Environmental Forum: The Cornerstone of a Joint Program in Environmental Science for the Colleges of the Fenway

The Colleges of the Fenway (Boston, MA) have developed a new joint program in Environmental Science. This program consists of three major components: a two-year core curriculum built on a strong foundation in the sciences, a COOP/internship designed to provide experience and a greater understanding of how environmental solutions are created in real-world settings, and an introductory course titled, Environmental Forum. With the help of the Science Education for New Civic Engagements and Responsibilities (SENCER) dissemination project, this cornerstone course was created for the new program to provide a common identity for all environmental science students at the COF institutions. More than an introductory course in environmental topics, Environmental Forum brings together students, faculty and practicing professionals to discuss current issues, career planning, and civic engagement as well as to participate in service learning activities throughout the COF and greater Boston communities.