Student Learning Outcomes

1. Describe physical science concepts that govern energy systems and their impact on the environment

2. Describe environmental science concepts that govern energy systems and their impact on the environment

3. Describe social science concepts that govern energy systems and their impact on the environment

4. Evaluate technical feasibility of possible solutions to energy problems

5. Calculate costs and benefits of proposed solutions to energy problems

6. Formulate validated practical solutions to energy problems

7. Defend proposed energy solution to a decision maker

Integrated Learning Major on Energy and its Impacts

Contact:

Peter Saulson
(315) 443-5994
psaulson@syr.edu

Faculty

Mark S. Braiman, Douglas A. Frank, Chris E. Johnson, Jane M. Read, Christopher A. Scholz, Peter J. Wilcoxen

Description

Many of the issues facing humanity today center on energy: its supply, its use, and the impact that our energy use technologies have on our environment. The Integrated Learning Major on Energy and its Impacts gives students the interdisciplinary background required to understand the origin of our current problems and the ability to seek solutions to them. Students from a broad range of primary majors (in the Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Engineering, or Management) will come together to confront some of the most important challenges that confront the world. A team-based capstone project will enhance interdisciplinary learning while building problem-solving skills.

Intended for students in the following primary majors: for College of Arts and Sciences students in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Earth Sciences, Physics, Environmental Sciences, Economics, Geography, Political Science, Public Affairs, or International Relations, for LCS students in Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering, and for Whitman students in Entrepreneurship and Emerging Enterprises or Finance. (Note: Engineering students must also enroll in the LCS Energy Systems Minor.) Other primary majors may also be possible with approval of the director.

Students must take three Foundation courses, four or five Elective courses, a Junior Seminar, and a Senior Capstone Seminar, as described below.