Environmental Sustainability
Associate in Science
Jumpstart your journey toward a meaningful career in Environmental Sustainability. This program is for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution. The curriculum is designed to introduce students to the concepts and methods employed in the study of ecology and geology, environmental biology and chemistry, environmental ethics and economics, earth-systems management and additional disciplines relevant to the sustainable use of environmental resources.
60
Total Credits
Learn about our $1.1 Million NASA Grant
Hands-on
Experience
Designed to Transfer
The science professors here are awesome! Their classes inspired me and improved my research skills. I’m fascinated by water chemistry and may focus my future work on that area.
What Jobs Can I Get?
Address organizational sustainability issues, such as waste stream management, green building practices, and green procurement plans.
Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect…
Install or repair solar energy systems designed to collect, store, and circulate solar-heated water for residential, commercial or industrial use.
Perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health, under…
Conduct research in breeding, physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock,…
Manage, improve, and protect natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the environment. May conduct soil surveys and develop…
Inspect and investigate sources of pollution to protect the public and environment and ensure conformance with Federal, State, and local…
Research, design, plan, or perform engineering duties in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental hazards using various engineering disciplines….
Program Highlights
Paid research and internship opportunities
Hands on learning with field-trip based labs
Rooftop garden (coming soon!)
Partnerships that help the local community
What Will I Learn?
Climate change has had huge impacts on both humans and nature. In urban areas like Paterson, the effects of climate change on local people are far reaching, from stronger storms to impacted infrastructure and more. From parks to plants growing in the sidewalk, nature starts right outside our doors. Environmental Sustainability addresses the needs of people and nature in a changing world.
Recommended Course Sequence (60 Credits)
Recommended Course Sequence (60 Credits)
General Education (31 Credits)
Communication (6 Credits)
Course Code : EN 102
Course Group(s) : Communication Elective
Course Description :
This course develops student prose by utilizing the writing process (drafting, revising and editing). Students are required to complete a process portfolio that includes 3-5 typed, revised, and edited MLA papers, reflective and low-stakes writing assignments, and at least one paper that demonstrates proper research techniques. All writing assignments must demonstrate and develop the writing process, critical thinking, and writing skills. Throughout the term, a variety of reading assignments and topics are introduced to develop interpretive and argumentative skills, while developing a critical understanding of well-crafted, professional prose.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
EN 101 – Composition I
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
Course Code : EN 101
Course Group(s) : Communication Elective
Course Description :
This course focuses on the stages of the writing process and includes a formal research paper. A variety of writing and reading assignments are designed to develop analytical and critical-thinking skills.
– General Education Course
Co/Prerequisites: College Level or with applicable co-requisite.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
Mathematics (8 Credits)
Choose two (2) of the following courses (8 Credits):
Course Code : MA 109
Course Group(s) : 4 Credit Math Course – Environmental Science, Category 2 – Mathematics, College Level Math Elective, Math Elective, Math Elective – 4 Credit, Math Elective for General Studies
Course Description :
This course prepares students for calculus. Topics include the study of functions, and emphasis is placed on the properties of inverse, trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions and analytic geometry.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 4 Hours
Prerequisites :
MA 108 – College Algebra
OR
Test placement
OR
Permission of the Department Chairperson
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
Course Code : MA 120
Course Group(s) : 4 Credit Math Course – Environmental Science, Category 2 – Mathematics, College Level Math Elective, Math Elective, Math Elective – 4 Credit, Math Elective for General Studies
Course Description :
This course covers the study of the concepts of limits, continuity, derivatives, and differentiation of algebraic and trigonometric functions. It also includes applications of the derivative, maxima, and minima and introductions to anti-derivatives, Riemann Sum, and the Fundamental Theorems.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 4 Hours
Prerequisites :
MA 109 – Pre-Calculus Mathematics
OR
Test placement
OR
Permission of the Department chairperson.
Recommended for students enrolled in the Electronics Engineering Technology Program.
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
Course Code : MA 121
Course Group(s) : 4 Credit Math Course – Environmental Science, Category 2 – Mathematics, College Level Math Elective, Math Elective, Math Elective – 4 Credit, Math Elective for General Studies
Course Description :
This course is a continuation of MA 120. It further explores the study and application of the concepts of antiderivatives, definite integrals, and techniques of integration. Topics include transcendental functions, improper integrals, and infinite series.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 4 Hours
Prerequisites :
MA 120 – Calculus I
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
Course Code : MA 201
Course Group(s) : 4 Credit Math Course – Environmental Science, College Level Math Elective, Math Elective – 4 Credit
Course Description :
This course is a continuation of MA 121. Emphasis is placed on the study and application of power series, polar coordinates, multivariable functions, vector valued functions, partial derivatives, multiple integration, and vector calculus.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 4 Hours
Prerequisites :
MA 121 – Calculus II
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring
Course Code : MA 202
Course Group(s) : 4 Credit Math Course – Environmental Science, College Level Math Elective, Math Elective – 4 Credit
Course Description :
This course covers the application of differential equations and their standard methods of solution. Topics include linear differential equations of the first and higher orders, linear equations of the second order, numerical approximations, and series solution.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 4 Hours
Prerequisites :
MA 121 – Calculus II
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring
Science (8 Credits)
Course Code : CH 111
Course Group(s) : Category 3 – Science, Laboratory Science Elective
Course Description :
This course is for science, pre-professional, and engineering majors. It covers basic concepts and introductory inorganic chemistry. Topics include: stoichiometry, solubility, atomic and molecular structure, gases, solid structure, quantum mechanics, chemical formulas, reactions, solutions, enthalpy, and bonding theory. Solutions to numerical problems are stressed throughout. Laboratory experiments reinforce theoretical principles.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
College level math and college level English
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
Course Code : CH 112
Course Group(s) : Biomedical/Chemical Engineering Requirements, Category 3 – Science, Industrial Engineering Requirements, Laboratory Science Elective
Course Description :
This course covers thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, oxidation-reduction reactions, electrochemistry, reaction rates and mechanisms, coordination complexes, main group chemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory experiments reinforce theoretical principles. This course is a continuation of CH 111.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
CH 111 – General Chemistry I
MA 108 – College Algebra
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
Social Science (6 Credits)
Choose two (2) courses from the following courses (6 credits)
Humanities (3 Credits)
Choose one (1) from the following courses:
Major Requirements (29 Credits)
Take all of the following:
Course Code : BS 204
Course Description :
This course explores the fundamental processes by which organisms interact with the living and nonliving components of their environment. Topics include evolution and adaptation to the environment, types of species interactions, threats to ecological systems, population and community dynamics, and the influence of human activity in ecological processes. The laboratory component includes the scientific method, collection and analysis of data, field study methods, computer simulation, and field trips designed to explore the variety of habitats in New Jersey.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
BS 101 Biology I
or
SC 104 Introduction to Environmental Science
Semesters Offered :
Spring
Course Code : SC 104
Course Group(s) : Category 3 – Science, Health Science Electives, Laboratory Science Elective, Science Courses for Psychology Option, Science Courses for Sociology Option, Science Elective for English, Science Elective for Sociology & Psychology
Course Description :
This course explores the fundamental science principles associated with environmental studies and the causes of environmental problems. Topics include land, air, and water resources, energy, ecology, sustainability, systems analysis, impacts of laws, policies, and economics, and the human role in the environment. The laboratory reinforces course topics through the application of scientific methods, introduction of field study techniques, computer simulations, field trips, and collection and analysis of data.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
MA 022 – Mathematics Fundamentals for Liberal Arts
OR
MA 025 – Accelerated Algebra
OR
MA 025A – Algebra A
OR
MA 025B – Algebra B
OR
Test Placement
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring
Course Code : SC 111
Course Description :
This course is designed to provide the fundamentals of sustainability principles and explore the connections among social, economic, and environmental systems in today’s world. Topics will focus on basic concepts, global trends, and global and local responses to human impacts on the environment. This course will also discuss the philosophical, ethical, and cultural considerations as well as the policies and actions needed to promote a sustainable future.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
College level math and college level English
Course Code : SC 290
Course Description :
This course is designed to develop a student’s ability to apply scientific knowledge and laboratory skills to solving literature and/or research problems. Course projects are tailored to the individual student based on his/her academic history.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
BS 101 – Biology I
OR
BS 102 – Biology II
OR
BS 201 – Fundamentals of Exercise Physiology
OR
CH 112 – General Chemistry II
OR
PY 101 – College Physics I
OR
PY 120 – Physics I
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
And take one (1) of the following 3 credit courses
Course Code : EC 101
Course Group(s) : Category 5 – Social Science, Social Science for English Majors, Social Sciences Requirements for English Majors
Course Description :
This course covers such basic economic concepts as the elements of national income, inflation and unemployment, the economic roles of government, determination of national income, business cycles, the global economy, and monetary fiscal policies. EC 101 emphasizes macroeconomics.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring
Course Code : SC 206
Course Group(s) : Health Science Electives
Course Description :
This course will explore introductory concepts in environmental science and ecology through the lens of environmental ethics. Questions surrounding the impact of differing world views upon environmental behavior, the bases for environmental decision making, societal responsibilities to future generations, and the moral accounting of human and nonhuman species will be evaluated from varied perspectives of utilitarianism, holism, social ecology, deep ecology, and ecofeminism. Applications to local environmental issues will be considered.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
BS 101 – Biology I
OR
BS 103 – Anatomy and Physiology I
OR
CH 111 – General Chemistry I
OR
SC 104 – Introduction to Environmental Science
OR
SC 111 – Introduction to Sustainability
Semesters Offered :
Fall
And take one (1) of the following 4 credit courses
Course Code : BS 223
Course Description :
This course introduces the diverse roles of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi in natural and artificial environments, their monitoring, and applications for use. This course will explore cellular structure, physiology and growth; evolution, gene flow, and antibiotic resistance; population and community dynamics; water and soil microbiology; biogeochemical and nutrient cycling; and biodeterioration and bioremediation. Lab work will emphasize ethics and data analysis through topics including environmental monitoring and clean-up, field sampling and water testing, and ‘omics’ approaches to characterization of environmental organisms. Project-based clean-up of the riparian areas of the Passaic River may be conceptually or physically inlcuded in lab.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Pre/Co-Requisites :
BS 101 or SC 104 or CH 111
Semesters Offered :
Spring
Course Code : BS 214
Course Description :
This laboratory course explores the scientific study of birds termed avian biology, or ornithology. It addresses the evolutionary origins, anatomical structures, physiological adaptations, social behaviors, communications, and migratory characteristics particular to this classification of organisms. In the process, the diverse life histories of birds will offer a lens onto current topics and trends in species conservation, environmental law, advancements in genomics and technological biomimicry, climate dynamics, epidemiology, considerations of existential risk and the knock-on effects of human activity on biodiversity.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
BS 102 Biology II
or
SC 104 Introduction to Environmental Science
Semesters Offered :
Spring
Course Code : SC 105
Course Group(s) : Category 3 – Science, Laboratory Science Elective, Science Elective for English
Course Description :
This course provides an introduction to astronomy covering the laws of physics and chemistry that govern the movements and composition of the physical universe. It includes discussions on motion, composition, and evolution of planets, stars and interstellar matter. It also examines the structure and evolution of the universe.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
MA 022 – Mathematics Fundamentals for Liberal Arts
OR
MA 025 – Accelerated Algebra
OR
MA 025A – Algebra A
OR
MA 025B – Algebra B
OR
Test Placement
Semesters Offered :
Spring
Course Code : SC 202
Course Description :
This course is a study of the origin and evolution of the Earth, the rocks and minerals which compose it, the processes which are constantly changing it, the risks associated with geologic hazards, and the role of geology in shaping the human environment. The course presents the tools, methods, and approach employed by practicing geologists. Laboratory exercises and field trips introduce rocks, minerals, fossils, maps, and landscape features. The laboratory component will include the scientific method, collection and analysis of data, field study methods, computer simulations, and field trips designed to explore the geology of New Jersey.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
MA 103 Basic Statistics and MA 109 Pre-Calculus
OR
MA 120 Calculus I
Semesters Offered :
Summer
And take both BS 101 and BS 102 or both CH 111 and CH 112 or both PY 101 and PY 102
Take Both:
Course Code : BS 101
Course Group(s) : Category 3 – Science, Laboratory Science Elective, Science Elective for Environmental Sustainability, Science Requirement for Nutrition Option
Course Description :
This course explores the basic study of the principles underlying the science of cells and organisms. Included are topics related to biochemistry, cell structure and function, effects of the physical environment on cells, genetics, genetic engineering, heredity, evolution, and selected biological problems. Laboratory experiments include investigations of physical and chemical life processes, analysis of cellular components, cellular functions, cell reproduction, and heredity.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
College level math
College level English
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
AND
Course Code : BS 102
Course Group(s) : Category 3 – Science, Laboratory Science Elective, Science Elective for Environmental Sustainability II, Science Requirement for Nutrition Option
Course Description :
This course explores the basic study of representative organisms of the five kingdoms, with an emphasis on classification, differential features, and reproduction. For the plant and animal kingdoms, it covers fundamentals of development, physiological control systems, organ systems, nutrition, movement, ecology, and selected biological problems of representative organisms. The laboratory sessions include dissections and experimental studies of selected representative organisms for all kingdoms.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
College level math
College level English
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
OR
Take Both:
Course Code : CH 211
Course Group(s) : Biomedical/Chemical Engineering Requirements, Science Elective for Environmental Sustainability
Course Description :
This course covers the alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, and alkyl halides. Major classes of reactions covered include: nucleophilic substitution, elimination, addition, free radical and polar mechanisms. Reaction intermediates and chemical synthesis are stressed. Laboratory experiments include an introduction to purification and identification techniques as well as an introduction to chemical synthesis. This course is a laboratory science course intended for science, preprofessional, and chemical engineering majors.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
CH 112 – General Chemistry II
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring
AND
Course Code : CH 212
Course Group(s) : Science Elective for Environmental Sustainability II, Science Requirement for Nutrition Option
Course Description :
This course covers Infra-red, UV-Vis and Mass Spectroscopy and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. Major functional groups covered include aromatic compounds, aryl halides, alcohols and ethers, organometallics, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids and derivatives, amines, dicarbonyls, and an introduction to biochemistry. Major classes of reaction covered include oxidation and reduction, electrophilic aromatic substitution, nucleophilic addition and substitution to carbonyl and nucleophilic substitutions to acyl carbon reactions. Laboratory experiments stress organic synthesis and product identification with formal lab reports written to ACS specifications. This course is a continuation of CH 211.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
CH 211 – Organic Chemistry I
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring
OR
Take Both:
Course Code : PY 101
Course Group(s) : Category 3 – Science, Laboratory Science Elective, Science Elective for Environmental Sustainability
Course Description :
This is the first in a two-semester sequence of algebra and trigonometry-based physics. It is recommended for majors in natural science, liberal arts, or technology, and it covers vectors, kinematics, dynamics, Newton’s laws, energy, momentum, rotational motion, solid and fluid mechanics, heat, thermodynamics, and sound.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
MA 109 – Pre-Calculus Mathematics
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
AND
Course Code : PY 102
Course Group(s) : Category 3 – Science, Laboratory Science Elective, Science Elective for Environmental Sustainability II
Course Description :
This is the second in a two-semester sequence of algebra and trigonometry-based physics. It covers waves, electrostatics, electric fields, direct current electricity, magnetic fields, induction, alternating current electricity, light, relativity, quantum mechanics, and atomic and nuclear physics.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
PY 101 – College Physics I
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring
OR
Take Both:
Course Code : PY 120
Course Group(s) : Category 3 – Science, Science Elective for Environmental Sustainability
Course Description :
This is the first in a two-semester, calculus-based physics sequence. It is recommended for majors in engineering, pure science, or mathematics, and it covers vectors, kinematics, dynamics, Newton’s laws, energy, momentum, circular and rotational motion, gravitational forces, solid and fluid mechanics, and heat and thermodynamics.
– General Education Course
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
MA 120 – Calculus I
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
AND
Course Code : PY 121
Course Group(s) : Category 3 – Science, Laboratory Science Elective, Science Elective for Environmental Sustainability II
Course Description :
This is the second of a two-semester, calculus-based, physics sequence. The course is recommended for majors in engineering, science, or mathematics. The course covers waves, sound, electrostatics, electric fields, Gauss’s Law, electric potential, capacitors, electric circuits, magnetic fields, Ampere’s Law, Faraday’s and Lenz’s Law, inductance, alternating current, and electromagnetic waves.
Instruction methods : Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab / Studio: 3 Hours
Prerequisites :
PY 120 Physics I
Semesters Offered :
Fall, Spring, Summer
Graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the concept of sustainability.
- Demonstrate an understanding of key environmental issues at the local, national and global scale.
- Recognize that knowledge of history, geography, economics, and ethics all play an important role in sustainability.
- Demonstrate ability to apply scientific methods to gather and use information for the purposes of critical thinking, information analysis, and problem solving in the area of environmental sustainability.
- Analyze experimental data in the environmental sustainability disciplines.
- Perform scientific investigations utilizing laboratory equipment and instruments in a safe and effective manner.
- Write laboratory reports utilizing scientific terminology.
General Education:
In addition to the program-specific outcomes listed above, students completing the Associate degree programs are required to demonstrate proficiency in the General Education learning outcomes. Specific outcomes may vary by program; please refer to the program requirements below.
Note:
- Depending upon a student’s placement or for transfer purposes, this program may have pre-requisite(s). See a pathway coordinator or student development specialist for advisement.
- MA 108 is a prerequisite for MA 109 or test placement.
- A minimum grade grade of “C” is required in all Math & Science courses.
- It is recommended that students enroll in their first WI course upon completion of EN 101.