Environmental problems such as global climate change, acid rain, decreasing biodiversity, deforestation, and overpopulation are increasingly affecting the well-being of humanity and threatening the viability of many of the earth's eco-systems. The aim of the Environmental Studies programme is to encourage students to critically examine and develop a broad yet integrated understanding of environmental issues, problems, and possible solutions. To achieve this, the programme has a substantial common core of courses that will provide students with a broad background in Environmental Studies. As well, students will choose from one of two areas of concentration, Environmental Perspectives, or Outdoor Environmental Pursuits. The Environmental Perspectives concentration will provide students with the means to develop a deeper and more comprehensive theoretical understanding of the environmental problems. The Outdoor Environmental Pursuits concentration will provide students with practical experiences and outdoor skills that respect fragile wilderness environments; and at the same time, broaden the breadth and focus of students' understanding of their natural environment.