Department of Environmental Sciences

Clark Hall
University of Virginia
P.O. Box 400123
Charlottesville, VA 22904-4123
(434) 924-7761 Fax: (434) 982-2137
www.evsc.virginia.edu

Overview The interdisciplinary field of environmental sciences is concerned with the interaction of physical and biological processes that shape our natural environment. The Department of Environmental Sciences offers instruction and conducts research in the areas of atmospheric science, hydrology, geoscience, ecology, environmental chemistry, and land and resource analysis. It offers students the opportunity to understand how these processes interact in time and space, and how a change in any one may affect others. The research efforts of faculty and students deal largely with understanding the fundamental science of physical and ecological processes, and to a lesser extent with applications of this understanding to environmental problems. Majors can specialize in one area or diversify across all areas depending on career goals.

The environmental sciences major provides strong preparation for several post-graduate paths. The program’s in-depth training in the theory and methods of atmospheric science, hydrology, geoscience, and ecology prepares students for graduate school in either environmental sciences or one of the disciplines it involves. Moreover, with its focus on reasoning and analytical skills that involve natural processes, the program provides a strong foundation for professional schools. It also furnishes students with the liberal arts science training necessary for post-graduate employment in natural resource fields. Many environmental sciences majors concentrate their programs in one or two fields with graduate or professional schools in mind. Others use the breadth and interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum to prepare for careers in science writing, scientific methods, mathematical modeling and computing, teaching, or environmental management.

In 1998, the Department of Environmental Sciences initiated the Environmental Literacy Program at the University of Virginia. The purpose of this program is to bring together studies of the physical, biological, and social environment to provide students and faculty the opportunity to expand their understanding of the environmental issues facing society today and in the future. The program’s mission is to identify, facilitate, and develop activities within the University and the community at large that enhance the understanding of the environment. This mission is accomplished by supporting a variety of activities, both in and out of the classroom, including seminars, field trips, and community and educational outreach.

As part of the Environmental Literacy Program, the department’s 100- and 200-level courses provide introductions to the geologic, ecologic, atmospheric, and hydrologic processes that are frequently managed, planned, financed, litigated over, and involved in health considerations. For science majors, as well as non-science and pre-professional students, these courses provide solid training in the interactions of biological and physical processes, and the procedures of interdisciplinary research and discovery.

Faculty There are more than thirty faculty members in the department. Many of these faculty are world-renowned for their research in such areas as forest ecology, atmospheric chemistry, transport of bacteria and other contaminants in groundwater, isotope geochemistry, and coastal processes. All of the faculty are committed to teaching and working with students.

Recognizing that environmental processes and concerns are among the most important issues of our time, the University has enabled the department to link its research with scientists and others worldwide who deal with global environmental change.

Students There are currently about 150 students majoring in environmental sciences. In addition to the core curriculum, students may specialize in one area or select work from two or more of the four areas of studies. Majors who aim for continued education in graduate and professional schools or specific job paths generally concentrate in one or two areas. Those interested in such careers as science writing, computing, or teaching choose advanced courses from a broader range. Majors are employed in consulting, government agencies, forestry and agricultural firms, lobbying, weather forecasting, and many other exciting and enjoyable careers.

Introductory courses are usually conducted in a lecture format; some are large, but faculty members are easily accessible. Advanced courses are quite small, and all are taught by faculty. The department encourages all majors to explore opportunities to work with faculty and graduate students in research projects that provide practice in using the tools and concepts of various disciplines and help to develop career goals and opportunities.

Special Resources Departmental facilities include field vehicles, boats, electronics shops, greenhouses, environmental chambers, extensive computing facilities, a Geographic Information Systems laboratory, aerial photographic interpretation equipment, the Office of the State Climatologist, Internet access to the McIDAS-X and GEMPAK weather information services, and four environmental research sites, including the Anheuser-Busch Coastal Research Center at Virginia’s Eastern Shore; a site in the northern Shenandoah Valley, the Blandy Farm Experimental Research Station at Front Royal, Virginia; a site in the Piedmont, the Pace site near Charlottesville; and the Mountain Lake Biological Research Station in Giles County, Virginia. Majors are encouraged to take advantage of all of these facilities.

Requirements for Major The Department of Environmental Sciences offers both Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Sciences (B.S.) degrees. The B.A. degree is designed for students interested in environmental sciences as a career, including those intending graduate education in environmental sciences or one of its sub-disciplines. Additionally, this degree can provide a strong base for entry into other areas such as medicine, law, business, or education. The B.S. degree is a more intensive experience designed for students wishing to enter professional-level careers in environmental sciences that are primarily available in the private sector. Distinguished Major’s options are available in both degree programs.

For all degree programs, students who score a 4 or a 5 on the Environmental Science Advanced Placement exam will receive 3 credits for EVSC 101. Any three credits of non-core, lower division courses, or advanced placement credit on the Environmental Science exam, may be counted toward the major or minor if taken prior to declaration of the major. (Note that only 3 credits of non-core courses below the 300 level may count toward the major, so EVSC 101 and EVSC 120 may not both be used.)

Requirements for Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Sciences Students must complete 30 graded credits of departmental course work with a 2.000 cumulative grade point average. EVSC 280, 320, 340, and 350 with their laboratories are the required core courses; the lectures and labs for any specific core class must be taken together unless a waiver is granted by the instructor. See the department web page for details. The interdisciplinary nature of the environmental science's advanced courses is one of the program's great strengths and unique features. To take maximum advantage of these courses, students should complete the four core courses by the beginning of their fourth year. Three credits of non-core 100- or 200-level course work, taken prior to declaring the major, may be counted toward the major. At least 11 credits of non-core courses at the 300 level or higher must be taken. Once a student is enrolled at the University, transfer credits that count toward the major must be approved prior to taking the course and must be consistent with the curricular goals of the department. The department's Director of Undergraduate Studies is responsible for overseeing the pre-approval of transfer credits.

The department requires one semester of calculus and two semesters of college-level chemistry, biology, or physics with laboratories. Students should begin to fulfill this requirement in their first year by taking MATH 131 and any two of the following: CHEM 141, CHEM 142, BIOL 201, BIOL 202, PHYS 231, or PHYS 232 with their labs. (Note that the laboratories for PHYS 201, 202 are used to fulfill this requirement.)

Although not required for the degree, to do serious research and compete effectively in graduate school and employment, additional math and science is generally needed. Work in any environmental sciences area necessitates developing an understanding of related fields. Thus, to encourage each student’s success in research and the competition for top graduate schools and jobs, the department requires students to undertake related work selected on the following basis: Ecology depends on a basic knowledge of chemistry (CHEM 141, 142) and biology (BIOL 201, 202). Geoscience, hydrology, and atmospheric science depend on chemistry and physics (PHYS 231, 232). All of these areas depend on calculus (MATH 131, 132 recommended) and the techniques of statistics (STAT 212 or ECON 371) and computer programming (CS 102 or 120). If the appropriate related work has been accomplished, students can begin the department’s core courses in the first or second year. With college-level chemistry and calculus, most students are prepared for EVSC 280 (Fundamentals of Geology) and EVSC 320 (Fundamentals of Ecology). Students are advised to obtain computer skills and an understanding of statistics as early as possible, and to take additional related science as their interests develop.

Requirements for Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences The B.S. degree in Environmental Sciences is similar to the B.A., except that the course requirements are much more extensive. Students must fulfill all of the College Area Requirements in addition to the requirements for the major. Because of the more enhanced and more restrictive structure of the B.S. degree, careful planning of course selection and scheduling is essential very early. Interested students should contact the department as soon as possible to get help with establishing a program quickly with appropriate adjustments for AP or transfer credits. AP credits in related science or math are especially helpful, as is a strong performance on the foreign language placement exam to remove some of the obligation for these proficiency requirements to be completed upon arrival at the university.

Related Math & Science One semester each of each of the three basic sciences with their associated labs, viz., Biology 201/203, Chemistry 141/141L, and Physics 151/201L, along with one year of Calculus (Math 131/132). Additionally, 2 more semesters of related sciences or math are required (e.g. BIOL 202/204, CHEM 142/142L, PHYS 152/202L, MATH 231, or equivalent courses).

Majors Requirements Each of the core courses EVSC 280, 320, 340, and 350 and their associated laboratories EVSC 280L, 320L, 340L, and 350L for a total of 16 core credits; the lectures and labs for any specific core class must be taken together unless a waiver is granted by the instructor. See the department web page for details. An additional 24 credits of graded EVSC courses are required. Three of these credits may be taken below the 300-level (i.e. 100- or 200-level), if they are completed prior to declaring the major. The remainder must be taken at or above the 300-level, and at least one must be a laboratory course. Once a student is enrolled at the University, transfer credits that count toward the major must be approved prior to taking the course and must be consistent with the curricular goals of the department. The department's Director of Undergraduate Studies is responsible for overseeing the pre-approval of transfer credits.

Requirements for Specialization in Environmental and Biological Conservation The Department of Environmental Sciences, in conjunction with the Department of Biology, offers an opportunity for students to obtain the Bachelor of Arts or Science in Environmental Sciences with a Specialization in Environmental and Biological Conservation. Candidates for the Specialization must fulfill all the requirements for the Environmental Sciences major.

The requirements for the Specialization are as follows: (1) Related math and science courses required are calculus (MATH 121 or 131), organismal biology (BIOL 202 or BIOL 301) with lab (BIOL 204), and either chemistry with lab (CHEM 141/141L) or physics with lab (PHYS 151/201L); (2) The four core environmental science courses (EVSC 280, 320, 340, 350) with their labs; 3) Two introductory courses in environmental conservation (EVSC 222, BIOL 345), population ecology (EVSC 413) and a 2-credit seminar in environmental conservation (EVSC 493/494); (3) and an additional twelve upper-level credits in Environmental Sciences or Biology. The Conservation Specialization requires at least one course in each of the following areas: Biological Diversity–a course focused on a particular group of organisms (e.g. plants, birds, mammals); Environmental Diversity–a course focused on a particular habitat (e.g. wetlands, oceans, forests, grasslands, tundra); Techniques in Conservation–a course focused on policy, related chemical or physical sciences, statistics, modeling, geo-spatial analysis or field methods; Field Experience–this can be fulfilled with an independent study, a field course at a University of Virginia biological or ecological field station (Mountain Lakes Biological Station, Blandy Experimental Farm), involvement with the Africa research program in the Environmental Sciences department, or an internship with a conservation agency. The Conservation Specialization can be completed as part of the B.S. degree in Environmental Sciences provided that all of the B.S. requirements are met.

Students who are interested in this Specialization should consult with an advisor who is a faculty of the Environmental Conservation Program, preferably when declaring their major.

Requirements for Minor A minor consists of at least 16 credits of environmental sciences course work in a program of study proposed by the student and approved by the department faculty. The program must include at least two core courses (EVSC 280, 320, 340, 350) with laboratories, and one non-core course at the 300 level or higher, with no more than six credits of non-core courses below the 300 level. To take advantage of advanced interdisciplinary courses, the core courses should be completed early.

The Environmental Sciences Organization, recognized by Student Council, presents an undergraduate professionalization seminar, field trips, career and job search activities, curriculum review and planning, and many social events. All University students are welcome to join.

Distinction and Prizes The department participates in the College’s Distinguished Majors Program designed for highly qualified students. This program must be started early. Information can be obtained from an advisor.

Each year, the department gives the following awards to members of the graduating class who have distinguished themselves academically during their four years of study at the University:

Each year, the department offers the following awards to majors in the program:

The Blandy Experimental Farm and the Orland E. White Arboretum of the University of Virginia are located in Boyce, Virginia at the northern end of the Shenandoah Valley. At this facility, faculty and students conduct research on the ecology of plants, mammals, and insects. Field classes from the Departments of Environmental Sciences and Biology conduct laboratory exercises at the facility, and each year an extensive summer program of course work is presented. The farm contains a wide array of habitats including forest, successional fields, pasture, cropland, ponds, and marshes. The Orland E. White Arboretum, the State Arboretum of Virginia, contains a beautifully landscaped collection of 1,000 species and varieties of trees and shrubs. The facilities also include greenhouses, laboratories, computer facilities, and housing, laundry and dining facilities. Students may participate in supervised research or independent study at Blandy Farm primarily during the summer.

Research Opportunities Research projects throughout the department provide a number of employment and experience opportunities for undergraduates.

Students in their third and fourth years are encouraged to gain research experience by participating in faculty research or initiating their own research projects with faculty supervision. These projects can be conducted for credit by arranging with a faculty member to supervise an independent study (EVSC 493, 494) or research project (EVSC 495, 496).

Additional Information For more information, contact James Galloway, Faculty Advisor, Department of Environmental Sciences, Clark Hall, P.O. Box 400123, Charlottesville, VA 22904-4123; (434) 924-7761; www.evsc.virginia.edu.

Course Descriptions

BACK TO TOP

Environmental Sciences

EVSC 101 - (3) (Y)
Introduction to Environmental Sciences
Introduces the principles and basic facts of the natural environment. Topics include earth materials, land forms, weather and climate, vegetation and soils, and the processes of environmental change and their implications to economic and human systems.

EVSC 102 - (3) (S)
Practical Concepts in Environmental Sciences
Practical concepts and problem solving in environmental sciences through demonstrations, hands-on activities, structured discussions, and problem sets beyond those of traditional lectures or discussion groups. Emphasizes experience and critical thinking in the four core areas: geology, hydrology, atmospheric sciences, and ecology.

EVSC 120 - (3) (Y)
Elements of Ecology
Introduces the science of ecology and its application to current environmental issues. A number of topics relating to population growth and regulation, biodiversity, sustainability, and global change are used as a framework to investigate basic ecological principles. Emphasizes the application of basic science to the understanding and mitigation of current environmental problems.

EVSC 140 - (3) (Y)
Water on Earth
Studies the natural history of the Earth’s hydrosphere, including its origin, evolution, and importance in Earth processes. Introduces the hydrological cycle and the role of water in a variety of Earth processes. Discusses human influences on the hydrosphere and current topics in hydrological science and water resources, such as contamination and resource allocation, emphasizing the scientific basis for past, present, and future decisions.

EVSC 145 - (3) (O)
Virginia’s Environments
A general survey of the basic foundation, concepts, and dynamics of the total Earth system with natural Virginia as the unifying concept. Understanding is built on the foundation of geological and geomorphological processes that form and modify the landscape of Virginia, including basic geology, processes of mountain building, flooding, and erosion. Also examined are various ecosystems in the state, especially the Chesapeake Bay, and the human impact of these varied landscapes, particularly through exploitation of mineral and water resources, waste disposal and pollution, and land use issues.

EVSC 148 - (3) (Y)
Resources and the Environment
Explores the impact of people on the environment in the past and present with projections for the future. Addresses the phenomena and effects of food and energy production and industrial processes, including such topics as lead pollution, acid rain, the greenhouse effect, and the disposal of radioactive waste. Demonstrates how the environment works in the absence of humans and discusses how human use of resources perturbs the environment.

EVSC 181 - (3) (Y)
Climate Change: Past and Future
Explores past changes of the Earth’s climate system (atmosphere, oceans, vegetation, land surface and ice sheets) caused by changes in atmospheric CO₂, the strength of the sun, the Earth’s orbit around the sun, volcanic eruptions, and plate tectonics. Future climate change is projected based on past changes.

EVSC 201 - (3) (S)
Materials That Shape Civilizations
Reviews the structure, properties, methods of production, uses, and world supply of the materials on which present and past civilizations have been based; including materials used in heavy industry, construction, communications, medicine, as well as textiles and naturally occurring organic materials. Emphasizes the effects of environment on materials and energy relationships. Cross-listed as MSE 201.

EVSC 210 - (3) (Y)
Beaches, Coasts and Rivers
Studies the geologic framework and biophysical processes of the coastal zone, and the role of the major river systems in modifying the coastal environment. Emphasizes human modifications, including case studies along the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific coasts.

EVSC 215 - (3) (Y)
Introduction to Oceanography
Analyzes the principles that govern the world’s oceans and their integration into an understanding of the major marine environments. Topics include marine pollution, global climate, and marine policy.

EVSC 222 - (3) (Y)
Conservation Ecology–Biodiversity and Beyond
Studies ecological science relevant to sustaining populations, species, ecosystems, and the global biosphere. Includes discussion of genetic inbreeding, critical population size, community structure and organization, maintenance of critical ecosystem function, and global biogeochemistry. Case studies from around the world demonstrate links between human-driven environmental change and the health of the biosphere, at all levels, from the organism to the planet.

EVSC 230 - (3) (Y)
Politics, Science, and Values: An Introduction to Environmental Policy
Introduces a wide variety of domestic and international environmental policy issues. Explores how political processes, scientific evidence, ideas, and values affect environmental policymaking. This class satisfies the social sciences area requirement and not the natural sciences/mathematics area requirement, since EVSC 230 is devoted to the subject of environmental policy. Cross listed as ETP 230.

EVSC 250 - (3) (Y)
Man’s Atmospheric Environment
Long-term global climactic controls and short-term severe weather events such as hurricanes and tornadoes are treated in terms of the physical laws governing the motions of the atmosphere and the energy driving the system. Discusses climactic and atmospheric events that severely impact human behavior. Explores responses by early and modern humans to perturbations in the weather and climate. Examines utilization of renewable energy residing in the sun, wind, and water; and advertent and inadvertent weather modification.

EVSC 280 - (3) (S)
Fundamentals of Geology
Recommended: At least one semester of college chemistry with lab such as CHEM 141, 142.
Studies the composition, structure, and internal processes of earth; the classification, origin, and distribution of earth materials; earth’s interior; and the interpretation of geological data for the solution of problems of the natural environment.

EVSC 280L - (1) (S)
Fundamentals of Geology Laboratory
Corequisite: EVSC 280.
Field and laboratory experimentation into the nature of earth materials and processes, especially as applied to use and human problems.

EVSC 320 - (3) (S)
Fundamentals of Ecology
Prerequisite: One semester of calculus; recommended: at least one semester of college-level chemistry and biology with labs such as CHEM 141, 142, and BIOL 202.
Studies energy flow, nutrient cycling and allocation in natural ecosystems, organization of species at the population and community levels, and interaction between people and the biosphere.

EVSC 320L - (1) (S)
Fundamentals of Ecology Laboratory
Corequisite: EVSC 320.
Field and laboratory experimentation illustrative of ecological systems, and their checks, balances, and cycles.

EVSC 340 - (3) (Y)
Physical Hydrology
Prerequisite: One semester of calculus.
Studies the physical principles governing the flow of water on and beneath the earth’s surface, including fundamental concepts of fluid dynamics applied to the description of open channel hydraulics, ground water hydraulics, and dynamics of soil moisture. Introduces elements of surface water and ground water hydrology and explores humanity’s influence on its hydrological environment.

EVSC 340L - (1) (Y)
Physical Hydrology Laboratory
Corequisite: EVSC 340.
Field and laboratory experimentation illustrative of the hydrological cycle, including energy and mass transfer in surface and ground water.

EVSC 350 - (3) (Y)
Atmosphere and Weather
Prerequisite: One semester of calculus; recommended: at least one semester of college physics with lab such as PHYS 231, 232.
Introduces the physical laws governing atmospheric behavior and examines atmospheric variables and their role in the fluid environment of the earth.

EVSC 350L - (1) (Y)
Atmosphere and Weather Laboratory
Corequisite: EVSC 350.
Studies the principles of measurements, instrumentation for measuring atmospheric parameters, and methods of observing and calculating atmospheric variables.

EVSC 362 - (3) (S)
GIS Methods
Prerequisite: The equivalent of the College natural science/mathematics and social science area requirements. Experience with word processing, file managers, and other computing skills is essential.
Explores the theory of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and their applications in a range of disciplines using various GIS software packages. Example applications are from physical and social sciences, often with a focus on the Charlottesville-Albemarle area. For students interested in immediate applications of GIS in their work.

EVSC 376 - (3) (O)
Watersheds of Lewis and Clark
Prerequisite: One course (including high school) in geology, Earth Sciences, or environmental sciences, or instructor permission.
Explores geological and hydrological processes that form and modify the landscape of the American West. Following the route of Lewis and Clark, the processes of mountain building, glaciation, flooding, and erosion are studied. Also considered are the human impact on this landscape, particularly through exploitation of mineral and water resources.

EVSC 384 - (4) (Y)
Earth Surface Processes and Landforms
Prerequisite: EVSC 280 or instructor permission.
Examines erosional processes and their role in creating landforms. Explores the influence of processes and landforms on land use and the human environment, including hazards from floods and landslides.

EVSC 385 - (3) (Y)
Geodynamics
Prerequisite: EVSC 280, calculus, and physics.
Studies the basic principles of continuum mechanics and their application to problems in the geological sciences, including the behavior of the Earth’s lithosphere, rock mechanics, and flow of water.

EVSC 386 - (3) (IR)
Introduction to Geochemistry
Prerequisite: CHEM 141, 142 and EVSC 280.
Studies the principles that govern the distribution and abundance of the elements in the Earth’s lithosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and atmosphere.

EVSC 410 - (3) (E)
Introduction to Remote Sensing
Prerequisite: at least one year of college-level chemistry or physics, or instructor permission.
Introduction to the physics and techniques of remote sensing.

EVSC 413 - (3) (Y)
Population Ecology and Conservation
Prerequisite: EVSC 320 and one course in calculus.
Studies ecological, evolutionary, and behavioral processes that occur within and between populations in natural communities. Emphasizes the mathematics of population dynamics and species interactions and uses models to demonstrate the diversity of life histories in plants and animals. Discusses the application of population ecology to current issues in conversation biology.

EVSC 415 - (3) (IR)
Topics in Oceanography
Prerequisite: One year college-level science.
Introduces oceanography together with a survey of marine resources and the scientific bases for their management.

EVSC 420 - (3) (Y)
The Ecology of Coastal Wetlands
Prerequisite: EVSC 320 or equivalent.
Investigates the ecology of coastal interface ecosystems, including sea grass, mangrove, and salt marsh emphasizing biogeochemisty, succession, and dynamic processes related to the development and maintenance of these systems. Explores the differences between tropical and temperate coastal systems.

EVSC 423 - (3) (O)
Marine Environments and Organisms
Prerequisite: EVSC 320 or equivalent.
Surveys the major habitats of marine and estuarine areas and the organisms which have adapted to life in these environments. Emphasizes the organisms and communities which have evolved in response to stress and competition in the sea, and the systematics and natural history of marine organisms.

EVSC 425 - (3) (Y)
Ecosystem Ecology
Prerequisite: EVSC 320 and one semester of chemistry or instructor permission.
Study of the flows of energy and the cycling of elements in ecosystems and how these concepts connect the various components of the Earth system.

EVSC 427 - (4) (Y)
Soil Science
Prerequisite: EVSC 280 and 320; one year college chemistry or instructor permission.
Introduces the study of soils as a natural system. Topics include the fundamentals of soil chemistry, hydrology, and biology with respect to genesis, classification and utilization.

EVSC 428 - (4) (Y)
Environmental Microbiology
Prerequisite: BIOL 201, CHEM 141, 142, EVSC 320.
Analyzes the impact of microbial physiologic reactions on environmental quality: microbes as transformers of chemical pollutants; microbes as transformers of nutrient elements; microbes as agents of energy transfer in ecosystems; and microbes as contaminants. Emphasizes the quantitation of microbial activities.

EVSC 430 - (3) (O)
Management of Forest Ecosystems
Prerequisite: EVSC 320, 340, or 350 recommended.
Studies processes in forest ecosystems which effect management decisions. Emphasizes the interactions between the physiological processes of plants and system-level functions such as the cycling of nutrients and the flow of energy and water. Examples of current and projected uses of forest systems are discussed throughout, including harvesting for fiber and energy, and the preservation of forests as water purification and air pollution control systems.

EVSC 431 - (3) (Y)
Methods in Aquatic Ecology
Prerequisite: EVSC 320 or equivalent.
Trains students in field and laboratory techniques used in aquatic ecological research. Two weekend field trips to the Eastern Shore of Virginia serve as the foundation. Laboratory exercises include the data and samples gathered in the barrier island lagoons and in the Chesapeake Bay. Analyzes water quality and patterns of primary and secondary production in aquatic ecosystems.

EVSC 432 - (3) (Y)
Aquatic Plant Ecology
Prerequisite: EVSC 320 or equivalent.
Studies the physiology and ecology of aquatic plants from tropical, temperate, and polar waters. Emphasizes comparisons among major plant groups (phytoplankton, macroalgae, vascular) of fundamental physiological processes, including photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, resource allocation, and growth. Discusses iterations between plant physiology an ecosystem function and the structure of plant communities for both marine and freshwater environments. Examples of human impacts on aquatic environments, including eutrophication and global climate change, are considered in the context of plant physiology and ecology.

EVSC 444 - (4) (Y)
Applied Hydrology
Prerequisite: EVSC 340.
Introduces hydrology as applied to environmental problems including water resources, systems analysis, and the effects of urbanization and land use on the hydrological cycle. Three hours lecture, two hours laboratory.

EVSC 446 - (3) (Y)
Hydrological Field Methods and Data Analysis
Prerequisite: EVSC 340.
Hydrological instruments are introduced; students employ the instruments to make field measurements and perform a range of data analysis exercises.

EVSC 447 - (3) (Y)
Introduction to Climatological Analysis
Prerequisite: One semester of calculus; EVSC 350 recommended.
Discusses the general circulation of the atmosphere, followed by quantitative analysis of climactic fluctuations and their impact upon ecologic and economic systems.

EVSC 455 - (3) (O)
Synoptic Climatology
Prerequisite: EVSC 350 or equivalent, or instructor permission.
Studies the formation, movements, and meteorological and climatological attributes of synoptic-scale weather systems and the impact on the environment. Explores the relationship of these systems to air quality, atmospheric transport, climate change, and evaporation and precipitation regimes.

EVSC 457 - (3) (Y)
Microclimatology
Prerequisite: EVSC 350 or instructor permission.
Analyzes the principles governing atmospheric processes occurring at small temporal and spatial scales near the Earth’s surface, including energy, mass, and momentum transfer. Includes features of the atmospheric environment affecting plants and feedback mechanisms between plants and their local microclimates, trace gas exchange between the terrestrial biosphere and the atmosphere, energy budgets, evapotranspiration, and motions near the surface.

EVSC 465 - (3) (O)
Environmental Policymaking in the United States
Prerequisite: Completion of Natural Sciences/Mathematics area requirement and third- or fourth-year standing, or instructor permission.
Exploration of the possibilities for, and constraints on, domestic environmental policymaking. Examination of the roles of Congress, the executive branch, and the courts in environmental policymaking. Critical analysis of the analytical principles and values commonly employed in environmental policymaking.

EVSC 466 - (3) (S)
GIS and Arc/Info
Prerequisite: The equivalent of the College natural science/mathematics and social science area requirements. Experience with word processing, file managers, and other computing skills is essential.
Explores the theory of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the use of Arc/Info software for research and other applications in a range of disciplines. Example applications are from physical and social sciences, often with a focus on the Charlottesville-Albemarle area. For students interested in research and longer term applications of GIS.

EVSC 468 - (3) (Y)
Advanced GIS
Prerequisite: An introductory GIS course.
Explores advanced Geographic Information Systems concepts through use of Arc/Info, Erdas Imagine, and other GIS software in individual and group projects. Topics include data management, raster modeling, image manipulation, and 3-D visualization.

EVSC 470 - (3) (Y)
Instrumental Methods for Analysis of Environmental Samples
Prerequisite: CHEM 142 or equivalent.
Studies instrumental methods of chemical analysis in an overall context of sampling and evaluating sources of pollution. Analyzes contaminants in air, water, soil, or plant materials.

EVSC 478 - (3) (O)
Groundwater Geology
Prerequisite: EVSC 280, 340.
Study of the mechanics of groundwater flow, with attendant heat and mass transport; regional geological controls on groundwater occurrence and movement; and the role of groundwater in geological processes.

EVSC 481 - (4) (O)
Petrology
Prerequisite: EVSC 280.
Study of the origin and classification of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Emphasizes rock series and tectonic associations of rock types. Study of thin sections and hand samples in the laboratory. Field experience and laboratories are included.

EVSC 484 - (3) (E)
Engineering Geology
Prerequisite: EVSC 280 and 340.
Studies engineering properties of earth materials and their behavior in response to surface processes as they affect land use and natural resource utilization. Two lecture hours and three field or laboratory hours.

EVSC 485 - (3) (Y)
Coastal Processes
Prerequisite: EVSC 280.
Reviews wave generation, wave prediction, wave refraction, transformation, shoaling, and associated inshore currents. Topics include the generation of littoral drift and shallow water surge; beach and barrier island geomorphology and problems of erosion. Includes the historical development of research in coastal processes and a quantitative analysis of spatial patterns along sandy coasts.

EVSC 485L - (1) (Y)
Coastal Processes Laboratory
Corequisite: EVSC 485.
Laboratory analysis of sediment, map, and aerial photo data sets. Lab demonstrations with the wave tank and rapid sediment analyzer. Weekly exercises and research projects required.

EVSC 486 - (3) (O)
Geology of Virginia
Prerequisite: EVSC 280 or equivalent (including high school) in geology, Earth sciences, or environmental sciences, or instructor permission.
The course examines the geological evolution of the state and mid-Atlantic region in the context of plate tectonics, including stratigraphy, mountain building, metamorphism and deformation, and geomorphic processes. The human impact on this landscape through the exploitation of mineral resources is examined. Field trips to the various provinces of the state will help provide fundamental understanding of the state’s foundation.

EVSC 487 - (3) (Y)
Global Biogeochemical Cycles
Prerequisite: One semester of college chemistry and one or two of the EVSC core classes.
Studies the processes that regulate the cycling of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus within and between oceans, continents, and atmosphere.

EVSC 488 - (3) (O)
Planetary Geology
Prerequisite: Introductory course in geosciences or astronomy.
Studies the origin and evolution of the solar system, emphasizing the geology of the planets and satellites of the inner solar system and the satellites of the gaseous planets. Compares and contrasts the Earth with Venus and Mars.

EVSC 493, 494 - (1-3) (IR)
Independent Study
Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Specialized topics in ecology, atmosphere, hydrology, environmental geology, or environmental systems not normally covered in formal classes under the direction of the faculty.

EVSC 495, 496 - (3) (IR)
Supervised Research
Prerequisite: Instructor permission.
Original research usually involving a field or laboratory problem in the environmental sciences under the direction of one or more faculty members. The results may form the basis of an undergraduate thesis which is required to partially fulfill the Distinguished Majors Program in environmental sciences.

EVSC 503 - (4) (Y)
Applied Statistics for Environmental Scientists
Prerequisite: MATH 111 or STAT 112; corequisite: EVSC 503L.
Provides a firm knowledge of experimental design, hypothesis testing, and the use of statistical methods of data analysis.

EVSC 503L - (0) (Y)
Applied Statistics Laboratory
Corequisite: EVSC 503.
Uses computer laboratories in the analysis of quantitative data.

EVSC 511 - (4) (E)
Systems Analysis in Environmental Sciences
Prerequisite: MATH 132 or equivalent, computer programming experience.
Applies a variety of systems analysis techniques to the environmental sciences, particularly ecology. Examines and uses simulation models of ecosystems, biological populations, and hydrological, atmospheric, and geological systems to address scientific questions in the environmental sciences. Student projects apply techniques to specific problems.

EVSC 544 - (3) (O)
Physical Oceanography
Prerequisite: PHYS 231, 232 or equivalent, two semesters calculus, MATH 131, 132 recommended, or instructor permission.
Studies the physical properties, processes, and structure of the oceans; mass and energy budgets; methods of measurements; and the nature and theory of ocean currents, waves, and tides in the open sea, near shore and in estuaries.

Atmospheric Sciences

EVAT 541 - (4) (Y)
Atmospheric Dynamics
Prerequisite: MATH 131, 132 and PHYS 231, 232.
Introduces theoretical meteorology encompassing dry and moist air thermodynamics, the mechanics of atmospheric motion, and the dynamics of atmospheric weather systems.

EVAT 542 - (3) (Y)
Microclimate
Prerequisite: EVSC 350 or instructor permission.
Examines principles of radiation transfer, soil heat flux, atmospheric heat transfer, atmospheric moisture, evapotranspiration, motions near the Earth’s surface, and surface energy balances to provide a basis for describing the microclimate of various surfaces.

EVAT 550 - (3) (O)
Environmental Climatology
Corequisites: EVSC 350 or the text The Science and Wonders of the Atmosphere.
An advanced survey of the theoretical and experimental research areas in climatology and meteorology, emphasizing environmental problems associated with the atmosphere. Fundamental principles used in these studies are introduced and discussed, along with procedures used to present and analyze atmospheric information.

EVAT 554 - (3) (O)
Ocean-Atmosphere Dynamics
Prerequisite: EVSC 350 or equivalent, or one semester of calculus-based physics, or instructor permission.
Begins with the equations of motion governing the atmosphere and generalizations necessary for application to ocean dynamics. Topics include influence of atmospheric thermal- and wind-forcing on the ocean, oceanic feedback on the atmosphere, and intrinsically coupled ocean-atmosphere processes. Examines the behavior of the coupled ocean-atmosphere and climate system on seasonal, interannual, and longer time scales (e.g., El Niño/Southern Oscillation phenomenon).

Ecology

EVEC 521 - (4) (Y)
Aquatic Ecology
Prerequisite: EVSC 320, 340, 420, integral calculus, or instructor permission.
Analyzes the physics and chemistry of fresh-water and marine environments, functional classification of organisms in aquatic communities, and the energy and nutrient dynamics of aquatic communities. Three hours lecture, three laboratory hours.

EVEC 522 - (4) (O)
Terrestrial Ecology
Prerequisite: EVSC 320 and instructor permission.
Analyzes the patterns and processes in terrestrial ecosystems. Topic include macro- and micro-meteorological factors such as producer, consumer, and decomposer processes; hydrologic and biogeochemical pathways; and changes through space and time. Three lecture and four field or laboratory hours.

EVEC 523 - (3) (Y)
Microbial Ecology
Prerequisite: EVSC 280, 320, 340, 350, or instructor permission.
Treats the relationships of microorganisms to similar organisms, to dissimilar (macro) organisms and to the physical-chemical environment to demonstrate basic ecological theory and indicate the importance of the microbes in maintaining the world as we know it. Topics include the organisms, microbial habitats, community formation and structure, interspecific relationships, nutrient cycling, and anthropogenic ecology.

EVEC 523L - (1) (Y)
Microbial Ecology Laboratory
Prerequisite: Instructor permission; corequisite: EVEC 523.
Intended to complement EVEC 523. Provides an opportunity to learn and experience the techniques used in microbial ecological research. Utilizes both classic techniques and state-of-the-art methods to determine microbial biomass in nature. Covers various methods of determining microbiological activity. Several exercises involve field sampling and analysis.

EVEC 525 - (3) (Y)
Ecological Issues in Global Change
Prerequisite: EVSC 320 or equivalent, one year of college calculus, or instructor permission.
Introduces development and application of theoretical constructs and mathematical models for projecting the dynamics of terrestrial ecosystems to large scale changes in the environment. Requires a computer-based laboratory (EVEC 525L) to provide an increased familiarity with ecological models used in global change studies.

EVEC 525L - (1) (Y)
Ecological Issues in Global Change Laboratory
Corequisite: EVEC 525.
Computer-based laboratory in the application of ecological models to problems in evaluating the responses of terrestrial ecosystems to large scale environmental change. Designed to parallel lecture material in EVEC 525.

Geoscience

EVGE 381 - (3) (O)
Geology of Virginia
Prerequisite: Minimum of EVSC 280 or an equivalent course (including high school) in geology, Earth sciences, environmental sciences, or instructor permission.
An examination of the geological evolution of Virginia and the mid-Atlantic region in the context of plate tectonics, including stratigraphy, mountain building, metamorphism and deformation, and geomorphic processes. The human impact on this landscape through exploitation of mineral resources is considered.

EVGE 504 - (3) (O)
Geochemistry
Prerequisite: CHEM 141, 142, EVSC 280, 480, two semesters calculus, MATH 131, 132 recommended.
Studies the principles that govern the distribution and abundance of the elements in the earth’s lithosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and atmosphere.

EVGE 507 - (4) (Y)
Aqueous Geochemistry
Prerequisite: One year of calculus, one year of chemistry, one mineralogy or petrolog course.
Studies the principals of thermodynamics as applied to mineral-water systems. Treatment includes mineral stability, phase diagrams, solution thermodynamics, electrolyte theory, aqueous complex and hydrolysis equilibria, and electrochemical equilibria.

EVGE 582 - (4) (Y)
Geomorphology
Prerequisite: EVSC 280 or 340.
Studies the processes that shape the land surface and their relationship to human activity.

EVGE 584 - (3) (Y)
Sediment Processes and Environments
Prerequisite: one year of calculus and physics, or instructor permission; corequisite: EVGE 584L.
Studies the erosion, transport, and deposition of sediment; initial motion of sediment, bedload and suspended load transport and bedforms; and important sediment-transporting environments. Applies sediment transport theory to problems of geological and environmental interest.

EVGE 584L - (1) (Y)
Sediment Processes Laboratory
Corequisite: EVGE 584.
Laboratory investigation of sediment transport phenomena and readings of classic and current research.

Hydrosphere

EVHY 544 - (3) (Y)
Catchment Hydrology: Process and Theory
Prerequisite: EVSC 340.
Introduces current theories of the hydrological response of catchments and takes an integrative approach; illuminates the derivation of theory in light of the time and location of the process studies on which they were based.

EVHY 545 - (4) (Y)
Hydrological Transport Processes
Prerequisite: EVSC 280 and 340.
Studies the physical principles governing the transport of dissolved substances and of sediment and particulate matter in the terrestrial portion of the hydrological cycle.

EVHY 546 - (4) (Y)
Forest Hydrology
Prerequisite: introductory hydrology or instructor permission.
Study of hydrologic processes characteristic of forested regions.

EVHY 547 - (4) (Y)
Environmental Fluid Mechanics
Prerequisite: one year of calculus and physics or instructor permission.
Studies the mechanics of fluids and fluid-related processes occurring at the earth’s surface, including laminar, inviscid, and turbulent flows, drag, boundary layers, diffusion and dispersion of mass, flow through porous media, and effects of the Earth’s rotation. Emphasizes topics related to the environmental sciences.

EVHY 578 - (4) (Y)
Groundwater Hydrology
Prerequisite: EVSC 280, 340 or equivalents, two semesters calculus, CHEM 141, 142 or equivalents.
Introduces physical and chemical groundwater hydrology including such topics as the mechanics of groundwater flow, emphasizing geological factors influencing groundwater occurrence and movement; the influence of natural geological heterogeneity on groundwater flow patterns; and mass and heat transport in groundwater flow systems. The accompanying laboratory examines methods of hydrogeological data acquisition and analysis.