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Climate Science - ENV00041I

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  • Department: Environment and Geography
  • Module co-ordinator: Dr. Oliver Andrews
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: I
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25
    • See module specification for other years: 2023-24

Module summary

This module provides students with an understanding of the basic scientific processes and physical principles that lead to climate change and details how climate change can be observed. It also introduces students to the impacts on environment and society and the solutions to this global challenge.

Related modules

Pre-requisite:

Environmental Chemistry (Year 1)

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2024-25

Module aims

Gain knowledge and understanding of the physical and scientific causes and impacts of climate change;

Understand how climate change can be observed through different processes;

Understand various climate scenarios and emissions development pathways.

Module learning outcomes

On completion of this module a student will be able to:

  • Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the underlying physical processes and science behind climate change;

  • Demonstrate an understanding of how climate change can be observed through different processes and climate impacts;

  • Collect and/or process, interpret and present data using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques

Generic / Employability Skills:

The module provides a mechanistic understanding of the causes and impacts of climate change. Given that climate change is the biggest environmental issue we face, such an understanding is likely to be of importance for any future job in the environment sector. Such a scientific understanding is necessary in order to properly assess the various mitigation measures available.

Key generic skills will include:

  • Numerical analysis

  • Use of modelling software and interpretation of results

  • Practical laboratory skills and experimental design development

  • Production of a written report

  • Time management

  • Engagement with chemistry discipline

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Scientific report		 N/A 100

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Scientific report		 N/A 100

Module feedback

Feedback on assessments and reassessments will be timetabled to occur after the exams have been held. Ongoing verbal feedback throughout the module

Indicative reading

Schmittner, A., Oregon State University issuing body, & OSU. (2018). Introduction to climate science / Andreas Schmittner (1st edition). Corvallis, OR : Oregon State University.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.