University of San Diego
AC-3: Undergraduate Program

The student learning outcomes of the Environmental and Ocean Studies Degree include:

Fundamental principles in environmental studies, including (a) principles of natural sciences (ecology, earth sciences), social sciences (policy, economics, sociology) and the humanities (history, ethics); (b) the interconnectedness of the natural sciences, the social sciences and the humanities in an environmental context; and (c) how human activities affect these connections.

The scientific method, including formulation of hypotheses, the use of varied approaches (experimental and observational) for testing hypotheses, appropriate interpretation of data encountered in class, lab, or the scientific literature.

Function successfully in laboratory and field settings, including use of basic equipment and techniques and putting into practice the basic steps of the research process.
Employ the scientific method using real-world data, including formulation of hypotheses, the use of varied approaches (experimental and observational) for testing hypotheses, and appropriate interpretation of data encountered in class, lab and the literature.

Conduct literature reviews to obtain information, including accessing all forms of literature to investigate topics, critiquing sources and organizing information in a meaningful way.
Synthesize a cogent argument in language appropriate to the field of study, including written and oral communication skills, and presentation of results using graphs and equations, when appropriate.

This major allows engineering students to get the core engineering course content and skills with added emphasis in courses with sustainability as the focus. Those courses are taken both in Engineering and in Environmental and Ocean Sciences.

The student learning outcomes include:
-identify, formulate and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science and mathematics

-apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental and economic factors

-communicate effectively with a range of audiences

-recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental and societal contexts

-function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks and meet objectives

-develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions

-acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies

This minor is primarily for science majors who want to add an environmentally-focused minor. Taken primarily by biology or chemistry students. The focus in on science and field-based courses

This minor is open to all students and has a very diverse audience with many Business, Sociology, Political Science and IR, and several science majors looking for more policy. Courses are balanced between some natural science, social science, and humanities courses.

This minor introduces students to the many issues that arise in the study of food, including the ethical complexities of factory farming and global malnutrition, the importance of eating and culinary practices for identity and community, and the connections between food systems and climate change. A minor in food studies prepares students for various careers in the food industry, community organizations, health and wellness sectors, social impact comapnies, and policy-making.