Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - EVSC 400 D100

Environmental Science Capstone (4)

Class Number: 3495

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Fri, 12:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    EVSC 300 and EVSC 305.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

In the final year of undergraduate study, students from all Environmental Science concentrations will integrate their disciplinary, science backgrounds to solve environmental problems. Project-based coursework will promote collaborative group work, emphasizing research skills, data analysis, scientific writing and communication, preparing students for employment as Environmental Scientists.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course gives students the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills they have accumulated during their environmental science programs at SFU by tackling a real-world project. Learning objectives for this course include the following:

  • By reviewing and discussing timely environmental science topics, students will learn to critically evaluate environmental reports and scientific datasets and then develop new scientific questions.
  • Students will develop effective project management and teamwork skills amongst group members with diverse perspectives and expertise.
  • Students will improve technical writing skills through instructor feedback (including constructive feedback on a proposal, literature review, final report, and presentations).
  • Students will develop effective science communication skills by preparing a professional capstone project report, giving presentations to a scientific audience, and creatively communicating complex concepts and solutions to a general audience.

Grading

  • Proposed workplan 5%
  • Project proposal 10%
  • Project proposal presentation 10%
  • Literature review draft 10%
  • Final presentation 15%
  • Final report 50%

NOTES:

* IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER *

Course details, goals, and grading are subject to change and will be finalized in January 2026.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

No textbooks are required. News articles, case studies, peer-reviewed articles, etc., assigned for reading and discussion will be shared in PDF or web format via Canvas.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.