MSci Climate Science (F760)

Course Code UNU1F760401
Duration 4 Years
Attendance Full Time
Award Degree of Master of Sciences

Overview
Why Choose Us
Requirements
Course Profile
Fees and Funding
Apply

Overview

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 also one of the more complex, problems facing society in the 21st century. This brand new degree 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.

Although the emphasis is on the underpinning scientific drivers of climate change, you will also consider the societal impacts from, and in response to, climate change.

The programme will enable you to develop a critical awareness of issues at the frontier of research, along with a comprehensive understanding of research methods and their limitations.

You will gain the qualities of self-direction and originality in applying knowledge, solving problems and conducting research. The first three years of the programme will follow the same profile as the BSc Climate Science. In the fourth and final year you will study a range of masters level modules, as well as undertaking a substantial piece of independent research in a topic that matches your interests. You will benefit from extensive analytical facilities the School of Environmental Sciences has to offer, including state-of-the-art instrumentation, comprehensive field equipment, and our own fully-fledged and internationally-known atmospheric observatory at Weybourne on the north Norfolk coast.

The MSci Climate Science aims to prepare the next generation of climate scientists who will act on the national and international stages of climate research and policy development. Graduates will be equipped for careers in academia, in research organisations, in government agencies and local authorities, and in environmental consultancies, amongst others. Many will also continue to Doctoral level training, either at UEA or at universities worldwide.

Course Organiser

Prof Bill Sturges

Course Brochure

View Course Brochure

Entry Requirements

A Level AAA
International Baccalaureate 34 points (incl 3 HL subjects at Grade 6 or above, one HL to be a science)
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 (40 credits)

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

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Climate Change: Physical Science Basis Climate change and variability has played a major role in shaping human history and the prospect of a warming world as a result of human activities (global warming) presents society with an increasing challenge over the coming decades. This module covers the science of climate change, our current understanding of anthropogenic effects on climate, and the uncertainties/limitations of our scientific knowledge. It provides details about the approaches, methods and techniques for understanding the history of climate change and for developing climate projections for the next 100 years, supporting further study of the scientific or policy aspects of the subject in either an academic or applied context. Co-taught with ENV-MA49. This module is restricted to MSci Climate Science students only. more...	ENV-3A49	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

Option A Study (60 credits)

Students will select 60 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
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.

Year 4

Compulsory Study (60 credits)

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

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Research Training Project This year long module involves individual research in the environmental sciences with the topic suggested by and closely directed by a supervisor. The work will develop research skills through learning by doing and will be presented as a seminar and in the form of a research paper. The project differs from Year 3 project in requiring greater time and higher expected standards of research design and application of data. This module is restricted to UG students on the MSci programme only. more...	ENV-MA9Y	60	Year Period

Option A Study (60 credits)

Students will select 60 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. Co-taught with ENV-3A80. It is recommended that students have previously taken ENV-MA37. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A80 OR EQUIVALENT more...	ENV-MA80	20	Semester 2
Catchment Water Resources This module will adopt an integrated approach to studying surface water and groundwater resources in river basins. Approaches to catchment management will be considered in the context of improving water-dependent terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Topics of climate change impacts on water resources in terms of droughts and floods, as well as water quality issues arising from changing land-use patterns will be considered, together with the engineering and socio-economic methods necessary to adapt to future pressures on water resources. Co-taught with ENV-3A60. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A60 OR EQUIVALENT more...	ENV-MA60	20	Semester 2
Dynamical Oceanography With Advanced Topics BEFORE TAKING THIS MODULE YOU MUST TAKE MTH-2C2Y OR TAKE ENV-2A21 OR EQUIVALENT IN TAKING THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT TAKE MTH-3E48 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. Advanced topic: Baroclinic instability. more...	MTH-ME48	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-3A38. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A38 OR EQUIVALENT more...	ENV-MA38	20	Semester 2
Ecological Responses to Climate Change The aim of this module is to examine biological responses to climate change over a range of levels from species to ecosystems. In this module students will examine the most recent literature on the effects of global environmental change on biological systems and will become familiar with different approaches and methods used for modelling biological responses to climate change. Students are recommended to take ENV-MA49 and ENV-MA74. more...	ENV-MA46	10	Semester 2
Energy and Climate Change The module will critically assess the assumptions and projections of social and technological change represented in climate change mitigation scenarios, with an emphasis on energy systems. This will include a review of the drivers and dynamics of historical energy transitions. more...	ENV-MA66	10	Semester 2
Fossil Fuels CO-TAUGHT WITH ENV-2A33. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-2A33 OR EQUIVALENT. This module explains the formation and accumulation of fossil fuel (oil, natural gas and coal). Geological, economic and political aspects of fossil fuel exploration and production are introduced and used to discuss environmental concerns arising from the use of fossil fuels, and the potentially profound implications of future fuel scarcity. more...	ENV-MA33	20	Semester 1
Modelling Environmental Processes The aim of this course is to show how physical environmental problems may be solved from the initial problem, to mathematical formulation and numerical solution. There is a focus on examples within meteorology, oceanography and the solid earth. The course consists of lectures on numerical methods and computing practicals. These concentrate on the solution of ordinary and partial differential equations. The computing practicals will be run in Matlab. The module will guide students through the solution of a geophysical problem 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. Co-taught with ENV-3A11. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A11 OR EQUIVALENT more...	ENV-MA11	20	Semester 1
Narratives of Environmental Change The aim of this Module is to introduce students to a range of different narratives of environmental change which have been influential in Western thought and action over the last 200 years and especially the last 50 years. It also aims to show how different narratives of past changes can be used to shape different environmental policy futures. The Module draws upon the sub-disciplines of environmental history, cultural geography, futures studies and systems theory and is taught by three experts in these fields. The Module is divided into three parts. In Part 1, through lectures and seminars we introduce students to seven different narratives of environmental change: for example, limits to growth, planetary boundaries, social-ecological resilience. In Part 2, through lectures we introduce four different arenas where environmental policy-making is currently active and show how different narratives of environmental change shape, constrain or inflect the development of environmental policy and the engagement of citizens. In Part 3, the students working in pairs lead a series of assessed seminars on allocated topics which bring together the historical narratives with areas of live policy debate. more...	ENV-MA75	20	Semester 1
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. Co-taught with ENV-2A39. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-2A39 OR AN EQUIVALENT INTRODUCTORY PHYSICAL OCEANOGRAPHY MODULE. You should be familiar with differentiation and integration, using equations and using calculators. more...	ENV-MA39	20	Semester 1
Palaeoclimatology This module investigates the geological evidence for major environmental changes through Earth history. It will explore selected topics that relate to the extent, timing and causes of past variations of climate as expressed through changes in the fossil and geological record. Lectures will draw on information from marine, ice core, terrestrial and lacustrine climate archives. Radiometric dating techniques and geochemical/quantitative methods of palaeoenvironmental reconstruction will be examined in practical classes. The module includes half-day excursions to examine key geological field sites in East Anglia. Co-taught with ENV-3A58. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A58 OR EQUIVALENT more...	ENV-MA58	20	Semester 2
Stable Isotope Geochemistry From supernovae and the early condensation of the solar system, through the climate history of the planet and on to modern stratospheric chemistry, studies using stable isotopes have made a significant contribution to our understanding of the processes that shape the Earth. In this module we look at the theory and practice of isotope geochemistry, covering analytical methods and mass spectrometry, fractionation processes, and isotope behaviour in chemical cycles in the geosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and atmosphere. The course consists of lectures, practicals, including hands-on experience in the stable isotope laboratory, and student led seminars. more...	ENV-MA81	20	Semester 1
The Carbon Cycle and Climate Change Carbon dioxide is the greenhouse gas which has, by far, the greatest impact on climate change. Carbon dioxide 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-3A31. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A31 OR EQUIVALENT more...	ENV-MA31	20	Semester 1
Waves, Tides and Shallow Water Processes CO-TAUGHT WITH ENV-2A40. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-2A40 OR EQUIVALENT. This module will explore physical processes in the ocean, building on what you learnt in Ocean Circulation. There will be a focus on applications of ocean physics to shelf seas. Topics will include: Tide generation, forces, harmonic tidal analysis of time series, propagation in shallow seas; Surface and internal waves, their role in air-sea exchange and upper ocean mixing; Role of tides and internal waves in global ocean mixing; Impact of ocean physics on biogeochemical processes, including seasonal phytoplankton blooms and shelf sea fronts; Remote sensing of sea surface temperature and chlorophyll is shelf seas. Estuarine circulation and sediment transport; Applications of ocean physics to water quality and pollution monitoring; Role of ocean science in the marine energy industry. This module is designed to follow on from ENV-MA39, which is a pre-requisite. more...	ENV-MA40	20	Semester 2

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.

UEA

Environmental Sciences Courses

Environmental Sciences

MSci Climate Science (F760)

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Quick Links