This course will explore the implementation of environmental policy at the local and community levels. Students will gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of federal and state government agencies authorized under specific environmental statutes, including the dilemmas, trade-offs, and unintended consequences associated with policy decisions. Next, students will analyze and critique strategies utilized by government officials to include public participation in environmental decision-making processes by non-governmental actors (e.g., interested and affected citizens, interest groups, and advocacy organizations). Beyond examining how federal, state, and local actors have historically designed and implemented environmental policy, students will also analyze a policy issue of concern and its implications for a specific community or interest group.
Students with fewer than 45 creditsmay receive a signature for registration after meeting with faculty and demonstrating their preparedness for the workload and content covered.
Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:
5 - Environmental Policy
Registration
Academic Details
*This course may be especially useful to students who plan to go on to graduate study and careers in public policy, environmental policy, social policy, environmental studies, public health, and community studies.