GEOL 302 - Oceans and Atmosphere

Description:
Introduction to Earth’s climate and the hydrologic cycle through study of the ocean-atmosphere system. Chemical and physical changes will be studied over time scales ranging from millions of years to days. Will include a field trip. Course will be offered every year (Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer). NS-Patterns and Connections Natural World.

Prerequisites:
Prerequisite: sophomore standing or above.

Credits: (4)

Learner Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

Describe some of the major environmental issues associated with the atmospheres and oceans.
Describe the physical structure, composition and circulation of the oceans, and how actual/predicted changes in the system may affect Earth’s climate and Biosphere.
Identify the main reservoirs in the Earth’s water and energy cycles and describe the main conduits for transfer of mass and energy between reservoirs.
Describe the physical structure, composition and circulation of the oceans, and how actual/predicted changes in the system may affect Earth’s climate and Biosphere.
Critique, with the support of scientific evidence, different viewpoints regarding complex environmental issues.
Discuss how anthropogenically-induced changes, including global warming, could affect the hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere.

Learner Outcomes Approval Date:
11/16/17