Academic Courses

Acamedic Courses | History | Staff | Contacts | Publications | Educational Program for Public | Research and Conservation

Ecological Economics

The ECRC of AUA offers an academic courses of two units in Ecological Economics, which aims at understanding the connections between environmental issues, economics and the development of society. The subject involves an alternative way of thinking in terms of mankind, nature, and ethics as well as science – where the basis is sustainable development.

Ecological Economics is a field of study, where business management, environmental studies, social studies and sustainable development create an exciting combination. On the labour market, a growing number of economists with a broad competence in environmental and social issues are needed. 

Environmental Science

ECRC offers an introductory class in environmental science and conservation taught to first-year students in all masters programs and a certificate program in conservation and environmental studies.

Environmental Science and Conservation (ESC295, 2) explores the fundamentals of ecology, conservation, and environmental pollution. The class promotes a concrete understanding of the environmental problems facing Armenia and places those problems in a global context. The goal of the class is to provide all students with innate knowledge and awareness of the impact of environmental degradation on human and natural systems.

Environmental Field Study (ESC 300, 4) This class will be held during the spring quarter and meeting times will be by arrangement with the instructor. The class will prepare students to conduct independent research in the environmental sciences. The course will teach the competencies necessary to plan and implement data collection and write a scientific paper. The course will culminate with a research report on original data collected in a field exercise. The field exercise may be coordinated with ongoing research in Armenia and may be supplemented with visiting faculty and scientists.

Independent Research on Environmental Topics (ESC 310, 6) ESC 300 is a prerequisite for enrollment in ESC 310. Students will meet regularly with the instructor to develop and implement an independent, original research project in the environmental sciences. A successfully completed project must be written in the format of a scientific research paper. The goal is not simply to produce research but to communicate the results effectively. Projects will be evaluated for the quality of data and interpretation and clarity of organization and presentation.

The Certificate Program in Environmental Science and Conservation is offered to second year students in AUA's MBA, Political Science, Industrial Engineering, Public Health, and Law programs. The Certificate Program provides advanced course work coupled with the completion of an independent research project. The certificate program is intended to provide students with the background necessary to bring environmental awareness and sustainable development concepts to their professional careers. As future leaders in Armenia , the students completing the program will become environmental educators for their peers.