MSci Meteorology and Oceanography with a Year Abroad

Key details

MSCI METEOROLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY WITH A YEAR ABROAD

Start Year

2021

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Master of Sciences

Entry Requirements

AAB

Duration (years)

The University of East Anglia is currently the only University in the UK where it is possible to study these two specialist subjects side-by-side in a combined degree format. The course is designed to provide you with a deeper insight into how the atmosphere and oceans work and interact. This approach gives you a detailed understanding of the Earth's climate system, alongside the impact of human society on the atmospheric and oceanic systems.

This degree course is accredited by the Royal Meteorological Society. Because the degree programme is taught jointly between the Schools of Environmental Sciences and Mathematics. You will have an opportunity to choose from a range of module options, enabling you to pursue either a wide portfolio of subjects or specialise in a particular area.

Field courses in Oceanography and Meteorology provide you with valuable hands-on experience designing experiments and working with scientific instrumentation. You will also benefit from our own in-house weather forecasting company, Weatherquest, which provides valuable teaching support and an opportunity to spend a week working in order to gain commercial awareness of the meteorological industry.

Some of our Meteorology and Oceanography students have also gained valuable experience on research cruises whilst conducting the fieldwork for their final year project.

What’s more, this degree gives you the opportunity to spend your third year studying and living abroad with one of our university exchange partners in Australasia, North America or Europe. Going to a university in another country is your opportunity to experience other cultures and lifestyles, as well as studying within departments where different aspects of Meteorology and Oceanography are taught.

About

How does our atmosphere work? How do scientists predict the weather? What is our impact on the Earth’s climate system? How do oceans work and how do they interact with our atmosphere?

Explore how it all links together with this unique four-year degree that brings together two disciplines. Together they’re essential for understanding the Earth’s climate system, our impact upon it, and how to make predictions about weather and climate. You’ll also have the chance to study abroad at one of our partner universities for a year – learning about a new culture and different areas of your subject.

You will be taught jointly by our Environmental Sciences and Mathematics departments. Both are highly ranked for research. In the most recent Research Excellence Framework we were ranked first in the UK for the impact of our world-leading research in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences (Times Higher REF2014 Analysis), so you’ll benefit from our academics’ diverse and world-class expertise.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.

Assessment for Year 1

We will use various assessment methods across the different modules, ranging from 100% coursework to 100% examination. In most modules the assessment is weighted 67% examination and 33% coursework – although skills-based and field modules are assessed by 100% coursework.

Coursework assessment methods include essays, written discussions, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, field notebooks and seminar presentations.

Structure

You’ll learn the general scientific principles governing our environment in modules including Understanding the Dynamic Planet and Atmosphere & Oceans. You’ll also take multi-disciplinary modules from the wider Faculty of Science to help you develop essential analytical skills, including Maths for Scientists and Field Skills.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

You will be taught by leading meteorologists and oceanographers through a combination of lectures, practicals and field trips. Around 30-35% of your time will be spent in lectures, seminars, practicals and fieldwork, amounting to around 15-18 contact hours per week, with the remaining 65-70% on independent study.

In the lectures you’ll learn essential analytical skills, mathematical techniques, and discover how the atmosphere and oceans work and interact with each other to shape our climate.

Field courses and practical classes will be integral to your training and you’ll learn a variety of practical techniques using specialist equipment in the field. Some of our past field trips have been to Slapton, the Lake District and Oban.

Independent study

You’ll spend time carrying out independent study, researching in UEA’s state-of-the-art library, writing essays or carrying out practical work or projects.

This course will give you an excellent balance of independent thinking and study skills, helping you grow into a self-motivated learner, an expert researcher and analytical thinker. You will develop accuracy and precision in your written work through evidence-based analysis. And you’ll become well-versed in time management and organisation through self-directed study. Throughout your degree you will be given guidance on your work and constructive feedback to help you improve.

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Assessment for Year 2

Coursework assessment methods include essays, written discussions, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, field notebooks and seminar presentations.

Beginners' Language Modules

You can select from a wide range of language modules. For more information, and for a full list of available module options, please visit our Language Options page.

Structure

In your second year you’ll take a range of compulsory scientific modules, including Meteorology and Ocean Circulation. And you’ll continue to develop your expertise in mathematical theory through the Mathematics for Scientists module. The optional meteorological field course gives you the chance for hands-on study in the Lake District.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

In the lectures you’ll learn essential analytical skills, mathematical techniques, and discover how the atmosphere and oceans work and interact with each other to shape our climate.

Independent study

You’ll spend time carrying out independent study, researching in UEA’s state-of-the-art library, writing essays or carrying out practical work or projects.

Admissions Live Chat

Open Days

Assessment for Year 3

Coursework assessment methods include essays, written discussions, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, field notebooks and seminar presentations.

Structure

You’ll spend your third year studying abroad at one of our university exchange partners. We’ll do our best to place you at the university of your choice, based on your field of interest and placement preferences.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

In the lectures you’ll learn essential analytical skills, mathematical techniques, and discover how the atmosphere and oceans work and interact with each other to shape our climate.

Independent study

You’ll spend time carrying out independent study, researching in UEA’s state-of-the-art library, writing essays or carrying out practical work or projects.

Admissions Live Chat

Open Days

Assessment for Year 4

Coursework assessment methods include essays, written discussions, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, field notebooks and seminar presentations.

Structure

In your final year research project you’ll carry out a substantial piece of independent research investigating a specialist area in professional depth with one-to-one support from an academic supervisor. Alongside this you’ll choose from a range of optional advanced Master’s level modules.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

In the lectures you’ll learn essential analytical skills, mathematical techniques, and discover how the atmosphere and oceans work and interact with each other to shape our climate.

Independent study

You’ll spend time carrying out independent study, researching in UEA’s state-of-the-art library, writing essays or carrying out practical work or projects.

Admissions Live Chat

Open Days

Assessment for Year 1

Coursework assessment methods include essays, written discussions, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, field notebooks and seminar presentations.

Compulsory Modules

GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES

Code ENV-4001A

Credits 20

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.

UNDERSTANDING THE DYNAMIC PLANET

Code ENV-4005A

Credits 20

Understanding of natural systems is underpinned by physical laws and processes. You will explore the energy, mechanics, and physical properties of Earth materials and their relevance to environmental science using examples from across the Earth's differing systems. The formation, subsequent evolution and current state of our planet are considered through its structure and behaviour - from the planetary interior to the dynamic surface and into the atmosphere. You will study Plate Tectonics to explain Earth's physiographic features - such as mountain belts and volcanoes - and how the processes of erosion and deposition modify them. The distribution of land masses is tied to global patterns of rock, ice and soil distribution and to atmospheric and ocean circulation. You will also explore geological time - the 4.6 billion year record of changing conditions on the planet - and how geological maps can be used to understand Earth history. This course provides you with an introduction to geological materials - rocks, minerals and sediments - and to geological resources and natural hazards.

RESEARCH AND FIELD SKILLS

Code ENV-4004Y

Credits 20

You will gain a range of transferable skills, tools and resources that are widely used in research across the Environmental Sciences and Geography. It aims to provide a broad understanding of the research process through activities that involve formulating research questions, collecting data using appropriate sources and techniques, collating and evaluating information and presenting results. A week-long residential field course, held at Easter and based at Slapton Ley, Devon, applies field, lab and other skills to a variety of environmental science and geography topics. Depending on the size of the cohort, students on selected degree programmes may be offered the option of an alternative field course arrangement.

MATHEMATICS FOR SCIENTISTS A

Code ENV-4015Y

Credits 20

You will cover differentiation, integration, vectors, partial differentiation, ordinary differential equations, further integrals, power series expansions, complex numbers and statistical methods as part of this module. In addition to the theoretical background there is an emphasis on applied examples. Previous knowledge of calculus is assumed. This module is the first in a series of three maths modules for those across the Faculty of Science that provide a solid undergraduate mathematical training. The follow-on modules are Mathematics for Scientists B and C. Recommended if you have grade A*-C at A-level Mathematics, or equivalent.

ATMOSPHERE & OCEANS

Code ENV-4007B

Credits 20

The habitability of planet Earth depends on physical and chemical systems that control everything from the weather and climate to the growth of all living organisms. This module introduces you to some of these key cycles and the ways in which physical and chemical scientists investigate and interpret them. It leads naturally to second and third year study of these systems in more detail, but even if you choose to study other aspects of environmental sciences, a basic knowledge of these systems is central to understanding our planet and how it responds to human pressures. The module is made up of two distinct components. One focuses on the physical study of the environment (Physical Processes: e.g. weather, climate, ocean circulation, etc.) The other focuses on the chemical study (Chemical Processes: weathering, atmospheric pollution, ocean productivity, etc.). Interrelationships between these components are explored throughout. Teaching of this module is through a mix of lectures, laboratory practical classes, workshops and a half-day field trip. This module provides a Basic Chemistry introduction for those students who have little or no background in chemistry prior to joining UEA.

COMPUTATION AND MODELLING

Code MTHA4007B

Credits 20

Computation and modelling are essential skills for the modern mathematician. While many applied problems are amenable to analytic methods, many require some numerical computation to complete the solution. The synthesis of these two approaches can provide deep insight into highly complex mathematical ideas. This module will introduce you to the art of mathematical modelling, and train you in the computer programming skills needed to perform numerical computations. A particular focus is classical mechanics, which describes the motion of solid bodies. Central to this is Newton’s second law of motion, which states that a mass will accelerate at a rate proportional to the force imposed upon it. This leads to an ordinary differential equation to be solved for the velocity and position of the mass. In the simplest cases, the solution can be constructed using analytical methods, but in more complex situations, for example motion under resistance, numerical methods may be required. Iterative methods for solving nonlinear algebraic equations are fundamental and will also be studied.

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Important Information

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. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.

Assessment for Year 2

Coursework assessment methods include essays, written discussions, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, field notebooks and seminar presentations.

Beginners' Language Modules

You can select from a wide range of language modules. For more information, and for a full list of available module options, please visit our Language Options page.

Compulsory Modules

WEATHER

Code ENV-5043A

Credits 20

The weather affects everyone and influences decisions that are made continuously around the world. From designing and siting a wind farm to assessing flood risk and public safety, weather plays a vital role. Have you ever wondered what actually causes the weather we experience, for example why large storms are so frequent across north western Europe, especially in Winter? In this module you will learn the fundamentals of the science of meteorology. We will concentrate on the physical processes that underpin the radiation balance, thermodynamics, wind-flow, atmospheric stability, weather systems and the water cycle. We will link these to renewable energy and the weather we experience throughout the Semester. Assessment will be based entirely on a set of practical reports that you will submit, helping you to spread your work evenly through the semester. You will learn how Weather is a rich fusion of descriptive and numerical elements and you will be able to draw effectively on your own skill strengths while practising and developing others, guided by Weatherquest’s Meteorologists.

MATHEMATICS FOR SCIENTISTS B

Code MTHB5010A

Credits 20

Matrix algebra: Introduction to matrices. Systems of linear equations. Solving systems of linear equations using elementary operations. Matrices and systems of linear equations. Gaussian elimination, row echelon form and back-substitution. Reduced row echelon form; use of rank to distinguish cases of no solution, unique solution, infinitely many solutions. Matrix inversion. Determinants. Linear independence, calculation of eigenvalues and eigenvectors. Numerical methods: Numerical methods for solving matrix systems. Iterative methods including Jacobi iteration and Gauss-Seidel iteration. Convergence criteria. Interpolation. Numerical differentiation and integration. Numerical integration of ODEs. Elements of programming in Python (or Matlab): Defining and manipulating variables. Arrays. Data input and graphics output. Functions. If/Then statements and For loops. Programs implementing numerical methods for systems of linear equations, nonlinear equations and integration of ODEs. Fourier series and Fourier transforms: Introduction to time series. Frequency domain. Definition and properties. Examples of transforms. Techniques for inverse transforms. Application to integral equations. Application to linear ODEs and PDEs Second-order partial differential equations: Basic concepts and definitions, wave equation, heat conduction equation, Laplace's equation. The method of separation of variables. Application of this method for solving initial/boundary value problems associated with the aforementioned P.D.E.'s. D'Alembert's solution for the wave equation. Application for solving initial value problems for the wave equation on infinite and semi-infinite domains.

MATHEMATICS FOR SCIENTISTS C

Code MTHB5011B

Credits 20

Vector calculus: Scalar fields, gradient, directional derivative, level surfaces. Vector fields, divergence, Laplacian, curl, divergence theorem, Stokes's theorem, solenoidal vector fields, irrotational vector fields. Velocity potential, horizontal divergence. Uniform stream. Mass source Fluid dynamics: Basic concepts. Introduction. Continuum hypothesis. Pressure. Hydrostatic pressure. Buoyancy and Archimedes' principle. Material derivative. Streamlines. Stream tubes. One-dimensional flows. Conservation of mass. Bernoulli's equation. Flow over an obstacle. Hydraulic jump. Two and three-dimensional flows. Conservation of mass. Streamlines. Forces. Euler's equations of motion. Bernoulli's equation in generality. Rotation and vorticity. Rotation. Vorticity, velocity and streamfunction. Line vortex. Irrotational, incompressible flow and the velocity potential. Velocity potential. Horizontal divergence. Uniform stream. Line source. Real flows with both rotation and divergence. Vortices and time-mean wind field. Water waves. Modelling and boundary conditions. Linear theory of surface gravity waves. Phase speed and group speed. Deep water & shallow water approximations. Particle orbits. Solid mechanics: Theory of stress and strain for linear elasticity. Traction on a surface, resultant force and torque, normal and shear stresses. Principle stresses and strains. Equations of equilibrium, and constitutive law for isotropic linearly elastic solids. Examples of simple deformations and elastic waves.

OCEAN CIRCULATION

Code ENV-5016A

Credits 20

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. Shelf Sea Dynamics is a natural follow-on module and builds on some of the concepts introduced here. We strongly recommend that you also gain oceanographic fieldwork experience by taking the 20-credit biennial Marine Sciences field course.

Optional A Modules

(20 credits)

WEATHER APPLICATIONS

Code ENV-5009B

Credits 20

This module will build upon material covered in Weather, by covering topics such as synoptic meteorology, weather hazards, micro-meteorology, further thermodynamics and weather forecasting. The module includes a major summative coursework assignment based on data collected on a UEA meteorology fieldcourse in a previous year.

WEATHER APPLICATIONS WITH FIELDCOURSE

Code ENV-5010K

Credits 20

Weather is one of the most popular topics of conversation. But how, specifically, does it present risks and opportunities, to people, organisations and to the wider environment? In this module you will develop a clear understanding of these linkages and an evidence base to draw on in future roles in which weather is a factor. You’ll learn how to confidently source a diverse range of real-time weather information and you’ll practice analysing such data, leading subsequently to successful interpretation and effective communication, both written and in front of the camera. You’ll see, first hand, how meteorology depends upon computer systems for the efficient sharing, processing and visualisation of weather information. Being taught by weather practitioners with long experience of providing weather services to users, you will get the inside track on what it’s like to work in weather. Weather Forecasting is one central theme and application which will provide a focus for learning. How are forecasts made and delivered, who uses forecasts and what are their distinctive needs? Success in forecasting depends in part on a good physical understanding of atmospheric processes - through practical work, we’ll study those processes and use real examples of weather systems and events to reinforce the learning. At the end of the module, through an embedded week-long Easter residential fieldcourse, you’ll apply your enhanced process understanding and forecasting knowledge in a hands-on way to design and implement meteorological field experiments, testing hypotheses through the collection and interpretation of field data collected using weather sensors. You’ll write up your choice of fieldcourse experiment for assessment, after first receiving informal feedback on a related poster presentation.

Optional B Modules

(20 credits)

CLIMATE CHANGE: SCIENCE AND POLICY

Code ENV-5003A

Credits 20

You will develop your skills and understanding in the integrated analysis of global climate change, using perspectives from both the natural sciences and the social sciences. You will gain a grounding in the basics of climate change science, impacts, adaptation, mitigation and their influence on and by policy decisions. This module also offers you a historical perspective on how climate policy has developed, culminating in the December 2015 Paris Agreement. Finally, it considers what will be required to meet the goal of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2 °C above pre-industrial levels.

ATMOSPHERIC CHEMISTRY AND GLOBAL CHANGE

Code ENV-5015A

Credits 20

Atmospheric chemistry and global change are in the news. Stratospheric ozone depletion, acid rain, greenhouse gases, and global scale air pollution are among the most significant environmental problems of our age. Chemical composition and transformations underlie these issues, and drive many important atmospheric processes. This module covers the fundamental chemical principles and processes in the atmosphere, from the Earth's surface to the stratosphere, and considers current issues of atmospheric chemical change through a series of lectures, problem-solving classes, seminars, experimental and computing labs, as well as a field trip to UEA’s own atmospheric observatory in Weybourne/North Norfolk.

AQUATIC ECOLOGY

Code ENV-5041A

Credits 20

Explore how chemical, physical and biological influences shape the biological communities of rivers, lakes and estuaries in temperate and tropical regions. Three field visits and laboratory work, usually using microscopes and sometimes analysing water quality, provide an important practical component to this module. A good complement to other ecology modules, final-year Catchment Water Resources and modules in development studies or geography, it can also be taken alongside Aquatic Biogeochemistry or other geochemical and hydrology modules. Students selecting this module must have a background in basic statistical analysis of data.

APPLIED METHODS AND INVISCID FLUID FLOWS

Code MTHA5002B

Credits 20

Students will study a range of methods for solving problems in applied mathematics, including the method of characteristics for first-order partial differential equations, and Fourier transforms. This is followed by an introduction to dynamical systems – understanding the behaviour of nonlinear differential equations. In the other part of this module, we shall consider both numerical and analytical methods for solving the equations of fluid flow.

LEVEL 4 AND 5 BEGINNERS LANGUAGE MODULES

Code PPLB

Credits 20

There are a broad range of Beginners Language Modules for you to choose from. To explore all our available modules, please follow the link at the top of this page to see a full list of Level 4 and 5 Options.

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Open Days

Important Information

Assessment for Year 3

Coursework assessment methods include essays, written discussions, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, field notebooks and seminar presentations.

Compulsory Modules

YEAR ABROAD

Code ENV-6032Y

Credits 120

This module corresponds to the equivalent UEA credits obtained by those on a full academic year of approved study at a specified university in the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or in Europe. You are required to enrol on a full load of credits. What is considered a full load depends on the exchange partner university. The following list gives an overview: - USA: 6-8 modules at 3-4 credits each; 24 credits per year - Canada: 8 modules at 0.5/1.5/3 credits each; 4/12/24 credits per year - Australia: usually 8 modules per year; varying number of credits - New Zealand: usually 6 modules per year; varying number of credits - Europe: 2-8 modules at 7.5 to 30 ECTS credits; 60 ECTS credits per year The choice of modules abroad must be agreed by you and your module organiser prior to departure and must be of the appropriate nature and level (e.g. upper division at US universities) to the degree programme that you are enrolled in at UEA. Marks awarded at the host institution will be converted to UEA marks following an algorithm into a single overall average mark for the year abroad. Reassessment of this module is not possible.

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Open Days

Important Information

Assessment for Year 4

Coursework assessment methods include essays, written discussions, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, field notebooks and seminar presentations.

Compulsory Modules

RESEARCH TRAINING PROJECT

Code ENV-7026Y

Credits 60

This year long module involves you carrying out individual research in the environmental sciences, with the topic suggested by and closely directed by a supervisor. The work will develop your research skills through learning by doing. You will presented your results 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.

Optional A Modules

(40-60 credits)

MODELLING ENVIRONMENTAL PROCESSES

Code ENV-7003A

Credits 20

Our aim 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 practical's; the practical's being designed to illustrate the solution of problems using the methods covered in lectures. We will guide students through the solution of a model of an environmental process of their own choosing. The skills developed in this module are highly valued by prospective employers.

CLIMATE CHANGE: PHYSICAL SCIENCE BASIS

Code ENV-7014A

Credits 20

Climate change and variability have played major roles in shaping human history, and the prospect of human-caused global warming is a pressing challenge for society. But how and why has climate changed, how do we predict future climate and how do our choices affect future climate? Throughout this module, you will learn how climate science can answer these questions. Discover the approaches, methods and techniques for understanding the history of climate change and for developing climate projections for the next 100 years. You'll also explore the scientific evidence about climate change and where the uncertainties lie. Starting with an introduction to the changing climate and the main themes in current climate research, your study will be structured around three topics. (1) Fundamentals of the changing climate including the Earth’s energy balance, causes of climate change and the greenhouse effect. (2) Research methods, consisting of empirical approaches to climate reconstruction (such as tree-ring research), analysis of observational data (focusing on the global temperature record and causes of recent climate change), and an introduction to energy balance models and general circulation models. (3) Climate change and causal mechanisms, concentrating on the period from 1000 CE to the present and climate projections out to 2100 CE. Studying the physical science basis of climate change will enable you to understand what controls our climate, to explain the causes of the changes we have observed, and to interpret projections of future climate change.

DYNAMICAL METEOROLOGY WITH ADVANCED TOPICS

Code MTHD7018B

Credits 20

Dynamical meteorology is a core subject on which weather forecasting and the study of climate and climate change are based. This module applies fluid dynamics to the study of the circulation of the Earth's atmosphere. The fluid dynamical equations and some basic thermodynamics for the atmosphere are introduced. These are then applied to topics such as geostrophic flow, thermal wind and the jet streams, boundary layers, gravity waves, the Hadley circulation, vorticity and potential vorticity, Rossby waves, and equatorial waves. Emphasis will be placed on fluid dynamical concepts as well as on finding analytical solutions to the equations of motion. Advanced Topic: Barotropic and baroclinic instability.

FLUID DYNAMICS WITH ADVANCED TOPICS

Code MTHD7020A

Credits 20

Fluid dynamics has wide ranging applications across nature, engineering, and biology. From understanding the behaviour of ocean waves and weather, designing efficient aircraft and ships, to capturing blood flow, the ability to understand and predict how fluids (liquids and gasses) behave is of fundamental importance. You will consider mathematical models of fluids, particularly including viscosity (or stickiness) of a fluid. Illustrated by practical examples throughout, you will develop the governing differential Navier-Stokes equations, and then consider their solution either finding exact solutions, or using analytical techniques to obtain solutions in certain limits (for example low viscosity or high viscosity).

Optional B Modules

(0-20 credits)

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT EFFECTIVENESS

Code ENV-7021K

Credits 20

Environmental Assessment is considered to be more effective when conducted at strategic levels of decision making, and is usually perceived to have a goal of achieving sustainable development. This module provides experience of conducting a particular form of strategic assessment, Sustainability Appraisal (SA), which incorporates environmental, social and economic considerations into plan making. Through practice of SA, a field course involving hands-on application of environmental assessment techniques, and consideration of effectiveness theory, this module will examine what makes assessment effective.Please note that there will be a charge for attending this field course (in the range of £300-£400) to cover attendance.

SUSTAINABLE CONSUMPTION

Code ENV-7025A

Credits 20

If everyone on Earth lived like a typical UK citizen we’d need three planets-worth of resources. But we only have one. Why do we consume the way we do? What drives our behaviour and how might we persuade people to live more sustainably? What do we mean by a sustainable lifestyle, anyway? These are questions academics, businesspeople, campaigners and policymakers struggle with every day and there are no easy answers. In this module you’ll get to grips with competing visions about what sustainable consumption is. You’ll gain an understanding of a range of theoretical approaches to understanding consumption behaviour and you’ll learn how to apply these theories to develop strategies for achieving sustainable consumption. You’ll begin by examining the impacts of western-style consumerism on the Earth’s social, economic and environmental systems. Using concepts such as ecological footprinting, needs and wellbeing, you’ll take a closer look at how economic and environmental systems interact. You'll contrast a ‘green growth’ approach to sustainable consumption with a more radical ‘de-growth’ model. Drawing on interdisciplinary social science theories from economics, psychology, sociology and ethnography, you’ll go on to investigate a range of strategies for achieving change, by government, business, civil society, and individual consumers. You’ll get hands-on experience testing and applying these ideas yourselves, in participative workshops, alongside award-winning innovative teaching methods. In lectures, you’ll learn about topics such as Ethical Consumption, Limits to Growth, Collaborative Consumption, Community-based initiatives, Life Cycle Analysis and Behaviour-change campaigns. Understanding the theoretical debates behind everyday actions for sustainability will make you better able to design and implement sustainability strategies in the workplace – whether in the public or private sector, or civil society. You’ll be able to identify the strengths and weaknesses in sustainable consumption campaigns and policies, and offer theoretically-informed solutions.

ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Code ENV-7029B

Credits 20

The majority of greenhouse gas emissions are the result of how we supply and use energy. In this module you will explore climate change from an energy perspective. You will learn about key relationships between energy, the economy, and society. The module draws on historical analyses to understand how energy systems have evolved in the past, as well as examining the role that scenarios play in understanding energy futures. You will gain an in-depth understanding of the complexities of changing energy systems, enabling you to engage critically with debates around future “energy transitions”, the role that innovation and emergent technologies might play, and the various challenges of shifting towards renewable based energy systems

GEOENGINEERING THE CLIMATE: SCIENCE AND POLICY

Code ENV-7031A

Credits 20

This module studies a set of different proposed techniques, called geoengineering, that seek to modify the Earth’s climate by reducing the degree of anthropogenic radiative forcing, either by reflecting more sunlight back to space or by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This is a complex, controversial and highly uncertain area of science that requires a strongly interdisciplinary approach. The potential role of geoengineering techniques as a complement to mitigation and adaptation in tackling future climate change raises a number of important questions, not least for international policy making.

STATISTICS AND MODELLING FOR SCIENTISTS USING R

Code ENV-7033B

Credits 20

How do you test a hypothesis? How do you compare biological traits between wild populations? And how do you best test and visualise differences between samples? Scientists use a wide array of methods for statistical analysis and plotting data, and increasingly, these tasks are carried out using R. R is a free programming language for statistical computing and graphics, including general and generalised linear models, time-series analysis, and community analysis, and also specialised analyses in many scientific subfields. Learning R will equip you with a flexible statistical, modelling, and graphics tool. Learning the basics of running R in the RStudio programming environment, you’ll spend most of your time on general and generalised linear models, which unify the range of statistical tests that are classically taught separately: t-test, ANOVA, regression, logistic regression, and chi-square, plus residuals analysis. Additionally, you’ll learn how to use R to write simple programs and carry out community analyses such as principal components analysis. Finally, throughout the class, you’ll learn R methods for data formatting, graphics, and documentation. On successful completion of this module you’ll be able to use R to carry out and present results from the most widely used statistical tests in current scientific practice, giving you sufficient knowledge to continue learning statistical analysis on your own. A pre-requisite of first and/or second year statistical modules is required.

SCIENCE, SOCIETY AND SUSTAINABILITY

Code ENV-7038B

Credits 20

How can science and society work better together to solve sustainability challenges? How can society be properly engaged and accounted for in addressing pressing issues like climate change, energy transitions and natural hazards? These questions, that lie at the core of this module, have become major concerns for scientists, governments, businesses, NGOs and citizens the world over. Throughout the module you will gain a rich appreciation of key theories, approaches and practical methods for understanding and improving relations between science, technology and society in sustainability settings. You’ll explore the nature of science and how it relates to society. You’ll discover a wealth of approaches for public engagement with science, and consider how sustainability can be more effectively governed. You’ll also learn how to critically evaluate and communicate these ideas through written, oral and self-reflective means. You’ll begin the module by considering how relations between science and society have evolved over time and are viewed differently by different disciplines. The fascinating interdisciplinary field called science and technology studies (STS) will provide a key resource that you will become an expert in as you progress. The module’s three main parts will take you on a journey to develop your own critical insights. In part 1 you will consider the nature of science and its relation to society, through examining science controversies like ‘climategate’ and GM crops. In part 2 you will explore new forms of public engagement with science and technology, such as science communication, deliberative democracy, citizen science, and smart technologies in the home. In part 3 you will study pioneering new ways of governing science and sustainability in fairer and more socially responsible ways, through responsible innovation of climate geoengineering for example. You’ll learn through a mixture of lectures, practical classes, in-class debates, and self-directed study. Your new knowledge and skills will be put into practice by creating a blog to communicate your ideas, as well as through written work and presentations. You’ll also benefit from the module being taught by staff in the Science, Society and Sustainability (3S) Research Group, which houses some of the world’s leading experts on societal engagement with sustainability.

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Entry Requirements

A Levels

AAB including Mathematics or ABB including Mathematics with an A in the Extended Project. Science A-Levels must include a Pass in the practical element

BTEC

DDD in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability or Countryside Management is acceptable alongside grade B A-Level

Scottish highers

AAAAA including Mathematics

Scottish highers advanced

BBC including Mathematics

Irish leaving certificate

4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Mathematics

Access course

Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 credits in Mathematics

European Baccalaureate

80% overall including 70% in Mathematics

International Baccalaureate

33 points including HL 5 in Mathematics

GCSE offer

You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.

Additional entry requirements

A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes.

If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for this course, our partner INTO UEA offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a foundation programme:

International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering

International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences

Alternative Qualifications

UEA recognises that some students take a mixture of International Baccalaureate IB or International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme IBCP study rather than the full diploma, taking Higher levels in addition to A levels and/or BTEC qualifications. At UEA we do consider a combination of qualifications for entry, provided a minimum of three qualifications are taken at a higher Level. In addition, some degree programmes require specific subjects at a higher level.

Students for whom english is a foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including speaking, listening, reading and writing) at the following level:

IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)

We will also accept a number of other English language qualifications. Review our English Language Equivalences here.

INTO UEA also offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:

Pre-sessional English at INTO UEA
English for University Study at INTO UEA

Interviews

Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.

Gap year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.  We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.

Intakes

This course is open to UK and overseas applicants. The annual intake for this course is in September each year.

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Course Reference Number: 1545389

MSci METEOROLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY WITH A YEAR ABROAD