This course explores the human condition within an environmental context by emphasizing critical environmental problems facing humans on both a global and regional scale. The approach will be interdisciplinary. The issues, their causes, and their potential solutions will be analyzed with respect to ethical, social, historical, political, scientific, and technological factors.

Communication of environmental, health and safety information and issues is critical for awareness, information, and action. Students develop skill in reporting and conveying environmental and scientific information as well as an understanding of the role of the media and public relations in the environmental communication process. Course participants also learn strategies and formats for communicating safety information, especially in procedures and instructional materials. Writing and speaking skills are sharpened for successful business, media, and crisis communication.