AUENV - Augustana Faculty - Environmental Studies
Offered By:
Augustana Faculty
Below are the courses available from the AUENV code. Select a course to view the available classes, additional class notes, and class times.
Introductory analysis of the interrelationships between society and the natural world, environmental consequences, and human perceptions. The characteristics and interactions of physical environmental systems and various facets of resource management (including forestry, agriculture, fisheries, protected areas, endangered species, and pollution) are described and analyzed. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 120 and AUGEO 120 (2021).
Supervised research project and intensive study of a specific area of environmental studies as defined by the student and a supervising instructor. Prerequisites: 6 units in Environmental Studies. Note: Admission to the course normally requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 in Environmental Studies/Science. An application for Individual Study must be completed and approved before registration in the course. AUENV 201 is classified as a science course.
Supervised research project and intensive study of a specific area of environmental studies as defined by the student and a supervising instructor. Prerequisites: 6 units in Environmental Studies. Note: Admission to the course normally requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 in Environmental Studies/Science. An application for Individual Study must be completed and approved before registration in the course. AUENV 202 is classified as an arts course.
Introduction to fundamentals and applications of Geographic Information Systems. Topics include the nature of geographic data, geo-referencing systems, geographic modelling, data collection and management, and spatial analysis. Practical applications of GIS will be emphasized with the use of appropriate computer software. Prerequisite: Any 100-level science course. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUGEO 218 (2021) and AUENV 218.
An introductory course in the theoretical and applied aspects of sustainability as it relates to key categories of energy, food, water, pollution, waste and their impacts on the environment. Current technological advances and emerging initiatives based on lowering our ecological footprint provide a basis for examining sustainability science as it relates to environmental challenges in a changing world.
Starting: 2025-09-01 AUENV 220 - Foundations of Sustainability
This course provides an introduction to the history of sustainability as a concept, contemporary sustainability issues, and some of the diverse perspectives that can be held approaching sustainability. The course will especially focus on introducing aspects of sustainable development especially as it relates to the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and provide coverage on the interconnections, trade-offs and barriers associated with them.
Analysis of (1) geomorphological processes and agents (such as movement of the earth's crust, volcanism, water, glaciers, waves, currents, wind, and gravity) that create and modify the earth's surface and (2) landforms. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUGEO 230 (2021) and AUENV 230. Requires payment of additional student instructional support fees. Refer to the Tuition and Fees page in the University Regulations section of the Calendar.
Study of (1) elements and processes of climate and weather; (2) distributions and regional patterns of climates; and (3) interrelationships among climates, plants, animals, and people. Note: AUGEO 230 need not precede AUGEO 231. Requires payment of additional student instructional support fees. Credit may be obtained for only one of AUGEO 231 (2021) and AUENV 231. Refer to the Tuition and Fees page in the University Regulations section of the Calendar.
Soil characteristics, formation, processes, occurrence, classification, and management in the natural and modified environment. Prerequisites: 3 units course in AUBIO, AUCHE, AUENV, or AUPHY. Notes: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 233 and AUGEO 233 (2021).
Starting: 2025-09-01 AUENV 233 - Soil Science and Soil Resources
Soil characteristics, formation, processes, occurrence, classification, and management in the natural and modified environment. Prerequisites: 3 units in AUBIO, AUCHE, AUENV, or AUPHY. Notes: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 233 and AUGEO 233 (2021).
An introductory methods-based course to establish and develop methods and skills of the environmental science discipline while applying the scientific method in various ecosystems of Alberta. Prerequisite: AUENV 120.
Starting: 2025-09-01 AUENV 234 - Research and Field Skills in Environmental Science
An introductory methods-based course to establish and develop methods and skills of the environmental science discipline while applying the scientific method in various ecosystems of Alberta. Prerequisite: AUENV 120 or AUBIO 112.
Ecology, conservation, and identification of Alberta's common wildlife species, with a focus on mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, fish, and invertebrates. A mandatory field trip will be included. Prerequisites: AUENV 120, AUGEO 120 (2021), AUBIO 112 (2021) or AUBIO 212.
Supervised research project and intensive study of a specific area in environmental science as defined by the student and supervising instructor. Prerequisites: 6 units in Environmental Studies. Notes: Admission to the course normally requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 in Environmental Studies/Science. An application for Individual Study must be completed and approved before registration in the course. AUENV 301 is classified as a science course.
Supervised research project and intensive study of a specific area in environmental studies as defined by the student and a supervising instructor. Prerequisites: 6 units in Environmental Studies. Notes: Admission to the course normally requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 in Environmental Studies. An Application for Individual Study must be completed and approved before registration in the course. AUENV 302 is classified as an arts course.
Examination of scientific principles and concepts underlying parks, wilderness and other protected area systems with emphasis on Canada. Topics include history, philosophy, conceptual frameworks, roles in sustainability, and types of biological and geographic designations. Prerequisite: One of AUBIO 253, AUENV 120, AUGEO 120 (2021), consent of the instructor. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 320, 420, AUGEO 320 (2021), 420 (2021).
Integration of both physical and human phenomena in understanding natural resources, their dimensions and boundaries. Basic concepts in resource analysis and management: the decision-making process, management frameworks and strategies, legislation and regulation, impact assessment, the role of perceptions, attitudes and behaviour, and the impact of public participation/interest groups in the development of natural resources. Prerequisite: One of AUBIO 253, AUENV 120, AUGEO 120 (2021), 230, 231, consent of the instructor. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 324 and AUGEO 324 (2021). Requires payment of additional student instructional support fees. Refer to the Tuition and Fees page in the University Regulations section of the Calendar.
Theory and methods of communicating environmental and heritage subject matter to a broad audience. Includes discussion of the history, theory, planning, management, implementation, and evaluation of environmental programs. The course will address a variety of personal and non-personal techniques. Prerequisites: AUENV 120 or AUGEO 120 (2021).
Examination of contemporary debates in, and the evolution of, environmental policy and politics. This course will focus on Canadian issues in a comparative perspective, exploring topics such as environmental political theory, the policy cycle, social movements, international issues, and related case studies. Prerequisite: 3 units in either Environmental Studies/Science or Political Studies. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 328 and AUPOL 328.
A 3-week field course that provides students an opportunity to develop skills in research and study design in the field of Environmental Science and Ecology. Students will live in a field camp to allow them to fully immerse themselves in their research projects, which could cover the range of ecology, botany, geography, environmental science and/or environmental studies. Course content also includes instruction in key aspects of conservation biology and resource management. Prerequisites: AUSTA 215 and AUENV 120 or AUGEO 120 (2021) and one of AUGEO 218 (2021), AUGEO 230 (2021), AUENV 252, AUBIO 253. Notes: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUBIO 334, AUENV 334 and AUGEO 334 (2021).
Starting: 2025-09-01 AUENV 334 - Field Studies in Environmental Science and Ecology
A 3-week field course that provides students an opportunity to develop skills in research and study design in the field of Environmental Science and Ecology. Students will spend much of the course at the Augustana Miquelon Lake Research Station to allow them to fully immerse themselves in their research projects, which could cover the range of ecology, botany, geography, environmental science, and/or environmental studies. Course content also includes instruction in key aspects of conservation biology and resource management. Prerequisites: One of AUSTA 153, AUSTA 213, AUSTA 215, and one of AUENV 218, AUENV 230, AUGEO 218 (2021), AUGEO 230 (2021), AUENV 252, AUBIO 253. Notes: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUBIO 334, AUENV 334 and AUGEO 334 (2021).
Theory and practices in the study and management of wildlife populations and communities. Population dynamics, habitat assessment and management, conservation challenges, and emerging trends. Computational models and assignments aid theoretical understanding of material. Prerequisites: AUENV 252; AUBIO 253; AUSTA 215.
Starting: 2025-09-01 AUENV 335 - Wildlife Ecology and Management
Theory and practices in the study and management of wildlife populations and communities. Population dynamics, habitat assessment and management, conservation challenges, and emerging trends. Computational models and assignments aid theoretical understanding of material. Prerequisites: AUBIO 253; AUSTA 215.
Examination of the relationships between the economy and the environment. Emphasis is placed on the application of economic analysis to various environmental issues. Prerequisite: AUECO 101. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 341 and AUECO 341.
Systematic study of the dynamic interchange between people and their social and physical environmental contexts. Topics include theories of environmental perception, the effects of crowding, the impact of natural/urban settings, the effects of building design and colours, and managing limited resources. Prerequisites: AUPSY 103; third- year standing. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 344 and AUPSY 344.
This course examines the complexities and tensions in formulating religious responses to environmental problems. It looks at how eco justice, stewardship, ecological spirituality, and ecofeminism integrate Christian traditions with environmental responsibility. It also devotes substantial time to outlining the ways place-based identities address issues related to colonialism, environmental racism, technology and community. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 345 and AUREL 345.
Introduction to the basic concepts of conservation biology. The scope of conservation biology and levels of biodiversity are explored, as are aspects of tropical ecology related to conservation. Prerequisite: AUBIO 253 and consent of the instructor(s) based on successful completion of the selection process. Note: This course is intended to be taken in sequence with AUBIO 459 or AUENV 459. Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 350 and AUBIO 350.
Analysis of the spatial patterns of biotic systems and species. The course examines their past and present distribution patterns in the context of biological and ecological processes and human impacts. The course employs several methods of analysis, including geographic information systems. Prerequisite: AUBIO 253. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUGEO 351 (2021), AUENV 351 and AUBIO 351. Requires payment of additional student instructional support fees. Refer to the Tuition and Fees page in the University Regulations section of the Calendar.
Introduction to the biological, chemical and physical features of freshwater ecosystems, and how they relate to ecological processes in and adjacent to aquatic systems. The course will examine the role of ecological patterns in lakes, ponds, rivers and streams, with an emphasis on freshwater systems and their management in western Canada. Prerequisite: AUBIO 253. Notes: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 354, AUBIO 354, and AUGEO 354 (2021). The course requires participation in a field trip. Requires payment of additional student instructional support fees. Refer to the Tuition and Fees page in the University Regulations section of the Calendar.
Investigation of the philosophical and social issues related to technology and the environment. The natural/artificial distinction, different senses of environment and the ways we understand, package, and manage nature form the foundation of the course. Issues in environmental ethics are also addressed. Thinkers may include Marx, Heidegger, Marcel, Borgmann, Winner, Singer, Regan, and others. Prerequisite: None, but AUPHI 350 would be useful. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 355 and AUPHI 355.
Theoretical and empirical examination of the connection between the natural environment and the social world. This involves inquiry into the sociological dimensions of some major contemporary environmental problems, including air, water and soil pollution, decreased biodiversity, deforestation, climate change, and ozone depletion. Particular attention is paid to the social and political connections among issues of industrialization, development, globalization, inequality, gender, social change and environmental destruction. Prerequisites: Third-year standing and AUENV 120 (or its crosslisted equivalent). Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 358 and AUSOC 358.
What stories do landscapes tell humans? What consequences do climate change, digital spaces and biotechnology have on how humans receive and preserve those stories? This course analyzes what is culturally, ecologically and religiously at stake in the inherited narratives humans have about the land. It does so by investigating stories about nature in creative, philosophical and religious writing. It focuses on the ways human experiences in forests, deserts, snow and water have been used as resources to challenge problems of race, injustice and violence in modern life. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 365 and AUREL 365.
Study of women's writing about nature and environment focusing on various themes relevant to environmental literature, primarily the various ways that the natural world is represented in literature, and the relationship between cultural constructions of nature and cultural constructions of gender, class, race, and sexuality. Works include fiction, poetry, and/or nonfiction. An introduction to several ecofeminist theorists provides a critical framework for exploring images and themes in women's environmental literature. Prerequisites: AUENG 102. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 268 (2021), 368, AUENG 268 (2021), 368.
Historical examination of the dynamic interrelationships between the natural world and humans, with a focus on Canadian issues within a North American context. Topics and perspectives will include: Indigenous peoples, colonization, fur trade, exploration, settlement, western agriculture, science, and the conservation movement. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 375, 475, AUHIS 375, 475.
Supervised research project and intensive study of a specific area in environmental science as defined by the student and supervising instructor. Prerequisites: 6 units in Environmental Studies. Notes: Admission to the course normally requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 in Environmental Studies/Science. An Application for Individual Study must be completed and approved before registration in the course. AUENV 401 is classified as a science courses.
Supervised research project and intensive study of a specific area in environmental studies as defined by the student and a supervising instructor. Prerequisites: 6 units in Environmental Studies. Notes: Admission to the course normally requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 in Environmental Studies. An Application for Individual Study must be completed and approved before registration in the course. AUENV 402 is classified as an arts course.
Advanced study of a selected topic in environmental studies. Focus and content of each course are determined by student and faculty interests, and vary from year to year. Prerequisites: Third-year standing or consent of the instructor; previous course(s) in Environmental Studies and other disciplines as determined by the instructor.
Examination of scientific principles and concepts underlying parks, wilderness, and other protected area systems with emphasis on Canada. Topics include history, philosophy, conceptual frameworks, roles in sustainability, and types of biological and geographical designations. Prerequisite: One of AUBIO 253, AUENV 120, AUGEO 120 (2021); and one of AUBIO 350, 351, 459, AUENV 324, 350, 459, AUGEO 324 (2021), 351 (2021). Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 320, 420, AUGEO 320 (2021), 420 (2021).
Overview of the historical developments, past and current impacts, and changing roles of the field of environmental science. Prerequisites: One of AUBIO 350, AUENV 320, 324, 350, 420, AUGEO 320 (2021), 324 (2021), 420 (2021) and at least fourth-year standing. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 421 and AUGEO 421 (2021).
History and theory of environmental impact assessment; legislative and policy frameworks; role in resource planning; methods and techniques for the assessment of impacts; future directions. Prerequisites: One of AUENV 324, AUGEO 324 (2021), and AUBIO 253. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 425, AUGEO 425 (2021). Requires payment of additional student instructional support fees. Refer to the Tuition and Fees page in the University Regulations section of the Calendar.
Climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity. This course provides students an opportunity to develop familiarity and critical reasoning about the empirical evidence for and science behind the global climate crisis. With a global reach, we will consider the international scope of climate change, but a focus will be placed on developing a Canadian context. This is a seminar-style course - one driven by discussion and in which students will take on leadership roles of introducing materials and guiding discussions. Prerequisites: Third-year standing. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 431 and AUENV 331 (2024).
This 3-week, residential field course develops advanced skills for field studies in environmental science and ecology. Through independent research projects, students will design and execute a field-based project, analyze and interpret the data, and present the results in a written and oral format. Students will also gain experience with common field techniques and more advanced statistical analyses. Prerequisites: AUSTA 215 and AUBIO 253; one of AUBIO 315, AUENV 324, AUENV/AUBIO 334, AUBIO 459 or AUENV 459; and consent of the instructor.
Field course that addresses problems of biodiversity and conservation in tropical environments. The student participates in field workshops, and designs and conducts their own field project to answer questions related to ecological and biological conservation. Prerequisite: AUBIO 350 or AUENV 350, and consent of the instructors based on successful completion of the selection process. Notes: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUBIO 459 and AUENV 459. Requires payment of additional student instructional support fees. Refer to the Tuition and Fees page in the University Regulations section of the Calendar.
Historical examination of the dynamic interrelationships between the natural world and humans, with a focus on Canadian issues within a North American context. Topics and perspectives will include: Indigenous peoples, colonization, fur trade, exploration, settlement, western agriculture, science, and the conservation movement. Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 375, 475, AUHIS 375, 475.