Students with an interest in human-induced environmental changes may pursue, in addition to their regular program of studies, a special concentration in the human dimensions of environmental change. Two competing foci define research on these human dimensions of environmental change. One strand of research, ecological and institutional in emphasis, addresses questions of changes in natural resources, land cover, and industrial metabolism. A second strand of research, more perceptual and behavioral in emphasis, focuses on risks, hazards, and disasters. In both fields, research accomplishment requires competence in the methods of several different disciplines. Students who fulfill the following requirements will receive a Certificate in the Human Dimensions of Environmental Change, signifying special achievement in the field. To receive the certificate, students must complete, in addition to the requirements in their major disciplines, one course in one of the other participating programs that focuses on the human dimensions of environmental change. Students also must complete a two-semester sequence of courses in the human dimensions of environmental change.
