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Southwest Minnesota State University · Courses

ENVS

43 courses with the subject ENVS, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.

ENVS 100Earth Science3

This course is designed to provide non science majors with an introduction to Earth Science. Students examine the general physical environment, and the emphasis of study is Earth-sun relationships, meteorology, climatology, geology, geomorphology, hydrology, natural hazards, and environmental degradation. Particular attention is devoted to the exploration of the inherent global interconnectedness of natural environmental systems and human interactions with the physical environment.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 100LEarth Science Lab1

This is the laboratory component of ENVS 100-Earth Science. Students will engage in the practical application of the knowledge they acquire about natural environmental systems during lectures through observation, experimentation, and analysis. Topics of focus include Earth-sun relationships, meteorology, climatology, geology, geomorphology, hydrology, natural hazards, and environmental degradation. Particular attention is devoted to the exploration of the inherent global interconnectedness of natural environmental systems and human interactions with the physical environment.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 101Introduction to Geology3

The study of the earth and the forces that shape it, including minerals and rocks, landforms, and geological processes.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 101LIntroduction to Geology Lab1

The study of the earth and the forces that shape it, including minerals and rocks, landforms, and geological processes.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 102History of Life3

Study of the history and evolution of the earth including its lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere. Topics also include the change in tectonics, rocks, environments, life, and fossils through geological time.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 102LHistory of Life Lab1

Study of the history and evolution of the earth including its lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere. Topics also include the change in tectonics, rocks, environments, life, and fossils through geological time.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 107Introduction to ArcGIS2

Introduction to the basic features of Arc GIS software with hands-on exercises in a computer lab setting. Exercises will provide practice in basic GIS functions such as spatial data creation, editing, manipulation, and analysis. Basic cartographic principles will be applied to produce map displays of exercise results.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
2
Credits (max)
2
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 115Redwood River Monitoring2

This course provides a unique opportunity for students to learn about river monitoring issues and techniques and to teach these skills to others as they mentor high school and 7th grade students. The course also allows students to take an active role in a community-based service-learning project in which data generated are directly applicable to local water conservation issues.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
2
Credits (max)
2
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 120Regional Geography of the U.S. & Canada3

An introduction to the various regions of North America and the study of relationships between physiography, climate, ecosystems, human activities, and environmental issues in the regions.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 180Environmental Science: Introduction3

This course presents an overview of environmental science as well as basic principles of ecology and their implications for identifying and analyzing environmental problems. Also discussed is the impact of human activities on ecosystems and possible solutions to environmental problems.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 180LEnvironmental Science: Introduction Lab1

This course presents an overview of environmental science as well as basic principles of ecology and their implications for identifying and analyzing environmental problems. Also discussed is the impact of human activities on ecosystems and possible solutions to environmental problems.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 186Special Topics in Environmental Science1-4

A study of environmental science topics not ordinarily covered in established courses.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 200Environmental Science Seminar1

This one-credit seminar class will provide an opportunity for environmental science majors, instructors, and guest speakers to discuss and critically examine current events and environmental issues, journal articles, internship and career opportunities, career preparation, and to network with potential employers.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 270Soil Profile Description1

This is a field course used to prepare students for intercollegiate soil judging contests.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 271Collegiate Soil Judging1

Methods of soil profile description and field interpretation of landscapes. Participation in soil judging team during regional or national contests is required.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 286Special Topics1-3

A study of environmental science topics not ordinarily covered in established courses.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 301Basic Soil Science3

Basic physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil. Soil genesis, classification, and principles of soil fertility. The required preparation for this course is three years of high school mathematics or MATH 060.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 301LBasic Soil Science Lab1

Laboratory experimentation related to the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil including soil genesis, classification, and principles of soil fertility. The required preparation for this course is three years of high school mathematics or MATH 060.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 302Geomorphology3

An in-depth, interdisciplinary investigation into landform development, landscape evolution, and the effects of geological processes and climate change on the Earths surficial systems. Special emphasis on Quaternary environmental changes, glacial and interglacial transitions, and the resulting landscapes.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 303Meteorology3

This course provides students with an introduction to atmospheric characteristics and phenomena including: weather, composition and physical processes, air masses and global patterns of air circulation, frontal systems and severe weather, climate and climate change. Particular emphasis will be placed on human interactions with the atmosphere-natural hazards, forecasting, predicting and monitoring, pollution, and climate change-and the global nature of those interactions. For students interested in fulfilling their LAC requirements, the companion lab for this course is currently ENVS 100L - Earth Science Laboratory.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 307Advanced GIS and Spatial Analysis3

This course will offer hands-on experience using Geographic Information System (GIS) software to conduct geographic and spatial analyses common to many different fields. Students will learn to manage and manipulate spatial data using geodatabases, work with digital elevation models, and analyze spatial relationships while working with diverse datasets.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 310Hydrology3

This course deals with the processes governing the depletion and replenishment of the water resources of the land areas of the earth. Students will be introduced to basic principles of the water cycle and the methodology used in determining water flow.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 310LHydrology Lab1

This lab will give the student an opportunity to experience problems and case studies of hydrology in detail. The lab sessions will consist of data manipulation and analysis, computer simulation, and systems design for major topics of hydrology. These topics will include irrigation, drainage, groundwater use and flow, contaminant transport and remediation. Laboratory exercises and field trips are designed to provide a practical introduction to hydrologic methods.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 311Natural Hazards and Disasters3

Study of the effects of geological processes on human society and the application of geological principles in identifying, evaluating, predicting, and mitigating natural hazards such as volcanoes, earthquakes, and floods. Other topics include global climactic change and human impacts on the environment from energy and resources extraction and utilization.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 312Rocks & Minerals3

This course encompasses the description, identification, classification, interpretation, and formation of important common minerals and rocks and their geological implications.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 312LRocks & Minerals Lab1

This course encompasses the description, identification, classification, interpretation, and formation of important common minerals and rocks and their geological implications.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 320Soils and Fertility3

This course is the study of how soil fertility affects plant growth and what soil conditions are required to grow specific plants and crops, methods for testing plants and soils are reviewed. Fertilizer requirements, economics, placement, evaluation, residual effects and environmental effects are reviewed.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 331LPaleoecology Lab1

This course offers an in-depth exploration of evolution and paleoecology through the lens of the fossil record, with a primary focus on invertebrates. The course will focus on key foundational topics, including evolutionary theory, cladistics, fossil preservation, and the concept of geologic time. Building on this groundwork, we will examine major fossilized taxonomic groups to apply fundamental principles of paleobiology, such as morphological variation, taphonomy, and the organization and interactions within ecological communities of the past.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 351Environmental Toxicology3

The study of potentially harmful agents in the environment and their effects on organisms and ecosystems. Topics covered include dose-response relationships, toxicity test methods, factors influencing toxicity, fate and effects of natural and synthetic chemicals in the environment, and ecological risk assessment.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 352Plant Nutrients in the Environment3

Basic concepts related to plant nutrient availability in soils. Emphasis on the dynamic reactions of mineral elements in soil and water, and subsequent evaluation of plant growth and the environment. Diagnostic techniques for measuring specific soil fertility parameters.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 353Soil Conservation and Land Use Management3

Soil erosion and land degradation processes on rural and urban landscapes. Technical, historical, economic, social, and international considerations of soil conservation. Land use management practices of soil conservation and methods of natural resource assessment.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 390Research Methods in Environmental Science2

This course is designed to introduce students to the basic methods of research in Environmental Science. Emphasis will be placed on how to select a research project, how to conduct a literature search, how to write a project proposal, and field methods for data collection. This course is a prerequisite for ENVS 400, the capstone course in Environmental Science.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
2
Credits (max)
2
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 400Environmental Data Analysis & Presentation2

This is the capstone course for the environmental science major. Students will be expected to conduct an independent research project investigating various environments topics selected in conjunction with a faculty research advisor. Students will incorporate field, laboratory, and GIS experiences in environmental data gathering, analysis, interpretation, synthesis, and presentation. Students will present their findings in a variety of oral and written formats including at the annual SMSU Undergraduate Research Conference.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
2
Credits (max)
2
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 401Wetland Ecology3

This course is a comprehensive review of the biological, physical, and chemical aspects of wetland ecosystems. The course also covers the restoration, creation, and management of wetlands as well as policy regulating these activities. The course will include North American wetland systems as well as other wetlands around the globe. Various field data collecting exercises will emphasize local wetlands.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 401LWetland Ecology Lab1

This course is a comprehensive review of the biological, physical, and chemical aspects of wetland ecosystems. The course also covers the restoration, creation, and management of wetlands as well as policy regulating these activities. The course will include North American wetland systems as well as other wetlands around the globe. Various field data collecting exercises will emphasize local wetlands.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 406Freshwater Science3

This course focuses on the study and management of freshwater aquatic systems and watersheds. Topics include abiotic and biotic diversity, hydrology, energetics, nutrient cycling, watershed monitoring and protection, as well as key challenges facing freshwater ecosystems.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 406LFreshwater Science Lab1

This course focuses on the study and management of freshwater aquatic systems and watersheds. Topics include abiotic and biotic diversity, hydrology, energetics, nutrient cycling, watershed monitoring and protection, as well as key challenges facing freshwater ecosystems.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 426Soil Morphology & Genesis3

Physical and chemical weathering processes, factors of soil formation, introduction to soil mineralogy, soil survey utilization and interpretation. This course will also introduce students to various landscapes, their genesis, and land use impacts.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 426LSoil Morphology & Genesis Lab1

Description

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 480Environmental Education Practicum1-4

Applied, supervised experience in which students gain practical experience in environmental education. Specific proposal and approval by supervising instructor required prior to enrollment. A minimum of 30 hours of work experience is required per credit hour.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 486Advanced Special Topics1-3

A study of environmental science topics not ordinarily covered in established courses.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 494Independent Study1-3

Independent research, directed by a faculty member, which must be laboratory research, library research, or other experiences approved by the Environmental Science program.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ENVS 499Internship in Environmental Science1-15

Supervised experiences in learning situations that cannot be obtained on campus.

Subject
ENVS
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
15
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu

Source: Southwest Minnesota State University's catalog, linked per course · table learning_unit · CourseShelf publish 61