GEOL 541 - Climate Variability and Climate Change

Description:
Examine past, present, and future changes in climate, and the factors that contribute to climate change of various timescales. GEOL 441 and GEOL 541 are layered courses; students may not receive credit for both.

Prerequisites:
Prerequisite: GEOL 200.

Credits:
(5)

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

Demonstrate a basic understanding of the physics of the climate system, including the planetary energy balance, and oceanic and atmospheric circulation.
Identify the causes of natural climate variability, including volcanic and solar activity, and the Earth’s orbit around the Sun.
Give examples of techniques used to reconstruct past climate.
Provide examples of how human activities are modifying the Earth’s climate system (e.g., addition of CO2 to the atmosphere, land use change etc.).
Consider bow projected climate change will impact a specific location on Earth.

Learner Outcomes Approval Date:
5/7/2009

Anticipated Course Offering Terms and Locations: