciences Major
The Environmental and Ecosystem Sciences major is offered for students interested in biological, physical, or socioeconomic aspects of environmental and natural sciences. This is the most flexible of our majors, offering exceptional opportunities for tailoring of courses to match individual student interests and needs within the realm of environmental and ecosystem sciences.
Environmental and Ecosystem Sciences is concerned with natural and managed environments and their interactions with biological and human systems. Emphasis is put on the comprehensive understanding of environmental and ecological contexts, assessment of beneficial and disruptive anthropogenic impacts, and methodologies to analyze and resolve conflict in complex systems. Students acquire interdisciplinary perspectives and understanding necessary to prepare them for a variety of roles in the study, planning and management of the environment.
All students in Environmental and Ecosystem Sciences major will receive a well-rounded, general science background in the physical and life sciences. They will develop an in-depth, interdisciplinary expertise in an area of concentration within the field. In addition to the University Common Requirements (UCORE), basic science courses and a common core taken by all students completing a BS in Earth and Environmental Sciences, students select a structured set of courses in concert with their advisor based upon their area(s) of primary interest. Lists of approved electives are available from an advisor.
The School of the Environment has well-equipped laboratory facilities for physical, chemical, and biological assessment of aquatic ecosystems (streams and lakes), modeling environmental processes, and evaluating impacts of human activities. There are active research programs examining effects of invasive species, ecosystem restoration, and many aspects of water resource management.
The Environmental Science Club provides opportunities for students with common interests to share ideas and discuss relevant topics concerning environmental issues. The club contributes to sustainability programs at WSU and helps promote environmentally conscious activities on and around the WSU campus. In addition, it provides out of class opportunities for students to interact with faculty and other professionals. These interactions create opportunities for networking that helps students find summer and permanent employment as well as internship opportunities in their chosen field.
Forest Ecology and Management Major
The Forest Ecology and Management major is designed to provide students the educational basis for successfully pursuing a professional career in forestry. Each forestry student, in addition to completing the university UCORE requirements, basic science requirements, the School of the Environment environmental common core takes a block of forestry classes in such areas as forest measurements, sampling, remote sensing, geographic information systems, plant ecology and silviculture. In addition, students completing the basic requirements of this degree also have the option to select a limited number of professional electives to further focus their basic skill set. For example, by selecting the correct courses students may easily complete a minor in geospatial analysis. Students completing this degree also meet the qualifications required in U.S. Office of Personnel Management for forester.
The student chapter of the Society of American Foresters (Forestry Club) provides out of class opportunities for students to interact with each other socially and professionally, with the faculty and other professionals in the region. Students regularly work on forestry related projects for landowners in the area under the supervision of faculty members, gaining practical field experience and further insights into the profession. These experiences are often helpful in obtaining summer jobs, internships and professional employment upon graduation.
Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Major
The Wildlife Ecology and Conservation major provides students with a basic background in the sciences plus additional courses emphasizing wildlife ecology and management of wildlife habitats and populations. Students are prepared to pursue a variety of careers focusing on wildlife biology and wildlife management. The core requirements plus approved wildlife electives may allow majors to meet the US Office of Personnel Management requirements for wildlife biologist, wildlife refuge manager, general biologist, and zoologist. Through judicious use of electives a student can also meet additional civil service requirements for fish biologist and range conservationist. Wildlife students can further individualize and often enhance their professional credentials by minoring in another subject such as criminal justice, geospatial analysis, or forestry.
In addition to the University Common Requirements (UCORE), basic science courses and the School of the Environment common core, students in this major complete a core of wildlife classes emphasizing wildlife ecology, management, nutrition, population ecology, and conservation biology. Opportunities for specialization and pursuit of individual student interests beyond the wildlife core are provided through approved electives in the areas of habitat ecology, aquatic ecology, animal ecology, and conservation biology. Students seeking to complete the key science perquisites for admission to the College of Veterinary Medicine may do so as a part of this major through the pre-vet option.
The student chapter of The Wildlife Society provides out of class opportunities for students including lectures, field trips, hands-on learning while interacting with socially and professionally with each other, faculty and other professionals. These types of contacts along together with employing organizations and interaction with career services on campus help students obtain summer and permanent employment, as well as internship and cooperative education opportunities in their chosen field.
Teaching and research facilities and laboratories on campus provide students with knowledge and training in wildlife ecology and conservation, including Bear Research Education and Conservation Program, Wild Ungulate and Small Mammal Research Facility, Large Carnivore Conservation Lab, Endangered Species Lab, Conservation Genetics and Environmental DNA Lab, Geographic Information System Lab, and the E.H. Steffen Center. These facilities and nearby natural forest, rangeland and aquatic ecosystems provide opportunities for field and experiential learning.
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Students seeking to complete the key science perquisites for admission to the College of Veterinary Medicine may do so through the proper selection of basic science courses and through the use of their electives within the Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences.
Minors
The School of the Environment offers minors in: Earth Science, Environmental Science, Forestry, Natural Resources, and Wildlife Ecology. Please contact one our offices for more information.
Transfer Students
Transfer students should plan to complete the basic required courses in English composition, chemistry, speech, biological sciences, mathematics, microeconomics, social sciences, and arts and humanities by the end of their sophomore year. Students may be granted credit for equivalent technical courses taken at other academic institutions. Refer to WSU Transfer Guides for Community Colleges, available through the web, for details.
Graduate Programs
Graduate programs provide students with an increased depth of knowledge of the scientific basis of their profession and a more complete understanding of the holistic nature of global change science.
The School of the Environment offers thesis-based MS degrees in:
- Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences
- Geology
PhD degrees are offered in:
- Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences
- Geology
For each graduate degree, students may specialize in a variety of biological, geochemical, physical or social science aspects of Earth, environmental or natural resource science through advanced coursework and graduate research. Graduate course requirements are flexible, and students with degrees in related fields are encouraged to apply. To be accepted to graduate study, applicants must (1) meet the Graduate School’s minimum admission requirements, (2) complete the department’s supplemental application form, (3) submit Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores and (4) have at least one member of the department’s faculty willing to serve as the student’s major advisor. (Note: the School of the Environment does not have a minimum required GRE score for admission.) Students interested in graduate study should consult the WSU Graduate Bulletin and contact the School of the Environment for further information on opportunities and requirements.
Schedules of Studies
Honors students complete the Honors College requirements which replace the UCORE requirements.
Earth Sciences (120 Credits)
A student maintains eligibility for the major by completing each of the following courses with a C or better by the start of the third semester in the major: SOE 101 or 102, SOE 110 or BIOLOGY 106, and CHEM 101 or 105. The following courses must be completed with a C or better by the end of the fourth semester in the major: MATH 140, MATH 171, or STAT 212, and SOE 350. In addition, admitted students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
A student who does not meet these minimum requirements for maintaining eligibility in the major may be released by the School of the Environment after two semesters of failing to meet minimums. A student may be eligible to re-enter into the same major when minimum requirements are met.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 101[PSCI] or 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 106 or electives1 | 3 |
| SOE 100 | 1 |
| SOE 101 or 102 | 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 102 or 106 | 4 |
| ECONS 101 [SSCI] | 3 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 108 or electives1 | 2 |
| SOE 210 | 4 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| PHYSICS 101 or 201, or ASTRONOM 135 or 138 | 3 or 4 |
| PHYSICS 111 or 211, if taking PHYSICS 101 or 201 | 0 or 1 |
| SOE 340 [M] | 4 |
| SOE 350 | 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| MATH 140 [QUAN], MATH 171 [QUAN], or STAT 212 [QUAN]1 | 4 |
| SOE 110 or BIOLOGY 106 | 4 |
| Earth Sciences or Professional Electives2,3 | 7 or 8 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Term | Credits |
| Summer Session: SOE 207 4 | 3 |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| SOIL SCI 368 | 3 |
| Earth Sciences or Professional Electives2,3 | 9 |
| Foreign Language, if needed, or Electives5 | 3 - 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| COM 102 [COMM] or H D 205 [COMM] | 3 or 4 |
| SOE 315 or 461 | 3 |
| Earth Sciences or Professional Electives2,3 | 6 |
| Foreign Language, if needed5 | 0 or 4 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372 | 3 or 4 |
| Earth Sciences or Professional Electives2,3 | 9 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| SOE 312 [DIVR] | 3 |
| SOE 474 [CAPS] [M] or 480 [CAPS]3 | 3 |
| Earth Sciences or Professional Electives2,3 | 6 |
| Exit Survey6 | |
Footnotes
| 1 | MATH 106 and 108 are required courses. However, if students have tested into or taken MATH 140, 171, 172, STAT 212, or ALEKS with an 80% or better, MATH 106 and 108 will be waived. If waived, students may need to take additional credits to meet the University minimum requirement of 120 credits. |
| 2 | Earth Sciences or Professional Electives: Students will complete six (6) courses of Earth Sciences electives, selected from the following list: SOE 303, 320, 356, 357, 405, 474, 475, 480, and Geology 490 (Co-op course with the University of Idaho). In addition, students will complete 22 credits of professional electives, 13 of which must be upper division. Professional Electives are courses selected by students in concert with their advisor and pertain to their major and/or to a specific sub-discipline of interest. Professional electives may also include courses from outside of their major as needed to complete a minor in another field of study. Course used to fulfill the [CAPS] requirement cannot be used to fulfill Earth Sciences or Professional Electives. |
| 3 | The School of the Environment requires students to take three [M] courses. At least one writing in the major [M] course should come from the professional electives. |
| 4 | SOE 207 is the approved Experiential Elective for Earth Science majors. |
| 5 | Two years of high school foreign language or at least two semesters of college-level foreign language are required by the College of Arts and Sciences for graduation. |
| 6 | Students must complete a School of the Environment exit survey, administered during the final semester. |
Environmental and Ecosystem Sciences (120 Credits)
A student maintains eligibility for the major by completing each of the following courses with a C or better by the end of the fourth semester in the major: MATH 106, MATH 108, BIOLOGY 106, BIOLOGY 107, CHEM 101 or 105, CHEM 102 or 106, SOE 101 or 102, and SOE 110. In addition, admitted students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
A student who does not meet these minimum requirements for maintaining eligibility in the major may be released by the School of the Environment after two semesters of failing to meet minimums. A student may be eligible to re-enter into the same major when minimum requirements are met.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 106 | 4 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 106 or electives1 | 3 |
| SOE 110 [BSCI] | 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| CHEM 101 [PSCI] or 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 108 or electives1 | 2 |
| SOE 101 or 102 | 4 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 107 | 4 |
| ECONS 101 [SSCI] | 3 |
| SOE 210 or 2502 | 3 or 4 |
| Foreign Language, if needed3 | 0 - 4 |
| 200-level Required Electives4 | 2 or 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 102 or 106 | 4 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372 [M]2 | 3 or 4 |
| STAT 212 [QUAN], MATH 140 [QUAN], or 171 [QUAN] | 4 |
| Foreign Language, if needed3 | 0 - 4 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| COM 102 [COMM] or H D 205 [COMM] | 3 or 4 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| SOIL SCI 368 | 3 |
| Professional Electives5 | 7 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Diversity [DIVR], if needed, or Electives6 | 3 |
| SOE 312 [DIVR] or POL S 4306 | 3 |
| SOE 315 or 461 | 3 |
| SOE Experiential Requirement or Electives7 | 3 |
| Professional Electives5 | 4 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| SOE 403, STAT 360, 370, or 412 8 | 3 |
| SOE 404 [CAPS] [M], 454 [CAPS] [M], or 477 [CAPS] 9 | 3 |
| Writing in the Major [M] or Electives10 | 3 |
| Professional Electives5 | 7 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Writing in the Major [M] or Electives10 | 3 |
| Professional Electives5,9 | 13 |
| Exit Survey 11 | |
Footnotes
| 1 | MATH 106 and 108 are required courses. However, if students have tested into or taken MATH 140, 171, 172 or ALEKS with an 80% or better, MATH 106 and 108 will be waived. If waived, students may need to take additional credits to meet the University minimum of 120 credits. |
| 2 | Students who take SOE 250 must also take BIOLOGY 372. |
| 3 | Two years of high school foreign language or at least two semesters of college-level foreign language are required by the College of Arts and Sciences for graduation. |
| 4 | Approved 200-level required electives include SOE 204, 230, 250, 275, 285. Not all courses available on all campuses. |
| 5 | Environmental and Ecosystem Sciences Professional Electives (31 credits) are courses selected by students in concert with their advisor and pertain to their major and/or to a specific sub-discipline of interest. Professional electives may also include courses from outside of their major as needed to complete a minor in another field of study. Approved courses include but are not limited to: ECONS 330, or any 300-400-level SOE or SOIL SCI course, or as approved by advisor. |
| 6 | SOE 312 satisfies both the [DIVR] and the Society and Environmental Management requirements. |
| 7 | SOE Experiential Requirement: Students in the School of the Environment are required to fulfill the SOE Experiential Requirement before graduation. This requirement is designed to give students experience they will not receive in the traditional classroom-oriented course, and to better prepare them for a successful career after graduation. Students may choose 3 credits of coursework from SOE 492 or 495, or as approved by advisor. As an alternative to coursework, students may meet the requirement by documenting at least 135 hours of relevant practical experience. Students choosing the practical experience option may need an additional 3 credits of electives to meet the University requirement of 120 total credits. |
| 8 | MATH 172 is a prerequisite for STAT 360 and 370. |
| 9 | Students who take SOE 477 [CAPS] may need to take an [M] course within their Professional Electives to fulfill the requirement for 3 [M] courses. |
| 10 | The School of the Environment requires students to complete 3 [M] courses. Check with advisor for course recommendation. |
| 11 | Students must complete a School of the Environment exit survey, administered during the final semester. |
Forest Ecology and Management (120 Credits)
A student maintains eligibility for the major by completing each of the following courses with a C or better by the end of the fourth semester in the major: MATH 106, MATH 108, BIOLOGY 106, BIOLOGY 107, CHEM 101 or 105, SOE 204 and SOE 301. In addition, admitted students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
A student who does not meet these minimum requirements for maintaining eligibility in the major may be released by the School of the Environment after two semesters of failing to meet minimums. A student may be eligible to re-enter into the same major when minimum requirements are met.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 106 [BSCI] | 4 |
| ECONS 101 [SSCI] | 3 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| MATH 106 or Electives1 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| BIOLOGY 107 | 4 |
| CHEM 101 [PSCI] or 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 108 or Electives 1 | 2 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| COM 102 [COMM] or H D 205 [COMM] | 3 or 4 |
| ECONS 330 | 3 |
| SOE 204 | 2 |
| SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372 | 3 or 4 |
| SOE 301 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| MATH 140 [QUAN] or STAT 212 [QUAN] | 4 |
| SOE 302 | 3 |
| SOE 312 [DIVR] | 3 |
| SOIL SCI 201 | 3 |
| SOIL SCI 374 | 3 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| SOE 210 | 4 |
| SOE 304 | 4 |
| SOE 305 | 3 |
| SOIL SCI 368 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed2 | 0-4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| ECONS 352 | 3 |
| SOE 315 or 4613 | 3 |
| SOE 403 | 3 |
| SOE 438 | 3 |
| SOE Experiential Requirement or electives4 | 3 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| SOE 446 [M] or 450 [M]5 | 3 |
| SOE 454 [CAPS] [M]5 | 3 |
| STAT 412 | 3 |
| Professional Electives6 | 3 |
| Complete Forestry Experiential Requirement7 | |
| Second Term | Credits |
| SOE 464 [M]5 | 3 |
| SOE 484 | 3 |
| SOE 485 | 4 |
| SOIL SCI 468 | 4 |
| Foreign Language, if needed2 | 0-4 |
| Exit Survey8 | |
Footnotes
| 1 | MATH 106 and 108 are required courses. However, if students have tested into or taken MATH 140, 171, 172, STAT 212, or ALEKS with an 80% or better, MATH 106 and 108 will be waived. If waived, students may need to take additional credits to meet the University minimum requirement of 120 credits. |
| 2 | Two years of high school foreign language or at least two semesters of college-level foreign language are required by the College of Arts and Sciences for graduation. |
| 3 | SOE 315 requires additional prerequisites of CHEM 102 or 106, and SOE 101 or 102. |
| 4 | SOE Experiential Requirement: Students in the School of the Environment are required to fulfill the SOE Experiential Requirement before graduation. This requirement is designed to give students experience they will not receive in the traditional classroom-oriented course, and to better prepare them for a successful career after graduation. Students may choose 3 credits of coursework from SOE 492 or 495, or as approved by advisor. As an alternative to coursework, students may meet the requirement by documenting at least 135 hours of relevant practical experience. Students choosing the practical experience option may need an additional 3 credits of electives to meet the University requirement of 120 total credits. |
| 5 | The School of the Environment requires students to take three [M] courses. |
| 6 | Forest Ecology and Management Professional Elective (3 credits) is a course selected by students in concert with their advisor and pertaining to their major and/or to a specific sub-discipline of interest. Approved Professional electives include, but are not limited to: any CRM J course or any 200-400-level ANIM SCI, BIOLOGY, MBIOS, SOE, or SOIL SCI course. |
| 7 | Forestry Experiential Requirement: Forestry majors will need to complete an additional 135 hours of volunteer or paid work related to their field of study and approved by their advisor to meet the requirements of the Forestry Core. |
| 8 | Students must complete a School of the Environment exit survey, administered during the final semester. |
Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences - Honors Accelerated Pre-Vet Program (124 Credits)
A student may be admitted to the Wildlife Ecology & Conservation Sciences major by making their intention known to the School of the Environment no later than the first semester of the sophomore year.
A student maintains eligibility for the major’s accelerated pre-vet program by completing each of the following courses with a C or better by the end of the third semester in the major: MATH 106, MATH 108, BIOLOGY 106, BIOLOGY 107, CHEM 105, and SOE 300. In addition, admitted students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
A student who does not meet these minimum requirements for maintaining eligibility in the major may be released by the School of the Environment after two semesters of failing to meet minimums. A student may be eligible to re-enter into the same major when minimum requirements are met.
First-Third Years
Students will participate in a three-year program, completing all Honors requirements, the Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences core, and pre-veterinary medicine requirements. Students must complete a minimum of 90 undergraduate credits including 30 credits of upper-division coursework in the first three years.
Fourth-Seventh Years
Students will enter the College of Veterinary Medicine and complete the requirements for total credits and upper-division credits before earning the BS in Earth and Environmental Sciences in their fourth year. Those students finishing all required classes would complete only the DVM curriculum from this point on. Successful completion of the College of Veterinary Medicine program will earn the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.
Interested students must be advised by faculty in the School of the Environment, and should contact the school no later than the first semester of the sophomore year. NOTE: If the student is not accepted or withdraws from the accelerated track, the student could earn the BS in Earth and Environmental Sciences and/or apply to the College of Veterinary Medicine under normal procedures.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 106 | 4 |
| CHEM 105 | 4 |
| ENGLISH 298 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed1 | 0 - 4 |
| MATH 1062 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 107 | 4 |
| CHEM 106 or 116 | 4 |
| ECONS 198 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed1 | 0 - 4 |
| MATH 1082 | 2 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| HONORS 280 | 3 |
| SOE 3003 | 3 |
| SOE 310 | 4 |
| SOIL SCI 368 | 3 |
| STAT 212 | 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 345 | 4 |
| HONORS 2904 | 0 - 3 |
| HONORS 3985 | 0 - 1 |
| PHYSICS 101 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 111 | 1 |
| SOE 312 | 3 |
| SOE 431 | 3 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 301 | 4 |
| HONORS 370 | 3 |
| MBIOS 303 | 4 |
| SOE 301 | 3 |
| SOE 435 | 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| HONORS 380 | 3 |
| HONORS 390 | 3 |
| HONORS 450 | 3 |
| SOE 302 | 3 |
| SOE 446 [M] | 3 |
| SOE 450 [M] or 464 [M] | 3 |
| Complete School of the Environment Exit Survey | |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| DVM coursework | 15 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| DVM coursework | 15 |
Footnotes
| 1 | Language proficiency equivalent to four years of high school foreign language or four semesters of college-level foreign language are required by the Honors College for graduation. |
| 2 | MATH 106 and 108 are required courses. However, if students have tested into or taken MATH 140, 171, 172, or ALEKS with an 80% or better, MATH 106 and 108 will be waived. If waived, students may need to take additional credits to meet the minimum 90 undergraduate credits. |
| 3 | Alternative to SOE 300 is BIOLOGY 372 [M] |
| 4 | Students who complete CHEM 116 fulfill the Honors College HONORS 290 requirement and another 3-credit course can be substituted. |
| 5 | The Honors College recommends that students enroll in and complete HONORS 398, an optional one-credit “Thesis Proposal” class. HONORS 398 should be taken sophomore or junior year. |
Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences - Pre-Veterinary Option (120 Credits)
A student maintains eligibility for the major by completing each of the following courses with a C or better by the end of the fourth semester in the major: Math 106, Math 108, Biology 106, Biology 107, Chemistry 105, SOE 204 and SOE 300. In addition, admitted students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
A student who does not meet these minimum requirements for maintaining eligibility in the major may be released by the School of the Environment after two semesters of failing to meet minimums. A student may be eligible to re-enter into the same major when minimum requirements are met.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 106 [BSCI] | 4 |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 106 or Electives1 | 2- 3 |
| SOE 100 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 107 | 4 |
| CHEM 106 | 4 |
| COM 102 [COMM] or H D 205 [COMM] | 3 or 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 1081 | 0 - 2 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 345 | 4 |
| ECONS 101 [SSCI] | 3 |
| SOE 204 | 4 |
| SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372 | 3 or 4 |
| SOE 301 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| MATH 140 [QUAN], 171 [QUAN], or STAT 212 [QUAN] | 4 |
| MBIOS 303 | 4 |
| SOE 302 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed2 | 0 - 4 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 301 | 4 |
| SOE 310 | 4 |
| SOIL SCI 368 | 3 |
| STAT 412 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed2 | 0 - 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Advanced Wildlife Elective3 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 101 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 111 | 1 |
| SOE 312 [DIVR] | 3 |
| SOE 435 | 4 |
| Water Science Course4 | 3 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Advanced Wildlife Elective3 | 3 |
| Animal Systematics Course5 | 4 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| Plant Course6 | 3 |
| SOE 441 | 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| Integrative Capstone7 | 3 |
| SOE 210 | 4 |
| SOE 438 | 3 |
| SOE Experiential Requirement8 | 0-3 |
| Exit Survey9 | |
Footnotes
| 1 | MATH 106 and 108 are required courses. However, if students have tested into or taken MATH 140, 171, 172, STAT 212, or ALEKS with an 80% or better, MATH 106 and 108 will be waived. If waived, students may need to take additional credits to meet the University minimum requirement of 120 credits. |
| 2 | Two years of high school foreign language or at least two semesters of college-level foreign language are required by the College of Arts and Sciences for graduation. |
| 3 | Advanced Wildlife Elective (6 credits): Choose from SOE 318, 431, 446 [M], 450 [M], and 464 [M]. Selecting at least one [M] course is recommended. The School of the Environment requires students to take three [M] courses. |
| 4 | Choose one of the following three Water Science courses: SOE 275 (fall), 411 (fall), or 461 (spring). |
| 5 | Choose one of the following Animal Systematics Courses: BIOLOGY 423, 428, or 432 [M]. |
| 6 | Choose one of the following two plant courses: SOE 305 (Fall), or 306 (Spring). |
| 7 | Choose one of the following two integrated capstone courses: SOE 471 [CAPS] (spring), or 454 [CAPS] [M] (fall). |
| 8 | SOE Experiential Requirement: Students in the School of the Environment are required to fulfill the SOE Experiential Requirement before graduation. This requirement is designed to give students experience they will not receive in the traditional classroom-oriented course, and to better prepare them for a successful career after graduation. Students may choose 3 credits of coursework from SOE 492 or 495, or as approved by advisor. As an alternative to coursework, students may meet the requirement by documenting at least 135 hours of relevant practical experience. Students choosing the practical experience option may need an additional 3 credits of electives to meet the University requirement of 120 total credits. |
| 9 | Students must complete a School of the Environment exit survey, administered during the final semester. |
Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences – Basic Option (120 Credits)
A student maintains eligibility for the major by completing each of the following courses with a C or better by the end of the fourth semester in the major: MATH 106, MATH 108, BIOLOGY 106, BIOLOGY 107, CHEM 101 or 105, SOE 204 and SOE 300. In addition, admitted students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
A student who does not meet these minimum requirements for maintaining eligibility in the major may be released by the School of the Environment after two semesters of failing to meet minimums. A student may be eligible to re-enter into the same major when minimum requirements are met.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| BIOLOGY 106 [BSCI] | 4 |
| ECONS 101 [SSCI] | 3 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 106 or electives1 | 3 |
| SOE 100 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| BIOLOGY 107 | 4 |
| CHEM 101 [PSCI] or 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 108 or electives1 | 2 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| COM 102 [COMM] or H D 205 [COMM] | 3 or 4 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| SOE 204 | 4 |
| SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372 | 3 or 4 |
| SOE 301 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 102 or 106 | 4 |
| SOE 302 | 3 |
| SOE 312 [DIVR] | 3 |
| STAT 212 [QUAN] | 4 |
| Foreign Language, if needed 2 | 0 - 4 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| SOE 210 | 4 |
| SOE 310 | 4 |
| SOIL SCI 368 | 3 |
| STAT 412 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed2 | 0 - 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| SOE 435 | 4 |
| SOE 438 | 3 |
| Advanced Wildlife Elective3 | 3 |
| Water Science Course4 | 3 |
| Professional Electives5 | 3 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Animal Systematics Course6 | 4 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| SOE 441 | 4 |
| Plant Course7 | 3 |
| Professional Elective5 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Advanced Wildlife Elective3 | 3 |
| Integrative Capstone [CAPS]8 | 3 |
| Professional Electives5 | 7 |
| SOE Experiential Requirement9 | 0-3 |
| Exit Survey10 | |
Footnotes
| 1 | MATH 106 and 108 are required courses. However, if students have tested into or taken MATH 140, 171, 172, STAT 212, or ALEKS with an 80% or better, MATH 106 and 108 will be waived. If waived, students may need to take additional credits to meet the University minimum requirement of 120 credits. |
| 2 | Two years of high school foreign language or at least two semesters of college-level foreign language are required by the College of Arts and Sciences for graduation. |
| 3 | Advanced Wildlife Elective (6 credits): Choose from SOE 318, 431, 446 [M], 450 [M], and 464 [M]. Selecting at least one [M] course is recommended. The School of the Environment requires students to take three [M] courses. |
| 4 | Choose one of the following three Water Science courses: SOE 275 (fall), 411 (fall), or 461 (spring). |
| 5 | Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences Professional Electives (13 credits) are courses selected by students in concert with their advisor and pertain to their major and career goals. Selecting at least one [M] course is recommended. The School of the Environment requires students to take three [M] courses. |
| 6 | Choose one of the following Animal Systematics Courses: BIOLOGY 423, 428, or 432 [M]. |
| 7 | Choose one of the following two plant courses: SOE 305 (Fall), or 306 (Spring). |
| 8 | Choose one of the following two integrated capstone courses: SOE 471 [CAPS] (spring), or 454 [CAPS] [M] (fall). |
| 9 | SOE Experiential Requirement: Students in the School of the Environment are required to fulfill the SOE Experiential Requirement before graduation. This requirement is designed to give students experience they will not receive in the traditional classroom-oriented course, and to better prepare them for a successful career after graduation. Students may choose 3 credits of coursework from SOE 492 or 495, or as approved by advisor. As an alternative to coursework, students may meet the requirement by documenting at least 135 hours of relevant practical experience. Students choosing the practical experience option may need an additional 3 credits of electives to meet the University requirement of 120 total credits. |
| 10 | Students must complete a School of the Environment exit survey, administered during the final semester. |
Minors
Earth Sciences
An Earth Sciences minor requires a minimum of 17 credits. Required courses: SOE 101 or 102, and SOE 210. Restricted electives: at least 9 credits from SOE 303, 315, 322, 340, 350, 356, 357, 390, 405, 412, 474, 475, 480. The minor must include 9 credits of 300-400-level course work earned in WSU courses or through WSU-approved education abroad or educational exchange courses.
Environmental Science
A minor in Environmental Science requires a minimum of 16 credits. Students must complete SOE 110, 444, and a minimum of 9 additional credits selected from SOE 230, 275, 280, 285, 300, 312, 411, 412, 438, 450, 454, and 477, or any advisor approved elective. Of these 16 credits, 9 must be in upper-division work earned in WSU courses or through WSU-approved education abroad or educational exchange courses. This minor is not open to students majoring in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences or in Environmental and Ecosystem Sciences.
Forestry
A minor in Forestry requires a minimum of 19 credits. Required courses: SOE 204, SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372, SOE 301, and 305. Restricted electives: at least 6 credits selected from SOE 304, 306, 420, 464, 484, 485, 486. The minor must include 9 credits of upper-division work earned in WSU courses or through WSU-approved education abroad or educational exchange courses.
Natural Resources
A Natural Resources Minor requires a minimum of 16 credit hours. Required course: SOE 100. Restricted electives: at least 15 credit hours from SOE 300, 301, 302, 305, 312, 403, 411, 417, 435, 438, 450, 461, 464, and ECONS 330, with at least 9 credit hours of SOE courses with a natural resources focus (wildlife, forestry, environmental science) or other approved courses numbered 300 or higher. This minor is not open to students majoring in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences or Environmental and Ecosystem Sciences. Credit hours for the minor must include 9 credit hours of upper-division work earned in WSU courses or through WSU-approved education abroad or educational exchange courses.
Wildlife Ecology
The minor in Wildlife Ecology requires a minimum of 17 credits. Required courses: SOE 310 and 435. Restricted electives: at least 9 credits from SOE 318, 431, 441, 446, and 450. Electives may include one of BIOLOGY 423, 428, or 432. The minor must include 9 credits earned in WSU courses or through WSU-approved education abroad or educational exchange courses.
Certificates
Water Resources Science and Management
The Certificate in Water Resources Science and Management, administered by the School of the Environment, is an interdisciplinary certificate for students interested in water resources. The certificate includes 15 credits and an experiential requirement. Students must complete a minimum of one course from each of four water cluster areas listed below. Courses listed under more than one cluster area will not count toward two cluster areas simultaneously. Note that listed courses may require prerequisites. To ensure an interdisciplinary experience, selected courses must represent two or more different subject areas. A final grade of “C” or better is required for each course applied to the certificate and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better is required for the certificate program as a whole.
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Subsurface and Surface Hydrology: CE 351, 402, 460, SOE 250, 303, 315, 463, SOE/CE 475, SOIL SCI 414;
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Water Chemistry/Ecology/Biology: AGTM 315, BIOLOGY 390, 465, 469, BSYSE 554, CE 341, 418, SOE 275, 280, 411, 412, 463, 465, 476;
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Water Methods & Analysis: CE 315, 341, 351, 407, 415, 416, 418, 419, 442, 450, 451, SOE 311, SOIL SCI 468;
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Water Policy & Management: CE 405, 456, CROP SCI 360, ECONS 330, 430, 431, HISTORY 324, SOC 331, 332, SOE 461;
Experiential Requirement: In addition to the course requirements described above, the certificate also includes an experiential requirement of required attendance at a minimum of three water-related activities hosted by the certificate program. Participants in the program are required to attend Water Meeting and Social and Water Research Center Invited Lecture Event, both of which are conducted every Fall and Spring semester. Additional activities that may fulfill the Experiential Requirement include: field trips, documentary film screenings with discussion, and water-related internships. These additional activities require committee approval and/or competitive application.
Courses
The online catalog includes the most recent changes to courses and degree requirements that have been approved by the Faculty Senate, including changes that are not yet effective. Courses showing two entries of the same number indicate that the course information is changing. The most recently approved version is shown first, followed by the older version, in gray, with its last-effective term preceding the course title. Courses shown in gray with only one entry of the course number are being discontinued. Course offerings by term can be accessed by clicking on the term links when viewing a specific campus catalog.
School Of The Environment (SOE)
100 An Introduction to Our Environment: Geology, Ecology, and Environmental Stewardship 1 A holistic understanding of the Earth's environment; knowledge of geology, ecology, environmental science, and human political dimensions; basic comprehension of environmental issues.
101 [PSCI] Welcome to the Earth: An Introduction to Geology 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: Enrollment not allowed if credit already earned for SOE 102. Introductory physical geology for non-science majors; emphasis on western US. Credit not granted for both SOE 101 and 102. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
102 Geology for Science Majors 4 (3-3) Enrollment not allowed if credit already earned for SOE 101. Exploration of the many ways in which geoscience supports society, and an examination of how the properties of rocks and minerals relate to features such as volcanoes and mountain ranges on the Earth's surface. Credit not granted for both SOE 101 and 102. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
103 [PSCI] The Solar System: An Introduction to Planetary Science 3 Study of the geological processes and environments on planets and moons of our solar system. Typically offered Spring.
103 (Effective through Spring 2024) [PSCI] Other Worlds: Comparative Planetology of our Solar System 3 Study of the geological processes and environments on planets and moons of our solar system. Typically offered Spring.
105 [PSCI] Natural Hazards 3 Survey of key natural resources, the physical processes by which nature and society produce those resources, and the processes of related natural hazards. Recommended Preparation: MATH 103 or higher with a C or better, or a minimum ALEKS math placement score of 45%. Typically offered Fall.
105 (Effective through Summer 2024) [PSCI] Natural Resources and Natural Hazards 3 Survey of key natural resources, the physical processes by which nature and society produce those resources, and the processes of related natural hazards. Recommended Preparation: MATH 103 or higher with a C or better, or a minimum ALEKS math placement score of 45%. Typically offered Fall.
106 [PSCI] Exploring the Dinosaurs of Jurassic Park 3 An exploration of dinosaurs from the 1993 movie 'Jurassic Park' comparing their cinematic depiction with current research and evidence including dinosaur biology, behavior, and their depiction in popular culture. Typically offered Fall.
110 [BSCI] The Environment, Human Life, and Sustainability 4 (3-3) Interactions between humans and their environment; multidisciplinary introduction to environmental concepts and concerns. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
200 Making the Most of Your EES Major 1 Exploration of professional pathways and career preparation in the environmental sciences; includes career goals and skills, development of graduation plans, undergraduate research, campus and community engagement, resume building.
204 Field Methods for Careers in the Natural Sciences 4 (3-3) Introduction to basic concepts, field techniques and the use of spreadsheets in natural resources. Field trips required. Typically offered Fall.
207 Field Skills for Earth Scientists 3 (0-9) Course Prerequisite: SOE 101 or 102; SOE 210. Introduction to geologic field methods; basic geologic mapping. Typically offered Summer Session.
207 (Effective through Summer 2024) Geology Field Camp 3 (0-9) Course Prerequisite: SOE 101 or 102; SOE 210. Introduction to geologic field methods; basic geologic mapping. Typically offered Summer Session.
210 [PSCI] Earth's History and Evolution 4 (3-3) Evolution of the Earth across its 4.6-billion-year history; important milestones in the story of our dynamic planet and the biological and geological processes that have shaped the Earth in the past and continue to shape it today. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
230 [PSCI] Introductory Oceanography 3 Interdisciplinary study of ocean systems: marine geology, chemistry, physics and biology; oceans' influence on climate and response to human activity. Typically offered Fall.
250 [PSCI] Introduction to Earth System Science 3 Course Prerequisite: SOE 110 or BIOLOGY 106, each with a C or better. Earth's fundamental systems (the geo-, atmo-, hydro-, and bio-spheres) in the context of global change. Recommended: CHEM 101 or 105. Typically offered Spring.
275 Rivers: Form, Function, and Management 3 Introduction to rivers, stream ecology, and restoration. Typically offered Fall.
280 [PSCI] How the Earth's Climate System Works 3 Understanding how the Earth's climate system works to provide a scientific foundation for making informed evaluations about management and policy. Typically offered Spring.
285 The Science and Policy of Climate Change 3 The science of the climate system; the case for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and the best policies to do so. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
300 [M] Natural Resource Ecology 3 Ecology as applied to management of natural resource ecosystems; biological diversity, conservation biology, global climate change in natural resource ecology. Field trips required. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
301 Forest Plants and Ecosystems 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372 or concurrent enrollment in either. Identification and ecology of forest plants with emphasis on trees and the ecosystems in which they occur. Field trips required. Typically offered Fall.
302 Arid Land Plants and Ecosystems 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372; SOE 301. Identification and ecology of arid land plants (trees, shrubs, grasses, forbs) and the ecosystems in which they occur. Field trips required. Typically offered Spring.
303 Environmental Geology 3 Course Prerequisite: SOE 101 or 102. Geologic concepts at intersections of human society and the environment; complex and nuanced socio-scientific questions impacting communities in the Pacific Northwest. Required field trip. Typically offered Spring.
304 Ecosystem Field Measurements 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: SOE 204; SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372 or concurrent enrollment in either; SOE 301 or concurrent enrollment. Measurement and analysis of forests, wildlife habitat, and rangelands using field equipment and spatial sampling techniques; development of employment skills in forestry, forest restoration, and wildlife management. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
305 Silviculture 3 Course Prerequisite: SOE 204; SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372; SOE 301. Stand dynamics, natural regeneration methods, intermediate stand treatment, relationships of natural resource management to silvicultural practice. Field trips required. Typically offered Fall.
306 Plants in the Environment 3 Course Prerequisite: SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372. How plants interact with their physical and biotic environments; physiological function of plant acclimation, adaptation, and tolerance with emphasis on forests and trees. Typically offered Spring.
306 (Effective through Summer 2024) Plants in the Environment 3 Course Prerequisite: SOE 300. How plants interact with their physical and biotic environments; physiological function of plant acclimation, adaptation, and tolerance with emphasis on forests and trees. Typically offered Spring.
310 Methods in Wildlife Ecology 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 106 with a C or better. Field and laboratory sampling techniques in wildlife research and management. Typically offered Fall.
311 Modeling the Environment 4 (3-3) Construction and testing of computer simulation models of environmental systems. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
312 [DIVR] Natural Resources, Society, and the Environment 3 Social views of natural resources; processes by which these views are developed and expressed; social conflict over natural resources. Typically offered Spring.
314 Service Learning in Ecuador: Building Sustainable Local Solutions for Human and Environmental Health 3 Experience working alongside local communities in Ecuador on projects that will improve rural access to sustainable energy, clean water, improved ecosystem health, and sustainable livelihoods. Spring break field trip required. Typically offered Spring.
315 Water and the Earth 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 102 or 106; one of MATH 108, 140, 171, 172, 182, 201, 202, or ENGR 107; one of SOE 101, SOE 102, 4 credits PHYSICS 101 or 201, or PHYSICS 101 and 111, or PHYSICS 201 and 211. Global hydrologic cycle, including rivers and weathering, groundwater, rainwater and the atmosphere, oceans, human impacts. Field research required. Typically offered Spring.
318 Wildlife Genetics 3 Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 106; BIOLOGY 107 with a C or better; one of MATH 106, 108, 140, 171, or a minimum ALEKS math placement score of 80%. Application of genetic tools for wildlife conservation and management, including forensics, detection of rare species, and population estimation. Typically offered Odd Years - Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
320 Rivers, Reefs, and the Sedimentary Record 3 (2-3) How sedimentary rocks are formed through different processes and what they can tell us about climate and tectonic histories. Field trip required.
320 (Effective through Summer 2024) Sedimentary Petrology and Sedimentation 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: SOE 350. Sedimentary rock composition and origins applying fundamental principles of sedimentology. Field trip required. Typically offered Fall.
322 Geology of the Pacific Northwest 3 Course Prerequisite: SOE 101 or 102. Physical geology of the Pacific Northwest focusing on geological processes important in its evolution. Field trips required.
335 [M] Environmental Policy and Law 3 Course Prerequisite: SOE 110. Global, national, and regional environmental issues and policy.
340 [M] Structural Geology and Plate Tectonics 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: One of MATH 106, 108, 140, 171, or a minimum ALEKS math placement score of 80%; SOE 210. Basic understanding and techniques of working in deformed rocks in mountain belts. Field trip required. Typically offered Fall.
350 Earth Materials 4 (2-6) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 101 or 105; SOE 101, 102, 210, or 230. Composition, physical properties, structure, crystallography, identification, and origin of minerals. Field trip required. Typically offered Fall.
356 Magmatic Processes and Critical Minerals 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: SOE 350. Study of magmatic and volcanic processes and how they generate critical minerals required for the green energy transition. Typically offered Even Years - Spring.
357 Introduction to Metamorphic Rocks and Minerals and How They Impact Our World 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: SOE 350. Fundamental processes in the field of earth sciences; application of theoretical concepts from metamorphism to challenges and realities of the modern world, including climate, earthquakes, and industry. Typically offered Spring.
390 Living on the Edge: Global Climate Change and Earth History 3 Course Prerequisite: Junior standing. Global earth system: ocean, earth, atmosphere, biosphere, and cryosphere; human impact on the climate system; climate change data predictions; debates.
402 Human Health and the Environment 3 Problem-solving approach to adverse effects on human health caused by contamination of environmental media or anthropogenic changes in ecosystems.
403 Sampling for Terrestrial Ecosystem Management 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisites: SOE 204; STAT 212 or 412. Simple random sampling, stratified sampling, and sampling in proportion to importance; foundation presented for selecting a sampling scheme, implementing it in the field, and assessing variance. Typically offered Spring.
404 [CAPS] [M] The Ecosystem 3 Course Prerequisite: SOE 110; BIOLOGY 106; BIOLOGY 372 or SOE 390, or concurrent enrollment in either; junior standing. Ecosystem organization and processes; theory and applications to contemporary environmental problems.
405 Near Surface Geophysics 3 Exploration of near surface geophysics techniques as applicable, but not limited to, groundwater analysis, environmental remediation, archaeology, and natural resources detection. Typically offered Odd Years - Spring.
406 Introduction to Radiological Science 3 Course Prerequisite: One course each in biology, calculus, chemistry, and physics. Fundamentals of atomic physics, interactions of radiation with matter, radiation dosimetry and biology, radioecology, and radiological health protection.
408 [M] Advanced Earth Science Field Methods 3 (0-9) Course Prerequisite: SOE 207; SOE 340; SOE 350; senior standing. Advanced field problems and methods; data interpretation and report preparation. Typically offered Summer Session. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
408 (Effective through Fall 2024) [M] Field Geology 3 (0-9) Course Prerequisite: SOE 207; SOE 340; SOE 350; senior standing. Advanced field problems and methods; data interpretation and report preparation. Typically offered Summer Session. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
410 [CAPS] Measuring Deep Time: Rates and Timescales of Major Geologic and Environmental Processes 3 Course Prerequisite: Junior standing. Examination of geologic timescales through reading and discussion of scientific articles. Typically offered Fall.
411 [M] Limnology and Aquatic Ecosystem Management 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 106; CHEM 101 or 105. Introduction to the science and management of aquatic ecosystems, emphasizing lakes. Typically offered Fall.
412 [M] Global Biogeochemistry 3 Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 106; CHEM 101 or 105. Cycles of biogeochemically important elements and anthropogenic changes to those cycles in terrestrial and aquatic environments on a global scale. Field trip required. Credit not granted for both SOE 412 and SOE 512. Offered at 400 and 500 level.
416 Soil Processes in the Earth's Critical Zone 3 Soil geochemistry and processes; theory and applications with a focus on reactions at the solid, liquid, and gaseous interface between the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Recommended preparation: Basic knowledge of soils (e.g. SOIL SCI 201 or equivalent; CHEM 106; PHYSICS 102). (Crosslisted course offered as SOE 416/516, SOIL SCI 416/516.) Credit not granted for both SOE/SOIL SCI 416 and SOE/SOIL SCI 516. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall.
417 Fisheries Science and Management 3 Course Prerequisite: SOE 411 or BIOLOGY 412; STAT 212 or MATH 171. Background on the development of fisheries science and examination of the natural and social scientific theories and techniques applied to the management of fisheries. Typically offered Odd Years - Fall.
420 Long-term Research in Forest Ecosystems: Old-growth Forests of Yosemite National Park 3 Course Prerequisite: By instructor permission. Field research methods course in forest ecosystems at site in old-growth mixed-conifer forest in Yosemite National Park. Course usually runs in late May. Typically offered Summer Session.
426 Ecology of the Columbia River 3 Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 372. Interdisciplinary approach to the interconnections between the physical, geological, chemical, biological, and social dimensions of this large, iconic aquatic ecosystem. Credit not granted for both SOE 426 and SOE 526. Offered at 400 and 500 level.
430 Introduction to Wildland Fire 3 Course Prerequisite: SOE 300 or BIOLOGY 372; SOE 301. Physical nature and behavior of wildland fire; the fire environment; fire ecology; practice of wildland fire management. Field trip required. Typically offered Even Years - Fall.
431 Wildlife Nutrition 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 106 with a C or better; BIOLOGY 107 with a C or better; junior standing. Nutritional requirements and interactions of wildlife populations. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
435 Wildlife Ecology 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 372 or SOE 300; STAT 212 or 412; junior standing. The ecology of wildlife species and the contributing biological processes. Overnight field trip required. Typically offered Spring.
438 Natural Resource and Public Lands Policy and Law 3 Course Prerequisite: Junior standing. Development, content and implementation of natural resources and environmental policy and law in the U.S. Emphasis on both historical development and current issues in this field. Recommended preparation: SOE 312. Typically offered Spring.
441 Population Ecology and Conservation 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 372 or SOE 300 with a C or better in either; SOE 435 with a C or better; STAT 212 with a C or better and concurrent enrollment in STAT 412, or STAT 412 with a C or better. Ecology, conservation, management of vertebrate populations, especially threatened and endangered species; designed for wildlife and conservation biology majors. Typically offered Fall.
444 Environmental Assessment 3 National and state policy frameworks for environmental assessment that support integration of science and the public into agency decision-making process. Credit not granted for both SOE 444 and SOE 544. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall and Summer. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
445 Hazardous Waste Management 3 Environmental, technical, and political aspects of hazardous waste management; evaluative methods, risk assessment, and current management requirements. Credit not granted for both SOE 445 and SOE 545. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
446 [M] Wildlife Habitat Ecology 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: SOIL SCI 368 or concurrent enrollment; STAT 212 or 412; senior standing. The ecology of how wildlife use, respond to, and affect resources in their environment. Field trip required. Typically offered Fall.
450 [M] Conservation Biology 3 Course Prerequisite: Junior standing. Patterns of biological diversity, factors producing changes in diversity, values of diversity, management principles applied to small populations, protected areas, landscape linkages, biotic integrity, restoration, legal issues and funding sources. Typically offered Spring.
454 [CAPS] [M] Restoration Ecology 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: Senior standing. Ecological principles used to restore biological communities; ecological processes and species on degraded landscapes. Typically offered Fall.
460 Biotechnology and the Environment 3 Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 106, 107, or 120; 3 credit hours CHEM. Benefits, regulations, and human and environmental impacts of biotechnology used for crop protection, agricultural and energy production, and environmental remediation and management. (Crosslisted course offered as ENTOM 460, SOE 460.) Typically offered Fall.
461 Watershed Management 3 Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 106; CHEM 101 or 105. Principles and practices of management of forest and rangelands for protection, maintenance, and improvement of water resource values. Recommended preparation: SOE 204 or sufficient background in spreadsheets. Typically offered Spring.
461 (Effective through Summer 2025) Watershed Management 3 Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 106; CHEM 101 or 105. Principles and practices of management of forest and rangelands for protection, maintenance, and improvement of water resource values. Field trip required. Recommended preparation: SOE 204 or sufficient background in spreadsheets. Typically offered Spring.
463 Water in the Environment 3 Course Prerequisite: MATH 140 or 171, or 4 credits PHYSICS 101 or 201, or PHYSICS 101 and 111, or PHYSICS 201 and 211, or PHYSICS 205. Water flows in the natural environment, including cloud formation, rainfall, evaporation, infiltration, groundwater, river flows, lakes, estuaries, mixing, and erosion.
464 Landscape Ecology 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: Junior standing. Linkages between spatial patterns and processes in a variety of landscapes and the qualitative tools used in the investigation of these linkages. Typically offered Even Years - Fall.
464 (Effective through Summer 2024) [M] Landscape Ecology 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: Junior standing. Linkages between spatial patterns and processes in a variety of landscapes and the qualitative tools used in the investigation of these linkages. Typically offered Even Years - Fall.
465 Aquatic Microbial Ecology 3 Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 372. Biological, ecological and environmental impact of microbes in aquatic systems. Credit not granted for both SOE 465 and SOE 565. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Even Years - Spring.
470 Introduction to Economic Geology 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: SOE 340; SOE 350. Genesis, evolution and tectonic setting of ore deposits combining theory, description, and detailed hand specimen analysis. Field trip to major mining districts. Typically offered Fall and Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
471 [CAPS] [M] International Wildlife Conservation 3 Course Prerequisite: Junior standing. A broad survey of international wildlife conservation that touches on biological, social, and political aspects of wildlife management; focus on understanding the unique challenges that are encountered in the international arena. Typically offered Spring.
471 (Effective through Fall 2024) [CAPS] International Wildlife Conservation 3 Course Prerequisite: Junior standing. A broad survey of international wildlife conservation that touches on biological, social, and political aspects of wildlife management; focus on understanding the unique challenges that are encountered in the international arena. Typically offered Spring.
474 [CAPS] [M] Physics and Chemistry of the Earth 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: CHEM 101 or 105; CHEM 102 or 106; 4 credits of PHYSICS 101 or 201, or PHYSICS 101 and 111, or PHYSICS 201 and 211; SOE 101, 102, or 210; junior standing. Earth's operations as described by sub-disciplines of geology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics; earth's composition as related to solar system formation. Typically offered Odd Years - Spring.
475 Groundwater 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: CE 317 or SOE 315; MATH 140 or concurrent enrollment, or MATH 172 or 182 or concurrent enrollment. Introduction to groundwater occurrence, movement, quality, and resource management, emphasizing physical and biogeochemical principles. Field trip required. (Crosslisted course offered as SOE 475, CE 475.) Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
476 Biology and Ecology of Pacific Salmon 3 Course Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 106 or 107; CHEM 101 or 105. The life histories, habitat requirements, and current issues facing Pacific salmon. Credit not granted for both SOE 476 and SOE 576. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall.
477 [CAPS] Environmental Collaborative Governance and Dispute Resolution 3 Course Prerequisite: Junior standing. Exploration of the consequences of complex social, economic, and environmental dynamics that lead to disputes and conflicts over environmental and natural resources; develop toolbox of skills and approaches that may be used to facilitate collaborative solutions and resolution of disputes.
479 Geoscience for Sustainable Development 3 Course Prerequisite: SOE 101, SOE 102, or SOE 210; junior standing. Exploration of how the geosciences contribute to a sustainable future including topics of climate change, access to fresh water, and the energy transition. Credit not granted for both SOE 479 and 579. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Spring.
480 [CAPS] How to Build a Habitable Planet 4 (3-3) An introduction to the origin and evolution of Earth including the effects of water, CO2, and humans on the planet; exploration of radioactive decay, geochronology, radiogenic and stable isotope geochemistry, and chemical proxies in dynamic systems. Typically offered Spring.
483 Sustainability: Applied Improvement or Promotion Projects 3 Course Prerequisite: Minimum 3 credits of [PSCI] or [BSCI]; senior standing. An applied multidisciplinary introduction to sustainability; classroom learning followed with an applied sustainability improvement or promotion project for Washington State University. Typically offered Spring.
484 Forest Management and Planning 3 Knowledge, skills, and experience in drafting a management plan and managing forested properties for a variety of values, ranging from generation of diverse forest products to maintenance of important environmental values associated with forest lands. Typically offered Spring.
485 Disturbance Ecology 3 (2-3) Course Prerequisite: SOE 204; SOE 301; SOE 302 or concurrent enrollment. Fire, disease, and other disturbances are primary drivers of structure and composition in terrestrial ecosystems; study of management of insect outbreaks and fungal organisms in combination with fire and other disturbances. Typically offered Spring.
486 Applied Remote Sensing: From Drones to Satellites 3 Course Prerequisite: SOIL SCI 368 or concurrent enrollment, or SOIL SCI 374 or concurrent enrollment. Remote sensing to measure changes in forests, plants, wildlife, wildfire, crops, and geologic features; analyzing and applying data from satellites, drones, airplanes, and lidar to measures on the ground. Credit not granted for both SOE 486 and SOE 586. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Spring.
487 Human Dimensions of Natural Resources 3 An introduction to qualitative research methods and natural resource sociology; examples center around wildfire but are applicable to multiple natural resource management fields. Typically offered Fall.
491 Senior Seminar 1 Course Prerequisite: Senior standing. Recommended preparation: Admission to a major in science, mathematics, or engineering. Typically offered Spring.
492 Special Topics V 1-3 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 12 credits. Specialized topics within the discipline; content will vary each term. Open to all SOE majors. Typically offered Fall and Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
495 Undergraduate Internship V 1-12 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 12 credits. Course Prerequisite: By interview only. Practical experience in appropriate agencies; for career students in earth science, environment and ecosystem science, forestry, and wildlife. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, F grading.
498 Seminar 1 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 3 credits. Research papers presented by students, faculty, and visiting scientists on geological research. Credit not granted for both SOE 498 and SOE 598. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall and Spring. S, F grading.
499 Special Problems V 1-4 May be repeated for credit. Course Prerequisite: By department permission. Independent study conducted under the jurisdiction of an approving faculty member; may include independent research studies in technical or specialized problems; selection and analysis of specified readings; development of a creative project; or field experiences. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, F grading.
500 College Science Teaching 3 Theory, implementation, and application of empirically validated instructional strategies for college-level science that improve learning, retention, student self-regulation, and graduation rates. Typically offered Fall.
501 Graduate Skills Seminar 1 Seminar designed to introduce first year graduate students to the science graduate program; roles and responsibilities of graduate students, teaching assistants and researchers. S, F grading.
505 Geodynamics 4 (3-3) Overview of topics in geodynamics including conductive and convective heat transfer, mantle convection, plate flexure, faulting, and plate tectonics. Recommended preparation: Calculus and introductory physics. Typically offered Fall.
510 Species Distribution Modeling 3 Theory and application of species distribution models, including niche, occupancy, and spatial capture-recapture models; manipulation of spatial data and software packages (ArcGIS, R, MaxEnt, PRESENCE). Typically offered Even Years - Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
512 [M] Global Biogeochemistry 3 Cycles of biogeochemically important elements and anthropogenic changes to those cycles in terrestrial and aquatic environments on a global scale. Field trip required. Credit not granted for both SOE 412 and SOE 512. Offered at 400 and 500 level.
515 Research Frontiers in Forest Ecology and Management 1 Collaborative inquiry into literature and novel research in forest ecology and management. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
516 Soil Processes in the Earth's Critical Zone 3 Soil geochemistry and processes; theory and applications with a focus on reactions at the solid, liquid, and gaseous interface between the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Recommended preparation: Basic knowledge of soils (e.g. SOIL SCI 201 or equivalent; CHEM 106; PHYSICS 102). (Crosslisted course offered as SOE 416/516, SOIL SCI 416/516.) Credit not granted for both SOE/SOIL SCI 416 and SOE/SOIL SCI 516. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall.
520 Radiation Instrumentation 3 (2-3) Methods for analysis of radiation and radiative materials, including use of radiation monitoring equipment and analysis of instrument data.
521 Uses and Regulation of Radiation 3 Uses and regulation of radiation and radioactive materials in medicine, industry, power production, and scientific research.
524 Advanced Topics in Sedimentology 3 (2-3) May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Modern aspects of sedimentary rocks. Field trip required. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
526 Ecology of the Columbia River 3 Interdisciplinary approach to the interconnections between the physical, geological, chemical, biological, and social dimensions of this large, iconic aquatic ecosystem. Recommended preparation: BIOLOGY 372.
526 Ecology of the Columbia River 3 Interdisciplinary approach to the interconnections between the physical, geological, chemical, biological, and social dimensions of this large, iconic aquatic ecosystem. Credit not granted for both SOE 426 and SOE 526.
526 Ecology of the Columbia River 3 Interdisciplinary approach to the interconnections between the physical, geological, chemical, biological, and social dimensions of this large, iconic aquatic ecosystem. Recommended preparation: BIOLOGY 372. Offered at 400 and 500 level.
526 Ecology of the Columbia River 3 Interdisciplinary approach to the interconnections between the physical, geological, chemical, biological, and social dimensions of this large, iconic aquatic ecosystem. Credit not granted for both SOE 426 and SOE 526. Offered at 400 and 500 level.
531 Fundamentals of Environmental Toxicology 3 Fundamentals of toxicology; environmental fate and biological effects of chemical pollutants in air, water, and food. Typically offered Odd Years - Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
532 Applied Environmental Toxicology 3 Overview of and current issues in the field of environmental toxicology. Typically offered Even Years - Spring.
535 Integrated Water Resources Science and Management 3 Introduction to the physical, social, and cultural drivers that shape how water is managed within the larger environmental and human landscape. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
536 Climate Change Impacts on Physical, Natural, and Human Systems 3 Methods for studying human-caused climate variability and change; discussion of impacts on the physical environment and natural and human systems. Typically offered Fall.
539 Native Science, Tribal Environmental Policy, and Collaboration 3 Native science, tribal environmental policy, and collaboration as pertaining to tribes of the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Typically offered Odd Years - Spring.
540 Agroecology 3 Social and ecological aspects of agriculture and human food systems. Typically offered Spring.
541 Orogenic Systems 3 Detailed analysis of the construction of mountain belts. Field trip required. Recommended preparation: B.S. in Geology or related field. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
541 (Effective through Fall 2024) Orogenic Systems 2 Detailed analysis of the construction of mountain belts. Field trip required. Recommended preparation: B.S. in Geology or related field. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
542 Extensional Tectonics 3 Case study of Western US Basin and Range Province to explore processes and dynamics of extensional tectonics. Field trip required. Recommended preparation: B.S. in Geology or a related field. Typically offered Odd Years - Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
544 Environmental Assessment 3 National and state policy frameworks for environmental assessment that support integration of science and the public into agency decision-making process. Credit not granted for both SOE 444 and SOE 544. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall and Summer. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
545 Hazardous Waste Management 3 Environmental, technical, and political aspects of hazardous waste management; evaluative methods, risk assessment, and current management requirements. Credit not granted for both SOE 445 and SOE 545. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
548 Applied Spatial Ecology 3 Foundational research principles in spatial ecology applied to new data; production of methods and results sections suitable for publication, using R and GIS programming. Recommended preparation: Introductory-level experience with R and ArcGIS. Typically offered Even Years - Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
552 Analytical Methods in Earth Sciences 3 Theory, operation, and application of analytical techniques commonly applied in Earth and Material Sciences, specifically electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
555 System Dynamics Models of Environmental Systems 3 Analysis of environmental system dynamics; development and uses of simulation models using the Stella software on Macintosh. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
556 Foraging Ecology of Herbivores 2 Synthesis of foraging behavior concepts including nutritive quality of forages, digestive and metabolic constraints, and diet and habitat selection. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
560 Advanced Igneous Petrology 3 (2-3) Origin, evolution, and tectonic significance of igneous rocks. Field trip required. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
562 Watershed Biogeochemistry 3 Sources, transformations, fates and impacts of biogeochemically important compounds as they move downstream through watersheds to the coastal zone.
565 Aquatic Microbial Ecology 3 Biological, ecological and environmental impact of microbes in aquatic systems. Credit not granted for both SOE 465 and SOE 565. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Even Years - Spring.
576 Biology and Ecology of Pacific Salmon 3 The life histories, habitat requirements, and current issues facing Pacific salmon. Credit not granted for both SOE 476 and SOE 576. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall.
577 Environments of Stability or Collapse for Organisms and Ecosystems 3 Dynamics and resilience of natural and human-modified ecosystems and of their organisms, as driven by their microclimates and environmental feedback with water, heat, and energy balances, variability, and vulnerability; ecosystem and organism examples matched to student interests. Typically offered Odd Years - Fall.
577 (Effective through Summer 2025) Advanced Environmental Hydrology 2 Water (ground, soil, surface, plant, atmosphere) dynamics and support of ecosystem functions and organization in natural, disturbed, and human/impacted systems. Recommended preparation: college-level physics, multivariate calculus, and introduction to hydrology. Typically offered Even Years - Fall.
579 Geoscience for Sustainable Development 3 Exploration of how the geosciences contribute to a sustainable future including topics of climate change, access to fresh water, and the energy transition. Credit not granted for both SOE 479 and 579. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Spring.
583 Radiogenic Isotopes and Geochronology 3 Radiogenic isotopes and their uses as chronometers (radiometric dating) and as tracers of earth evolution and differentiation. Typically offered Fall and Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
584 Stable Isotope Geochemistry 3 Principles and applications of isotope geochemistry in the geological sciences. Typically offered Fall and Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
586 Applied Remote Sensing: From Drones to Satellites 3 Remote sensing to measure changes in forests, plants, wildlife, wildfire, crops, and geologic features; analyzing and applying data from satellites, drones, airplanes, and lidar to measures on the ground. Credit not granted for both SOE 486 and SOE 586. Offered at 400 and 500 level.
592 Advanced Topics in Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences V 1-4 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
592 (Effective through Summer 2024) Advanced Topics in Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences V 1-4 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Course Prerequisite: By instructor permission. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
593 Graduate Seminar in Earth and Environmental Sciences 1 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 8 credits. Typically offered Spring.
594 Environmental and Natural Resources Issues and Ethics 3 Ethical systems applied to natural resources; issues of professionalism and ethics in natural resource management. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
597 Advanced Topics in Geology V 1-4 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Topics of current interest in geology. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
597 (Effective through Summer 2024) Advanced Topics in Geology V 1-4 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Topics of current interest in geology. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
598 Seminar 1 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 3 credits. Research papers presented by students, faculty, and visiting scientists on geological research. Credit not granted for both SOE 498 and SOE 598. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall and Spring. S, F grading.
600 Special Projects or Independent Study V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Independent study, special projects, and/or internships. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor before enrolling in 600 credit, which cannot be used toward the core graded credits required for a graduate degree. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, F grading.
700 Master's Research, Thesis, and/or Examination V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Independent research and advanced study for students working on their master's research, thesis and/or final examination. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor/committee chair before enrolling for 700 credit. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, U grading.
702 Master's Special Problems, Directed Study, and/or Examination V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Independent research in special problems, directed study, and/or examination credit for students in a non-thesis master's degree program. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor/committee chair before enrolling for 702 credit. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, U grading.
800 Doctoral Research, Dissertation, and/or Examination V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Course Prerequisite: Admitted to a School of the Environment PhD program. Independent research and advanced study for students working on their doctoral research, dissertation and/or final examination. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor/committee chair before enrolling for 800 credit. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, U grading.
- Environment
Courses
- School Of The Environment
Schedules of Studies
- Earth Sciences
- Environmental and Ecosystem Sciences
- Forest Ecology and Management
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences – Basic Option
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences - Honors Accelerated Pre-Vet Program
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences - Pre-Veterinary Option
Minors
- Earth Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Forestry
- Natural Resources
- Wildlife Ecology
Certificates
- Water Resources Science and Management