BSc Climate Science with a Year in Australasia (F763)

Course Code UNU1F763401
Duration 4 Years
Attendance Full Time
Award Degree of Bachelor of Science

Overview
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Study Abroad
Requirements
Course Profile
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Overview

BSc Climate Science with a Year in Australasia (F763)

Climate change has been a feature throughout the Earth’s past, and is now also taking place in response to human activity. It is one of the most pressing, and one of the more complex, problems facing society in the 21st century.

This newly launched innovative degree programme will provide a thorough and comprehensive grounding in the physical science basis of climate change in the past, present and future; delivered by internationally recognised experts in their fields.
The emphasis is on the underpinning scientific drivers of climate change, with consideration given to the societal impacts from, and in response to, climate change.

The Year in Australasia programme involves four years of study with the first two years at UEA following the BSc Climate Sciences programme. The third year is spent at a University abroad. You return for your fourth year to UEA and complete the final year modules from the BSc Climate Sciences.

In the first year you will take an holistic view of the Earth system, while also developing the necessary mathematical, dynamical, chemical, and study skills to embark on the subsequent honours years. After the first year you will concentrate on the scientific subjects required to study the underlying causes of climate change, such as meteorology, physical oceanography, atmospheric and marine chemistry, biogeochemical cycling, life systems, and paleoclimatology. You will also continue to hone your mathematical, research, and presentational skills. Although some core elements of the programme are compulsory, there is sufficient flexibility for you to place greater emphasis in certain areas (for example meteorology, or earth system modeling).

Graduates of the degree in Climate Science will have a sound foundation for careers in academia, in research organisations, in government agencies and local authorities, and in environmental consultancies, amongst others. We also anticipate that many will continue to graduate training at Masters or Doctoral level.

Course Organiser

Prof Bill Sturges

Course Brochure

View Course Brochure

Entry Requirements

A Level AAA
International Baccalaureate 34 points (including 3 HL subjects at Grade 6 or above, one science at HL)
Scottish Highers AAAAA
Irish Leaving Certificate AAAAAA
Access Course Please contact institution for further information
European Baccalaureate 85% overall

Students for whom English is a foreign language

If English is not your first language you must have a recognised English Language qualification: Minimum IELTS 6.0 with a 5.5 in each sub-section, or TOEFL 550 (213 CBT / 80 IBT). Please contact us for more information about other qualifications that we may consider.

If you do not meet the academic and or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO University of East Anglia offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:

International Foundation in the Sciences

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

AS Level Mathematics Grade C (or International Baccalaureate SL Maths grade 5) or equivalent.

Applicants are asked to have at least one science based A2-level or equivalent. Acceptable science subjects include: Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics.

General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have Mathematics and English at minimum of Grade C or above at GCSE Level.

Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4

Year 1

Compulsory Study (110 credits)

Students will select 110 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Atmosphere and Ocean This module studies the physical processes occurring in the atmosphere and ocean, with emphasis on the links between the two. Radiation from the Sun and its effect on the Earth. Structure and circulation of the atmosphere. Ocean currents and the thermohaline circulation. Hydrostatic equation and pressure forces. Stability, air masses and fronts. Coriolis force and geostrophy. The effect of the wind on the ocean. Hydrological cycle. If you have not taken 1A25 Forces of Nature, a little background reading will help on concepts such as pressure, density, buoyancy and Coriolis force. Taught in the second half of semester. more...	ENV-1A56	10	Semester 2
Biodiversity in A Changing World Briefly introduces a wide range of major topics in conservation ecology, coupled with concepts relevant to the structure and functioning of the rapidly changing biosphere, from ecosystem, through community, population, behavioural, physiological to molecular ecology and conservation genetics. PREFERENCE WILL BE GIVEN TO STUDENTS REGISTERED IN THE SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES, AND ECOLOGY STUDENTS. Taught in second half of semester. more...	ENV-1A26	10	Semester 2
Dynamic Earth The structure and behaviour of our dynamic planet are investigated. The module is underpinned by the theory of Plate Tectonics as a means of explaining Earth's remarkable physiographic features, such as mountain belts and volcanoes and it also considers how processes of erosion and deposition modify them. The Module will introduce geological time and the 4.6 billion year record of changing conditions. It will introduce geological materials, resources and hazards. No prior knowledge of geology is assumed. more...	ENV-1A67	10	Semester 1
Forces of Nature The understanding of natural systems and environmental technologies is often underpinned by physical laws and processes. `Forces of nature' explores the most important of these (energy, mechanics, physical properties of Earth materials) and their relevance to environmental science using examples from across the Earth's differing systems. This module forms an important building block for many modules that follow it. more...	ENV-1A25	10	Semester 1
Global Environmental Challenges What are the most pressing environmental challenges facing the world today? How do we understand these problems through cutting-edge environmental science research? What are the possibilities for building sustainable solutions to address them in policy and society? In this module you will tackle these questions by taking an interdisciplinary approach to consider challenges relating to climate change, biodiversity, water resources, natural hazards, and technological risks. In doing so you will gain an insight into environmental science research `in action' and develop essential academic study skills needed to explore these issues. Please note this module is only available for ENV students and BIO Ecology students only. more...	ENV-1A29	20	Semester 1
Mathematics for Scientists 1 This module is designed for students in the Faculty of Science with good maths and a Grade C or above in "A" level Mathematics. It covers differentiation, integration, vectors, partial differentiation, and introductory statistical methods. In addition to the theoretical background, there is an emphasis on applied examples, and the use of numerical computing software (Matlab). Previous knowledge of calculus is assumed. This unit is the first in a series of four maths units for students across the Faculty of Science, that provide a solid undergraduate mathematical training. The following units are Mathematics for Scientists II, III, and IV. more...	ENV-1A61	10	Semester 1
Mathematics for Scientists II This module is the second in a series of four mathematical units for students across the Faculty of Science. It continues the basic calculus of ENV-1A61 Mathematics for Scientists I into the study of ordinary differential equations that are used to mathematically model many different systems across the sciences, and the use of further integrals to calculate lengths of lines, surface areas, and volumes. Power series expansions are used to represent and simplify functions, and an introduction to complex numbers is given. There is a continuing emphasis on applied examples, and the use of numerical computing software (Matlab). more...	ENV-1A62	10	Semester 2
Research & Field Skills 1 This module introduces a range of transferable skills, tools and data resources that are widely used in research across the Environmental Sciences. The aim is to provide a broad understanding of the research process by undertaking different activities that involve i) formulating research questions, ii) collecting data using appropriate sources and techniques, iii) collating and evaluating information and iv) presenting results. The module will include the use of GPS, satellite remote sensing and digital mapping technologies, whilst also emphasising self and peer assessment of research activities. more...	ENV-1A41	10	Semester 1
Research & Field Skills 2 This module builds upon the range of transferable skills and techniques introduced in Research and Field Skills 1. There are two main components. The first will introduce the use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS), explaining the main analysis techniques with applications from across the Environmental Sciences. The second component will be a 6 day fieldcourse to be held at Slapton Ley, Devon during the last week of the Easter break. During the fieldcourse students will have the opportunity to apply skills learnt earlier in other modules, gain experience with new field techniques and undertake a small group project of their own choice. Assessment of the fieldcourse will be based on a poster presentation of this project work. THIS MODULE IS AVAILABLE ONLY TO STUDENTS REGISTERED IN THE SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES. Taught in the first half of semester. more...	ENV-1A42K	10	Semester 2
Sustainability and Society Striking a balance between societal development, economic growth and environmental protection has proven difficult and controversial. The terms `sustainability' and `sustainable development' have been used in attempts to reconcile these three areas. Yet the ill-defined and contradictory nature of these concepts has also hampered their implementation. This module considers sustainability in theory and practice by examining the relationships between environment and society, through the contributions of a variety of social science disciplines. Taught in the first half of semester. more...	ENV-1A28	10	Semester 2

Option A Study (10 credits)

Students will select 10 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Earth's Chemical Processes 1 This module provides an introduction to chemical processes in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, seawater, soils, sediments and rocks. Both the natural and anthropogenically perturbed system will be considered. This module assumes no previous chemical knowledge and will include a basic chemistry component. Students with previous experience of chemistry (A, AS level or equivalent) should take Earth's Chemical Processes 2. more...	ENV-1A32	10	Semester 2
Earth's Chemical Processes II This module provides an introduction to chemical processes in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, seawater, soils, sediments and rocks. Both the natural and anthropogenically perturbed system will be considered. Students taking this module are expected to have previous experience of Chemistry at A, AS Levels or equivalent. Taught in the second half of semester. more...	ENV-1A34	10	Semester 2

Year 2

Compulsory Study (40 credits)

Students will select 40 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Atmospheric Chemistry and Global Change Atmospheric chemistry and global change are in the news: stratospheric ozone depletion, acid rain, climate change, photochemical smog, global-scale air pollution, etc. This module covers the fundamental chemical principles and processes involving gases and particles in Earth's changing atmosphere. It comprises lectures, problem solving classes, practical and computing labs, seminars as well as a field trip to UEA's own atmospheric observatory in Weybourne/North Norfolk. Reasonable numeracy and familiarity with basic chemical concepts are required. more...	ENV-2A37	20	Semester 1
Meteorology I This module is designed to give a general introduction to meteorology, concentrating on the physical processes in the atmosphere and how these influence our weather. The module contains both descriptive and mathematical treatments of Radiation Balance, Cloud Physics, Thermodynamics and Dynamics and the assessment is designed to allow those with either mathematical or descriptive abilities to do well; however a reasonable mathematical competence is essential. more...	ENV-2A23	20	Semester 1

Option A Study (40 credits)

Students will select 40 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Chemical Oceanography Covers the major processes that set the chemical composition of the oceans, the distribution of nutrient, and carbon, the distribution of life in the oceans and the interaction of the oceans and atmosphere. Elements of physical oceanography and ocean circulation, of geochemistry, marine biology and global change science are covered. more...	ENV-2A45	20	Semester 1
Earth System Geochemistry Examines how the earth system and its geochemical cycling operate on both global and micro scales. Emphasis is on natural cycles, starting with big themes such as crust-hydrosphere-biosphere interaction and its effects on the long term C cycle, including regulation of carbon dioxide. Elements, isotopes, organic molecules (and their isotopic compositions) are used as tracers of processes and events in earth history. Organic matter, its chemistry and its relationship to both the C and S cycles is explored. Dating of geological materials with radiometric methods is introduced. The course explores themes in both deep time (millions of years) and more recent glacial-interglacial cycles (thousands to hundreds of thousands of years). more...	ENV-2A30	20	Semester 2
Mathematics for Scientists III This module is the third in the series of four mathematical modules for students across the Faculty of Science. It covers vector calculus (used in the study of vector fields in subjects such as fluid dynamics and electromagnetism), time series and spectral analysis (a highly adaptable and useful mathematical technique in many science fields, including data analysis) and fluid dynamics (which has applications to the circulation of the atmosphere, ocean, interior of the Earth, chemical engineering, and biology). There is a continuing emphasis on applied examples, and the use of numerical computing software (Matlab). more...	ENV-2A21	20	Semester 1
Meteorology II This module will build upon the material covered in ENV-2A23 (Meteorology I) covering topics such as synoptic meteorology, micro-scale processes, the General Circulation and weather forecasting. more...	ENV-2A24	20	Semester 2
Meteorology II With Fieldcourse This module will build upon material covered in ENV-2A23 (Meteorology I) covering topics such as synoptic meteorology, micro-scale processes, the General Circulation and weather forecasting. The module also includes a week long Easter vacation residential fieldcourse, based in the Lake District, focusing on micrometeorology, microclimate and synoptic processes. more...	ENV-2A24K	20	Semester 2
Ocean Circulation This module gives you an understanding of the physical processes occurring in the basin-scale ocean environment. We will introduce and discuss large scale global ocean circulation, including gyres, boundary currents and the overturning circulation. Major themes include the interaction between ocean and atmosphere, and the forces which drive ocean circulation. You should be familiar with partial differentiation, integration, handling equations and using calculators. Co-taught with ENV-MA39 more...	ENV-2A39	20	Semester 1

Option B Study (20 credits)

Students will select 20 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Employability Skills for Environmental Scientists In this module you will acquire the generic work-ready skills relevant to graduate level employment in the Environmental business sector. The module objectives and content is shaped by consultation with managers of business in the Environmental Sciences sector including Local Government, Providers of Environmental Services and Utilities, Energy Exploration, Sustainable Energy Resources, Conservation and Not-for-profit organisations. These highly desirable work-ready skills that are currently lacking in the majority of graduate students will be taught through a theoretical understanding and supported by practice of skills through environmental case studies that include sessions led by guest speakers associated with a range of Environmental business. more...	ENV-2B52	10	Semester 2
Environmental Analytical Chemistry This module is designed to teach skills necessary for the acquisition of good quality chemical data in environmental systems, and in the interpretation of this data. The module will focus on the collection of environmental samples for chemical analysis, methods of chemical analysis and the analytical and mathematical techniques used for data quality control. There will be a large component of practical work. This module will be particularly relevant for those wishing to do a chemistry-related project later in their degree. Taught in the first half of the semester. more...	ENV-2A92	10	Semester 2
Gis Skills for Dissertations This module focuses on the practical use of GIS for dissertations. After an introductory `refresher' of GIS basics it will review the different techniques that can be used to create and edit data in a GIS, as well as existing digital databases from which map data can be extracted and downloaded. Particular attention will be given to Ordnance Survey mapping for the UK, but other international resources will also be discussed. The module will emphasise issues of error and uncertainty as they apply to spatial data and introduce the use of the ArcGIS ModelBuilder as a way of documenting and efficiently repeating more complex analysis procedures. Assessment will be through a small group project involving the download, integration, analysis and display of spatial data. Taught in the second half of the semester. more...	ENV-2A94	10	Semester 2
Mathematics for Scientists IV This module is the fourth in a series of four mathematical modules for students across the Faculty of Science. It covers matrix algebra and numerical methods (with applications to many multi-variable problems in science) second order partial differential equations (which govern the behaviour of diffusive, advective and wave-like systems) and solid mechanics (applications in geophysics, glaciology and material science). There is a continuing emphasis on applied examples, and the use of numerical computing software (Matlab) is extended with a dedicated programming component. more...	ENV-2A22	20	Semester 2

Free Choice Study (20 credits)

Students can select modules worth 20 credits from the course catalogue with the approval of their School.

Year 3

Compulsory Study (120 credits)

Students will select 120 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Year in Australasia Modules are taken at a university in Australia or New Zealand, and those taken are subject to approval by the course director. more...	ENV-2Y4Y	120	Year Period

Year 4

Compulsory Study (60 credits)

Students will select 60 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Assessing Climate Change Science This module comprises a mixture of taught material, significant individual study and group research. Much of the module is based on the current research of the Climatic Research Unit, focusing on the science relating to the general concept of recent 'Global Warming': its identification, causes and implications. The major reference source is the 4th Assessment Report of Working Group 1 of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The instrumental climate record is considered, with emphasis placed on the global mean surface temperature record. The forcing factors and mechanisms of climate change are described, with emphasis on the last two millennia. Methods of reconstructing late-Holocene climate changes at regional and hemispheric scales are described. The possible impact of man is a central theme of the course and projections of future climate are examined alongside assessment of possible impacts. As part of the module, students will product a major essay, integrating different aspects of the course content and undertake group research on a specific climate-change topic presenting the results in the form of a joint seminar and individual report. more...	ENV-3A48	20	Semester 2
Independent Project The project is an independent piece of research. With guidance from a supervisor, each student chooses a topic, designs the research and collects, analyses and interprets data. The student is expected to report on progress at various stages: in the selection of a topic, the detailed plan, an interim report and an oral presentation. A final report in the form of a dissertation not exceeding 10,000 words is required, together with a research poster which summarises the main aspects of the work. This module is compulsory for several degree courses in the School of Environmental Sciences and is restricted to Environmental Sciences students. more...	ENV-3A91	40	Semester 1

Option A Study (40 credits)

Students will select 40 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Atmospheric Composition: Measurement and Modelling Emissions of gases and other pollutants from human activities are critical drivers of phenomena such as climate change, stratospheric ozone depletion, degradation of air quality in urban and rural areas, long-range transport of air pollution, and changes in aerosol and cloud physical properties. To understand these impacts it is necessary to make atmospheric measurements of chemical composition and physical parameters, and to interpret these observations with a range of statistical, conceptual, and computer-based models. In this module you will be introduced to a range of modern atmospheric measurements techniques, both those used in the field and in the laboratory. Consideration will be given to the relevant chemical and physical processes that are required to understand these observations. You will also learn about a range of interpretive techniques including numerical models, and you will put some of these in to practice. more...	ENV-3A80	20	Semester 2
Dynamical Oceanography This course applies fluid dynamics to the study of the circulation of the oceans. Topics studied include: geostrophic flow, Ekman layers, wind driven circulation, western boundary currents (e.g. the Gulf Steam), abyssal circulation, Rossby waves, Kelvin waves, Equatorial dynamics, Southern Ocean dynamics. more...	MTH-3E48	20	Semester 2
Earth and Life This module introduces Earth system science, taking a top-down approach to the Earth as a whole system, and tracing its development since its formation 4.5 billion years ago. The main focus is on the coupled evolution of life and its environment through a series of revolutions. Theoretical approaches are introduced, including Gaia, feedback mechanisms and systems theory, and practical sessions use models to build up conceptual understanding. The subject is inherently inter-disciplinary, including aspects of biology, chemistry and physics, and unifying the study of climate and global biogeochemical cycles. Co-taught with ENV-MA38. more...	ENV-3A38	20	Semester 2
Fossil Fuels Geological, economic and political aspects of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas and coal) are introduced. These are used to discuss environmental concerns arising from the use of fossil fuels, and the potentially profound implications of future fuel scarcity. This module is suitable for students taking degrees in the School of Environmental Sciences. Some knowledge of Earth Science will be expected. Before taking this module you must take or be taking at least 20 credits or Earth Science or Geophysics modules at honours level. more...	ENV-3A33	20	Semester 1
Global Environmental Change An exploration of both the scientific causes of global environmental change and the integrative and complex nature of the societal response to such changes. An examination of attempts to predict future trends in the global environment over the next few centuries. Topics covered include climate change, biodiversity, food/water availability, and air pollution. Group projects will tackle multi-disciplinary topics within these areas, using research literature and by interaction with researchers currently in these fields. more...	ENV-3A20	20	Semester 2
Modelling Environmental Processes The aim of the module is to show how environmental problems may be solved from the initial problem, to mathematical formulation and numerical solution. Problems will be described conceptually, then defined mathematically, then solved numerically via computer programming. The module consists of lectures on numerical methods and computing practicals (Matlab): the practicals being designed to illustrate the solution of problems using the methods covered in lectures. The module will guide students through the solution of a model of an environmental process of their own choosing. The problem will be discussed and placed into context through an essay, and then solved and written up in a project report. The skills developed in this module are highly valued by prospective employers of students wishing to carry on into further studies or in professional employment. more...	ENV-3A11	20	Semester 1
Palaeoclimatology	ENV-3A58	20	Semester 2
The Carbon Cycle and Climate Change Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the greenhouse gas which has, by far, the greatest impact on climate change. CO2 is becoming even more important owing to continued, escalating use of fossil fuel energy and CO2's very long lifetime in the atmosphere. Predicting future climate or defining `dangerous' climate change is challenging, in large part because the Earth's carbon cycle is very complex and not fully understood. You will learn about the atmospheric, oceanic and terrestrial components of the carbon cycle, how they interact with each other, and how they interact with climate in so-called `feedbacks'. The understanding of the carbon cycle gained from this module is an important foundation for all climate change research. Emphasis is given to the most recent, cutting-edge research in the field. Co-taught with ENV-MA31. more...	ENV-3A31	20	Semester 1

Free Choice Study (20 credits)

Students can select modules worth 20 credits from the course catalogue with the approval of their School.

Disclaimer

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules and regular (five-yearly) review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff or sabbatical leave. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform students.

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BSc Climate Science with a Year in Australasia (F763)

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