Graduate Seminar

Instructor

Meeting times

• Mondays from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. in Bldg. 53 ( Science Academic Center) Room E/105.

Course Description

The purpose of the Coastal and Watershed Science & Policy (CWSP) graduate seminar (ESSP 500) is to introduce graduate students to environmental policy dilemmas and how science can be applied to define and address these dilemmas. In 2007, the seminar will focus on the role of science in environmental policy by studying several topics that may include the creation of a system of marine protected areas (MPAs) in Central California; harmful algal blooms and policy implications; and science and policy issues with sediment movement along the coastal zone. Students will read and summarize policy papers, select and read peer-reviewed scientific literature; attend presentations by scientists, resource managers, and stakeholders involved in these science policy issues; lead class discussions about the policy implications of scientific uncertainties; and develop the policy and science background appropriate toward this thesis research. Beginning this year, we will have a series of guest speakers who will discuss the policy and science interface of environmental issues. These seminars will be attended by other faculty and graduate students and will be used to create an academic culture in the department. Each week students are expected to read the required readings and over the course of the semester, in addition students will read elective readings (approximately one every three weeks) and prepare a 1 page précis to be posted for other students.

Syllabus

Seminar Schedule Tentative

Required Text

W.A. Rosenbaum. 2005. Environmental Politics and Policy. QC Press. Available at the bookstore.