Students in ENVS 190 develop a report that explores an environmental problem or issue in great depth. It includes a detailed review of the scientific literature and evaluation of the information leading to conclusions and recommendations that address the problem or issue.

Thesis subjects are chosen by the student, approved by the instructor, and can be from myriad perspectives addressed in the ENVS curriculum including scientific, social, political, economic, and cultural.

Learning Objectives of Senior Thesis

ENVS 190 is designed to achieve, or assist students in achieving, the following program learning obbjectives. Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to:

1. Assess environmental problems and solutions by applying scientific concepts
2. Identify, understand, and critically evaluate competing perspectives on environmental issues
3. Develop research, writing, and critical thinking skills and the ability to write and speak clearly and persuasively
4. Build a persuasive argument and present it effecrively in both written and oral presentations and discussion
5. Integrate knowledge, research, and interpretation with substantially greater sophistication than commonly expected.

Enrolling in Thesis

Revised April 12, 2024 - Effective Fall 2024

ENVS 190 – Thesis (Effective Fall 2024)

You must meet with your assigned Academic Advisor (based on your last name - see list under Advising) to determine your readiness to enroll in ENVS 190 Thesis. Your advisor will notify the ENVS Dept to manually enroll you. A passing grade in ENVS 112 is a pre-requisite for ENVS 190. If you need to take ENVS 112 concurrently be sure to discuss with your Advisor.

Examples of ENVS Student Thesis - soon

Arnett - Impact Challenges Community Involvement

Bucks - Navigating the Plastic Tide

Espinoza - Olive Ridley Sea Turtle Cons Challenges

Fisher - Plants Do It Better

Munoz-Hurtado - Climate Change Moving Forward

Sullivan - Resiliency and Heat in Sacramento