Instructor: Dr. Alan Yeakley (503-725-8040, yeakley@pdx.edu)
Office Hours: W 11-12, R 11-12 (rm 206C, SB2), and by appt

This course provides an introduction to environmental disciplines, environmental professions, and sources of environmental information. Products of the course include:

1. A thorough introduction to the Environmental Studies program at PSU
2. Basic tools to obtain information in planning a course of study, researching a career path or studying an environmental issue
3. First-hand observations on the career field by interviewing practicing environmental professionals
4. A personal career portfolio that will include academic planning, examples of work and statements of career goals

The first three assignments will be submitted by email to the Instructor. The last assignment will be submitted in hardcopy format at the end of the term.

• Assignment 1 (10%): A brief description of the student's academic background and goals. Due: 2nd week.
• Assignment 2 (20%): A review of the popular and peer-reviewed environmental literature. Due: 6th week.
• Assignment 3 (20%): An interview of a practicing environmental professional. Due: 8th week.
• Assignment 4 (50%): A personal career portfolio that includes a resume, an academic profile, a project profile, a service profile and a statement of career goals. Due: 10th week.
• There is no final exam in this class

Weekly Outline

Week 1 ... Introduction

Week 2 ... Environmental problems

Week 3 ... The Environmental Studies Program at PSU

Week 4 ... Environmental information (PSU library)

Week 5 ... Environmental professions - public sector

Week 6 ... Environmental professions - private sector

Week 7 ... Portfolio review

Week 8 ... Interview presentations

Week 9 ... Portfolio troubleshooting

Week 10 ... Portfolios presentations