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Department of Geography and the Environment
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Villanova University
Dr. Francis A. Galgano Jr.
Associate Professor and Department Chair
Dr. Lisa J. Rodrigues
Associate Professor and Gradate Program Director
Dr. Nathaniel B. Weston
Associate Professor and Director of Research
Dr. Keith G. Henderson
Associate Professor and Geography Program
Director
Dr. Steven T. Goldsmith
Assistant Professor and Environmental Program
Director
Suite G67, Mendel Science Center
For more information:
http://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/artsci/geoenv.html
610–519–3336
Edition 02: September 2016
DEPARTMENT CATALOG AND GUIDE
TO UNDERGRADUATE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Faculty and Staff Directory ............................................................................................................................................................. 2
Department Mission and Objectives .......................................................................................................................................... 4
Message to Students ........................................................................................................................................................................ 5
After Graduation ................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
What Do Geographers and Environmental Scientists Do? ............................................................................... 7
Alumni Stories ..................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Where do Our Graduates Work and Go to School ........................................................................................... 11
The Department ............................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Majors and Minors ......................................................................................................................................................... 13
What’s the Difference Between Environmental Science and Studies? ...................................................... 13
Undergraduate Research Opportunities ............................................................................................................... 14
Honor Society Opportunities ..................................................................................................................................... 17
Academic Awards ........................................................................................................................................................... 18
Program Descriptions .................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Requirements: Major Programs ................................................................................................................................................. 23
Requirements: Minor Programs ................................................................................................................................................ 31
Course Offerings .............................................................................................................................................................................. 34
Undergraduate Course Schedule and Advising Matrix ................................................................................... 34
Undergraduate Course Catalog ................................................................................................................................ 35
Faculty .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 54
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FACULTY AND STAFF DIRECTORY
DEPARTMENT CHAIR
Dr. Francis A. Galgano Office: G67D Phone: 610-519-3337
Associate Professor [email protected] http://fgalgano.com/
GEOGRAPHY FACULTY
Dr. Keith G. Henderson Office: G67F Phone: 610-519-7907
Associate Professor [email protected] http://www94.homepage.villanova.edu/keith.henderson/
Dr. Bonnie Henderson Office: G67C Phone: 610-519-8897
Assistant Professor [email protected] http://villanova.edu/villanova/artsci/geoenv
Dr. Peleg Kremer Office: G67E Phone: 610-519-8897
Assistant Professor [email protected] http://www.pelegkremer.net/
Dr. J. Stephen Strader Office: G65F Phone: 610-519-3347
Assistant Professor [email protected] http://villanova.edu/villanova/artsci/geoenv
ENVIRONMENTAL FACULTY
Dr. Steven T. Goldsmith Office: G65C Phone: 610-519-3589
Assistant Professor [email protected] http://goldsmithenvironmental.weebly.com/
Dr. Lisa J. Rodrigues Office: G67H Phone: 610-519-7534
Associate Professor [email protected] http://www20.homepage.villanova.edu/lisa.rodrigues/
Dr. Kabindra Shakya Office: G67I Phone: 610-519-3590
Associate Professor [email protected] http://villanova.edu/villanova/artsci/geoenv
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Dr. Melanie A. Vile Office: G65D Phone: 610-519-8945
Assistant Professor [email protected] http://www47.homepage.villanova.edu/melanie.vile/
Dr. Nathaniel B. Weston Office: G67G Phone: 610-519-8009
Associate Professor [email protected] http://nweston.org/
DEPARTMENT STAFF
Ms. Angelina Fondaco Office: G67A Phone: 610-519-3336
Administrative Assistant [email protected]
Mr. Eric J. Wagner Office: G89 Phone: 610-519-6287
GIS Lab Technician [email protected]
TEACHING LABORATORIES
Environmental Sciences Laboratory I Mendel Hall Room G58
Environmental Sciences Laboratory II Mendel Hall Room 189
Geographic Information Systems Laboratory Mendel Hall Room G83
RESEARCH LABORATORIES
Ecosystem Ecology Research Laboratory (Dr. Melanie Vile) Mendel Hall Room G11
Environmental Geochemistry Research Laboratory (Dr. Steven Goldsmith) Mendel Hall Room G56A
Environmental Science Research laboratory (Dr. Nathaniel Weston) Mendel Hall Room G18
Marine Environmental Research Laboratory (Dr. Lisa J. Rodrigues) Mendel Hall Room G57
Air Quality Monitoring Lab (Dr. Kabindra Shakya) Mendel Hall Room G55
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DEPARTMENT MISSION AND OBJECTIVES
The Department of Geography and the Environment provides high–quality educational experiences in
the areas of Geography, Geospatial Systems, and the Environmental Sciences at the undergraduate and
graduate levels. The department links the social and natural sciences within the College of Liberal Arts
and Sciences and across the University. The education experience is accomplished through a
multidisciplinary curriculum, innovative classroom instruction, creative laboratory and field experiences,
and rigorous research programs. We develop students who are scholars capable of critical thinking,
problem solving, and devoted to a lifetime of learning.
The mission is enabled by the following goals:
Integrating geography and environmental science to understand spatial patterns, the physical and
social processes that produce those patterns, and their interaction in Earth space.
Providing a multidisciplinary curriculum focused on human–environment interactions.
Employing geospatial technologies to examine human and natural landscapes, and the social,
economic, political, and legal framework in which environmental issues are intertwined.
Developing students with the ability to formulate a range of solutions to complex human and
environmental issues that include consideration of social, economic, cultural, political, and scientific
dynamics.
Offering practical degree programs in emerging fields, potentially attracting students with diverse,
but overlapping interests to interact in mutually beneficial ways.
Fostering cross–campus cooperation in environmental education and research.
Supporting multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary concentrations and interest groups by
interacting with existing area concentrations and by interacting with key areas in the College of
Engineering, the Villanova School of Business, and the College of Nursing.
The art of teaching is at the heart of Villanova’s Mission and Strategic Plan. Our Department’s mission
and goals suggest that a strong education provides students with an academic foundation and, more
importantly, lifelong learning skills that will serve them well in their future careers. The Department’s
mission and academic program goals indicate that excellence in the classroom and relevance of subject
material is derived from an active and integrated student research program.
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MESSAGE TO STUDENTS
Greetings, on behalf of the staff and faculty of the Department of Geography and the Environment,
welcome and thank you for your interest in our Department! We have several dynamic and marketable
programs that focus on three compelling areas:
Geography: the study of people, natural environments, places, and how they interact
Environmental Science: an integrative study of processes that shape the natural environment
Geospatial Systems: the use of powerful spatial tools and information technology
Our mission is focused on essentially two overarching goals. First, we want to provide you with
dynamic classroom experiences that employ state–of–the–art technology, focused on offering a
fundamental understanding of salient environmental and geographical issues. Our second goal is to
develop students that demonstrate creativity, moral awareness, and critical thinking, as well as those who
understand culture, history, patterns of human behavior, science, and technology. We want to introduce
you to a vibrant intellectual atmosphere that will enable you to ascend to intellectual and professional
leadership; develop the fundamentals of critical thinking and mature judgment; and cultivate in you a
sense of moral responsibility and working for the betterment of society. Each of our majors is designed to
turn you into a problem solver and creative, critical thinker––we believe that these attributes are essential
for success after College. You will leave Villanova with a highly competitive and marketable education;
and you will be well situated to compete in the scientific, academic, governmental, or commercial
field of your choosing.
Geography programs, such as ours, are alive and well in more than 250 universities across the nation.
Geography is an exciting discipline with great variety and tremendous relevance in the modern, globalized
world. It is often said that you can make your own history, but you have to live with your geography.
Geographers examine the content of space and explain the dynamics of what is taking place in that space.
Geographers study important topics such climate change, political and economic systems, natural
hazards, and population and demographics just to name a few.
The Environmental Science and Environmental Studies programs are complementary and both
provide a fundamental understanding of the scientific processes that underlie the composition of the
natural landscape. Environmental specialists examine the science of the environment and develop
solutions to some of the most important problems of our time. Students enrolled in our environmental
majors work at the nexus of the natural and human landscape, and both majors are grounded in research,
a rigorous science foundation, problem–solving methods, data analysis, and developing open–ended
solutions to complex environmental issues.
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Geospatial Systems courses will teach you how to use very powerful analytical tools such as digital
elevation models, satellite imagery, Geographic Information Systems, and GPS to solve pressing
geographic and environmental problems. These are some the highest technology platforms on campus
and our industry partners tell us that these skills are in high demand in the work place.
Every graduating senior in our Department is required to complete an independent research
project with a faculty mentor. There are three tracks: a one–semester independent study; a two–
semester senior thesis option; or an internship option, which requires special permission.
Natural processes and human interactions with the environment drive environmental change.
Environmental phenomena manifest themselves differently, in part because of spatially dependent
physical conditions and human interactions. This is an inherently geographic perspective and thus
geography offers a powerful and compelling vantage point from which to evaluate and explain
environmental processes and change. Thus, there is an immutable link between geography and
environmental science. The study of geography and environmental science demonstrates that places
matter. Geographers and environmental scientists think of places as discrete environments, each uniquely
influenced by the interrelationship of a complementary set of spatially dependent variables.
Consequently, our Department emphasizes integrated thinking and learning at the nexus of science,
policy, and human behavior so that our graduates will see beyond linear and fragmented approaches to
solving environmental problems. Understanding the complex interactions between people and their
environment requires a multidisciplinary perspective, which our Department is uniquely situated to
provide.
In summary, scientific and geographic literacy is essential in today’s world. To this end, a
rigorous foundation in the disciplines offered by our Department yields significant benefits for our
graduates. Students in our programs leave Villanova with a highly competitive and marketable
education, and they are well situated to compete in today’s job market. We firmly believe that our
programs are preparing our students well for their challenges following graduation. Since 2012, 9 3%
of our students are positioned in jobs related to their major, or are attending a high–quality graduate
or professional school.
Your opportunities are exciting and the options are great. Please look through this booklet, consider
what interests you, and then visit with our faculty, who are anxious to assist you in understanding the
rewarding opportunities that are available within our department.
Francis A. Galgano Jr.
Associate Professor and Department Chair
Department of Geography and the Environment
For more information, visit our Department web site:
http://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/artsci/geoenv.html
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AFTER GRADUATION
What Do Geographers and Environmental Scientists Do?
What Geographers Do?
Geography is unique in bridging the social and the natural sciences. There are two main branches of
geography: human and physical. Human geography is concerned with the spatial aspects of human
existence. Physical geographers study patterns of climates, landforms, vegetation, soils, and water.
Geographers use many tools and techniques in their work, and geographic technologies are increasingly
important for understanding our complex world. They include Geographic Information Systems (GIS),
Remote Sensing, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and online mapping such as Google Earth.
Where Do Geographers Work?
Geographers pursue a variety of rewarding careers in education, business, nonprofit organizations,
and local, state, or federal government agencies. These sectors can be described as follows:
Education: The education sector includes K through 12 institutions, colleges and universities, and
continuing education. Educators may also work in important administration and academic
research positions.
Business: The business, or private, sector refers to the segment of the economy composed of
enterprises owned by individuals or groups. Businesses employ geographers in a wide variety of
capacities to include marketing, transportation and logistics, research, geospatial mapping, health
care, forestry and mining, and management.
Government: The public sector, which includes federal, state, and local government, is a rich
employment area for geographers. Many government agencies find the broad, integrative
perspective offered by academic training in geography to be an asset, and clearly, many public
sector organizations rely on the geospatial skills acquired by geography majors. Nearly two
million people—1.8% of the U.S. workforce—are employed by the federal government. State and
local governments employ an additional 19.8 million workers. Our Geography program's focus on
real–world problems is excellent preparation for public sector employment, particularly at the
local and state levels where policy development, implementation, and regulatory responsibility
reside.
Nonprofit: Roughly 9% of the U.S. workforce (about 12 million people) is employed by an
estimated 1.4 million nonprofit organizations, whose causes and values span the entire political
spectrum. Because nonprofits typically strive to create a better world, they offer great
opportunities for job seekers hoping to make a difference.
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Salary Data and Trends for Geography Careers
Thinking about a career in geography? The American Association of Geographers (AAG) has many
resources to help you explore and plan a career! Many occupations require geospatial knowledge and
skills. Using information from the U.S. Department of Labor, the AAG has compiled data on a broad list of
occupations. Using their online careers database, you can explore the diversity of career opportunities
available, and retrieve data on salaries, projected job growth by sector, demand for key skills, and much
more to guide you in planning a career. For each occupation, you can retrieve a description with related
job titles, salary trends, as well as links for further exploration. Refer to the AAG database at:
http://www.aag.org/careers. The various occupations in the database are grouped in categories based on
the North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS), which is a standard developed by Federal
statistical agencies in classifying businesses for the collection, analysis, and publication of statistical data
related to the business economy of the U.S.
Some examples:
Job Title Median Salary 10-Yr. Growth Projection
Emergency Management Director $64,000 12%
Forester $58,000 3–7%
Geophysical Data Technicians $58,500 15-28%
Geospatial Information Scientists & Technologists $83,500 3–7%
Health Care Researcher, Research Analyst $95,000 8–14%
Landscape Architect $62,300 9–15%
Mining Specialist $90,000 8–14%
Real Estate Appraiser, Tax Assessor $55,500 3–7%
Surveying and Mapping Technician $42,000 11–15%
Transportation Planner $73,000 2%
Transportation, Storage, & Distribution Managers $85,000 5–7%
Urban / Regional Planner $67,500 8–14%
Water Resource Specialist $120,000 3–7%
Environmental Science Careers
Careers in Environmental Science are quite varied … you could end up working from home or
traveling the world. You could do fieldwork; work in a research laboratory, or some combination thereof.
Some environmental scientists are engaged in environmental policy, planning, and management. They
typically work for a government agency; and are likely to be engaged in a lot of research–intensive work.
Many of our graduates work as consultants or compliance officers in large corporations. Our graduates
are now working in an assortment of capacities for a variety of organizations: energy and sanitation
companies, in manufacturing, at universities, for private companies, law firms, nonprofit groups, and
government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Center for Disease Control.
Finding something you enjoy doing within the broad scope of Environmental Science should not be
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terribly difficult when there are so many options. Environmental scientists are problem solvers. They
research environmental problems and develop innovative solutions. In 2014, Forbes Magazine identified
Environmental Science as one the top 20 growth jobs for the next 25 years!
What Environmental Scientists Do?
Environmental scientists conduct research to identify, control, or eliminate hazards affecting the
environment and public health. Their research generally involves collecting and analyzing air, water, and
soil samples and analyzing them for correlations to human activity. They also prepare reports and
presentations that explain their findings. Environmental scientists develop plans to prevent, control, or fix
environmental problems like air pollution. They may also advise government officials that make policy,
and businesses that need to follow regulations. Some environmental scientists focus on environmental
issues, while others focus on issues relating to human health. Either way, they work on critical issues,
solving some of the most important problems of our day.
Where Does an Environmental Scientist Work?
Most environmental scientists work for federal, state, or local governments, where they conduct
research, advise on policy, and verify that businesses are following regulations. As of 2014, most
environmental scientists (i.e., 22%) worked in state government. Another 21% worked for companies
providing management, scientific, and technical consulting services. These professionals usually help
companies comply with regulations. About 14% worked for local government agencies, 10% provided
engineering services, and 7% worked for the federal government.
What is the Average Environmental Scientist Salary?
The average annual salary for an environmental specialist was $68,570 in 2014. Those working for the
federal government earned the highest salaries ($95,460). Those working in engineering services earned
about $67,770. Environmental scientists providing management, scientific, and technical consulting
services made about $64,940 on average. Those working for local governments made $60,280, while
those employed in state government made about $56,640.
Alumni Stories
Our alumni are working in a variety of different careers. Here are some of their stories:
Diane Ditzel (2008, Geography with a Concentration in Environmental Studies): Marketing Specialist
at VHB: A civil engineering firm that provides integrated planning, transportation, land development,
and environmental services at sites throughout the U.S. East Coast. Diane manages marketing,
business development, and proposal efforts in VHB's Raleigh and Charlotte offices for the Mid-
Atlantic Region, working directly with transportation engineers and environmental scientists to
prepare proposals and presentations for client interviews.
Nicholas Corsetti (2009, Political Science with a Concentration in Environmental Studies): Senior
Program Manager, Smart Energy Solutions at National Grid: Nicholas is the lead coordinator for the
customer–related aspects of Smart Energy Solutions, a new and innovative smart grid pilot program
for distributing energy to electric customers in Worcester, MA. In 2012, Nick graduated from the
Nicholas School of the Environment at Duke University with a Master’s degree.
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Janelle Jesikiewicz (2010, Environmental Studies and Geography): Graduate Student pursuing a
Master of Science in Applied Geosciences at The University of Pennsylvania. Following her graduation
from Villanova, Janelle worked for three years in the natural gas industry in northeastern Pennsylvania
as an Environmental Scientist where she was responsible for multimedia sampling, project
coordination, and client relations. At the University of Pennsylvania Janelle is focusing her studies in
hydrogeology.
Neil Mehta (2011, Environmental Science): Neil is an Environmental Compliance Specialist at AECOM.
Neil is responsible for hazardous and non–hazardous waste management, environmental compliance,
subcontractor oversight, health and safety, and managing and evaluating environmental data for a
variety of clients. Neil is also pursuing a Masters in Environmental Engineering and Water Resource
Management at Villanova University … he expects to graduate in 2016.
Craig Diziki (2012, Environmental Science): Staff Scientist at YU and Associates: Craig works on due
diligence, environmental remediation, site surveys, and monitoring of hazardous sites throughout
New York and New Jersey. His work mostly focuses on reducing harmful exposure to citizens,
workers, and the environment.
Andrew Gordon (2012, Environmental Studies and Political Science): Strategy and Operations
Consultant at Deloitte. Andrew is a management consultant for federal agencies, helping them solve
a wide variety of business problems. His primary focus is working with health agencies, including
Veterans Affairs, World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Center
for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Eric Wagner (2012, Geography): Eric has worked in a variety areas since his graduation in 2012. Eric
worked as GIS specialist for Chesapeake Energy in Dover, Delaware, where he was responsible for
mapping energy facilities. In Eric’s previous position, he worked as an Airborne Sensor Operator at
Keystone Aerial Surveys, where he worked on spatial analyses, aerial surveys, and high-grade camera
maintenance. His work focuses on photographing and mapping project areas from airplanes for
engineering, health, government, and environmental purposes. Eric is now the GIS Specialist and
Laboratory Tech for the Department of Geography and the Environment.
Andrew Bigelow (2013, Environmental Science): Health, Safety, and Environmental Specialist at
Alcon Research, Ltd. Andrew works for a medical device manufacturing company, at a plant that
produces devices for ophthalmic surgery. As a Health, Safety, and Environmental Specialist, he is
responsible for ensuring the health and safety of the associates and that plant operations are
performed in an environmentally sustainable manner. Andrew is also completing a Master of Science
Program in the Safety Sciences at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Mollie Simon (2013, Math with a minor in Environmental Studies): Southwest Outreach Coordinator
at the Clean Air Council. Mollie works as an environmental advocate to assist Pennsylvanians who are
experiencing major sources of air pollution in their town or city. She helps impacted community
members petition their local governments to provide oversight and stronger regulations on sources
of air pollution. In fall 2015, Mollie began a part–time Masters of Environmental Science with a focus
on policy at the University of Pennsylvania.
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Cynthia Troy (2013, Environmental Science): Law Student at University of Texas School of Law.
Cynthia is currently working towards a law degree, concentrating on intellectual property,
transactional licensing, copyright, and trademark work.
Alyssa Watt (2013, Environmental Science): Environmental Project Engineer at Posillico
Environmental, Inc. Alyssa works on remediation projects for contaminated sites, where she develops
waste classification sampling plans, analyzes waste classification laboratory results, coordinates with
disposal facilities, and writes technical project plans. At Columbia University, Alyssa is pursuing a
Masters in Sustainability Management and plans to graduate in 2018.
Michelle Velez (2014, Environmental Science and Spanish with Honors): Associate Director at CCS:
Michelle works at a consulting firm where she supports non-profit clients with their fundraising
campaigns.
Where Do Our Graduates Work and Go to School?
Recent graduates from our Department work in a variety jobs, many of which focus on environmental
consulting and regulatory compliance. These jobs are in environmental consulting companies, law firms
(as environmental investigators), pharmaceutical companies, engineering firms, and energy companies.
Some examples are given below:
AEI Consultants Alcon Pharmaceuticals
American Paper CH2M
Chesapeake Energy Bloomberg Financial
Chesapeake Environmental Management, Inc. Christopher Melick PLS
Goodwin-Procter LLP HDR Environmental Services
Image Navigation, Inc. J&J Consulting Services
Keystone Aerial Surveys Langan Engineering
Pacific PIR Partner Engineering & Science, Inc.
Posillico Inc. SQL Applications
Textron Systems Trinity Consultants
URS (AECOM) Vertex
York Analytical Laboratories Yu & Associates
Many of our recent graduates work in public sector jobs as environmental scientists, geographers, and
geospatial specialists:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Barbados Department of Natural Resources
Center for Disease Control Virginia Department of Natural Resources
Haverford Recreation Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission
Bureau of Land Management
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Recent graduates of our Department have gained entrance into some of the top graduate and
professional schools in the country:
Columbia University Duke University
Emory University George Washington University
Howard University Maryland Law
Michigan State University School of Law Northern Arizona University
The Pennsylvania State University Pennsylvania University
Rutgers University SUNY, College of Environmental Science & Forestry
University of Maryland University of Michigan
University of Texas Law School Vermont School of Law
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THE DEPARTMENT
Majors and Minors
Our Geography and Environmental programs are designed to prepare students for a variety of careers
in the public and private sector. Our programs are supported by compelling and innovative classroom
and laboratory experiences involving the observation and evaluation of environmental change. State of
the art teaching and research laboratory facilities support our academic programs and form the
foundation of a rigorous undergraduate research program. The Department has three majors and two
minors for students interested in these challenges. Full descriptions of all majors and minors start on
page 23.
Bachelor of Arts Degree:
Major in Geography
Major in Environmental Studies
Bachelor of Science Degree:
Major in Environmental Science
Minor Programs:
Minor in Geography
Minor in Global Sustainability
What’s the Difference Between Environmental Science and Studies?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions that we receive from students and parents. There
are two answers to this question, one is disciplinary, and the other curricular … we will give you both.
Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary academic field that integrates physical and natural
sciences (i.e., Ecology, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Soil Science, Geology, Atmospheric Science, and
Geography) to the study of the environment and the solution of environmental problems. Environmental
science provides an integrated, quantitative, and interdisciplinary approach to the study of environmental
systems. The environmental scientist is focused on field and lab work, dedicated to discerning the science
behind important environmental processes.
Environmental Studies is the academic field that systematically examines human interaction with the
environment. This is a broad and exciting interdisciplinary field of study that includes the natural and built
environment, along with the sets of relationships between them. This major differs from environmental
science and ecology because it focuses more on human interactions and policy, and it includes study in
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associated subjects such as: politics, law, economics, sociology, planning, pollution control, natural
resources, and the interactions of people and nature. The environmental studies major receives a rigorous
grounding in the science of the environment, but is also focused on environmental policy and
management.
From a curricular perspective, the major in Environmental Science is a B.S. degree, which is focused
more heavily on math and science. The science major will take two additional environmental science
laboratory courses, physics, and calculus. In contrast, the major in Environmental Studies is a B.A. degree.
In place of those additional math and science requirements required for the science major, the studies
major will take courses in the environmental social sciences and humanities. Complete and detailed
descriptions of the requirements for both majors are given on pages 25 and 28.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities
One of the underlying strengths of our undergraduate programs is the opportunity for students to
participate in research with faculty mentors. All students will do this as part of the formal senior research
experience, which is a requirement for each of our majors. Students may also participate in a number of
informal research activities as well. For examples of faculty research projects, refer to page 54.
Research Assistants
Many of our faculty will advertise Undergraduate Research Assistant positions during the academic
year. These advertisements occur periodically and are dependent on research funding. Undergraduate
research assistantships may include working in one of our research laboratories during the school year;
typically analyzing samples and collecting data in support of a faculty research project. Some
assistantships extend over the summer months, and we typically employ anywhere between eight to
fifteen students as research assistants during the summer break. These assistantships usually cover
housing costs and provide a stipend as well. Summer research assistants typically work from late May
until the first week of August. You will conduct fieldwork, process samples, and analyze data in support of
the research grant. The principle benefit for students is that they learn field and lab methods, which are
terrific résumé items for future employment, and many students develop data in support of their senior
research projects.
Villanova Undergraduate Research Fellowships (VURF Program)
The Villanova Undergraduate Research Fellows Program (VURF) is designed to provide financial
support for student research during the summer break period. The Faculty Undergraduate Research
Council determines funding allocations to be awarded as stipends for student researchers and faculty
collaborators, as well as funding available for supplies, travel, and conference support. This is a highly
competitive process and applications are typically due on or about 1 March. Students interested applying
for a VURF will contact a faculty advisor to discuss their interest and develop a research proposal. The
VURF will provide funds for housing, supplies, travel, and a summer stipend. The Department usually
sends out an announcement at the start of the spring semester. Students are advised to contact a
member of the faculty sooner rather than later to ensure that the professor has the time to work with
students. More information on the VURF program is available at:
https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/vpaa/orgp/research/curf/undergrad_research/fellows.html.
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Program Eligibility
Students must be enrolled as full–time undergraduates during the period of their funded
activities.
Research projects associated with academic course credit are not eligible for funding; projects
may be occasioned by previous coursework, but all projects must be documented as substantive
developments beyond the original work.
Collaboration between faculty and student researchers is encouraged, but student authorship
within the project must be the core element; projects for which students are serving primarily as
research assistants for faculty projects will not be funded.
All project proposals must include their intended results and the venue within which the
completed scholarship will be disseminated.
Senior Research Projects
Villanova’s academic program goals indicate that each graduating student should have an
undergraduate research experience, preferably at the senior level with a faculty mentor. In our
Department, there are three options: 1) Independent Study and Research, which is a one–semester
research program; 2) the Senior Thesis options, which spans two semesters ; and 3) an internship option.
Regardless of the option, we have implemented the formal research component of the curriculum
keeping in mind six fundamental outcomes for our graduates:
(1) Our students must acquire an understanding of the fundamental principles basic to science or
social science research, and employ the research methods acquired during their academic experience to
solve a complex, open–ended problem. They will work independently with the guidance of a faculty
mentor.
(2) Our students should become scientifically literate people who view the physical or human world
in a disciplined and objective manner.
(3) Our students should have an intrinsic capacity to recognize challenges—scientific or human—
and leverage their understanding of technology when confronting and solving complex problems.
(4) Our students develop the ability to speak and write clearly, using style, vocabulary, and
organization appropriate to the audience and venue.
(5) Our students will learn to correctly employ standard conventions in written and oral
communications in a scientific context. Students can focus on a purpose; develop flexible strategies for
generating, revising, editing, and proofreading; understand that there are common formats for different
kinds of writing requirements; practice appropriate means of documenting their work; and use a variety
of technologies to address a range of audiences.
(6) The senior research options provide a valuable professional experience for our students. As
part of their project, they will: (a) Understand the importance of organization, timeliness, and
professional speaking; and (b) In preparation for possible work and graduate school experiences, they
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will become familiar with the exacting standards that are observed in the preparation of a professional
paper.
The fundamental components of the independent study experience are:
A self-directed, undergraduate research opportunity under the guidance and mentorship of
a member of our faculty.
A planned research project that permits the student to employ interdisciplinary methods of
analysis to solve a complex problem.
An independent research experience that provides each student with an experience in the
analysis and interpretation of data using quantitative and qualitative methods as
appropriate.
A formal writing exercise within which students describe: the state of the science (i.e., a
literature review); a methodology and data plan; analysis of results; and a logical and
incisive discussion and interpretation of findings.
To achieve the goal of providing an undergraduate research experience, the formal research
program will be structured following one of the formats given below:
Senior Thesis Option
This is a two–semester program. During the fall semester, the student will define a project,
conduct a literature review, and undertake initial research by enrolling in GEV 6210 (Senior Thesis
Research I). During the spring semester, the student will enroll in GEV 6220 (Senior Thesis Research II)
to complete the research and writing phase of the project. The senior thesis option includes an oral
presentation to the faculty and fellow students as part of the Department’s Projects Day.
Senior Project Option
This is a one–semester research program and the student will enroll in GEV 6200 during either
semester, or possibly during a summer session (approved on a case–by–case basis). Once the student
and professor agree on a topic, the student will conduct research—under the guidance of the
professor—and develop a paper and a poster for presentation during Projects Day.
Senior Internship Option
This is a one–semester program for Environmental Studies and Geography students who prefer
to take part in an internship placement rather than conduct research for their senior project. The
student must independently seek out, apply for, and gain acceptance to a relevant internship during the
summer or academic semester preceding enrollment in GEV 6200. Relevant internships are those that
require the student to engage in tasks related to geography and/or environmental studies, allowing
them to gain direct experience in their respective field. Once completed, the student and professor
agree on a topic related to the internship and the student will develop a paper and poster.
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Honor Society Opportunities
Gamma Theta Upsilon (GTU) is an international honor society in geography and is open to all of our
majors. GTU was founded in 1928 and became a national organization in 1931. The Eta Lambda Chapter
was founded at Villanova University in 1988. Members of GTU will have met the academic requirements
explained below and share a background and interest in geography. GTU chapter activities support
geography knowledge and awareness, and are designed to expand academic opportunities for all of the
students in the Department through lectures, panel sessions, and other margin of excellence programs.
Organizational Goals:
1. To further professional interest in Geography by affording a common organization for those
interested in the field.
2. To strengthen student and professional training through academic experiences in addition to
those of the classroom and laboratory.
3. To advance the status of Geography as a cultural and practical discipline for study and
investigation.
4. To encourage student research of high quality, and to promote an outlet for publication.
5. To create and administer funds for furthering graduate study and/or research in the field of
Geography.
Eligibility for Membership:
Regular student membership in Gamma Theta Upsilon is open to:
Students with an overall GPA of 3.3 or better; and
Students who have completed 3 semesters at Villanova, with a minimum of 9 credit hours in
Geography courses; and
Students with a 3.3 or better GPA in their Geography courses.
Regardless of the criteria described above, to be considered for membership, students need
to be good citizens of the Department and should demonstrate a commitment to its mission.
Faculty membership in Gamma Theta Upsilon:
All faculty in the Department are eligible for membership;
Membership may be extended to faculty who have published in a geographic journal;
Membership may also be extended to faculty who have taught, or co-taught a Departmental
course
Honorary membership in Gamma Theta Upsilon:
The chapter may extend honorary membership to anyone whom it feels has, by exploration,
research, lecturing, publishing, teaching, or any other way contributed to the advancement of
Geography.
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Induction:
During the start of the spring semester, notification will be sent out to all students and faculty that
meet eligibility criteria. New members will be approved by a faculty vote during the January faculty
meeting. New members will be invited to an initiation ceremony that usually takes place as part of the
annual Graduation and Awards Dinner in April. During this ceremony, inductees learn the history of GTU
and the meaning of the organization's symbols and colors. Each new member will be awarded a
certificate and honor cords to be worn with graduation regalia.
Initiation Fees:
The Eta Lambda Chapter will cover all fees and expenses.
Academic Awards
The Medallion Awards:
Each year the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recognizes the top graduate from each major by
conferring upon him/her a Medallion Award for Distinguished Academic Achievement during its
Recognition Ceremony. Our Department has two such awards: the Rachel Carson Award for Excellence in
the Environment recognizes the top student in the environmental majors and the Alexander von Humboldt
Award for Excellence in Geography recognizes distinguished academic achievement by a Geography major.
There are 34 such awards conferred at graduation across the College and thus, the Medallion Award
winners represent the very finest students in the College. This is a singular achievement and honor.
Winners of the Department’s Medallion Awards are selected based on their grade point average in their
major, overall academic performance in classes, service to the Department, and their independent
research. Additionally we consider citizenship in the Department and service to the University as
important indicators for this award.
The Alexander von Humboldt Medallion Award for Excellence in Geography
Alexander von Humboldt is widely regarded as one of the founders of modern geography. His
travels, experiments, and knowledge transformed Western science during the Nineteenth Century.
This award will be formally presented by the Dean of the College during the Recognition
Ceremony. The award is conferred upon the Geography major who has achieved the highest
cumulative GPA in the Geography program. However, the award also recognizes consistent
superior performance in the classroom and laboratory, leadership, and indicates a student’s
commitment to continued intellectual development and citizenship in the Department. The
award is conferred at the discretion of the Department Chair based on the recommendation of
the Geography Program Director, and after a formal vote by the Department faculty.
The Rachel Carson Medallion Award for Excellence in the Environment
Rachel Louise Carson was an American marine biologist and nature writer whose writings are
credited with advancing the global environmental movement. The Dean of the College will
formally present this award during the Recognition Ceremony. The award will be conferred upon
an Environmental Science or Studies major who has achieved the highest cumulative GPA in
courses in the environmental program. However, the award also recognizes consistent superior
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performance in the classroom and laboratory, and indicates a student’s commitment to continued
intellectual development and citizenship in the Department. The award is conferred at the
discretion of the Department Chair based on the recommendation of the Environmental Program
Director, and after a formal vote by the Department faculty.
Medallion Award Winners
Year von Humboldt Medallion Year Rachel Carson Medallion
2015 Erin E. Grady 2015 Nicholas J. Pajerowski
2014 Mikah H. M. Schlesinger 2014 Molly K. Haggerty
2013 Eric J. Wagner 2013 Cynthia D. Troy
2012 Allison M. McIntyre 2012 Nichole A. Poletto
2011 Elizabeth A. Dias 2011 Alexander E. Lundy
2010 Elizabeth L. Yancey 2010 Kristen N. Marzocca
2009 Ian J. Guenther 2009 Katherine A. O’Gara
2008 Nicholas S. Andrejack
Delaware Valley Geographical Association Award:
Each year, the Delaware Valley Geographical Association recognizes outstanding geography majors
from the schools in the Delaware Valley. The award recognizes successful completion of all course
requirements in Villanova’s core curriculum and the Geography Program with the highest academic
achievement. The award recognizes the student who best epitomizes outstanding academic service and
scholarly excellence. The President of the Delaware Valley Geographical Association formally presents this
award during the annual dinner. The DVGA award is conferred upon a Geography major who epitomizes
excellence in the Department and at Villanova University. The winner will have one of the top GPAs in the
Department, but has also distinguished him or herself by exceptional scholarship, research, service, and
achievement. The award will be granted at the discretion of the Department Chair and after a formal vote
by the Department faculty.
Distinguished Environmental Graduate Award:
This award recognizes top performing environmental students in each graduating class. Winners of
this award consistently demonstrate the highest levels of scholarship, collegiality, and commitment to
academic service as a student in Villanova’s Environmental Science or Studies major. Additionally, these
students consistently exhibited distinguished academic achievement and were leaders in the classroom.
Award winners are typically in the top 1% of their class with a GPA of 3.5 or greater. The award is
conferred at the discretion of the Department Chair based on the recommendation of the Environmental
Program Director and a formal vote by the entire faculty.
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Distinguished Geographer Award:
This award recognizes the top performing Geography majors in each graduating class. Winners of
this award consistently demonstrated the highest levels of scholarship, collegiality, and commitment to
academic service as a student in Villanova’s Geography Program. Additionally, these students consistently
exhibited distinguished academic achievement and were leaders in the classroom. Award winners are
typically in the top 1% of their class with a GPA of 3.5 or greater. The award is conferred at the discretion
of the Department Chair based on the recommendation of the Geography Program Director and a formal
vote by the entire faculty.
Paul Crutzen Award for Outstanding Student Research:
Professor Paul Crutzen won a Nobel Prize in 1995 for his work on the hole in the ozone layer. In 1970,
he pointed out that emissions of nitrous oxide produced by soil bacteria could affect the amount of nitric
oxide in the stratosphere. Crutzen demonstrated that nitrous oxide lives long enough to reach the
stratosphere where it is converted to nitric acid, an ozone depleting substance; and thus, human activity
may be affecting stratospheric ozone. The award is conferred upon graduating seniors who have
consistently demonstrated excellence in the area of undergraduate research and scholarship. The award
is conferred at the discretion of the Department Chair based on the recommendation of the student’s
research mentor and a formal vote by the entire faculty.
Aldo Leopold Award for Outstanding Department Service:
Aldo Leopold was an American author, scientist, ecologist, forester, and environmentalist. He was a
professor at the University of Wisconsin and is best known for his book A Sand County Almanac (1949).
Leopold was influential in the development of modern environmental ethics and in the movement for
wilderness conservation. He emphasized biodiversity and ecology and was a founder of the science of
wildlife management. The award is conferred upon graduating seniors who have consistently
demonstrated the highest commitment to service and support of the Department’s mission. The award is
conferred at the discretion of the Department Chair based on a formal vote by the entire faculty.
John Muir Special Award for Exceptional Performance:
John Muir was an American naturalist, author, and early advocate of wilderness preservation. His
letters, essays, and books telling of his adventures in nature, especially in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of
California, have been read by millions and helped to develop an appreciation for the environment among
generations of Americans. His activism helped to preserve the Yosemite Valley, Sequoia National Park
and other wilderness areas. The Sierra Club, which he founded, is now one of the most important
conservation organizations in the United States. The award is conferred upon the one graduating senior
who demonstrated exceptional improvement and growth as a student during his/her tenure at Villanova
University. The award is conferred at the discretion of the Department Chair based on a formal vote by
the entire faculty.
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PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS
The Department of Geography and the Environment has three majors and two minors.
Major in Geography (Bachelor of Arts) | 40 courses | 125 credits
The Major in Geography provides a well–rounded, practical education with marketable skills to
students with interests in the spatial patterns of society and the environment. It focuses on interactions
between humans and the natural environment from a spatial perspective. Toward this end, the program
provides a fundamental understanding of human dynamics and physical/natural processes, such as
globalization, climatic variation, and natural disasters, within the context of places, landscapes, and
regions. Graduates are also given a firm grounding in the use of geospatial technologies as a means to
solve complex geographic problems. The program is founded on the principle that geographic
knowledge of place, space, and scale can provide essential insights into contemporary social and
environmental issues; and promotes the idea that such insight is critical to managing and meeting the
demands of a changing world. The major is grounded in research enabled by a geospatial approach,
problem–solving methods, data analysis, and developing open–ended solutions to complex geographic
issues.
Major in Environmental Studies (Bachelor of Arts) | 40 courses | 128 credits
This multidisciplinary environmental program focuses on the interface between environmental science
and the social sciences, including public policy, political science, law, economics, sociology, geography,
and planning. Toward this end, the program provides a fundamental understanding of the scientific
processes that underlie the composition of the natural landscape, coupled with a foundation in the social
sciences that produce the diversity and composition of human landscapes. The program is founded on
the principle that the social sciences––both as a bodies of knowledge and as the basis for structuring
human societal norms––must be applied to assess the direct and indirect influences of human activities on
the integrity of the environment. The major is grounded in research, a rigorous foundation, problem–
solving methods, data analysis, and developing open–ended solutions to complex environmental issues.
Major in Environmental Science (Bachelor of Science) | 40 courses | 132 credits
The Environmental Science program provides the technical and scientific background necessary for
understanding the science behind environmental processes and change. It focuses on the application of
biological, chemical, and physical principles to understanding natural and physical environments. The
major enables students to examine and critically analyze relationships between people and the
environment. It is grounded in research, a rigorous foundation, problem–solving methods, data analysis,
and developing open–ended solutions to complex environmental issues––this is accomplished by a
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rigorous set of laboratory courses. Toward this end, the program provides an understanding of, and
appreciation for the processes and interactions that occur both within and between the atmosphere,
biosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere. The program is founded on the principle that science––as a
body of knowledge and as a process that is grounded in intellectual inquiry––must be applied to assess
and address the direct and indirect influences of human activities on the integrity of Earth's systems.
Minor in Geography | 5 courses | 16 credits (minimum)
Geographers study spatial patterns. Geography is a unique discipline that integrates knowledge
across the social and natural sciences. The Geography minor enables students to understand the world in
a spatial sense, and critically examine patterns of activity at the nexus of human and environmental
processes. The minor is intended to accommodate the interests and needs of students from a variety of
majors and disciplines from across the College and University. This minor is open to Environmental
Science and Studies students.
Minor in Global Sustainability | 5 courses | 17 credits (minimum)
The Minor in Global Sustainability enables students from across the College and University to critically
explore the relationships between people and the environment. Students employ problem–solving
methods, analysis, evaluation, and prediction as part of the study of complex environmental issues. The
minor is designed to give students an interdisciplinary, Liberal Arts experience with an emphasis on
sustainability. Students are required to complete a set lab courses, followed by elective sequences that
build a multidisciplinary program that includes the natural sciences, social sciences, ethics, political
science, and the humanities. Scientists, engineers, and students in Liberal Arts majors alike are challenged
to find solutions to problems such as global warming, energy use, and the decline in natural ecosystems
and biodiversity. This minor is open to all students in the Department.
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REQUIREMENTS: MAJOR PROGRAMS
The Geography Major, Bachelor of Arts, 125 credits
ELEMENTS OF THE GEOGRAPHY MAJOR (B.A.)
GEOGRAPHY FOUNDATION COURSES (Take all five courses)
Course Title Number Credits
Geography of a Globalizing World GEV 1002 3 cr.
Geography of Earth’s Environments GEV 1003 3 cr.
Introduction to Geo–Techniques w / Laboratory GEV 1750 4 cr.
Global Change in Local Places GEV 2500 3 cr.
Geographic Information Systems w / Laboratory GEV 4700 4 cr.
REGIONAL PERSPECTIVE (Select one course)
Course Title Number Credits
Geography of North America GEV 3500 3 cr.
Geography of Europe and the European Union GEV 3510 3 cr.
Geography of Africa GEV 3515 3 cr.
Geography of the Middle East GEV 3520 3 cr.
Geography of Asia GEV 3525 3 cr.
GEOGRAPHY ELECTIVES (Select three courses)
1
Course Title Number Credits
Political Geography GEV 2510 3 cr.
Economic Geography GEV 2515 3 cr.
Urban Geography GEV 2520 3 cr.
Population Geography GEV 2525 3 cr.
Selected Topics GEV 3000 3 cr.
Introduction to Sustainability Studies GEV 3001 3 cr.
Geography of North America GEV 3500 3 cr.
Geography of Europe and the European Union GEV 3510 3 cr.
Geography of Africa GEV 3515 3 cr.
Geography of the Middle East and Islamic World GEV 3520 3 cr.
Geography of Asia GEV 3525 3 cr.
Natural Hazards GEV 3550 3 cr.
Land Use Planning and Management GEV 3570 3 cr.
Natural Resources and Conservation GEV 3580 3 cr.
Topical Research Problems GEV 3590 3 cr.
Remote Sensing GEV 3750 3 cr.
Air Photo Interpretation GEV 3775 3 cr.
Global Positioning Systems w / Laboratory GEV 3790 4 cr.
Selected Topics in Geography GEV 4510 3 cr.
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Climate Variability GEV 4511 3 cr.
Medical Geography GEV 4512 3 cr.
Geographical Issues Seminar GEV 4550 3 cr.
SENIOR RESEARCH2 (One or two courses and GEV 6005)
Course Title Number Credits
Senior Research Seminar (all students) and … GEV 6005 1 cr.
Independent Study (senior project students) GEV 6200 3 cr.
or
Senior Thesis I (counts as free elective) GEV 6210 3 cr.
Senior Thesis II GEV 6220 3 cr.
ELEMENTS OF THE CORE CURRICULUM
CORE COURSES (Take the following courses)
Course Title Number Credits
Augustine Culture Seminar (2 courses) ACS 1000/1001 6 cr.
College Ethics (1 course) ETH 2050 3 cr.
Fine Arts (1 course) 3 cr.
Foreign Language (2 courses) 6 cr.
History (1 course) 3 3 cr.
College Literature and Writing Seminar (1 course) ENG 1975 3 cr.
Philosophy (1 course) PHI 1000 3 cr.
Theology and Religious Studies (2 courses) THL 1000 6 cr.
Mathematics or Statistics (1 course) Any MAT 3 cr.
Social Science (2 courses) (satisfied by major) 6 cr.
Natural Science w/ Laboratory (2 courses) 8 credits
ELECTIVE COMPONENT OF THE MAJOR
FREE ELECTIVES (Select any 16 courses4)
Course Title Number Credits
Any 16 courses 48 cr. 1
SUMMARY OF THE GEOGRAPHY MAJOR
Geography Courses 10 courses 33 cr.
Core Curriculum Courses 14 courses 44 cr.
Free Electives 16 courses 48 cr .
Total Courses: GEO Major (40 courses 3 cr.) Total: 125 cr.
Notes: 1 Minimum credits.
2 Senior Thesis and Independent Study must be performed with a faculty member in Geography and the Environment.
3 Must be designated as ―Core History‖
4 Course selected should complement the major. May also be selected to satisfy a minor or double major.
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The Environmental Studies Major, Bachelor of Arts, 128 credits
ELEMENTS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES MAJOR (B.A.)
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES FOUNDATION COURSES (Take all three courses)
Course Title Number Credits
Environmental Science I w/ Laboratory (required) GEV 1050 4 cr.
Environmental Science II w/ Laboratory (required) GEV 1051 4 cr.
Environmental Issues Seminar (required) GEV 4310 3 cr.
REQUIRED MATH AND SCIENCE COURSES (Take all three courses)
Course Title Number Credits
General Chemistry I w/ Laboratory CHM 1151/1103 5 cr.
Environmental Chemistry w/ Laboratory GEV 2310 4 cr.
Statistics for Environmental Science1 GEV 3300 3 cr.
GEO–SPATIAL COURSES (Take both)
Course Title Number Credits
Introduction to Geo–Techniques w/ Laboratory GEV 1750 4 cr.
Geographic Information Systems w/ Laboratory GEV 4700 4 cr.
POLICY AND MANAGEMENT COURSES (Take any two courses)
Course Title Number Credits
Public Policy PA 2000 3 cr.
Global Corporate Responsibility MGT 2208 3 cr.
Introduction to Sustainability Studies GEV 3001 3 cr.
Ecosystem Services GEV 3002 3 cr.
Land Use Planning GEV 3570 3 cr.
Natural Resources and Conservation GEV 3580 3 cr.
Selected Topics in Environmental Policy GEV 4330 3 cr.
Environmental Policy and Management GEV 4331 3 cr.
Green Science GEV 4332 3 cr.
ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES (Take PHI 2121 plus any two courses)
2
Course Title Number Credits
Environmental Ethics (required) PHI 2121 3 credits
To complete this part of the major select any two:
Glbl. Pov. and Justice (counts as upper–level Theology) PJ/THL 4250 3 cr.
Ecofeminism (counts as free elective) PHI 2160 3 cr.
Christian Env. Ethics (counts as upper–level Theology) THL 4330 3 cr.
Bible and the Env. (counts as upper–level Theology) THL 2460 3 cr.
Am. Environmental History (counts as free elective) HIS 2276 3 cr.
Grow into Sust. Through Agro (counts as free elective) GEV 3003 3 cr.
Sel. Topics in Env. Issues (counts as free elective) GEV 4340 3 cr.
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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ELECTIVES (Take any four courses)3
Course Title Number Credits
Global Change in Local Places GEV 2500 3 cr.
Selected Topics in Geography and the Env. GEV 3000 3 cr.
Natural Hazards GEV 3550 3 cr.
Global Positioning Systems GEV 3790 4 cr.
Spec. Topics in Env. Lab Science w/ Laboratory GEV 4320 4 cr.
Microbial Processes w/ Laboratory GEV 4321 4 cr.
Ocean Environments w/ Laboratory GEV 4322 4 cr.
Watershed Biogeochemistry w/ Laboratory GEV 4323 4 cr.
Wetland Science and Management w/ Laboratory GEV 4324 4 cr.
Environmental Ecology w/ Laboratory GEV 4325 4 cr.
Environmental Geology w/ Laboratory GEV 4326 4 cr.
Geomorphology w/ Laboratory GEV 4327 4 cr.
Climatology w/ Laboratory GEV 4328 4 cr.
Wastewater Management w/ Laboratory GEV 4329 4 cr.
Special Topics in Environmental Science GEV 4350 3 cr.
Climate Variability GEV 4511 3 cr.
Medical Geography GEV 4512 3 cr.
SENIOR RESEARCH (One or two courses and GEV 6005)
4
Course Title Number Credits
Senior Research Seminar (all students) and … GEV 6005 1 cr.
Independent Study (senior project students) GEV 6200 3 cr.
or
Senior Thesis I (counts as a free elective) and … GEV 6210 3 cr.
Senior Thesis II GEV 6220 3 cr.
ELEMENTS OF THE CORE CURRICULUM
CORE COURSES (Take the following courses)
Course Title Number Credits
Augustine Culture Seminar (2 courses)5 ACS 1000/1001 6 cr.
College Ethics (1 course) ETH 2050 3 cr.
Fine Arts (1 course) 3 cr.
Foreign Language (2 courses) 6 cr.
History (1 course)6 3 cr.
College Literature and Writing Seminar (1 course) ENG 1975 3 cr.
Mathematics or Statistics (1 course) Any MAT 3 cr.
Philosophy (1 course) PHI 1000 3 cr.
Theology and Religious Studies (2 courses) THL 1000 6 cr.
Social Science (2 courses / met by major) 3 cr.
Core Science (2 courses / met by major) 3 cr.
ELECTIVE COMPONENT OF THE MAJOR
FREE ELECTIVES (Take any 12 courses)
Course Title Number Credits
Any 12 courses7 30 cr.
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SUMMARY OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES MAJOR
Environmental Studies Courses 16 courses 56 cr.
Core Curriculum Courses 12 courses 36 cr.
Free Electives 12 courses 36 cr .
Total courses for the ENVA Major (40 courses 3 cr.) Total: 128 cr.
Notes:
1 Biostatistics and Experimental Design (BIO 3105) or Statistical Methods (MAT 4310) may substitute.
2 Only 3 of 9 credits count towards major. Remaining 6 credits count towards core curriculum.
3 Courses that count as GEV Science and Technology Electives for the B.A. Environmental Studies degree may also include:
Introductory Ecology (BIO 3255, 4 credits); Conservation Biology (BIO 4801, 3 credits); Field Ecology and Evolution (BIO
4451/4452, 2/2 credits); Environmental Geology (GLY 2805, 3 credits).
4 Senior Thesis and Independent Study can be performed with a faculty member in Geography and the Environment or another
cognate science departments (e.g., Biology or Chemistry), with permission.
5 At least one ACS seminar may be fulfilled by students in the Environmental Learning Community.
6 Must be designated as ―Core History‖
7 Twelve courses––consider course offerings with environmental content.
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The Environmental Science Major, Bachelor of Science, 132 credits
ELEMENTS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE MAJOR (B.S.)
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION COURSES (Take GEV 1050, 1051, 4310, and two lab courses)
Course Title Number Credits
Environmental Science I w/ Laboratory (required) GEV 1050 4 cr.
Environmental Science II w/ Laboratory (required) GEV 1051 4 cr.
Environmental Issues Seminar (required) GEV 4310 3 cr.
Select Two Environmental Science Laboratory Courses1
Spec. Topics in Env. Lab Science w/ Laboratory GEV 4320 4 cr.
Microbial Processes w/ Laboratory GEV 4321 4 cr.
Ocean Environments w/ Laboratory GEV 4322 4 cr.
Watershed Biogeochemistry w/ Laboratory GEV 4323 4 cr.
Wetland Science and Management w/ Laboratory GEV 4324 4 cr.
Environmental Ecology w/ Laboratory GEV 4325 4 cr.
Environmental Geology w/ Laboratory GEV 4326 4 cr.
Geomorphology w/ Laboratory GEV 4327 4 cr.
Climatology w/ Laboratory GEV 4328 4 cr.
Wastewater Management w/ Laboratory GEV 4329 4 cr.
REQUIRED MATH AND SCIENCE COURSES (Take all five courses)
Course Title Number Credits
General Chemistry I w/ Laboratory CHM 1151/1103 5 cr.
Environmental Chemistry w/ Laboratory GEV 2310 4 cr.
Physics I w/ Laboratory PHY 1100/1101 4 cr.
Statistics for Environmental Science2 GEV 3300 3 cr.
Calculus I3 MAT 1500 4 cr.
GEO–SPATIAL COURSES (Take both)
Course Title Number Credits
Introduction to Geo–Techniques w/ Laboratory GEV 1750 4 cr.
Geographic Information Systems w/ Laboratory GEV 4700 4 cr.
POLICY AND MANAGEMENT COURSES (Take any two courses)
Course Title Number Credits
Public Policy PA 2000 3 cr.
Global Corporate Responsibility MGT 2208 3 cr.
Introduction to Sustainability Studies GEV 3001 3 cr.
Ecosystem Services GEV 3002 3 cr.
Land Use Planning GEV 3570 3 cr.
Natural Resources and Conservation GEV 3580 3 cr.
Selected Topics in Environmental Policy GEV 4330 3 cr.
Environmental Policy and Management GEV 4331 3 cr.
Green Science GEV 4332 3 cr.
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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ELECTIVES (Select any four courses)4
Course Title Number Credits
Global Change in Local Places GEV 2500 3 cr.
Selected Topics in Geography and the Env. GEV 3000 3 cr.
Natural Hazards GEV 3550 3 cr.
Global Positioning Systems GEV 3790 4 cr.
Spec. Topics in Env. Lab Science w/ Laboratory GEV 4320 4 cr.
Microbial Processes w/ Laboratory GEV 4321 4 cr.
Ocean Environments w/ Laboratory GEV 4322 4 cr.
Watershed Biogeochemistry w/ Laboratory GEV 4323 4 cr.
Wetland Science and Management w/ Laboratory GEV 4324 4 cr.
Environmental Ecology w/ Laboratory GEV 4325 4 cr.
Environmental Geology w/ Laboratory GEV 4326 4 cr.
Geomorphology w/ Laboratory GEV 4327 4 cr.
Climatology w/ Laboratory GEV 4328 4 cr.
Wastewater Management w/ Laboratory GEV 4329 4 cr.
Special Topics in Environmental Science GEV 4350 3 cr.
Climate Variability GEV 4511 3 cr.
Medical Geography GEV 4512 3 cr.
SENIOR RESEARCH (One course and GEV 6005)
5
Course Title Number Credits
Senior Research Seminar (all students) and … GEV 6005 1 credit
Independent Study (senior project students) GEV 6200 3 cr.
or
Senior Thesis I (counts as a free elective) and … GEV 6210 3 cr.
Senior Thesis II GEV 6220 3 cr.
ELEMENTS OF CORE CURRICULUM
CORE COURSES (Take the following 11 courses)
Course Title Number Credits
Augustine Culture Seminar (2 courses)6 ACS 1000/1001 6 cr.
College Ethics (1 course) ETH 2050 3 cr.
Fine Arts (1 course) 3 cr.
Foreign Language (2 courses) 6 cr.
History (1 course) 7 3 cr.
College Literature and Writing Seminar (1 course) ENG 1975 3 cr.
Philosophy (1 course) PHI 1000 3 cr.
Theology and Religious Studies (2 courses) THL 1000 6 cr.
Mathematics or Statistics (1 course / met by major)8 3 cr.
Social Science (2 courses / met by major) 3 cr.
Core Science (2 courses / met by major) 3 cr.
ELECTIVE COMPONENT OF THE MAJOR
FREE ELECTIVES (Take any 10 courses)
Course Title Number Credits
Any 10 courses9 30 cr.
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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SUMMARY OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE MAJOR
Environmental Science Courses 19 courses 69 cr.
Core Curriculum Courses 11 courses 33 cr.
Free Electives 10 courses 30 cr.
Total courses for the ENV Major (40 courses 3 cr.) Total: 132 cr.
Notes: 1 Biology laboratory courses > 3000 and/or Chemistry laboratory courses >2000 level may fulfill this requirement.
2 Biostatistics and Experimental Design (BIO 3105) or Statistical Methods (MAT 4310) may fulfill this requirement.
3 Calculus for Life Sciences (MAT 1310) may fulfill this requirement.
4 Courses that may count as GEV Science and Technology Electives: Introductory Ecology (BIO 3255, 4 cr.); Conservation Biology (BIO
4801, 3 cr.); Field Ecology and Evolution (BIO 4451/4452, 2/2 cr.); Environmental Geology (GLY 2805, 3 credits).
5 Senior Thesis and Independent Study can be performed with a faculty member in Geography and the Environment or another
cognate science department (e.g., Biology or Chemistry), with permission.
6 At least one ACS seminar may be fulfilled by students in the Environmental Learning Community.
7 Must be designated as ―Core History.‖
8 Students with AP Calculus credit must take any MAT course at Villanova. The AP course will be counted toward the major.
9 Ten courses––consider course offerings with environmental content.
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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REQUIREMENTS: MINOR PROGRAMS
The Geography Minor
ELEMENTS OF THE GEOGRAPHY MINOR
INTRODUCTORY COURSES (Select one)
Course Title Number Credits
Geography of a Globalizing World GEV 1002 3 cr.
Geography of Earth’s Environments GEV 1003 3 cr.
REGIONAL PERSPECTIVE (Select one)
Course Title Number Credits
Geography of North America GEV 3500 3 cr.
Geography of Europe and the European Union GEV 3510 3 cr.
Geography of Africa GEV 3515 3 cr.
Geography of the Middle East GEV 3520 3 cr.
Geography of Asia GEV 3525 3 cr.
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (Mandatory Course)
Course Title Number Credits
Geographic Information Systems w / Laboratory GEV 4700 4 cr.
GEOGRAPHY ELECTIVES (Select any two geography courses, must be 2000 level course)
Course Title Number Credits
Global Change in Local Places GEV 2500 3 cr.
Political Geography GEV 2510 3 cr.
Economic Geography GEV 2515 3 cr.
Urban Geography GEV 2520 3 cr.
Population Geography GEV 2525 3 cr.
Selected Topics GEV 3000 3 cr.
Introduction to Sustainability Studies GEV 3001 3 cr.
Geography of North America GEV 3500 3 cr.
Geography of Europe and the European Union GEV 3510 3 cr.
Geography of Africa GEV 3515 3 cr.
Geography of the Middle East and Islamic World GEV 3520 3 cr.
Geography of Asia GEV 3525 3 cr.
Natural Hazards GEV 3550 3 cr.
Land Use Planning and Management GEV 3570 3 cr.
Natural Resources and Conservation GEV 3580 3 cr.
Topical Research Problems GEV 3590 3 cr.
Remote Sensing GEV 3750 3 cr.
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Air Photo Interpretation GEV 3775 3 cr.
Global Positioning Systems w / Laboratory GEV 3790 4 cr.
Selected Topics in Geography GEV 4510 3 cr.
Climate Variability GEV 4511 3 cr.
Medical Geography GEV 4512 3 cr.
Geography of National Security GEV 4513 3 cr.
Geomorphology GEV 4514 3 cr.
Terrestrial Ecosystem GEV 4515 3 cr.
Environmental Security GEV 4516 3 cr.
Geomorphology GEV 4514 3 cr.
Geographical Issues Seminar GEV 4550 3 cr.
SUMMARY OF THE GEOGRAPHY MINOR
Total credits (5 courses 3 cr.) Total: 17 cr. min.
The Minor in Global Sustainability
ELEMENTS OF THE MINOR
Curriculum: 21 credits1. Required course: GEV 3001. Select two courses from each of the three stems
in the table given below. Students may count 1 course from their major or a relevant core course
(including relevant MSE courses) toward the minor.
INTRODUCTORY COURSE (Select one)
Course Title Number Credits
Introduction to Sustainability Studies GEV 3001 3 cr.
HUMANITIES STEM (Select two)
Course Title Number Credits
Globalization and Ethical Eco1 ETH 3650 3 cr.
American Environmental History HIS 2276 3 cr.
Environmental Ethics PHI 2121 3 cr.
Eco Feminism PHI 2160 3 cr.
Environmental Philosophy PHI 4210 3 cr.
Caring for Earth PJ/THL 4420 3 cr.
Christian Environmental Ethics THL 4330 3 cr.
POLICY STEM (Select two)
Course Title Number Credits
Environment and Economy ECO 1104 3 cr.
Urban Geography GEV 2520 3 cr.
Population Geography GEV 2525 3 cr.
Global Change in Local Places GEV 2500 3 cr.
Selected Topics in Geography and the Environment GEV 3000 3 cr.
Ecosystem Services GEV 3002 3 cr.
Land Use Planning GEV 3570 3 cr.
Natural Resources and Conservation GEV 3580 3 cr.
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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Selected Topics in Environmental Policy GEV 4330 3 cr.
Environmental Policy and Management GEV 4331 3 cr.
Water Resources Planning GEV 4332 3 cr.
Environmental Law GEV 4333 3 cr.
Medical Geography GEV 4512 3 cr.
Environmental Security GEV 4516 3 cr.
Public Policy PA 2000 3 cr.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY STEM (Select two)
Course Title Number Credits
Introduction to Ecology 2 BIO 3255 4 cr.
Field Ecology and Evolution 2 5
BIO 4451 4 cr.
Conservation Biology 2 BIO 4801 4 cr.
Environmental Science I 5 GEV 1050 4 cr.
Environmental Science II 5 GEV 1051 4 cr.
Environmental Studies I 3 GEV 1052 3 cr.
Environmental Studies II GEV 1053 3 cr.
Metrology GEV 3502 3 cr.
Environmental Geology GEV 3003 3 cr.
Green Science GEV 4353 3 cr.
Biomimicry GEV 4354 3 cr.
Climate Variability GEV 4511 3 cr.
Terrestrial Ecosystems GEV 4515 3 cr.
Environmental Lab Science Courses 2 4 5
GEV 432X 4 cr.
Climate Change Past and Present 2 MET 1222 3 cr.
Environmental Engineering Science 2 CEE 2311 4 cr.
Water and Wastewater 2 CEE 3321 / 3921 3 cr.
Solid and Hazardous Waste CEE 4331 3 cr.
International Development ME 4050 3 cr.
Alternative Energy CHE 5715 3 cr.
Industrial Liquid and Solid Waste CHE 5001 3 cr.
Principles of Air Pollution Contrail CHE 5002 3 cr.
Chemical Engineering Research 5 CHE 3831 / 4832 3 cr.
Climate Change and Sustainability EGR 7110 3 cr.
Life Cycle and Impact Assessment EGR 7111 3 cr.
Econ/Social Equity Integrator EGR 7112 3 cr.
Undergraduate Research 6 CEE 4612 3 cr.
Princ. Of Sustainable Devel. Industry and Society CEE 7829 3 cr.
Design of Sustainable Transportation CEE 8207 3 cr.
Introduction to Sustainable Energy ME 5130 3 cr.
Design of Gravity Water Networks ME 5140 3cr.
1 This course list may be supplemented by the faculty advisor as new courses become available
2 Pre-requisites, see advisor
3 AP course credit may be applied
4 Any one of 10 environmental lab science courses
5 Associated lab section required, see advisor
6 Permission Required
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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COURSE OFFERING
Undergraduate Advising Matrix
Course # Course Title AY 2017 AY 2018 AY 2019 AY 2020 AY 2021
F16 S17 F17 S18 F18 S19 F19 S20 F20 S21
GEV 1002 Geography of a Globalizing World X X X X X X X X X X
GEV 1003 Geography of Earth’s Environments X X X X X X X X X X
GEV 1050 Environmental Science I X X X X X
GEV 1051 Environmental Science II X X X X X
GEV 1052 Environmental Studies I X X X X X
GEV 1053 Environmental Studies II X X X X X
GEV 1750 Geo–Techniques X X X X X
GEV 2310 Environmental Chemistry X X X X X
GEV 2500 Global Change in Local Places X X X X X
GEV 2525 Population Geography X X X X X
GEV 3001 Introduction to Sustainability Studies X X X X X
GEV 3002 Ecosystems Services X X X X X
GEV 3003 Statistics for Environmental Scientists X X X X X
GEV 3308 Environmental Health X X X
GEV 3500 Geography of North America X X X X X
GEV 3550 Natural Hazards X X X X
GEV 3570 Land Use Planning and Management X X X X
GEV 3580 Natural Resource Conservation X X X X X
GEV 3750 Remote Sensing X X X X X
GEV 4310 Environmental Issues Seminar X X X X X
GEV 4322 Ocean Environments X X
GEV 4323 Watershed Biogeochemistry X X
GEV 4325 Environmental Ecology X X X
GEV 4331 Environmental Policy and Management X X
GEV 4360 Field Methods in Environmental Science X X X
GEV 4512 Medical Geography X X
GEV 4700 Geographic Information Systems X X X X X X X X X X
GEV 6005 Senior Research Seminar X X X X X X X X X X
GEV 6200 Independent Study X X X X X X X X X X
GEV 6210 Senior Thesis Research I X X X X X X X X X X
GEV 6220 Senior Thesis Research II X X X X X X X X X X
Note: These are course projections only; actual course offerings may vary depending on scheduling and faculty availability.
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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Undergraduate Course Catalog
GEV 1002 Geography of a Globalizing World 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Regional study of human and physical realms of Geography. A regional approach to studying diverse
human and natural landscapes, linking contemporary social, political, historical, economic, and environmental issues using a
spatial perspective. Fulfills the Social Science requirement of the Core Curriculum in Arts and Sciences.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Geography Foundation Other Attribute: Core Social Science
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 1003 Geography of Earth’s Environments 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: World patterns of climate, water, landforms, soil, and vegetation are the focus of this global environmental
course. Physical processes, the spatial distribution of environmental variables, and their impacts on society. Fulfills the Social
Science requirement of the Core Curriculum in Arts and Sciences.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Geography Foundation Other Attribute: Core Social Science
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 1050 Environmental Science I 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental Science
Course Description: First semester of a two-course sequence providing a multidisciplinary foundation in Environmental Science
Lectures include environmental biology and chemistry, earth and atmospheric sciences, and climate change. Laboratories
emphasize the investigation of environmental problems, including the collection of data from lab experiments and field-based
observations. Required for all Environmental Studies and Environmental Science Majors, and students completing the
Environmental Studies Minor.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Student cannot have taken GEV 1052
GEV 1051 Environmental Science II 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental Science
Course Description: Continuation of Environmental Science I (GEV 1050). A multidisciplinary foundation in Environmental
Science, including natural resources, pollution, and energy, with related field trips held during laboratory sessions. Required for
all Environmental Studies and Environmental Science Majors, and students completing the Environmental Studies Minor.
Prerequisites: GEV 1050 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Student cannot have taken GEV 1053
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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GEV 1052 Environmental Studies 1 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: First semester of a two-course sequence providing a multidisciplinary foundation in Environmental Science
Lectures include environmental biology and chemistry, earth and atmospheric sciences, and climate change. Free elective course
to provide Advanced Placement credit for Environmental Science.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Student cannot have taken GEV 1050. To receive Advanced Placement credit the student
has to score a 4 or 5 on the AP Environmental Science examination.
GEV 1053 Environmental Studies 2 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Overview of fundamental environmental topics, including themes in energy, pollution, and resources.
Prerequisites: GEV 1052 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Student cannot have taken GEV 1051.
GEV 1750 Geo–Techniques 4 credits Lab: yes Geography
Course Description: Principles and applications of geographic technologies and field techniques used in geographic and
environmental research, with an emphasis on: field survey techniques, cartography, global positioning systems, aerial
photography, satellite imagery and advanced remote sensing techniques, computer-aided cartography, digital elevation models
and geographic information systems. These technologies and methodologies are used in the lab to gather, analyze, and properly
display data and interpreted results.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 1903 Internship Elective 3 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Internship in various geographic and environmental science positions.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Topic Dependent Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: By permission of the Department Chair. Student must coordinate the course with the
College’s Internship Office. Credit level determined by level of internship and volume of work.
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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GEV 1906 Internship Elective 6 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Internship in various geographic and environmental science positions.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Topic Dependent Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: By permission of the Department Chair. Student must coordinate the course with the
College’s Internship Office. Credit level determined by level of internship and volume of work.
GEV 1909 Internship Elective 9 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Internship in various geographic and environmental science positions.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Topic Dependent Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: By permission of the Department Chair. Student must coordinate the course with the
College’s Internship Office. Credit level determined by level of internship and volume of work.
GEV 2310 Environmental Chemistry 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental Science
Course Description: Interdisciplinary approach to chemical and biochemical phenomena that occur in natural places. Study of
the sources, reactions, transport, effects, and fates of chemical species in the air, soil, and water environments; and the effect of
human activity on these. Required for all students enrolled in the Environmental Studies and Environmental Science Majors.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 2500 Global Change in Local Places 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Geographic research methods to address the spatial implications of local issues. Relationships between
global environmental and societal processes and local landscapes. Collection, evaluation, analysis, and presentation of both
qualitative and quantitative geographic data.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 2510 Political Geography 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Spatiality of political process and structure, with an emphasis on current geo-political issues in the world.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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GEV 2515 Economic Geography 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Locational analysis of the major agricultural, manufacturing, and service industries in an increasing
interdependent world.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 2520 Urban Geography 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: The location, structure, functions, and growth problems of cities; possible solutions for preserving or
restoring a livable urban environment.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 2525 Population Geography 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Spatial patterns of human population; population size, growth, and characteristics; vital statistics, projection
and forecasting techniques, the relationship of population to environmental problems.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science Other Attribute: Core Social Science
Special Requirements / Restrictions: By permission of the Department Chair. Student must coordinate the course with the
College’s Internship Office. Credit level determined by level of internship and volume of work.
GEV 2669 Internship 3 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Students undertake a significant experiential learning opportunity, typically with a company, non-profit,
governmental, or community-based organization. The internship represents an educational strategy that links classroom learning
and student interest with the acquisition of knowledge in an applied work setting.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Topic Dependent Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: By permission of the Department Chair. Student must coordinate the course with the
College’s Internship Office. Credit level determined by level of internship and volume of work.
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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GEV 2993 Internship 6 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Students undertake a significant experiential learning opportunity, typically with a company, non-profit,
governmental, or community-based organization. The internship represents an educational strategy that links classroom learning
and student interest with the acquisition of knowledge in an applied work setting.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Topic Dependent Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3000 Selected Topics 3 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Contemporary topics in Geography and Environmental Science. Topics will be announced on a semester–
by–semester basis. Specific information will be available on the department's web page.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Based on topic Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: By permission
GEV 3001 Introduction to Sustainability Studies 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future generations.
Social, engineering, and economic dimensions, which make up the sustainability model.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3002 Ecosystem Services 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Four major categories of ecosystem services: provisioning services, regulating services, cultural services, and
supporting services.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3003 Environmental Geology 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Application of the principles of geology in the solving of environmental problems.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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GEV 3300 Statistics for Environmental Sciences 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Statistical methods and application. An introduction to statistical concepts, techniques, and applications to
data analysis and to problems in the design, analysis, and interpretation of experiments in the environmental sciences.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3301 Fisheries 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Current practices and the environmental, political, and social implications of this global industry.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3302 Agricultural Sciences 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Environmental implications of agriculture, incl. a scientific analysis of soil, pesticides, fertilizer, and
biodiversity.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3303 Soil Science 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Soil, soil properties, and biota in various ecosystems with a focus on human impacts to soil mesocosm.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3304 Air Pollution 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Assessment of current methods for supplying energy, incl. fossil fuels, nuclear energy, and renewable
energy.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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GEV 3305 Energy Systems 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Assessment of current methods for supplying energy, incl. fossil fuels, nuclear energy, and renewable
energy.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3306 Alternative Energy 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Analysis of emerging and established alternative energies, incl. water, wind, solar, biofuel, and hydropower.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3307 Urban Ecosystems 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Complexity of urban governance and applied urban ecological policy. Lectures, case studies, readings, and
discussion: interactions between political decisions and ecological outcomes in urban landscapes.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3308 Environmental Health 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Health issues, scientific understanding of causes, and possible future approaches to control of the major
environmental health problems in industrialized and developing countries.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3309 Coral Reefs 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Science, policy, and management issues for coral reef ecosystems in a changing world.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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GEV 3310 Special Topics in Geology 3 credits Lab: no Environmental Science
Course Description: Topical approach to geology to include the terroir of wines, to the geology behind current events.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3395 International Studies in Environmental Science 3 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Lecture course taken through International Studies Program.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3500 Geography of North America 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Physical and human geography of North America from a regional perspective. Considers key geographic
concepts of site, situation, and the interaction between society and the environment for each region.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science Other Attribute: Core Social Science
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3501 Geomorphic Environments 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Landform processes and development. Geomorphic processes, dynamics, and equilibrium systems. Data
collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation of landform development models.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3502 Meteorology 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Weather analysis and forecasting. Atmospheric processes, dynamics, and synoptic-scale systems. Data
collection, weather statistics, and interpretation of modeled weather forecasts.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
D E P A R T M E N T C A T A L O G A N D G U I D E T O U N D E R G R A D U A T E A C A D E M I C P R O G R A M S
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GEV 3510 Geography of Europe 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Physical and human geography of Europe from a regional perspective. Considers key geographic concepts
of site, situation, and the interaction between society and the environment for each region.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science Other Attribute: Core Social Science
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3515 Geography of Africa 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Physical and human geography of Africa from a regional perspective. Considers key geographic concepts
of site, situation, and the interaction between society and the environment for each region.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science Other Attribute: Core Social Science / Diversity
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3520 Geography of the Middle East 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Study of the Middle Eastern landscape: expressions of its natural and cultural forms. The variety of its
peoples is studied in a geographic context. The social and environmental imprint of the oil industry and the historical and
contemporary interrelationship between the Islamic World and the West.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science Other Attribute: Core Social Science
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3525 Geography of the Asia 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: An introduction to the rich variety of peoples, cultural traditions, rapid economic development, and
environment in Asia.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science Other Attribute: Core Social Science
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3550 Natural Hazards 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Natural hazards threaten health and property. Processes determining physical risk, vulnerability, and
response to major hazards (e.g., blizzards, tornadoes, storms, drought, flooding, earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, and wildfires.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
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GEV 3570 Land Use Planning and Management 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Focus on land-law interfaces between the physical, cultural, and legal realms. Survey of natural and political
systems as the basis for land use controls. The environmental, economic, and ethical impacts of these controls are explored.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3580 Natural Resource Conservation 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Assessment of natural resource and conservation issues in the U.S. and around the world. Distribution and
use patterns of air, water, mineral, energy, and biologic resources. Examination of exploitation, conservation, and preservation
management strategies.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3590 Topical Research Problems 3 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Individual projects or studies in geography and the environment.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Course Dependent Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: By permission of the instructor
GEV 3595 International Studies in Geography 3 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Lecture course taken through the International Studies Program.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Course Dependent Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: By permission of the Department Cahir
GEV 3750 Remote Sensing 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Data collection and analysis with high technology platforms such as conventional and color infrared
photography, multispectral scanners, satellite imagery, thermal infrared, LIDAR, and radar. Application of remotely sensed data to
solve complex, human, environmental, and engineering problems.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
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GEV 3775 Digital Image and Air Photo Interpretation 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Concepts and techniques in digital image processing and air photo interpretation: image classification,
three- dimensional photography, identification, and measurements of features from photographic imagery.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 3790 GPS and Project Management 4 credits Lab: yes Geography
Course Description: Principles, techniques, and applications of Global Positioning Systems (GPS). Laboratory employs data
collection, mapping, and analyses with state-of-the-art GPS equipment and software.
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 4320 Special Topics in Environmental Lab Science 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental
Course Description: Advanced laboratory science topics in the Environment presented by senior faculty. Specific subject matter
will vary with the expertise of the professor.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051 and 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 4321 Microbial Processes 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental
Course Description: Examination of Earth’s dynamic systems and the environmental consequences of environmental processes.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051 and 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 4322 Ocean Environments 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental
Course Description: Investigation of the biological, geological, chemical, and physical characteristics of the ocean.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051 and 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Course involves weekend field labs.
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GEV 4323 Watershed Biogeochemistry 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental
Course Description: Biogeochemical and physical characteristics of watersheds and the threats they currently face.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051 and 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Course involves weekend field labs.
GEV 4324 Wetland Science and Management 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental
Course Description: Wetland flora and fauna, hydrology, soils, and ecology.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051 and 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4325 Environmental Ecology 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental
Course Description: Principles of ecology and their implications for analyzing environmental problems. Understanding
processes controlling the dynamics of populations, communities, and ecosystems.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051 and 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4326 Geologic Processes 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental
Course Description: Geologic processes, formation of fossil fuel and ore deposits, and the environmental impact of their
extraction.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051 and 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4327 Process Geomorphology 4 credits Lab: yes Geography
Course Description: Processes that shape landforms. Major components of geomorphology, including fluvial, glacial,
periglacial, aeolian, slope, and weathering processes.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051 and 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
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GEV 4328 Climatology 4 credits Lab: yes Geography
Course Description: Approaches to understand and identify recent and long-term climate behavior in different parts of the
world. Basic meteorological factors that influence climate. General climate classification schemes, theories of climate cycles and
climate change.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051 and 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4329 Global Change Research 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental
Course Description: Advanced field and laboratory research focused on contemporary issues in environmental science.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051 and 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4330 Special Topics in Environmental Policy 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Advanced topics in environmental policy and management presented by senior and visiting faculty. Specific
subject matter will vary with the expertise of the visiting professor or senior faculty member conducting the course. Course may
be taken under multiple titles.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4331 Environmental Policy and Management 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: National and international debates of key environmental issues from policy and management perspectives.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4332 Water Resources Planning 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Management and planning of natural and constructed water systems.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
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GEV 4333 Politics and the Environment 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Analysis of current affairs related to the environment.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4334 Environmental Law 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Legal analysis of the environment, incl. seminal national and international laws.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4335 Energy Policy 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Policies pertaining to the extraction, supply, distribution, and use of energy.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4340 Special Topics in Environmental Issues 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Advanced topics in environmental social science and humanities presented by senior and visiting faculty.
Specific subject matter will vary with the expertise of the visiting professor or senior faculty member conducting the course.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4350 Special Topics in Environmental Science 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Advanced topics in environmental science presented by senior and visiting faculty. Specific subject matter
will vary with the expertise of the visiting professor or senior faculty member conducting the course. Course may be taken under
multiple titles.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
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GEV 4350 Special Topics in Environmental Science 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Advanced topics in environmental science presented by senior and visiting faculty. Specific subject matter
will vary with the expertise of the visiting professor or senior faculty member conducting the course. Course may be taken under
multiple titles.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 4351 Oceanography 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Biology, geology, chemistry, and physical environment of the ocean.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 4352 Physical Geology 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Earth’s dynamic systems and the environmental consequences of geologic processes.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 4353 Green Science 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Application of eco-friendly thinking to scientific disciplines. Scientific solutions to global warming, pollution
and other impacts on nature and the planet.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 4354 Biomimicry 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Design and production of materials, structures, and systems that are modeled on biological entities and
processes.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
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GEV 4355 Tropical Ecology 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Environmental issues unique to tropical latitudes and ecosystems.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 4356 Global Change Science 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Advanced exploration and discussion focused on contemporary issues in environmental science.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 4357 Ecosystem Ecology 3 credits Lab: no Environmental
Course Description: Integrated study of living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components of ecosystems and their interactions
within a natural framework.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 4360 Field Methods in Environmental Science 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental
Course Description: Environmental field research focusing on a specific environmental issue including an extensive field trip.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051, 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Frequent outdoor labs. Potential weekend labs.
GEV 4361 Field Research 4 credits Lab: yes Environmental
Course Description: Design and conduct environmental research during a 1-2 week field trip to various locations; Lectures will
incl. natural history, ecology, and geology of the location.
Prerequisites: GEV 1051, 2310 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Frequent outdoor labs. Potential weekend labs. One weeklong field lab.
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GEV 4510 Selected Topics in Geography 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Advanced topics in Geography presented by senior and visiting faculty. Specific subject matter will vary
with the expertise of the visiting professor or senior faculty member conducting the course. Course may be taken under multiple
titles.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science and Humanities Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4511 Climate Variability 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Seasonal, interannual, and decadal variations in climate variables. Atmospheric circulation patterns,
teleconnections, and their impacts on the environment and society.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4512 Medical Geography 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Spatial patterns and epidemiology of disease. Characteristics of epidemics and pandemics from a
geographic perspective. Case studies, spatial / statistical analyses, and transmission processes.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4513 Geography of National Security 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Geography of the national security landscape and the nexus of geography and conflict. Modern trends in
national security, historical case studies, and geospatial analyses.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Policy and Management Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4514 Geomorphology 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Physical processes and resultant landforms. Spatial distribution of landforms and physical environments at
local, regional, and global scales.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
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GEV 4515 Terrestrial Ecosystems 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Spatial distribution of species, biomes, and ecosystems at local, regional, and global scales. Ecological and
historical processes responsible for geographic patterns of biodiversity.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4516 Environmental Security 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Broad range of security issues triggered by demographic and environmental factors such as competition for
resources, population growth/displacement, disease, natural disasters, environmental change, and non-sustainable practices.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science and Humanities Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4517 Sustainable Development 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Broad range of security issues triggered by demographic and environmental factors such as competition for
resources, population growth/displacement, disease, natural disasters, environmental change, and non-sustainable practices.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science and Humanities Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions:
GEV 4550 Geographical Issues Seminar 3 credits Lab: no Geography
Course Description: Interdisciplinary coverage of contemporary global human and environmental issues, emphasizing their
complexity, analyses, and solutions.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Social Science and Humanities Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Can be taken multiple times.
GEV 4700 Geographic Information Systems 4 credits Lab: yes Geography
Course Description: Principles, techniques, and applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Laboratory employs
analyses with state-of-the-art GIS software.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
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GEV 4700 Advanced Geographic Information Systems 4 credits Lab: yes Geography
Course Description: Spatial problem solving by focusing on theoretical/conceptual and practical aspects of GIS modeling and
spatial analysis.
Prerequisites: GEV 4700 Corequisites: none
GEV Attribute: Science and Technology Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: none
GEV 6005 Senior Research Seminar 1 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Scheduled group meetings with other research students in the department, focusing on general and
specific aspects of the senior research project/thesis and professional development.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: GEV 6200 or GEV 6220
GEV Attribute: none Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Requires permission of instructor
GEV 6200 Senior Research Seminar 3 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Individual research projects in geography or environmental sciences.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: GEV 6200 or GEV 6220
GEV Attribute: none Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Requires permission of instructor
GEV 6210 Senior Thesis Research I 3 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Research with faculty member selected by student. Part 1 of two-semester sequence. Continues as Thesis
Research II, which culminates in a written thesis.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: GEV 6200 or GEV 6220
GEV Attribute: none Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Requires permission of the faculty mentor
GEV 6220 Senior Thesis Research II 3 credits Lab: no Department
Course Description: Second phase of senior thesis sequence. Research with faculty mentor selected by student. Culminates in
a written senior thesis.
Prerequisites: none Corequisites: GEV 6200 or GEV 6220
GEV Attribute: none Other Attribute: none
Special Requirements / Restrictions: Requires permission of the faculty mentor
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FACULTY
Dr. Francis A. Galgano
Associate Professor and Department Chair
Geomorphology
BS, Biology, Virginia Military Institute , 1980
M.A., Geography, University of Maryland, 1989
Ph.D., Geography, University of Maryland, 1998
I am a geomorphologist whose work incorporates coastal zone management, beach erosion, and coastal
storm climatology. My most recent work examines linkages between climate, environmental change and
regional instability. I teach Geo–Techniques, Land Use Planning and Management, Introduction to
Sustainability Studies, Medical Geography, and Geography of National Security. My most current
research is currently focused on three highly related themes: 1) governance and effective sovereignty, 2)
environmental change and regional conflict, and 3) the geography of national security.
Dr. Steven T. Goldsmith
Assistant Professor
Environmental Geochemistry
BA, Geology, Ohio Wesleyan University , 1995
BA, Environmental Studies, Ohio Wesleyan
University, 1995
M.S., Geological Sciences, 2005
Ph.D., Geological Sciences, The Ohio State
University, 2009
I am an Environmental Geochemist whose work incorporates biogeochemistry, hydrology,
sedimentology, and environmental geology. These interests are effectively incorporated into my upper
level Watershed Biogeochemistry course where students are placed in the position of environmental
consultants and asked to identifying threats to three local watersheds. My research is designed around
three themes: 1) understanding the source and fate of solutes, sediments, and organic carbon in high
yielding tropical watersheds, 2) evaluating relationships between land use and water quality in rural to
urban watersheds, and 3) investigating historical impacts of energy extraction activities in watersheds. I
am funded through the National Fish and Wildlife Federation to investigate the impact of historical land
use practices on nearshore coral reefs in Puerto Rico and through the Pennsylvania Sea Grant to
investigate the antimicrobial agent Triclosan in a southeastern Pennsylvania watershed.
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Dr. Bonnie M. Henderson
Assistant Professor
Population Geography, Human Geography
B.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
1988
M.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
1991
Ph.D., Louisiana State University, 1998
I am a broadly-trained human geographer with interests in demographic dynamics and the mechanisms
and regional consequences of globalization. My course offerings include Geography of a Globalizing
World, Population Geography, and Geography of North America.
Dr. Keith G. Henderson
Associate Professor
Climatology, Environmental Change
B.S. Geography, Pennsylvania State Univ., 1986
M.S. Geography, Pennsylvania State Univ., 1988
Ph.D. Geography, Univ. of North Carolina, 1991
I am a geographer interested in the causes, patterns, and impacts of climate variability and change. My
research uses synoptic climatology to link atmospheric circulation patterns to impacts on ecosystems
and society. Most recently, I have examined variations in autumn foliage patterns associated with
seasonal and monthly climate variations. I teach classes on a range of environmental issues including
natural hazards, natural resources, and global change.
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John L. Kelley
Adjunct Faculty
Remote Sensing Applications Scientist; Satellite
Systems Engineering
B.A. Geography, Villanova University, 1979
M.A. Geography, University of Georgia, 1981
I teach Remote Sensing of the Environment. I have 34 years’ experience in the field of remote sensing
systems engineering and associated geospatial applications. My passion is the subject of remote
sensing of the Earth for environmental and geospatial applications, and has guest lectured on the
subject. I also am a strong advocate of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
programs for teachers and students. My research interests include applications of remote sensing to
agriculture and food security, and geospatial intelligence. I oversee the annual PA View grant for the
Department, which funds geospatial research. I am a Remote Sensing Product Manager for Vencore, Inc.
located in Valley Forge, PA.
Peleg Kremer
Assistant Professor
GIS and Urban Social-Ecological Systems
Agricultural Economics and Management, Hebrew
University, 2000
Geography and the Human Environment, Tel-Aviv
University, 2005
Energy and Environmental Policy, University of
Delaware, 2011
I am a geographer and environmental social scientist specializing in spatial dimensions of urban
sustainability, urban social-ecological systems, and ecosystem services. I utilize GIS and remote sensing
to study spatial patterns in the relationships between urban nature, the built environment and the social
context of urban greening initiatives as a framework to support local and regional decision making for
urban sustainability. Recent research projects include a spatial multi-criteria evaluation of the NYC
citywide ecosystem services, and a cross-city comparison of the relationship between complex urban
structure and ecological function. I teach Geographic Information Systems, which introduces GIS to
geography, environmental science and environmental studies students.
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Lisa J. Rodrigues
Associate Professor & Program Director for the
Master of Science in Environmental Science
Coral Ecology, Physiology, & Biogeochemistry
B.Sc., Dalhousie University, 1998
M.Sc., University of Toronto, 2000
Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania, 2005
My research is focused on understanding the impact of human- and natural-caused environmental
change on marine tropical ecosystems, in particular coral reefs. I enjoy teaching Environmental Science I
and II to majors and non-majors alike, as well as more advanced courses like The Ocean Environment
and Environmental Policy & Management. With other faculty collaborators, we are funded by the
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to study the impacts of land-based sources of pollution on coral
reefs in Guánica, Puerto Rico. This work will directly support natural resource management and
conservation efforts in Puerto Rico.
Melanie A. Vile
Assistant Professor
Ecosystem Ecology
B.S. Comprehensive Science, Villanova University,
1992
M.S. Biology, Villanova University, 1995
Ph.D. Biology, University of Notre Dame, 2001
Research questions in my lab focus broadly on the complex interactions and feedbacks between
biogeochemical transformations and ecosystem function, especially in an era where humans have made
a large footprint across the globe. More specifically, we seek an integrated understanding of the
biogeochemical controls on sustained carbon and nitrogen accumulation in northern boreal, western
Canadian peatlands as these ecosystems hold nearly 30% of the world’s soil carbon and will be severely
compromised under future predicted scenarios of global climate change.
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Nathaniel B. Weston
Associate Professor
Ecosystems ecology; Biogeochemistry
B.A. Environmental Science, Hampshire College, 1997
Ph.D. Marine Science, University of Georgia, 2005
Research in my laboratory is focused on understanding the response of coastal ecosystems to climate
change and land-use change, and on the environmental impacts of natural gas extraction from the
Marcellus Shale. We employ a combination of field measurements and manipulations, laboratory
experiments, computer modeling, and GIS analyses to better understand the vulnerabilities of coastal
wetlands and watersheds. We seek to understand the biological response (plant and microbial) in tidal
marshes to various changing environmental conditions, and to elucidate the physical processes (such
as watershed sediment supply) that, in concert with the biological processes, ultimately determine
whether wetlands will persist. Our goal is to assess the resiliency and predict the response of wetlands
in the Delaware River and other coastal systems to current and future land-use and climate change,
and to better understand how natural gas extraction in the Marcellus shale impacts water quality, to
better inform management decisions. I teach: Mendel Science Experience: Our Warming Planet,
Environmental Science I, Statistics in Environmental Science, Environmental Issues Seminar, and
Microbial Processes in the Environment.
Kabindra M. Shakya
Assistant Professor
Air Quality and Monitoring
Ph.D. Rice University, 2011
Air pollution is one of the leading causes of global deaths. The World Health Organization reports that
there were approximately 7 million premature deaths in 2012 due to exposure to air pollution.
Specifically, atmospheric particulate matter is of main concern because it has negative effects on
human health, climate change, visibility, and acid deposition. Research is focused on investigating the
levels, chemical characteristics, sources, and health effects of atmospheric particulate matter (PM2.5
and PM10). Students will have the opportunity to develop their own research questions in these areas,
participate in field work, laboratory analyses, and apply advanced statistical tools to analyze existing
databases.
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Stephen Strader
Assistant Professor
Atmospheric Science, GIS, and Natural Hazards
Northern Illinois University, 2016
Over the last half-century, the frequency and magnitude of environmental disasters and losses have
been increasing due to a combination of natural and societal factors. Recent weather-related
disasters such as Hurricane Sandy and the 2011 Joplin, MO tornado are reminders of the devastating
consequences often associated with some of nature’s most intense phenomena. Modern climate
modeling and Geographic Information Science (GIScience) techniques have promoted spatiotemporal
examinations of changes in environmental hazard impacts on society. The Northeast U.S., specifically
the Boston-New York-Philadelphia-Washington D.C. I-95 corridor, is subject to a number of
atmospheric and environmental hazards such as tropical storms, inland flooding, tornadoes, winter
storms, heat waves, erosion, etc. Students investigating questions related to these research themes
will be provided the opportunity to share their findings with local and regional stakeholders, decision
makers, and the public.