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Principles of Sustainability I: Introduction

principles-of-sustainability-1-introduction-environx400
ENVIRON X 400

This course lays the foundation for the study of global sustainability by providing a basic understanding of environmental systems and the interrelationship and effect of humans upon the environment.

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Typically Available
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Duration
As few as 11 weeks
Units
4.0
Current Formats
Online
Cost
Starting at $900.00

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What you can learn.

Gain a fundamental understanding of sustainability
Explore sustainability issues
Identify and implement effective solutions
Learn how to evaluate the viability of sustainability strategies

About This Course

This introductory survey lays the foundation for the study of global sustainability. With universal principles as a broad framework, this course provides a basic understanding of environmental systems and the interrelationship and effect of humans upon the environment. Topics include a historical overview of sustainability and the current problems and issues, an overview of earth's physical and biological systems and the impact of environmental issues like climate change on these systems, an examination of environmental and urban issues and strategies, and tools to investigate and analyze sustainable environmental practices.

Winter 2026 Schedule

Date
Details
Format
 
-
This section has no set meeting times.
Instructor:
Nurit Katz
REG#
406369
Fee:
$900.00
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Notes

Required course in Sustainability Certificate.

Enrollment deadline: January 11, 2026. Enrollment limited. Visitors not permitted. Internet access required. Materials required.

Enrollment is typically reserved for adult students 18 years of age and older. Students under 18 years of age may receive consent to enroll based on special academic competence and approval by the instructor. If you are a student under 18 years of age, you must submit a request to enroll in the course 8 weeks before the course start date to sustainability@uclaextension.edu for your request to be considered.

Deadline
Refunds only available from November 03, 2025 to January 18, 2026
Course Requirements
Thinking in Systems: International Bestseller by Donella H. Meadows (Author), Diana Wright (Editor)
Chelsea Green Publishing
ISBN 978-1603580557
Working Toward Sustainability: Ethical Decision-Making in a Technological World by Charles J. Kibert (Author), Martha C. Monroe (Author), Anna L. Peterson (Author), Richard R. Plate (Author), Leslie Paul Thiele (Author)
Wiley
ISBN 978-0470539729

This course applies toward the following programs

building with a living wall

Sustainability

certificate

Sustainability

certificate Pursue a career with a greater purpose and establish yourself as a leader in the sustainability movement. Meet the growing demand for knowledgeable professionals in renewable energies and the sustainable practices, a driving force in our economy. Formats: Online | In-Person

Pursue a career with a greater purpose and establish yourself as a leader in the sustainability movement. Meet the growing demand for knowledgeable professionals in renewable energies and the sustainable practices, a driving force in our economy. Formats: Online | In-Person

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