Arctic Ecogeochemistry

American University

Arctic Marine Ecology + Biogeochemistry + Co-Production of Knowledge

ENVS 312 – Oceanography (usually taught in Spring, Summer and Fall)

This course introduces the world’s ocean and the intersection of chemical, physical, geological, and biological oceanography. It covers topics like the origin of oceans, marine geography, plate tectonics, ocean circulation, waves, tides, and marine life. The course addresses current issues, emphasizing the ocean’s role in climate change, ocean acidification, and marine pollution. Aimed at providing foundational knowledge, it prepares students to make informed decisions as future scientists and advocates. Through theoretical and practical applications, it fosters appreciation for the ocean’s role in sustainability and encourages consideration of complex ecological challenges. 1-2 weekend field trips to the coast are anticipated.

ENVS 160 – Biodiversity and Ecosystems

Part of a two-course introduction to environmental science focusing on biological aspects of environmental science such as evolutionary biology, ecology and biodiversity, populations, food and agriculture, environmental health, and the impacts of climate change. 

ENVS 469/696 – Arctic Climate Change (offered in Spring)

The Arctic is warming about four times faster than other regions, resulting in declining sea ice, melting glaciers, permafrost thaw, and displacement of species. These changes have global effects, worsening climate warming, releasing greenhouse gases, altering weather patterns, and contributing to sea level rise. This course examines the Arctic as an interconnected system, including the atmosphere, ocean, land, and people, discussing topics like precipitation, climate models, biogeochemical cycles, ecology, and policies. We will highlight Indigenous voices, perspectives, and traditional ecological knowledge. Students will apply these concepts to interpret climate reports, scientific literature, and adapt to climate change in the Arctic, gaining an understanding of the region’s critical role in the global climate system. This course also introduces students to R and working with real Arctic data.

ENVS 310 – Environmental Methods (offered Spring and Fall)

This is a hands-on, field-based course, with at least half of the class periods spent outside using environmental science methods to learn about the local environment. Students will conduct forest surveys, core trees, analyze soil samples, conduct water quality monitoring, aquatic invertebrate sampling, and more. We work closely with local organizations such as Nature Forward.

ENVS 175 – Urban Gardening

This course provides basic gardening knowledge for selecting, planting, and caring for edible and medicinal plants, emphasizing growing food in an urban environment. The course covers growing methods and harvesting skills in addition to preservation and cooking. Students gain hands-on experience in the AU Community Garden. Coursework includes concepts surrounding gardening including food security, agriculture, foraging, and community resilience. No gardening experience required. The course includes outdoor activities, field trips, and consuming food.

Dr. Chelsea W. Koch

Assistant Professor

Environmental Science Department

American University

4400 Massachusetts Ave NW

Washington, DC 20016

ckoch@american.edu