As human populations continue to increase, the probability of human encounters with natural hazards such as hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, flooding, mudslides, tornadoes, forest fires, blizzards, and tsunamis, also increases. This course explores the scientific processes behind natural disasters and examines the way disasters have impacted human populations--environmentally, culturally, economically, and politically--throughout history. The course heightens students? awareness of the impacts of more recent natural disasters on current populations around the world. Students explore ways inequities related to race, ethnicity, gender, access, and economy affect characteristics of disaster impact and apply their research to develop sustainable mitigation and recovery strategies.Highly Recommended (not required): Students should demonstrate proficiency in writing or critical thinking skills.This course contains elements which rely on vision and motor skills to complete. If you have a visual or motor impairment and are considering registering for this course, it is recommended that you reach out to Accessibility Resources and Services (Disability.Services@sunyempire.edu) in advance of registration to determine if this course is appropriate and what alternatives may be available.