2022-2023 Academic Year

Fall 2022

ENST 121 Enviro Science for Non-Majors
This introductory environmental science course will explore the integrated, interdisciplinary study of natural environmental systems and human interactions with them. Students will use scientific principles to explore the consequences of human activity. Students will be exposed to basic techniques for investigating environmental topics in lectures, laboratory exercises, and fieldwork. This is an introductory course for non-majors. Students intending to major in Environmental Studies or Environmental Science should enroll in ENST 161.Three hours classroom and three hours laboratory a week. This course does not count towards the B.A. in Environmental Studies or B.S. in Environmental Science.

Spring 2023

ENST 305 Mammalogy
This lecture and lab course will provide students with a solid foundation in the study of mammals. Students will be introduced to the different taxonomic groups of mammals through various topics including evolutionary history, adaptations, physiology, diversity, biogeography, behavioral ecology, community ecology, and conservation. Familiarity of mammalian groups to the family level and identification of Pennsylvania fauna to species level will be expected of each participant. Labs will incorporate the use of existing mammal skins and skulls as well as the providing students the opportunity to learn how to prepare museum specimens (optional), along with a museum field trip and visits to one or more active research sites.

ENST 305 Wildlife Monitoring
This field course will provide students with a solid foundation and hands on experiences regarding the practical use of specific tools and the application of field methods and techniques used in both environmental consulting and wildlife sciences today. Coursework will focus on numerous topics including research and experimental design; collection, management and analysis of data; identification of animals and marking techniques; measuring animal abundance; assessment of wildlife habitat, the role of radio and satellite telemetry; and the practical application of spatial technology (GIS). Students will gain hands on experience in reading and using topographic maps, interpreting aerial photos, using a compass and hand held GPS, orienteering, and creating maps in GIS. Students will also learn about employing and in many cases practicing various monitoring techniques such as spot mapping, area searches, conducting point counts, nest searches, transect surveys, live trapping and marking, use of remote cameras; telemetry; and the use of mist nets for capturing birds and mammals. At least one field trip will include a day long (weekend) visit to an active research site.