PHS 120 - Global Climate Change

3 credit hours - Three hours lecture weekly; one term
This course meets the Biological and Physical Sciences General Education Requirement.

Investigate the causes and consequences of global climate change. Learn the science behind our changing climate and how atmospheric carbon dioxide affects the air, land, and water. Research the effects of climate change on plants, animals, and the oceans. Determine the health, economic, and social impacts of climate change on humans. Interpret climate science data, discuss international climate agreements, and learn about mitigation efforts that help fight climate change.

Prerequisite(s): Eligibility for ENG 101 / ENG 101A and any general education mathematics.

Note: Typically offered OL; fall and spring terms.

Course Outcomes:

Describe the science behind multiple facets of Earth’s changing climate using an interdisciplinary, systems-based approach
Analyze historical records, present-day measurements, and climate projection models to compare past, current, and potential future climates
Explain how our changing climate will affect Earth’s organisms, habitats, and humans
Discuss political, technological, and personal efforts to reduce carbon emissions locally and globally
Synthesize course concepts to interpret scientific articles, news reports, and government documents, including reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change