This course explores what sustainability action entails from academic and practitioner perspectives. One of the goals of the course is to encourage strategic thinking and leadership development. We look at the interdependent nature of social and ecological challenges, consider effects of paradigms, mindsets, and power dynamics, and explore sustainability tools including systems thinking, inter-and transdisciplinary approaches, sustainability leadership strategies, effective messaging and communication, creating shared value (CSV), and stakeholder theory and analysis. We apply these tools by brainstorming viable sustainability solutions for business, non-profit, government, educational, or other organizations and provide current and local context for the material we cover.

The Sustainability Capstone is the culminating experience for students in the Sustainability Dual Major (SDM). The overall format of the course is to: 1) synthesize learning from other core and elective courses taken for the SDM and 2) work in groups to apply knowledge to a community-based, action-research project that addresses a specific sustainability issue at UNH or in the broader community. All groups present their work at UNH?s Undergraduate Research Conference, submit a research paper, and complete other deliverables as needed to meet their project goals. Students will develop competence in community-based action-research methodologies and professional skills in facilitative leadership, collaborative project management and writing, community engagement, and equity assessments. Students will also create an online professional portfolio that highlights their sustainability experience and perspectives.

This is the first of two mandatory courses for the GERO Minor, but any student may take it as an elective. It introduces the learner to the field of gerontology (the study of how people age). It explores the biological, psychosocial, and cognitive changes within the context of society. The history of ageism and its influence on how it has affected the individual, families, and society is presented. The range of independence among older people is examined. Various disciplines that work within the field of gerontology are reviewed. Lectures, novels, films and guest speakers help to examine growing old in the U.S.

An overview of the history and current status of social welfare policy in the United States. Considers the origins, development, and analysis of significant policies, values, attitudes and other issues related to the social welfare system and the delivery of service. Focuses on policy analysis from a social and economic justice perspective.