Electives

Elective courses are not limited to the list below; courses from other specializations will also be considered as electives.

 

PRGR 670 Life Cycle Assessment - 2 credits

This module introduces the principles and methods of life cycle thinking and life cycle assessment (LCA) with specific reference to agricultural and energy systems using attributional LCA. The module will be based around the ISO 14040 methodology and will involve developing a LCA model common software package such as MS-Excel. It will focus on the four common stages of LCA: (i) Definition of the goal and scope; (ii) Life cycle inventory analysis; (iii) Life cycle impact assessment; and (iv) Interpretation with a specific focus on carbon footprint, water footprint, and energy audit. Case studies will consider LCA studies of agricultural and energy systems.

Course Syllabus

PRGR 673 Research Skills Development - General - 2 credits

This course introduces students to research methods, tools, and techniques useful for tackling projects related to environmental science and engineering. Topics covered include: need identification and problem definition, concept generation and evaluation, information search and literature review, managing the solution development process, team behavior and group dynamics, qualitative data collection with interviews, quantitative data collection with surveys, considering economic and other impacts, professional standards and codes, and communicating a technical solution.

Course Syllabus

PRGR 677 Cost-Benefit Analysis - 2 credits

This course provides a practical outlook on cost-benefit analysis for engineering projects. Topics covered include: conceptual foundations and economic background, valuation techniques, decision criteria, uncertainty and risk analysis, environmental and social aspects of costs, and benefits.

Course Syllabus

PRGR 679 Project Management, Risk Management and Planning - 2 credits

This course aims to help the student develop the skill required from every project manager by covering essential qualities such as the ability to propose, plan, execute, and close a project. It will also address common risk management and contingency planning. This course is delivered in accordance with internationally recognized global project management standard bodies such as PMI to aid students who wish to become certified project managers.

PRGR 680 Innovation and Knowledge Transfer - 2 credits

The aim of this course is to help students understand theory and practice for managing innovation and green ventures while exercising corporate social responsibility and sustainability within the organization, and in the external environment. Students will learn how to initiate, manage, and implement a sustainable innovative project by collaboratively working on a venture which will be written up and presented at the end of the term. In addition, the course will cover the management process required to transform an innovative idea into a commercial opportunity or business proposition.

Course Syllabus