Course Description
Introduction to environmental health from the perspective of the physical sciences. Applications of natural science principles and the scientific method to investigate the chemical composition and physical fate of environmental pollutants. Examination of human impacts on the environment and the effects of environmental hazards on human health.
Athena Title
Env Health Phys Sci Perspect
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall and spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
- Students will be able to identify key environmental health issues related to the physical sciences.
- Students will be able to describe the basic principles of environmental chemistry.
- Students will be able to explain basic environmental health concepts by identifying how environmental systems and processes of natural phenomena affect human health.
- Students will be able to apply scientific evidence and use critical thinking to propose basic solutions to real-world issues in environmental health.
Topical Outline
- Physical Science Principles of environmental health:
1. Overview of the scientific method and principles used in environmental health
2. Interaction of natural phenomena with human health
3. One Health: focus on environmental component
- Environmental Systems and Processes:
1. Geophysical Hazards
2. Energy systems and health
- Fundamentals of Environmental Chemistry:
1. Chemical composition and behaviors of pollutants in the environment
2. Toxicity and Persistence
- Exposure Assessment:
1. Impacts of pollutant exposure on human health
2. Chemical Pollutants in Air, Water, and Soil
3. Noise Pollution and Radiation
- Solutions to Environmental Health Issues:
1. Use of the scientific method to assess and mitigate environmental health challenges
2. Locating and evaluating scientific evidence, including technological innovations
Institutional Competencies
Critical Thinking
The ability to pursue and comprehensively evaluate information before accepting or establishing a conclusion, decision, or action.
Social Awareness & Responsibility
The capacity to understand the interdependence of people, communities, and self in a global society.
