School of Earth and Environmental Sciences

Transcription

1 BULLETIN School of Earth and Environmental Sciences UNIVERSITY of GUYANA

2 SCHOOL OF EARTH & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES Academic and Administrative Staff DIRECTOR COORDINATOR PAULETTE BYNOE DENISE SIMMONS BYNOE, Paulette - BA; MPhil; DPhil JOHNSON-BHOLA, Linda BA; MSc SIMMONS, Denise - BSc; MSc; Postgraduate Dip. in Education ROSE, Shanomae - Dip. in Med.Tech.; BSc; MSc, MPH DABEE-JOHNSON, Ramona BA; Postgraduate Dip. in Education HAMER, Seon - BSc; MSc Director Lecturer I Lecturer II Lecturer II Lecturer I Lecturer I 1

3 Introduction The School of Earth and Environmental Sciences was established on February 22, 2005, in recognition of the shared expertise, analytical techniques and complementarities that existed between the Department of Geography, Faculty of Arts and the Environmental Studies Unit, Faculty of Natural Sciences. It is the expectation that the merger will allow students specializing in the field sciences to benefit from a broader foundation and the rationalization of overlapping programmes. OBJECTIVES To offer a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Environmental Studies and Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degrees in Geography and Economic/ Geography; To facilitate and conduct interdisciplinary research; To offer professional courses in related areas, such as Environmental Management, Conservation Biology, Sustainable Utilization of Biodiversity, and Environmental Technology; To develop Postgraduate programmes To enhance public awareness and education about environmental problems and issues; To provide consultancy services in areas, such as, Environmental Management, Environmental Health, Environmental Economics and Land Use Planning to support the long-term sustainability of the School; To foster linkages with key stakeholder agencies to promote sound environmental research and analysis of issues in natural resource management that aid national and regional development; To provide technical advice to agencies such as the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), Guyana Geology and Mines commission (GGMC), Hydrometeor, Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Land and surveys Commission the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB), World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO), and the Guyana Environmental Protection Agency (GEPA); To assist the Government of Guyana with respect to environmental policy formulation and implementation, and To promote facilities and opportunities for continual professional development of School staff to enable them to carry out effectively all of the aforementioned activities. PROGRAMMES OFFERED Master of Science in Environmental Management (0662) Post-Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Management (0660) Post-Graduate Diploma in Environmental Management (0661) Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies Bachelor of Arts in Geography Bachelor of Arts Double Major in Geography/Economics Bachelor of Arts Double Major in Geography and another subject in the School of Education and Humanities Bachelor of Arts in Geography and an approved subject in another Faculty 2

4 Minor in Geography Geography courses may be taken as part of a minor or as an elective by students reading for degrees in other departments of the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences and in other Faculties. The number of credits constituting a Minor will be determined by the regulations and by such requirements of prerequisites as may be in force in the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences from time to time. Master of Science in Environmental Management (0681) The School of Earth and Environmental Sciences (SEES) offers a Postgraduate Diploma/Master of Science (MSc) Degree in Environmental Management, with two Specialisation Streams in: (1) Natural Resources Management and (2) Climate Change and Disaster Management. The Programme builds capacity amongst national and regional professionals, equipping them with the competencies, knowledge, skills and technical expertise to plan and implement policies, plans, programmes and actions that enhance development, sustain livelihoods, reduce environmental degradation and destruction and improve environmental quality, as well as effectively plan for and respond to disasters and climate change within a risk management framework. The Programme is comprised of a combination of Core Courses and Specialisation Stream Courses to be pursued over a minimum 12 month period (maximum 36-month period). A minimum of 15 registered students is required for the Programme to be run in a given year. At the commencement of the programme, all students would be registered for the Postgraduate Diploma programme, with seven Compulsory Core Courses and five Specialisation Stream Compulsory Courses pursued over a 9-month period. (In special instances, students may be able to audit undergraduate courses of relevance, once it is established how these courses would support the programme of study). Students who successfully complete the requirements of the Programme with a minimum GPA of 2.4 would graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management. At the completion of the Postgraduate Diploma programme, students would have the option of progressing to and registering for the Master of Science Degree. As an extension of the Postgraduate Diploma Programme, the Masters Programme is also designed to equip a specially selected group of students with research skills to seek solutions to specific environmental management problems across the Caribbean region. Students will be expected to demonstrate greater competence in the theoretical and practical aspects of the discipline, including the application of research methodologies in undertaking their research projects This Degree would the completion of a 20,000 word thesis on an approved research topic to be approved by the School Board. 3

5 For entry into the Master of Science Degree Programme, applicants should possess: Either: (i) A Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management with a minimum GPA of 2.4 or any other Postgraduate Diploma in an area deemed relevant by the University. OR: (ii) A Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management with a GPA of less than 2.4, with a minimum of 3 years relevant post qualification experience. OR: (iii) A Master of Science Degree in an area deemed relevant by the University. Semester 1 ENV 6401 Research Project 12 Semester 2 ENV 6401 Research Project - Total Credits for MSc 12 Students will graduate from the Master of Science Degree with: Distinction: minimum GPA of 3.4 and no more than one fail grade Pass: minimum of GPA 2.4 Post-Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Management (0660) Admission Requirement a. Applicants should hold at least one of the following: i. A first degree in Geography, Sociology, Social Work, Environmental Studies, Law, Political Science, or any related technical field. For the University of Guyana at least a pass with Credit (GPA = or > 2.7). ii. A first degree Pass in any of the above mentioned subjects with at least 3 years relevant post qualification experience. iii. A diploma in architecture, surveying, social work or any other related field with a minimum of 5 years relevant post qualification experience. iv. Any other qualification that is deemed relevant. OR 4

6 b. A mature student (over 26 years) engaged in relevant practice for at least 10 years. OR c. Special students and persons employed at pertinent agencies who wish to pursue professional development courses are also eligible for entry on a course by course basis. Note: These entry requirements do not automatically give access to a subsequent Master s Programme. Specific requirements could be set for the Masters Programme by each University. Programme Profile for Post-Graduate Diploma in Urban Planning and Management (0660) Course Code Semester Course Title Credit UPM Theory and Comparative History of Planning 3 UPM GIS for Urban Planning and Management 3 UPM Research Methods and Planning Analysis 3 UPM 1 Elective from list below 3 Course Code Semester Course Title Credit UPM Legislative, Administrative and Institutional Context of Planning 3 UPM Studio Project 3 UPM Urban and Municipal Management 3 UPM 2 Elective from list below 3 Course Code Semester Course Title Credit UPM Professional Report 6 Total Programme credits 30 Elective Courses Course Code Semester Course Title Credit UPM or 2 Energy and Urban Habitat 3 UPM or 2 Livelihoods and Governance 3 UPM or 2 Urban Habitat and Land Markets 3 UPM or 2 Project Development and Management 3 UPM or 2 Environmental Planning 3 Total Programme Credits = 30 Supplemental examinations are only offered to those students who have failed one course during the programme. The highest grade a student can attain in a supplemental examination is a C. 5

7 Post-Graduate Diploma in Environmental Management (0661) The Postgraduate Diploma/Master of Science Programme is multi-disciplinary in nature and aimed at recent graduates and professionals in the field of environmental management working in government departments, semi-autonomous agencies, non-governmental organisations, media entities, disaster management, emergency management, health services, and other private and public sector agencies with an environment focus who wish to upgrade their knowledge and skills. The Programme seeks to build capacity amongst national and regional professionals, equipping them with the competencies, knowledge, skills and technical expertise to plan and implement policies, plans, programmes and actions that will enhance development, sustain livelihoods, reduce environmental degradation and destruction and improve environmental quality, as well as to effectively plan for and respond to disasters and climate change within a risk management framework. The Programme is comprised of a combination of Core Modules and Specialisation Stream Modules to be pursued over a minimum 18-month period (maximum 36-month period). All Modules will be taught over a 10-week period, comprised of 8 weeks of teaching (6 contact hours per week), 1 revision week, and 1 examination week. ADMISSION REQUIREMENT Applicants should possess: Either: 1. An undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5 in a relevant area, including Geography, Environmental Studies, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Management, Economics, or any other discipline deemed relevant by the University. OR 2. An undergraduate degree with a GPA of less than 2.5 in a relevant area, including Geography, Environmental Studies, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Management, Economics, or any other discipline deemed relevant by the University, as well as a minimum of 3 years relevant post qualification experience. OR 3. Any other qualification deemed by the University to be equivalent to the above. 6

8 Programme Profile for the Postgraduate Diploma Programme Semester 1 Credits Core Courses Course Course Name Code ENV 5107 Introduction to Environmental Management 4 ENV 5108 Statistics 4 Specialization Stream Course Course Name Code Natural Resources Management (0661C) ENV 5103 Water Resources Management 4 ENV 5104 Land Resources Management 4 Or Climate Change and Disaster Management (0661D) ENV 5105 Disaster Risk Management in the Caribbean 4 ENV 5106 Climate Change Science 4 Sub-total 16 Semester 2 Core Courses Course Course Name Code ENV 5207 Environmental Research Methods 4 ENV 5202 Geographical Information Systems 4 Specialization Stream Course Course Name Code Natural Resources Management ENV 5203 Forest Resources Management 4 ENV 5208 Sustainable Energy and Development 4 Or Climate Change and Disaster Management ENV 5209 Climate Change Impacts, Mitigation and Adaptation 4 ENV 5210 Community-Based Disaster Risk Management 4 Sub-total 16 Semester 3 7

9 Core Courses Course Course Name Code ENV 5301 Environmental Impact Assessment 4 ENV 5306 Environmental Law and Policy 4 ENV 5307 Environmental and Natural Resource Economics 4 Specialization Stream Course Course Name Code Natural Resources Management ENV 5308 Ecotourism, Parks and Protected Areas 4 Or Climate Change and Disaster Management ENV 5309 Emergency Planning and Management 4 Sub-total 16 Programme total 48 Students in the Postgraduate Diploma programme will be eligible for a maximum of two supplemental examinations and a maximum of two upgrades. Students will graduate from the Postgraduate Diploma with: Distinction: Minimum GPA of 3.4 and no more than one fail grade Credit: Minimum GPA of 2.7 and no more than two fail grades Pass: Minimum GPA of 2.4 After completing the Programme, students will be able to: Understand the various policy and planning issues surrounding environmental management; Engage in sound and effective environmental planning and problem-solving; Utilize scientifically robust approaches to address issues in environmental management; Understand the causes and consequences of natural hazards; Understand the factors responsible for climate change and its impact on the bio-physical and socio-economic environment; Design appropriate climate change mitigation and adaptation measures; Effectively plan for and respond to disasters; and Promote research and policy agendas in support of environmental management. 8

10 COURSE DESCRIPTION ENV 5103 Water Resources Management (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) This course is designed to equip Environmental Managers with the essential knowledge and tools to understand the complex problems and techniques to manage the water resources. Case studies and a field visit will show how these are applied to real world water-related issues. At the end of this Course, students will: Have an understanding of the hydrological cycle and be able to predict and describe the impacts that human activities can have on the water resources, and to identify appropriate mitigating strategies. Have an understanding of the nature of the demands for water resources and the difficulties in matching supply and demand and the role of the Environmental Manager. Have an enhanced capability to independently formulate, conduct and review water resources management plans Have a better understanding on how to manage watersheds and other related water bodies Understand the rationale for and promote the concepts of Integrated Water Resource Management Be able to explain the economic characteristics of the water resource Be able to name and explain principles, concepts and instruments of main national and international water and environmental legislation and common and desired institutional and management arrangements ENV 5104 Land Resources Management (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) The primary objective of this course is to provide the underlying approaches and conceptual premises that inform discourse on land resources from an environmental, historical and socio-economic context. It begins by identifying the nature and key concepts linked to land resources and management and then focus on those issues related to man-land relationships At the conclusion of this course participants are expected to be knowledgeable in the fundamental concepts related to land and land resources management, some of the key planning tools used in land use planning and management and to engage in in-depth discussions focused of the critical elements land resources. ENV 5105 Disaster Risk Management in the Caribbean (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) The course will examine the dynamic interaction between the earth, ocean and atmosphere in which natural hazards occur and their potential social, economic and environmental impacts. Students will be introduced to the origin and characteristics and impact of hydro-meteorological and geologic natural hazards such as hurricanes, floods, droughts landslides, earthquakes and volcanoes. The interconnection between these hazards and options for reduction of disasters risks will also be examined and the interdependence of physical, social and economic characteristics in determining vulnerability will be considered in past disasters and for future planning. The importance of hazard and risk management in a comprehensive emergency management program will also be presented. The legislative framework and organizational relationships of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency will be discussed and contrasted to other sectors within the Caribbean. The course would be delivered via lectures, group discussion and table top exercises. By the end of the Course, students will be able to: Describe the geological history of the Caribbean and related hazards; Examine the hydrological, atmospheric and biological hazards that affect the Caribbean; 9

11 Explain the concepts of vulnerability, resilience and adaptive capacity and how these relate to disaster; Discuss the principles and components of a comprehensive emergency management programme; and Design a disaster management plan for at least one disaster experienced in the Caribbean region. ENV 5106 Climate Change Science (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) As climate records have grown longer, humans understanding of the Earth s climate system has improved and climate models have become more reliable, evidence of change in the global climate has mounted. It is widely accepted that both developed and developing countries will be affected and need to respond to climate change. However, the policy responses have so far had little or no impact on the build-up of emissions. As a result, it is necessary to acquire the scientific basis for understanding climate change, as well as societal implications in order to analyse and critique policy issues related to climate change. To this end, this course provides an understanding of the science of global climate change and skills in the use of models to simulate climate and interpret the results from climate models. On completion of the course, students should be able to: Summarise the functioning of the Earth s climate system; Discuss changes in the Earth s climate through time; Describe the methods for determining climate; Identify causes for climate change and to classify causes based on time-scales; Explain the key uncertainties and/or limitations associated with climate models; Use of models to simulate climate; and Interpret the results from climate models ENV 5107 Introduction to Environmental Management (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) Environmental management is about harmonising efforts including investigating problems and issues, developing solutions, and working together in multi-disciplinary teams to deal with the environmental crises that are besetting our world. ENV5107 therefore provides an insight into the complex interactions among social, political, cultural, economic and ecological factors in the field of environmental management. This Course offers a theoretical framework necessary for environmental professionals to adopt in addressing the complex reality of their field. The course also underscores the important of on thinking about environmental issues and in a holistic way. Students will explore these issues through lectures, tutorials and field work activities. After successfully completing this course students should be able to: Explore principal environmental problems and issues confronting managers (including the 'Tragedy of the commons') systematically and holistically; Explain the origins of environmental values and their influence on environmental management; Discuss sustainable development as a modern management paradigm within an historical context; Explain how different perspectives, motivations and traditions affect environmental decision making and environmental responsibility; and Discuss some approaches and tools used in environmental management. 10

12 ENV 5108 Statistics (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) This course provides a theoretical and practical overview of the scope of statistics examining the pure statistical theory and how it applies environmental management. It introduces students to the basic elements of statistics and their applications in running statistical analysis through the use of software, followed by interpretation of analysis results which leads to sound decision making in practical cases and examples. Students who complete the course will be able to conduct exploratory analysis of data making use of graphical and numerical techniques to study patterns and departures from patterns. They will recognise that data must be collected according to a well-developed plan if valid information on a conjecture is to be obtained. Students will appreciate the fact that probability is a valuable tool for anticipating what the distribution of data should look like under a given model. Students will understand that models and data interact in statistical work. Models are used to draw conclusions from data. Inference from data is a process of selecting a reasonable model, including a statement in probability language, of how confident one can be about the selection. And lastly, but by no means least students will have a good working knowledge of analytical software such as SPSS, SAS, STATISTICA, and R Project for Statistical Computing. ENV 5202 Geographical Information Systems (4 Credits: 2hr lectures, 1hr tutorial; 3hr Lab/Practicals per week) In this Course, students will be exposed to the principles underlying Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and the application of GIS in various aspects of environmental management. Students will gain practical hands-on experience utilizing a GIS software package to visualize and analyze data, and familiarize themselves with issues involved in the management of GIS projects. The application of GIS to areas such as disaster management and water resources management will also be discussed. At the completion of the course students will: Examine the various sources of spatial data and methods of spatial data collection Discuss key data accuracy issues Explain the processes required to import and effectively manage data in a GIS Explain the processes required to combine various sources of data for spatial analysis Demonstrate data manipulation and GIS analyses Analyse more advanced methods of spatial data analysis Present spatial data using GIS technique. ENV 5203 Forest Resources Management (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) This course provides a theoretical and practical synthesis and overview of principles of forest management and how such management can and is being used to address various issues surrounding forest resources and the sustainable use and management of forest resources. The primary objective of the course is to provide students with a broad understanding of forest management and how it impacts various other land uses, such as coastal zone management, watershed management, soil management, fisheries management and agricultural planning. An overview of the direct and indirect benefits of forests will be offered, and students will be introduced to a range of forest management issues and techniques. The application of resource economics to forest resources will also be explored. The course is organized using a systems perspective. Forest management can be defined as a set of principles and practices that organize and trade-off the use of forest resources for human production and consumption activities in a manner that does not compromise the ability of the managed environment to provide other essential non-timber related services. The course will consist of readings and case studies with an emphasis on systems scale thinking and the identification/implementation of principles. Adaptive management concepts (systemic learning at the large scale) will be introduced as an organizational theme. A common thread throughout will be discussion of governance/political/economic/cultural realities that may constrain or modify forest resource management strategies. 11

13 Learning is more than the passive accumulation of information. Full understanding and appreciation of the material in an area of study requires the learner to become involved with the material. Thinking about the material, writing about the material, and discussing the material with others require us to actively engage the ideas contained in the content. To that end, it is expected that all students involved in this course will take charge of their own education and become active learners. The primary purpose of this course, then, is to provide students with an understanding of the importance and roles of forests, tropical and plantation forests. In this vein, their timber and non-timber benefits will be explored and the financial mechanisms being implemented to reward wise stewardship of forests. It also hopes to indicate the threats and challenges faced by forests and the theoretical and practical ways these are/can be addressed. At the end of this Course, students will be able to: Identify direct and indirect benefits of forests Demonstrate an understanding of issues surrounding the sustainable use and management of tropical (inclusive of mangrove management) and plantation forest resources, including the multiple uses of forest resources, issues of growth and yield and reduced impact logging Demonstrate an understanding of economic issues surrounding forest resources, inclusive of conducting costs and benefits analyses Have an appreciation for the financial mechanisms in place to reward prudent management of forests, i.e., REDD+, UN-REDD, Kyoto Protocol, etc. ENV 5207 Environmental Research Methods (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) This course aims to offer students an overview of the principles and practices of scientific research, with particular reference to investigations into the natural and social environments of Guyana and the Caribbean. Students will be introduced to all aspects of the research process, including the identification of research topic, the theoretical, ethical and methodological considerations of research design, data collection and analysis, and the dissemination of research and its findings. Students will attend lectures and tutorials on a weekly basis. At the end of this Course, students will be able to: Identify the theoretical, ethical and methodological considerations involved in research and research design Design a research study which demonstrates sound knowledge of the principles and methods of scientific research Develop and present (both in oral and written formats) a research proposal Analyse, interpret and present data ENV 5208 Sustainable Energy and Development (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) The aim of this Course is to explore the potential and feasibility of sustainable energy sources in the Caribbean region. Sustainability issues surrounding non-renewable sources of energy will first be explored. The Course will then move on to consider renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydropower, and biofuels and the economic, social, and environmental issues surrounding these sources. Cost-benefit analyses of these sources with respect to the Caribbean will be undertaken. The Course will end by considering issues of energy conservation and management, including issues in transport (e.g., public transport systems, fuel-efficient cars, etc.), building design, etc. At the end of this Course, students will be able to: Explain the sustainability issues associated with traditional sources of energy Assess the social, economic, and environmental issues surrounding the use of renewable sources of energy in the Caribbean Undertake cost-benefit analyses of various renewable energy options for the Caribbean 12

14 Assess the feasibility of various sustainable energy sources in the Caribbean context ENV 5209 Climate Change Impacts, Adaptation and Mitigation (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week 4) As climate records have grown longer and humans understanding of the Earth s climate system has improved, and as climate models have become more reliable, evidence of change in the global climate has mounted. While both developed and developing countries are being and will be affected by climate change, the developing countries, in particular the low-lying states and islands are the most vulnerable and will be subject to the most damaging and potentially irreversible impacts. Therefore, increasingly developing countries are required to integrate climate change management issues into planning, projects and policy in the form of adaptation and mitigation strategies. Such strategies may be specific to a sector or particular resource and the can be combined to achieve maximum benefits and success. This course provides an understanding of the most important aspects climate change impacts, adaptation and mitigation. The course will be delivered using multimedia presentations and group discussions in which it is expected that every student must participate. On completion of the course, students should be able to: Describe the observed and anticipated impacts of climate change on the environment; Describe the observed and anticipated impacts of climate change on the key socio-economic sectors; Discuss potential ecological, social, and economic impacts of climate change in Guyana and the Caribbean region; Use a selected number of climate impact assessment methods; and Formulate a combined or integrated climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies for a specific sector or resource. ENV 5210 Community Based Disaster Risk Management (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week 4) Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) is a new approach aimed at reducing risk by empowering individuals and communities that face disaster. This Course will demonstrate to students that disasters are a consequence of natural and/or social factors and that through capacity building individuals and communities are better able to cope with hazards. The Course gives special focus to Community Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) through the development of community disaster management plans. Additionally, the use of indigenous knowledge alongside scientific knowledge is also explored, and the importance of indigenous knowledge in decision-making is emphasized. At the end of this Course, students will be able to: Describe the linkages between disasters and development, and concepts of hazard, risk, and vulnerability. Describe the characteristics of disaster resilient communities, the basic concepts underlying CBDRM, its evolution and current practice. Explain key DRR measures within preparedness, mitigation, prevention and risk reduction planning. Understand the importance, characteristics and nature of community involvement. Develop community based disaster management plans CO-REQUISITES AND PRE-REQUISITES: ENV 5105: Disaster Risk Management in the Caribbean 13

15 ENV 5301 Environmental Impact Assessment (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) Since the 1960s, there has been growing public awareness of the interrelationships between development and the environment. Around the world, consistent calls have been made for human health, amenity and ecological concerns to be explicitly considered in economic development decisions. While the initial response to environmental problems was reactive, the value of the anticipatory and preventative approach has been recognised, with the focus of environmental action shifting from purely immediate and short-term goals to the needs of the next generation, and from solving local problems to tackling those with global implications. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a response to demands for environmental effects to be formally considered in development planning. This tool, which was first introduced in the USA, assesses the environmental effects of proposed development projects or policies. It is now widely established in both developed and developing countries, usually as a legal requirement of the development control process. As a result, understanding the nature of the EIA process and being able to select, and use, suitable techniques to conduct an EIA is a necessity. This course is designed to provide an understanding of the principles of EIA and its role in environmental management and a working knowledge of the methods and applications of EIA. In addition, the students should be able to organize a team to conduct EIAs and review the quality of EIAs. The course uses lectures, case studies, group work and field trip. On completion of the course, students should be able to: Explain the concept of EIA; Select and use appropriate techniques in impact identification and prediction; Discuss the recommended content of EIAs; Critically assess the quality of Environmental Statements / EIA reports; Understand the role of different stakeholders in the EIA process; and Discuss the role and application of Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). ENV 5306 Environmental Law and Policy (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) This Course aims to offer an overview of the various environmental laws and policies that support environmental management in the Caribbean. Students will be introduced to the wide variety of environmental challenges environmental laws attempt to address and the policy issues surrounding environmental problems at the national and international levels. Students will explore these issues through lectures and tutorials which will examine case reports and case studies. At the end of this Course, students will be able to: Identify and assess the key principles of environmental law Appreciate the strengths and constraints of environmental lawmaking in the Guyana and the Caribbean Identify and assess legal actions which can be taken against individuals and organizations 14

16 ENV 5307 Environmental and Natural Resource Economics (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) This course provides a theoretical and practical overview of various economic issues surrounding environmental and natural resources and the sustainable use of natural resources. Different policies and mechanisms to facilitate economic efficiency in economies and industries dependent on natural resources are examined. The application of resource economics to the Guyanese and Caribbean context in particular will be explored, with reference to resource-dependent industries such as tourism, fisheries, and forests. Further, primarily because issues related to the quantification of natural hazards, natural resource accounting, and the impact of climate change on the livelihoods of communities and the most cost effective adaptation measures to be pursued to build resilience, we believe that the course is both necessary and timely. The primary purpose of this course is to provide students with an introduction to environmental and natural resource economics. The secondary purpose is to give students insights into how economists think about the environment and how they approach environmental problems. It will provide an introduction to economic value of environmental assets and costs of environmental problems, thus aiding in the formulation of sound economic and environmental policies to enhance the process of sustainable development. It will provide students with the basic theory in environmental and natural resource economics and how this underpins environmental management policy and decision making. At the end of this Course, students will be able to: Define and describe key concepts in environmental economics Empirically solve problems of natural resource distribution Evaluate the feasibility of policies and their theoretical expected outcomes for solving environmental problems, in a Caribbean context Differentiate and defend the choice of policies to solve specific environmental problems Demonstrate the critical analysis of academic information and literature ENV 5308 Ecotourism, Parks and Protected Areas (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) This course aims to offer students an overview of the principles and practices of ecotourism, parks and protected areas, with particular reference to the definition, types, scope, rationale as well as the administrative, financial and policy frameworks for their formation, operation and sustainability. Students will be introduced to all aspects of ecotourism, parks and protected areas as universally accepted ways to conserve nature, biodiversity and the services nature provides to humankind. The role of parks and protected areas in extant and emerging global issues will be emphasised. Students will attend classroom lectures on a weekly basis and participate in field visits on a periodic basis. At the end of this Course, students will be able to: Identify the theoretical and practical underpinnings of ecotourism, parks and protected areas in the context of multilateral environment agreements, national circumstances, and sustainable development Recognise the different categories of parks and protected areas and the rationale for each category Understand the preparatory steps and challenges to design, set up, finance and manage ecotourism activities, parks and protected areas Develop a plan (both in oral and written formats) for the management of a park or protected area and ecotourism ENV 5309 Emergency Planning and Management (4 Credits: 5hr lectures, 1hr tutorial per week) The geographical, geological, and locational characteristics of Guyana and the countries of the Caribbean render them extremely vulnerable to natural hazards and their effects, including hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, flooding, tsunami and drought. Indeed, in recent decades, there has been a significant increase in the frequency, magnitude and duration of natural disasters worldwide and regionally. Moreover, the present and future dangers of climate change, including sea-level rise, pose increasing threats to the environments, people, infrastructure and 15

17 properties of these nations, which are essentially coastal entities. Consequently, the field of emergency planning and management is of paramount importance. The course would be delivered via lectures, group discussion and simulation exercises. By the end of the Course, students will be able to: Conduct risk analyses/assessments; Identify the main considerations, principles and practices involved in emergency planning and Continuity of Operations (COO) Planning; Plan, design and execute an emergency preparedness and response plan; Implement disaster recovery strategies and programmes. ENV 6401 Research Project (12 Credits) A 20,000 word thesis on an approved research topic to be approved by the School Board. EXEMPTIONS Geography majors who are admitted to the Degree Programme with passes at A Level or its equivalent may be granted exemption from some year 1 courses in the Degree Programme to enable them to complete the Programme in three years. Students with a pass at GCE A Levels or its equivalent may be exempted from GEO 1101, GEO 1102, and GEO Persons with the relevant professional experience or qualifications may also be considered for exemption from applicable first year courses. Students in the Geography/Economic double Major Programme with passes at A level may be permitted to register for additional courses to permit them to complete the Programme in three (3) Academic Years. ACCREDITATION BA 100 Credits in Geography plus 44 Credits in Minor or Elective Courses Geography as part of a Double Major 76 Credits in Geography plus 8 Credits in Faculty Courses ADMISSION CRITERIA for the BACHELOR OF SCIENCE in ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES At least five (5) subjects at CXC/ CSEC (General Proficiency), grades 1 or II prior to 1998 or 111 from 1998 or GCE O Level grades A, B, or C at one sitting. Subjects must include Mathematics, English Language, and two (2) science subjects one of which must be Chemistry or Integrated Science. 16

18 At least six (6) subjects at CXC/ CSEC (General Proficiency), grades 1 or II prior to 1998 or 111 from 1998 or GCE O Level grades A, B, or Cat no more than two sittings. Subjects must include Mathematics, English Language, and two (2) science subjects one of which must be Chemistry or Integrated Science. A Diploma in Agriculture from the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) with at least a Pass with Credit. An Ordinary Diploma in Science (ODS) Chemistry with at least a Pass with Credit A Sec Secondary Trained Teachers Certificate together with CXC (CSEC)/GCE passes in two (2) science subjects one of which must be Chemistry or Integrated Science at the appropriate grades A Diploma in Forestry from the University of Guyana Mature applicants (26 years and over) with relevant work experience in the field plus a pass in the University of Guyana Entrance Examination (UGEE) (Applicants may be required to attend an interview). Any qualification considered by the University to be equivalent to any of the above. ADMISSION CRITERIA for the BACHELOR OF ARTS in GEOGRAPHY At least five (5) subjects at CXC/ CSEC (General Proficiency), grades 1 or II prior to 1998 or 111 from 1998 or GCE O Level grades A, B, or C at one sitting. Subjects must include Mathematics, English Language and Geography (or Social Studies). At least six (6) subjects at CXC/ CSEC (General Proficiency), grades 1 or II prior to 1998 or 111 from 1998 or GCE O Level grades A, B, or C at no more than two (2) sittings. Subjects must include Mathematics, English Language and Geography (or Social Studies). A Secondary Trained Teachers Certificate (Social Studies) with at least a Pass with Credit. Mature applicants (26 years and over) with relevant work experience in the field plus a pass in the University of Guyana Entrance Examination (UGEE) (Applicants may be required to attend an interview). Any qualification considered by the University to be equivalent to any of the above. ADMISSION CRITERIA for the BACHELOR OF ARTS with Double Major in ECONOMICS/GEOGRAPHY At least five (5) subjects at CXC/ CSEC (General Proficiency), grades 1 or II prior to 1998 or 111 from 1998 or GCE O Level grades A, B, or C at one sitting. Subjects must include Mathematics, English Language and Geography. At least six (6) subjects at CXC/ CSEC (General Proficiency), grades 1 or II prior to 1998 or 111 from 1998 or GCE O Level grades A, B, or C at no more than two (2) sittings. Subjects must include Mathematics, English Language and Geography. A Secondary Trained Teachers Certificate (Social Studies) with at least a Pass with Credit and CXC (CSEC)/ GCE passes (Grades I or II) in Geography and English Language. Mature applicants (26 years and over) with relevant work experience in the field plus a pass in the University of Guyana Entrance Examination (UGEE) (Applicants may be required to attend an interview). Any qualification considered by the University to be equivalent to any of the above. 17

19 Classification of Degree Grade Point Average is the total point obtained during the Programme divided by the total credits. GPA Distinction: 3.4+ Credit: 2.7+ Pass: Less than 2.7 BACHELOR OF SCIENCE in ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES YEAR I Semester 1 Semester 2 Course No Course Name GEO 1102 ENV 1101 CSI 1101 BIO 1101 CHM 1101 Introduction to Physical Geography Introduction to Environmental Education Computer Literacy 1 Introductory Biology 1 Introductory Chemistry Total Year 1 credits = 44 4 GEO 1202 Atmosphere, Weather and Climate 4 4 GEO 1203 Introduction to Quantitative Methods Education 4 CSI 1201 Software Applications on Microcomputers 4 ENG 123 Technical Writing 4 4 CHM Introduction to Physical Chemistry CHM Introduction Organic & Inorganic Chemistry Credits

20 YEAR 2 Semester I Semester II GEO 2102 Tropical Environmental 4 GEO 2201 Issues in Human 4 Systems Settlements GEO 2103 Field Methods & 4 ENV 2202 Nature Conservation and 4 Techniques in Geography Management ENV 2101 Environment & 4 ENV 2203 Basic Ecological 4 Development Concepts in Relation to Environment MTH 1101 Algebra 4 FOR 2201 Silviculture 3 AST 1102 Intro to the Indigenous 4 ENV 2201 Environmental Issues in 4 Peoples of Guyana Guyana & the Caribbean Total Year 2 credits = 39 19

21 YEAR III For each semester, students must choose at least one (1) course from each category- Knowledge, Technical and Social- in the respective semester and any other two (2) courses, whether from the categories below or other courses offered within the School or other Faculty/ Schools on campus. Semester 1 Knowledge Course on Course Name Credits BIO 2101 Survey of the Plant World I 4 BIO 2102 Survey of the Animal World I 4 GEO 4104 Principles of Geomorphology 4 BIO 4108 Plant Ecology 4 SSC 4101 Soil and Water Management 4 and Conservation ENV 3102 Introduction to Toxicology 4 Technical CSC 4101 Integrated Pest Management 4 MIN 2105 Mineral Process I 4 ENV 3101 Environment Chemistry I 4 GEO 3104 Principles of GIS/Remote 4 Sensing* ENV 4104 Environmental Technology* 4 BIO 4107 Entomology 4 BIO 3204 Parasitology 4 BIO 4201 Microbiology 4 ENV 3103 Health and the Environment 4 Social DSW 3104 Community Practice 4 ECN 1100 Introductory Microeconomics 4 POL 1100 Theory and Practice of Politics 3 MNG 1101 Principles of Management

22 Semester 2 Knowledge FOR 3103 Forest Protection 3 BIO 2201 Survey of the Plant World II 4 BIO 2202 Survey of the Animal World II 4 AGR 2201 Agricultural Microbiology 4 GEO 3204 Biogeography 4 AGR 2203 Fundamental of Soil Sciences 4 ENV 3203 Aquatic Sciences* 4 GEO 4203 Geomorphology of the Guiana s and the Caribbean 4 Social TST 1201 Ecotourism 4 POL 1200 Political Systems and 3 Institutions MNG 2202 Organisation Theory and 4 Behaviour SOC 1200 Introduction to Sociological 3 Theory SOC 3209 Poverty Analysis 4 ECN 1200 Introductory Macroeconomics Technical ENV 3202 Environmental Toxicology 4 BIO 2203 Introductory Terrestrial Ecology 4 BIO 4002 Applied Biology 4 MIN 2205 Mineral Processing II 3 BIO 4202 Coastal Zone Management 4 FOR 2203 Forest Management Planning 3 GEO 4204 Land Evaluation 4 ENV 3201 Environmental Chemistry II 4 AGR 2204 Statistical Methods & experimental Design 4 Total Year 3 credits =

23 YEAR 4 Semester I Semester 2 ENV 4101 Environmental Impact 4 Assessment ENV 4001 Research Project 12 ECN 2108 Environmental 4 Economics GEO 3109 Fundamentals of Land 4 Use Planning LAW 3802 Environmental Law 4 ENV 4001 Research Project R 16 Total year 4 credits = 28 Summary of courses Year Courses Credits First Second Third Fourth 5 28 Total *A total of 36 courses must be completed with a minimum of 144 credits for graduation. 22

24 Bachelor of Arts in GEOGRAPHY YEAR 1 Semester 1 Semester 2 GEO 1101 Introduction to Human 4 GEO 1201 Resources and Development 4 Geography GEO 1202 Atmosphere, Weather and 4 GEO 1102 Introduction to Physical 4 Climate Geography GEO 1203 Introduction to Quantitative 4 GEO 1103 Maps and Diagrams 4 ENV 1101 Introduction to 4 Environmental Education CSI 111 Computer Literacy I 4 Total Credits Year 1 = Methods CSI 1201 Computer Literacy II 4 ENG 1203 Technical Writing 4 20 YEAR 2 Semester 1 Semester 2 GEO 2101 Spatial Organisations of 4 Society GEO 2102 Tropical Environmental 4 Systems GEO 2103 Fields Methods & 4 Techniques in Geography ENV 2101 Environment and Development 4 16 Total Credits Year 2 = 36 GEO 2201 Issues in Human Settlements 4 GEO 2202 Computer Application in 4 Geography GEO 2203 Foundations of Geographic 4 Thought ENV 2202 Nature Conservation and 4 Management ENV 2203 Basic Ecological Concepts in Relation to Environment

25 YEAR 3 Semester 1 Semester 2 Three courses from the following list in Semester 1 GEO 3104 Remote sensing & GIS 1 4 GEO 3105 Geography of Guyana 4 GEO 3106 Introduction to Planning 4 Theory GEO 3107 Climatology 4 GEO 3108 Issues in Environmental 4 Studies GEO 3109 Land Use Planning 4 Plus one course in a minor or elective 4 Total Year 3 credits = Course Course Name Credits No Three courses from the following list in Semester 2 GEO 3201 Spatial Issues in the 4 Caribbean & Latin American Spatial Aspects of 4 Development Project Preparation and 4 Appraisal Biogeography 4 GEO 3202 GEO 3203 GEO 3204 Plus one course in a minor or elective 4 16 YEAR 4 Semester 1 Semester 2 Course Course Name No GEO Research Project 4007 Plus 2 GEO Courses from the following list GEO Urban Planning GEO Geomorphology Plus 1 course in a minor or elective 4 Credits R Course No Course Name Credit s GEO 4007 Research Project 12 Plus 2 GEO Courses from the following list GEO 4202 Regional Planning 4 GEO 4203 Geomorphology of the Guianas and the Caribbean GEO 4204 Land Evaluation 4 Plus 1 course in a minor or elective Total Credits Year 4 = 36 Total 4-Year Programme credits =

26 Year I Semester 1 Semester 2 GEO 1101 Introduction to Human 4 GEO 1201 Resources and Development 4 Geography GEO 1202 Atmosphere, Weather and Climate 4 GEO 1102 Introduction to Physical 4 GEO 1203 Introduction to Quantitative 4 Geography Methods GEO 1103 Maps and Diagrams 4 ECN 1200 Introductory Macroeconomics 4 ECN 1100 Introductory Micro Economics 4 ECN 1203 Introduction to Statistics 3 ECN 1101 Introduction to Mathematics Total Credits Year 1 = 38 YEAR 2 Semester 1 Semester 2 GEO 2101 Spatial Organisations of 4 Society GEO 2102 Tropical Environmental 4 Systems GEO 2103 Field Methods & 4 Techniques in Geography ECN 2100 Intermediate 4 Microeconomics ECN 2101 Economics Statistics 4 20 GEO 2201 Issues in Human Settlements 4 GEO 2202 Computer Applications in 4 Geography GEO 2203 Foundation of Geographic 4 Thought ECN 2200 Intermediate Macroeconomics 4 ECN 2201 Theory of Econometrics 4 20 Total Credits Year 2 = 40 25

27 Year 3 Semester 1 Semester 2 GEO 3105 Geography of Guyana 4 GEO 3109 Land Use Planning 4 GEO 4007 Research Projectl R GEO 3101 Money and Banking 4 ECN 3103 Industrial Organisation 4 16 Total Credits Year 3 = 44 GEO 3201 Spatial Issues in the Caribbean & 4 Latin American GEO 3203 Project Preparation and 4 Appraisal GEO 4007 Research Paper 12 ECN 3200 Public Finance 4 ECN 3201 Planning Techniques 4 28 Year 4 Semester 1 Semester 2 GEO 4104 OR Geomorphology OR 4 GEO 4105 Economic Geography ECN 4100 Introduction to Labour 4 Economics ECN 4101 Development Economics 4 ECN 4102 Planning Techniques 4 16 GEO 4202 Regional Planning OR 4 OR GEO 4203 Geomorphology of Guyana and The Caribbean ECN 4200 Labour Market Issues 4 ECN 4201 Industrial Policy 4 ECN 4203 Environmental Economics 4 16 Total Credits Year 4 = 32 Total 4-Year Programme credits = 154 (84 GEO + 70 ECN Credits) 26