Sustainability Studies (SUS)

SUS 100 Introduction to Sustainability Studies 4 Credits

Sustainability is an idea that will shape the lives of all in the 21st century. Students will explore how we arrived at our current precarious environmental situation and investigate cutting-edge methods that support human development and protect the natural ecosystems on which we will depend. By exploring principles of sustainability (whole-systems approaches, resource limitations, stewardship) through many different lenses, students will appreciate the interdisciplinarity of the sustainability enterprise. This course counts towards the fulfillment of the Disciplinary Perspectives element of the CLAS general education curriculum.

Corequisite(s): SUS 100L.

SUS 100L Intro to Sustainability Lab 0 Credits

For students concurrently taking SUS 100. Field trips, visiting speakers, and films to complement topics covered in the introductory course. One three-hour laboratory per week.

Corequisite(s): SUS 100.

SUS 400 Sustainability Studies Seminar 3 Credits

To synthesize sustainability studies coursework and internship experiences, students will collaboratively develop and implement a sustainability project on the Rider campus, aiming to simultaneously reduce both depletable resource use and environmental impact. Seminar sessions will explore the historical development of current systems and innovative thinking related to sustainability planning related to the focal issue. Specific topic at discretion of the instructor. Prerequisite(s): SUS 100, SUS 100L.

Corequisite(s): SUS 400 or as prerequisite or permission of instructor.

SUS 490 Independent Study: Research and Creative Expression 1-4 Credits

Immerses the student in applying sustainability principles in a field setting. Students are expected to assess the outcomes of their projects and communicate their results verbally and in writing to interested audiences.

SUS 491 Internship in Sustainability 1-4 Credits

A supervised work/service experience in an approved organization where students gain understanding and experience with applying sustainability principles. Placements may be in private, public, educational, non-profit or governmental organizations. Students are expected to include measurement and documentation of the environmental, social, and economic impact of their work. A minimum of 50 hours of work is required for one credit. At least 150 hours are required to earn 3 credits.