Introduction to Environmental Studies

This two-quarter program orients and invites students into the broad arena of Environmental Studies. It provides an opportunity to learn from the environmental sciences, social sciences, public policy and the regional context.

In this program, we will dedicate substantial time to examining global and U.S. patterns of population, consumption, development and sustainability as well as the causes, types and prevalence of diseases in different parts of the world. A particular focus will be on the connections between the quality of the environment and public health, with emphasis on biological, cellular and molecular mechanisms. We will examine the types of pollutants in environmental media (air, water, food) and their sources from food production systems to industrial toxic substances, human exposure conditions, principles of chemical disposition, quantitative measures of effect and health risk estimates.

We will focus some of our attention on the broad conditions associated with climate change. We will examine the links between climate and health in different parts of the globe, responses from public health professionals and community advocates, debates, public process and regional-to-international processes, and how organizations such as the American Public Health Association see the challenges ahead in adjusting health care systems.

We'll connect our examination of public health science with an exploration of social science perspectives on how people experience these conditions and challenges. We'll consult with non-governmental organizations and citizen activists as we learn how strategies for protection and prevention are being developed. We'll take advantage of being in the Washington State Capitol by visiting the legislature and consulting with agency staff. Students will develop group projects that will explore topics of interest, from regional farming practices to the impact of hazardous waste to product safety. Throughout the program, we'll connect local-to-global, science-to-policy and expert-to-citizen.

The program will use lectures, labs, workshops, field applications, field trips and collaborations with regional scientists and citizen activists, emphasizing proficiency in lab and field, writing, critical reading of scientific literature, discussion of texts and student project development. The program will be good preparation for students with a range of interests -- those wanting to pursue careers in public health and the sciences, as well as students interested in public policy and social justice.