Environmental Science By Dartmouth College Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
Overview: This course offers a comprehensive introduction to environmental science, exploring the complex relationships between human activities and natural systems. Designed for beginners, it requires no prior STEM background and combines scientific principles with real-world case studies from diverse global contexts. The curriculum is structured into five core modules followed by a capstone project, totaling approximately 40–50 hours of content. With flexible pacing and lifetime access, learners gain foundational knowledge in ecosystems, climate change, sustainability solutions, and environmental policy—equipping them to analyze pressing environmental challenges and contribute to meaningful change.
Module 1: Earth’s Systems & Ecosystems
Estimated time: 10 hours
- Understand biogeochemical cycles: carbon, water, and nitrogen
- Examine ecosystem services and their economic and ecological value
- Identify biodiversity hotspots and their global significance
- Analyze threats such as deforestation and habitat loss
Module 2: Human Impacts & Climate Change
Estimated time: 13 hours
- Learn about greenhouse gases and the science of global warming
- Explore the role of fossil fuels in climate change
- Analyze sources and health impacts of air and water pollution
- Assess the ecological footprint of urbanization
Module 3: Sustainability & Solutions
Estimated time: 13 hours
- Study circular economy models and waste reduction strategies
- Compare renewable energy options: solar, wind, and hydro
- Evaluate sustainable agriculture practices and food systems
- Explore water conservation techniques in urban and rural settings
Module 4: Policy & Advocacy
Estimated time: 10 hours
- Review international environmental laws and treaties (e.g., Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement)
- Debate ethical dilemmas: economic growth vs. conservation
- Learn how NGOs and governments drive environmental change
Module 5: Scientific Methods & Case Studies
Estimated time: 10 hours
- Apply scientific methods to assess environmental problems
- Analyze real-world case studies across diverse global contexts
- Develop critical thinking to evaluate trade-offs in environmental decision-making
Module 6: Final Project
Estimated time: 15 hours
- Propose a solution to a local environmental issue (e.g., plastic waste, energy efficiency)
- Conduct research using course concepts and case study frameworks
- Present findings via a written report or multimedia presentation
Prerequisites
- No STEM background required
- Basic understanding of global environmental issues recommended
- Access to internet for case study research and course materials
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Explain key environmental science concepts including ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainability
- Analyze human impacts on climate change, pollution, and resource depletion
- Evaluate renewable energy and waste management strategies
- Interpret the role of policy frameworks in environmental protection
- Develop evidence-based solutions to local environmental challenges using scientific methods