2008-2009 Academic Catalog - Queens University of Charlotte

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ENVR 204 Tropical Island Systems
Tropical islands, often surrounded by thousands of square miles of ocean, have developed from
a careful balance of geologic, climatic and biologic processes. Human activities, too, have
evolved as a part of these tightly connected ecological systems. However, isolation leaves
these systems and the people that depend on them vulnerable. This course is intended to
provide an overview of the social and ecological processes operating on tropical islands.
Specifically, we will examine how islands are formed, how mangrove forest and coral reef
ecosystems function, how sustainable devlopment of islands might work, and how island
cultural norms affect natural resource management. Special consideration will be given to the
islands of Micronesia. No prerequisite. As needed. 3 Hrs.
ENVR 250 Topics in Environmental Science
This course provides an opportunity for students and faculty to pursue a subject that is not
offered on a regular basis in the curriculum. May be repeated for credit under different subtitles.
Lecture and laboratory hours may vary. As needed. Repeatable for a total of 6 Hrs. 3 Hrs.
ENVR 300 Research Methods
This course is designed to prepare students to conduct independent research projects in their
senior year. The course will be organized around a group research project. The course will
develop skills in research planning; experimental design; use of field, laboratory, and computer
techniques; statistical analysis; preparation, criticism, and oral presentation of study plans;
communication of research findings. Prerequisites: ENVR 101, ENVR 102, BIOL 208, CHEM
111, or PHYS 101. As needed. 3 Hrs.
ENVR 301 Geographic Information Systems
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a powerful computer tool used not only for making
maps, but also for managing and analyzing information shown on the map. Understanding the
location and the status of any landscape feature (and how that status might have changed over
time) greatly improves our knowledge of how the landscape works. This course aims to provide
students a combination of mapping theory and practical knowledge of ArcGIS software. Spring
Term, even years. 3 Hrs.
ENVR 302 Soil and Water Science
This course will examine the components and processes of soil, a dynamic, complex, multi-dimensional
environmental system. Soil is a global natural resource vital for water, nutrient, and
energy cycling, food production, and environmental conservation. Topics covered will include
soil physical, chemical, and biological properties and functions; water, nutrient and energy
cycles; plant growth; land use and environmental quality; and impacts on society and culture.
This introductory course will instill awareness of soil as a basic natural resource, the use and
exploitation of which has considerable influence on human society and life in general. This
course requires segnificant outdoor lab work. 4 Hrs.
ENVR 450 Independent Study
This course allows students to pursue independent research projects in areas of the student's
interest. Written reports and/or oral examinations will be required. This course may be taken
more than once for credit, but total credits may not exceed six hours. Prerequisite: Permission
from instructor. 1, 2, 3 or 4 Hrs. As needed. 4 Hrs.
ENVR 460 Environmental Science Seminar
Invited guests, faculty and students present oral reports on topics of their specific interest and
experience in environmental science and related fields. One hour per week lecture or discussion.
May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: BIOL 208, CHEM 101, ENVR 101 or permission
of instructor. As needed. 4 Hrs.
UNDERGRADUATE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS