Science of Climate Change

Catalog description

Climate trends are governed by complex relationships between solar radiation, atmospheric and oceanic circulation, greenhouse gases, particulates, and living creatures. Human activities, particularly greenhouse gas emissions, are causing rapid changes to climates on Earth. This course covers the interconnected physical, chemical, and biological systems that influence climate, and how they respond to perturbations. Models of past and future climate change will be discussed, as will the science behind mitigation and adaptation strategies. Throughout the course, students will learn to critically evaluate the data quality and assumptions underpinning climate models and predictions.