EVPP 108: Ecosphere - Introduction to Environmental Science I-Lecture

EVPP 108-K01: Ecosphere-Intro Env Sci I-Lect
(Fall 2026)

02:00 PM to 03:15 PM MW

Mason Korea (119 Songdomunhwa-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, Korea) G106

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Section Information for Fall 2026

EVPP 108 introduces the scientific foundations of environmental science and how Earth's systems interact to shape the environment. It is a 3-credit Mason Core Natural Science course designed to build scientific reasoning, systems thinking, and environmental literacy.

The semester moves in three steps. We begin with the foundations, how science works, and how matter and energy move through any system. We then study Earth as four interacting spheres: the geosphere, the hydrosphere, the atmosphere, and the living biosphere. Finally, we turn to the major ways people interact with those systems, how we produce energy, the pollution and health consequences, and a changing climate. 

Unlike laboratory courses that emphasize experimentation, EVPP 108 focuses on structured observation, conceptual synthesis, and applied reasoning. Through platform-based lectures, guided campus eco-walks, in-class work sessions, and discussion, students learn to interpret environmental processes operating across space and time. 

This course is designed to stand alone and does not require concurrent enrollment in EVPP 109 (Lab); however, the two complement one another, and both are required to complete your Natural Science + Lab degree requirement

Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 3

This course studies components and interactions that make up natural systems of our home planet. It teaches basic concepts in biological, chemical, physical, and earth sciences in integrated format with lecture, laboratory, and field exercises. Note: EVPP 108 and 109 can be used to fulfill a 4-credit lab science requirement. Offered by Environmental Science & Policy. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Natural Science with Lab, Natural Science Overview
Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes.