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.

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. Prerequisite: Required prerequisite course EVSC 2800 or equivalent college-level introductory geology course by transfer credit.

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. Prerequisite: One semester of calculus; recommended; at least one semester of college-level chemistry and biology with labs such as CHEM 1410, 1420, and BIOL 2020.

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. Recommended: At least one semester of college chemistry with lab such as CHEM 1410, 1420.

Introduces oceanography together with a survey of marine resources and the scientific bases for their management. Prerequisite: One year college-level science.

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. Experience with word processing, file managers, and other computing skills is essential. Prerequisite: The equivalent of the College natural science/mathematics and social science area requirements.

Field and laboratory experimentation into the nature of earth materials and processes, especially as applied to use and human problems. Corequisite: EVSC 2800.

Introduces the physical laws governing atmospheric behavior and examines atmospheric variables and their role in the fluid environment of the earth. Prerequisite: MATH 1190 or MATH 1210 or MATH 1220 or MATH 1310 or MATH 1320 or MATH 2310 or APMA 1090 or APMA 1110 or APMA 2120.

This course provides the opportunity to offer a new topic in the subject area of environmental science.

An overview of the atmospheric sciences primarily for non-science majors. Topics include weather forecasting, the greenhouse effect and global warming, ozone depletion, El Niño, air pollution, atmospheric optical effects, global climate, and the impacts of weather on human health. Three lectures per week. No science/math background is required.