DEPARTMENT OF EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE

3200 Croul Hall; (949) 824-8794
Michael L. Goulden, Chair

Faculty / Undergraduate Programs / Graduate Program / Courses

The goal of the Department of Earth System Science is to increase the scientific understanding of the Earth as a coupled system of atmosphere, ocean, and land. Earth System Science is inherently interdisciplinary in scope, linking the fields of oceanography, atmospheric and terrestrial sciences, climatology, hydrology, biology, physics, and chemistry to understand the climate system and global biogeochemical cycles. These fields have traditionally been taught in different departments, which has hindered students who want to learn about all of the disciplines that interact to control the global environment. At the undergraduate level, courses are designed to educate both science and non-science majors in the basic processes driving the Earth system, including elemental cycling, Earth's climate, and global environmental problems. Undergraduates can pursue a B.S. degree in Earth and Environmental Sciences, a B.A. degree in Earth and Environmental Studies, or a minor in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. In addition, undergraduates who are interested in teaching science at the secondary level may complete an optional concentration in Geosciences Education with Secondary Teaching Certification. This option is available for students pursuing either the B.S. or the B.A. degree. The Department also offers a group of lower-division general education courses appropriate for non-science majors. At the graduate level, the Department offers the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Earth System Science. Graduate study emphasizes laboratory, field, and modeling studies of global change in the environment through study of physical, chemical, and biological processes within and between the atmosphere, oceans, and terrestrial systems.

Undergraduate Programs

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE MAJOR IN EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

The objective of this major is to prepare students to understand the rapidly evolving field of Earth System Science. Students work with faculty and graduate students to obtain a quantitative understanding of the Earth system. The major consists of a set of required core courses and a group of elective courses drawn from offerings in Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Engineering, and Social Ecology. The core courses provide a broad scientific foundation of the physical, chemical, and biological principles needed to understand the complex interactions of the atmosphere, ocean, and land that drive the Earth's climate and biogeochemical cycles. Majors develop the analytical and quantitative skills needed to understand sensitive environmental issues.

In their junior and senior years, students are encouraged to focus on a particular area within Earth System Science and to choose electives that build a coherent core of knowledge. Focus areas include but are not limited to climatology, biogeochemical cycles, oceanography, hydrology, terrestrial sciences, atmospheric sciences, environmental policy and planning, and resource management. Alternatively, the focus could be on chemical, physical, or biological processes across these disciplines. This flexible program is designed to accommodate the particular interests of each student. Majors are encouraged to become directly involved in scientific research working with a faculty member by taking Earth System Science 199 for several quarters. The UCI upper-division writing requirement may be fulfilled by taking Earth System Science 199 and 198 in the senior year.

Many students go on to graduate school programs and careers as research scientists in academic, public, or private institutions. Students are prepared to enter the workforce directly as scientists in a diverse array of fields including environmental policy and planning, environmental consulting, air quality monitoring and assessment, laboratory analysis, scientific research, science education, natural resource management, wildlife management, conservation and environmental protection, and water resource management.

Admission to the Earth and Environmental Sciences Major

Students may be admitted to the Earth and Environmental Sciences major upon entering the University as freshmen, via change of major, and as transfer students from other colleges and universities. Information about change of major policies is available in the Physical Sciences Student Affairs Office and at http://www.changeofmajor.uci.edu. For transfer student admission, preference will be given to junior-level applicants with the highest grades overall, and who have satisfactorily completed the following required courses: one year of approved calculus and one year of either general chemistry with laboratory (preferred) or one-year of calculus-based physics with laboratory.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE B.S. DEGREE IN EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

University Requirements: See pages 54-61.

School Requirements: None.

Departmental Requirements

A.   Earth System Science 1, 51, 53, 55, 114, 116, 191; Mathematics 2A-B and 2D or 2J; Chemistry 1A-B-C and 1LC-LD, or H2A-B-C and H2LA-LB-LC; Physics 3A-B-C and 3LB-LC or 7C-7LC-7E.

B.   Seven electives from the following (at least four must be Earth System Science courses): all four-unit upper-division Earth System Science courses except 114, 116, 190C, and 198 or H198 (199 or one quarter of H199A-B-C may count only once toward the elective requirement); Chemistry 51A and 51LA, 51B and 51LB, 51C, H52A and H52LA, H52B and H52LB, H52C, 130A, 130B, 130C,131A, 131B, 131C; Physics 51A, 51B, 115A, 120, 134A, 137, 144, 145; Mathematics 2D or 2J (may be counted only once), 3A or 6G, 3D, 105A, 112A, 115, 131A, 131B, 131C; Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) 91, 130A, 164, 180, 185; Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) 156, 162, 171, 172, 176, 178; Biological Sciences 93, 94, 98, D105, E106, E167, E178, E179, E179L, E186, E189, M133; Criminology, Law and Society C148; Planning, Policy, and Design 133, 136, 138, 139; Public Health 161; Computing Skills (one of the following may be counted toward degree): Information and Computer Science 21, Engineering EECS10, Engineering MAE10, Physics 53, or an approved programming course.

Sample Program — Earth and Environmental Sciences

Concentration in Geosciences Education with Secondary Teaching Certification

This concentration allows students pursuing the B.S. in Earth and Environmental Sciences to earn a bachelor's degree and complete the required course work and field experience for a California Preliminary Single Subject Teaching Credential at the same time. In addition to the requirements listed above, students must complete the following courses: Physical Sciences 5 and 105, Chemistry or Physics 193, Logic and Philosophy of Science 60, Education 55, 109, 143A, 143B, 148, and two quarters of 158. With careful, early planning, it is possible for students to complete the bachelor's degree and the secondary teaching certification in four years. For additional information about teacher certification requirements and enrollment procedures, see page 385. Interested students are strongly encouraged to contact the Physical Sciences Student Affairs Office or the Cal Teach Resource and Advising Center.

Sample Program - Concentration in Geosciences Education
with Secondary Teaching Certification

BACHELOR OF ARTS MAJOR IN EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

Environmental issues pertaining to resource limitation, pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change are of increasing societal concern. There is a continuing need for environmental professionals with training in the natural sciences, social sciences, economics, and public policy in the government, nonprofit, and private sectors. The objective of the B.A. degree program is to train and educate students interested in environmental problem solving by linking an understanding of natural science with socioeconomic factors and public policy. The curriculum combines a quantitative understanding of Earth science, chemistry, and biology with studies of social science, policy, and macro- and microeconomics to provide a foundation for careers in environmental policy, resource management, education, environmental law, and related fields.

In their junior and senior years, students are encouraged to focus on a particular area within environmental studies and to choose electives that build a coherent core of knowledge. Focus areas include but are not limited to environmental policy and planning, resource management, conservation biology and ecology, environmental economics, or environmental sociology. Alternatively, the focus could be on biological, chemical, or socioeconomic processes across these disciplines. This flexible program is designed to accommodate the particular interests of each student. Students participate in a senior capstone project or senior thesis that involves original research with faculty, an internship at a local environmental agency/organization, or a detailed review of an environmental issue. The UCI upper-division writing requirement may be fulfilled by taking Earth System Science 199 and 198 or 190A-B-C in the senior year.

Admission to the Earth and Environmental Studies Major

Students may be admitted to the Earth and Environmental Studies major upon entering the University as freshmen, via change of major, and as transfer students from other colleges and universities. Information about change of major policies is available in the Physical Sciences Student Affairs Office and at http://www.changeofmajor.uci.edu. For transfer student admission, preference will be given to junior-level applicants with the highest grades overall, and who have satisfactorily completed the following required courses: one year of either general chemistry with laboratory (preferred) or one year of biology with laboratory. One year of economics or sociology is recommended.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE B.A. DEGREE IN EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

University Requirements: See pages 54-61.

School Requirements: None.

Departmental Requirements

A.   One course selected from Earth System Science 1, 3, 5, or 7. Earth System Science 60A-B-C, 114, 180 and 182, 190A-B-C or two quarters of 199 or H199 followed by 198 or H198.

B.   Chemistry 1A-B-C and 1LC-LD or H2A-B-C and H2LA-LB-LC, Biological Sciences 93 and 94.

C.   Three courses from the following: Mathematics 2A-B, 4, 7; Social Science 9A-B-C; Economics 15A-B; Earth System Science 116, 134.

D.   Three courses from the following: Sociology 1, 2, or 3; Economics 13, 20A-B; Planning, Policy, and Design 4.

E.   Two courses from the following: Biological Sciences E189; Planning, Policy, and Design 138, 139, or 140.

F.   Three electives each from the following three categories:

1.   Any upper-division, 4-unit course in Earth System Science (199 may count only once toward elective requirements); courses may not be used as electives if counted toward degree requirements.

2.   Chemistry 51A and 51LA, 51B and 51LB, 51C, H52A and H52LA, H52B and H52LB, H52C; Biological Sciences 20, 55, 65, 97, 98, 99, E106, E138; E150; E151; E160; E161L; E166; E167; E172; E174; E175; E176; E178; E179; E179L; E182; E184; E186; Physics 3A, 3B, 3C, 7C, 14, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D.

3.   Economics 100A-B-C, 141A-B-C, 142A-B-C, 144A-B-C, 144T, 145E, 145L; Sociology 31, 43, 44, 110, 141, 147A, 171.

   Other courses may be substituted for approved electives by petition.

Concentration in Geosciences Education with Secondary Teaching Certification

This concentration allows students pursuing the B.A. in Earth and Environmental Studies to earn a bachelor's degree and complete the required course work and field experience for a California Preliminary Single Subject Teaching Credential at the same time. With careful, early planning, it is possible for students to complete the bachelor's degree and the secondary teaching certification in four years. For additional information about teacher certification requirements and enrollment procedures, see page 385. Interested students are strongly encouraged to contact the Physical Sciences Student Affairs Office or the Cal Teach Resource and Advising Center.

Departmental Requirements

A.   One course selected from Earth System Science 1, 3, 5, or 7. Earth System Science 60A-B-C, 114, 180 and 182.

B.   Chemistry 1A-B-C and 1LC-LD or H2A-B-C and H2LA-LB-LC, Biological Sciences 93 and 94.

C.   Three courses from the following: Mathematics 2A-B, 4, 7; Social Science 9A-B-C; Economics 15A-B; Earth System Science 116, 134.

D.   Two courses from the following: Sociology 1, 2, or 3; Economics 13, 20A-B; Planning, Policy, and Design 4.

E.   One course from the following: Biological Sciences E189; Planning, Policy, and Design 138, 139, or 140.

F.   Three electives each from the following three categories:

1.   Any upper-division, 4-unit course in Earth System Science (199 may count only once toward elective requirements); courses may not be used as electives if counted toward degree requirements.

2.   Chemistry 51A and 51LA, 51B and 51LB, 51C, H52A and H52LA, H52B and H52LB, H52C; Biological Sciences 20, 55, 65, 97, 98, 99, E106, E138; E150; E151; E160; E161L; E166; E167; E172; E174; E175; E176; E178; E179; E179L; E182; E184; E186; Physics 3A, 3B, 3C, 7C, 14, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D.

3.   Economics 100A-B-C, 141A-B-C, 142A-B-C, 144A-B-C, 144T, 145E, 145L; Sociology 31, 43, 44, 110, 141, 147A, 171.

G.   Physical Sciences 5 and 105, Chemistry or Physics 193, Logic and Philosophy of Science 60, Education 55, 109, 143A, 143B, 148, and two quarters of 158.

NOTE: The major is open to all students except Earth and Environmental Sciences B.S. majors and Earth and Atmospheric Sciences minors.

Sample Program — Concentration in Geosciences Education
with Secondary Teaching Certification

HONORS PROGRAM IN EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE

The Honors Program in Earth System Science provides an opportunity for selected students majoring in Earth and Environmental Sciences or Earth and Environmental Studies to pursue research with faculty in the Department during their senior year. Admission to the program is based on an application normally submitted by the sixth week of the spring quarter during the junior year.

To be considered for Departmental Honors in Earth and Environmental Sciences, a student must have satisfied the following requirements: (1) completion of all mathematics, chemistry, and physics requirements for the major; (2) completion of ESS 51, 53, and 55; (3) achievement of an overall GPA at UCI of at least 3.3; and (4) achievement of a GPA in Earth System Science courses of 3.4.

To be considered for Departmental Honors in Earth and Environmental Studies, a student must have satisfied the following requirements: (1) completion of all mathematics and chemistry requirements for the major; (2) completion of ESS 60A-B-C; (3) achievement of an overall GPA at UCI of at least 3.3; and (4) achievement of a GPA in Earth System Science courses of 3.4.

Students must also demonstrate potential for carrying out research of honors quality, as judged by the Earth System Science faculty member who will supervise their research. Students in this program enroll in Honors Research in Earth System Science (H199A-B-C) throughout their senior year and submit a formal thesis late in the spring quarter (H198). If the thesis is deemed honors quality by the ESS faculty, and the student's final GPA is above 3.3, the student then graduates with Departmental Honors in Earth and Environmental Sciences or Earth and Environmental Studies.

MINOR IN EARTH AND ATMOSPHERIC SCIENCES

The minor is open to all students (except B.S. in Earth and Environmental Sciences and B.A. in Earth and Environmental Studies majors), but it is primarily designed for students in the natural sciences and engineering who wish to explore interdisciplinary problems and broaden their studies to include the application of their fields to understanding the Earth system.

NOTE: All of these courses have prerequisites. Students pursuing the minor should plan to fulfill all prerequisites prior to enrolling in these courses.

Requirements for the Minor

Earth System Science 51, 53, 55, or Earth System Science 60A, 60B, 60C, plus four electives chosen from the approved elective list for the B.S. in Earth and Environmental Sciences major, at least two of which must be Earth System Science courses.

Graduate Program

Applicants to the Earth System Science Ph.D. program should have a broad quantitative scientific background, with an undergraduate degree in physical or natural science or related fields such as applied mathematics and engineering. Undergraduate preparation should involve mathematics including differential equations, a year-long sequence of physics and of chemistry, and courses in general biology, ecology, or geology. Entering graduate students plan their courses and research with the help of the Graduate Advisor. Students are admitted to the Ph.D. program only; the master's degree is awarded upon progress to the Ph.D.

To complete the course requirements for the Ph.D. program, a minimum of 10 approved graduate-level courses, including the core curriculum, must be completed with an average grade of B or better. All courses must be approved by the student's advisor. The core curriculum consists of Earth System Science 202, 212, 224, 226, 228, 240, 266, and 298. These courses are described below. Students are also expected to participate in the Earth System Science seminar. Additionally, Ph.D. students are required to complete a teaching assistant training program and to have a minimum of two quarters of experience as a teaching assistant, provided opportunities are available.

Academic Senate regulations specify a minimum period of residence of six quarters for Ph.D. candidates. Enrollment in a minimum of 12 units of graduate/upper-division course work per quarter is required. Registration in every regular academic session is necessary until all requirements for the degree have been completed, unless a formal Leave of Absence is granted by the Graduate Division. All Ph.D. requirements must be completed within 15 quarters in residence (five years), excluding summer quarters. Exceptions must be put to a vote of the Earth System Science faculty. The maximum time permitted is seven years.

A departmental written Comprehensive Examination for all eligible ESS students is administered at the end of spring quarter. This examination determines the student's readiness to begin research for the dissertation. An oral Comprehensive Examination is offered after the written examination and provides an opportunity to clarify questions that arise from the student's performance on the written examination. Both the written and oral examinations are administered by the ESS Comprehensive Examination Committee. The examinations emphasize breadth, general knowledge, and the ability to integrate and use information covered in the core curriculum and other course work.

Following completion of the Comprehensive Examination, those students who receive a recommendation to continue Ph.D. work will pursue research on a potential dissertation topic and then take the Advancement to Candidacy Examination. This oral examination is given by a faculty committee, including extra-departmental faculty. The normative time for advancement for candidacy is two years.

A dissertation based on original research and demonstrating critical judgment, intellectual synthesis, creativity, and clarity in written communication is required for the Ph.D. degree. The dissertation must summarize the results of original research performed by the student under the supervision of a faculty member of the Department. The criterion of acceptability of a dissertation is that its contents be judged by the committee as suitable for publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal of high editorial standards. The dissertation may be a compilation of published papers or manuscripts accepted for publication, so long as a major proportion of the material has been produced independently by the candidate. The format and content are approved by the Dissertation Committee, and University requirements for style, format, and appearance are met.

The master's degree is awarded only to students admitted to the Ph.D. program who have completed a total of eight courses, met the three-quarter residency requirement, and completed the Comprehensive Examination.

A summary of the requirements follows.

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE

1.   Completion of course work (10 courses, including core courses)

2.   Six quarters in residence at UCI

3.   Completion of the teaching and seminar requirements

4.   Completion of the Comprehensive Examination, with recommendation to continue for the Ph.D.

5.   Pass the Advancement to Candidacy Examination

6.   Presentation of an open research seminar

7.   Submission of an acceptable doctoral dissertation and formal defense

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE

1.   Completion of course work (eight courses, including core courses)

2.   Three quarters in residence at UCI

3.   Completion of the Comprehensive Examination

Courses in Earth System Science

(Schedule of Classes designation: EarthSS)

Lower-division undergraduate course offerings emphasize an understanding of the basic science involved in global change of the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, and biosphere and soils. Any three courses selected from Earth System Science 1, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 15, 17, and H90 will satisfy the science and technology general education requirement. Lower-division Earth System Science courses also are core or elective courses in the interdisciplinary minor in Global Sustainability; see the Interdisciplinary Studies section of this Catalogue for information.

Upper-division courses are particularly appropriate as electives for students majoring in the physical or biological sciences, or engineering, with an interest in applying physics, chemistry, and biology to study the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, biosphere, and climate.

LOWER-DIVISION

1 The Physical Environment (4) F. Covers the origin and evolution of the Earth, its atmosphere, and oceans, from the perspective of biogeochemical cycles, energy use, and human impacts on the Earth system. Earth System Science 1 and 25 may not both be taken for credit. (II)

3 Oceanography (4) S. Examines circulation of the world oceans and ocean chemistry as it relates to river, hydrothermal vent, and atmospheric inputs. Geological features, the wide variety of biological organisms, and global climate changes, such as greenhouse warming, are also studied. (II)

5 The Atmosphere (4) W. The composition and circulation of the atmosphere with a focus on explaining the fundamentals of weather and climate. Topics include solar and terrestrial radiation, clouds, and weather patterns. (II)

7 Physical Geology (5) F. Introduction to Earth materials and processes. Topics include rocks and minerals, plate tectonics, volcanoes, earthquakes, Earth surface processes, Earth resources, geologic time, and Earth history. Laboratory work involves hands-on study of geologic materials, maps, and exercises pertaining to geologic processes. (II)

11 Climate Change and Policy (4). Develops an understanding of the physical basis behind global climate change; examines how human activities cause it, looks to future rates and impacts of global warming, and reviews the international conventions, protocols, and scientific assessments of climate change. (II)

13 Global-Change Biology (4) W. Addresses ways in which humans are altering the global environment, with consequences for the ecology of animals, plants, and microbes. Discussion on how these biologically oriented questions relate to human society, politics, and the economy. Same as Biological Sciences 9K. (II)

15 Introduction to Global Climate Change (4). Introduction of scientific, technological, environmental, economic, and social aspects underlying the threat and understanding of global climate change. Human and natural drivers of climate. Impacts of climate on natural, managed, and human systems, including their vulnerability and ability to adapt. (II, VIII)

17 Hurricanes, Tsunamis, and other Catastrophes (4) W. Introduction to the basic science and state of predictability of various natural catastrophic events including hurricanes, tsunamis, and volcanoes, as well as possibly future climate catastrophes including severe droughts, abrupt climate change, thermohaline circulation collapse and sea level rise. (II, VIII)

51 Land Interactions (4) F. The role of terrestrial processes in the Earth system. Provides an introduction to ecosystem processes that regulate the cycling of energy, water, carbon, and nutrients. Analysis of the impact of human activities. Prerequisite: Chemistry 1C. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

53 Ocean Biogeochemistry (4) W. Overview of oceanography for those interested in Earth system science. Focus is on physical, chemical, and biological processes that drive biogeochemical cycling in the oceans. Coastal systems also reviewed, with emphasis on California waters. Corequisites: Mathematics 2B and Physics 3B or 7C. Prerequisite: Chemistry 1C. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

55 Earth's Atmosphere (4) S. Composition, physics, and circulation of Earth's atmosphere with an emphasis on explaining the role of atmospheric processes in shaping the climate system. Topics include: atmospheric composition, the global energy balance, radiative transfer and climate, atmospheric circulation and climate sensitivity. Corequisites: Mathematics 2B or a score of 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Calculus BC examination, Physics 3B or 7C. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

60A Fundamental Processes in Earth and Environmental Studies (4) F. An introduction to the physical environment, biological systems, and human-environment interactions. Explores physical principles such as fluid transport and reaction rates using environmental examples as well as principles of populations, ecosystems, carrying capacity, and sustainable use of resources. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

60B Local and Regional Environmental Issues (4) W. An introduction to common environmental issues using case studies from Orange County and California. Studies natural hazards as well as human-caused problems with air quality, water quality, coastal pollution, ecosystem degradation, and urban climate. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 60A or 25 and Chemistry 1B or H2B. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

60C Global Environmental Issues (4) S. An overview of global environmental changes including climate change, sea level rise, biodiversity loss, land and ocean degradation, and resource depletion. Discusses scientific, cultural, historical, and policy dimensions of these issues as well as possible solutions. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 60A or 25 and Chemistry 1B or H2B.

H90 The Idiom and Practice of Science (4). A series of fundamental and applied scientific problems are addressed, illustrating the pervasive role of mathematical analysis. Topics may include energy utilization, the climate system, the "greenhouse effect," ozone depletion and air pollution, ecological consequences of water pollution, nutrient cycles. Open only to members of the Campuswide Honors Program or consent of instructor. (II)

UPPER-DIVISION

101 Paleoclimatology (4) S. Explores past changes in Earth's climate. Topics include tools and techniques used to reconstruct past climate from natural archives; records and mechanisms of past climate changes throughout Earth history; and lessons learned from the paleo-record for predication of future climate. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 60A-B-C, or 51, 53, 55. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

112 Global Climate Change and Impacts (4) F. Observations over the twentieth century show extensive changes in atmospheric composition, climate and weather, and biological systems that have paralleled industrial growth. Evidence of globally driven changes in these biogeochemical systems is studied, including projected impacts over the twenty-first century. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 60A-B-C, or 51, 53, 55. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

114 Earth System Science Laboratory and Field Methods (4) S. Introduction to methods used to measure exchange of gases and energy between the atmosphere and terrestrial ecosystems. Laboratories include data acquisition and isotopic and chromatographic analysis. Field measurements at UCI's Marsh Reserve include microclimate, hydrology, trace-gas exchange, and plant growth. Prerequisite: Earth System Science 51 or 60A. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

116 Data Analysis for Earth Sciences (4) F. Analysis and interpretation of geophysical data, including functional fitting, probability density functions, and multidimensional time-series methods, with applications in atmospheric, oceanic, and biogeochemical sciences. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

118 Advanced Data Analysis and Modeling (4) S. Covers advanced data analysis and modeling techniques for applications within Earth system science. These applications will come from variety of Earth science (writ large) problems. Students will gain programming proficiency by implementing computational methods in MATLAB. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 116 and Mathematics 2B. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

122 Atmospheric Dynamics (4) W. Fluid dynamical processes that determine the large-scale flow of the atmosphere and ocean. Most important are interactions between the density stratification and the Coriolis force associated with Earth's rotation. Topics include circulation, vorticity, planetary waves and their role in climate. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 55 and Mathematics 2D and Physics 7B or 7C. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

124 Weather Analysis (4) W. Provides an overview of weather systems in midlatitudes and tropics. The fundamental dynamics possible for these weather systems are described. Elementary weather analysis and forecasting techniques are introduced. Prerequisite: Earth System Science 55 or 60A. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

130 Physical Oceanography (4) W. Physical processes that determine the distribution of water properties such as salt and temperature. Fluid-dynamical underpinnings of physical oceanography. Wave motions. The wind-driven and thermohaline circulation. Similarities and differences between ocean and atmosphere dynamics. Prerequisites: Mathematics 2D and Physics 7B or 7C. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

132 Terrestrial Hydrology (4) S. Comprehensive treatment of modern conceptual and methodological approaches to hydrological science. Combines qualitative understanding of hydrological processes with quantitative representation, approaches to measurement, and treatment of uncertainty. Major components of the hydrological cycle and their linkages within the coupled Earth system. Prerequisite: Earth System Science 60A or 51 or consent of instructor. Concurrent with Earth System Science 232. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

134 Fundamentals of GIS for Environmental Sciences (4). Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Topics include fundamentals of cartography, creating/editing GIS data, linking spatial and tabular data, georeferencing, map projections, geospatial analysis, spatial statistics and the development of GIS models. Examples from hydrology, ecology, and geology. Prerequisite: Earth System Science 51 or 53 or 60A or 60C. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

138 Satellite Remote Sensing for Earth System Science (4) S. Satellite remote sensing data are increasingly used to study the Earth system. Provides an overview of the principles behind remote sensing, and the types of satellite data available for study of the oceans, land, and atmosphere. Prerequisite: Earth System Science 51 or 53 or 60A or 60C. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

142 Atmospheric Chemistry (4) S. Chemistry of the troposphere and stratosphere. Topics include: processes controlling the lifetime and reaction pathways of chemicals in the atmosphere, the role of the atmosphere in biogeochemical cycles, and interactions between atmospheric chemistry and the physical climate system. Prerequisites: Chemistry 1C or H2C, Mathematics 2B. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

144 Marine Geochemistry and Biogeochemistry (4) S. Processes controlling the major and minor element composition of seawater and element distributions in the ocean. Gas exchange, carbon dioxide system, stable isotopes, radionuclides as tracers and chronometers, particle fluxes, organic geochemistry, sediment geochemistry, global cycles of biogeochemically important elements. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 53 or 60A and 60C. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

150 Laboratory Methods in Earth System Science (4) W. Introduction to analytical methods used in Earth science research. Lectures cover theory and applications of each method. Laboratories cover sample preparation, experimental design, standardization and calibration, operation of analytical instruments (mass spectrometers, gas chromatographs, and spectrophotometers), and analysis of data. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Concurrent with Earth System Science 250. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

164 Ecosystems Ecology (4) F, W, S. A mechanistic perspective on ecosystem processes. Covers ecosystem development, element cycling, and interactions with plants and microbes. The role of ecosystems in environmental change is also addressed. Prerequisite: Chemistry 51C. Same as Biological Sciences E118. Concurrent with Earth System Science 264. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

168 Physiological Plant Ecology (4) F. An examination of the interactions between plants and their environment. Emphasis on the underlying physiological mechanisms of plant function, adaptations and responses to stress, and the basis of the distribution of plants and plant assemblages across the landscape. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 51 or 60A and 60C or Biological Sciences E106. Same as Biological Sciences E127. Concurrent with Earth System Science 268. Earth and Environmental Sciences and Earth and Environmental Studies majors have first consideration for enrollment.

170 Environmental Microbiology (4) F. Establishes a fundamental understanding of microbes living in the environment, including their distribution, diversity, and biochemistry, and discusses how they attribute to global biogeochemical cycles. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 53 or 60A and 60C or Biological Sciences E106. Same as Biological Sciences E163. Concurrent with Earth System Science 270.

180 Environmental Sustainability I (4) W. Provides an introduction to sustainability from different points of view; historical, scientific, political, ethical, and economic. Same as Planning, Policy, and Design 131.

182 Environmental Sustainability II (4) S. Investigates how sustainability can be implemented in a variety of contexts including water, energy, non-renewable resources, biodiversity, and urban policy, and also how it could be measured. Same as Planning, Policy, and Design 132.

190A-B Senior Seminar on Global Sustainability I, II (2-2) F, W. Students attend weekly seminar to discuss current issues in global sustainability. Weekly attendance at Global Sustainability Forum also is required. Seminar utilized to analyze forum presentations. A: Prepare bibliography. B: Prepare research proposal. In-progress grading for 190A-B, grade for sequence given upon completion of 190C. Prerequisites: senior standing, Biological Sciences 65, Environmental Analysis and Design E20, and Earth System Science 10. Same as Biological Sciences 191A-B and Social Ecology 186A-B.

190C Writing/Senior Seminar on Global Sustainability III (4) S. Students attend weekly seminar to discuss current issues in global sustainability. Weekly attendance at Global Sustainability Forum also is required. Seminar utilized to analyze forum presentations and to prepare senior research paper. Prepare/write research paper under the direction of a faculty member. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 190A-B and satisfaction of the lower-division writing requirement. Same as Biological Sciences 191C and Social Ecology 186C.

191 Introduction to Research in Earth System Science (1) F. A series of weekly presentations by Earth System Science faculty describing ongoing research in their laboratories. The goals are to introduce students to the range of research topics and methods in Earth System Science and to the research opportunities available within the Department. Prerequisites: upper-division standing or consent of instructor; limited to majors in Earth and Environmental Sciences or minors in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences.

192 Careers in Earth System Science (1) W. A series of weekly presentations by business and government leaders in environmental fields, describing the goals of their organization and typical career trajectories for entry-level science majors within their organization. Makes students aware of the diversity of career opportunities available. Prerequisites: upper-division standing or consent of instructor; limited to majors in Earth and Environmental Sciences or minors in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences.

198 Senior Thesis in Earth System Science (4) S. Students receive guidance on the effective oral and written communication of research results. Students prepare and present a seminar, a poster, and a written thesis describing their research in Earth System Science. Prerequisites: successful completion of two quarters of Earth System Science 199 or comparable research experience with consent of instructor; successful completion of the lower-division writing requirement. Intended for seniors majoring in Earth and Environmental Sciences. Earth System Science 198 and H198 may not both be taken for credit.

H198 Honors Thesis in Earth System Science (4) S. Students receive guidance on effective written and oral communication of research results. Students prepare and present a seminar, poster, and written thesis describing their honors research in Earth System Science. Corequisite: Earth System Science H199C. Prerequisites: satisfactory completion of the lower-division writing requirement; Earth System Science H199A-B; consent of faculty sponsor; acceptance and enrollment in the Earth System Science Honors Program. This course is also open to Earth System Science majors participating in the Campuswide Honors Program. Earth System Science H198 and 198 may not both be taken for credit.

199 Undergraduate Research (2 to 4) F, W, S. For junior and senior undergraduates, preferably with majors in science or engineering. Interested students should arrange with a member of the Earth System Science faculty to supervise and support a research project. A written summary is required at the end of each quarter. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.

H199A-B-C Honors Research in Earth System Science (4-4-4) F, W, S. Undergraduate honors research in Earth System Science. A student commitment of 10-15 hours a week is expected, and a written report is required at the end of the quarter. Prerequisites: consent of faculty sponsor; acceptance and enrollment in the Earth System Science Honors Program. The sequence is also open to Earth and Environmental Sciences majors participating in the Campuswide Honors Program.

GRADUATE

202 Climate Change (4) S. Explores past, present, and projected changes in Earth's climate. Topics include paleoclimate records and mechanisms of natural climate variability at a range of timescales (orbital to seasonal); General Circulation Models; and IPCC observations and projections of future climate change.

212 Geoscience Modeling and Data Analysis (4) F. Computer-based course. Fundamental statistical techniques needed to analyze Earth system data and models. Basic numerical techniques to solve Earth system models. Focuses on linear and non-linear ordinary differential equations, as well as simple partial differential equations.

224 Ocean Processes (4) F. Introduction to the physics, chemistry, and biology of the oceans. Offers a mechanistic perspective of the structure and functioning of marine ecosystems, nutrient cycles, and role of ecosystem dynamics in local and global biogeochemistry.

226 Land Surface Processes (4) F. A mechanistic perspective of the structure and functioning of terrestrial ecosystems. Includes processes such as nutrient cycling, biogeochemical cycling, mass balance, energetics, terrestrial hydrology, and water cycle.

228 Geophysical Fluid Dynamics (4) W. Introduces fluid dynamical processes that determine the large-scale flow of the atmosphere and ocean, with particular emphasis on the interactions between the stable density stratification and the Coriolis force associated with Earth's rotation.

232 Terrestrial Hydrology (4) S. Comprehensive treatment of modern conceptual and methodological approaches to hydrological science. Combines qualitative understanding of hydrological processes with quantitative representation, approaches to measurement, and treatment of uncertainty. Major components of the hydrological cycle and their linkages within the coupled Earth system. Prerequisite: Earth System Science 60A or 51 or consent of instructor. Concurrent with Earth System Science 132.

236 Radiative Processes and Remote Sensing (4) F. Solar and terrestrial radiation and Earth system interaction. Radiative transfer theory. Principles, applications of remote sensing of environment. Planck's law, radiative transfer equation, radiative properties of trace gasses and aerosols, remote sensing techniques, global trends in radiative forcing. Prerequisites: Mathematics 2D and Physics 7A-B-D, or equivalent.

240 Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics (4) W. Examines the physical/chemical processes which determine the structure and composition of Earth's atmosphere and its role in the climate system.

250 Laboratory Methods in Earth System Science (4) W. Introduction to analytical methods used in Earth science research. Lectures cover theory and applications of each method. Laboratories cover sample preparation, experimental design, standardization and calibration, operation of analytical instruments (mass spectrometers, gas chromatographs, and spectrophotometers), and analysis of data. Concurrent with Earth System Science 150.

260 Global Biological Change (4) F. Lecture, two hours; field work, one hour. An investigation of the mechanisms that underlie responses of organisms to human-caused environmental changes. Activities include field trips, literature discussions, and lectures. Focuses on issues of interest in Southern California, including nitrogen deposition, invasions, and habitat fragmentation. Same as Ecology and Evolutionary Biology 225.

264 Ecosystems Ecology (4) F, W, S. A mechanistic perspective on ecosystem processes. Covers ecosystem development, element cycling, and interactions with plants and microbes. The role of ecosystems in environmental change is also addressed. Prerequisite: Chemistry 51C. Concurrent with Earth System Science 164 and Biological Sciences E118.

266 Global Biogeochemical Cycles (4) S. Global biogeochemical cycling of the elements. Topics include global cycling of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur; impact of human activities on biogeochemical processes.

268 Physiological Plant Ecology (4) F. An examination of the interactions between plants and their environment. Emphasis on the underlying physiological mechanisms of plant function, adaptations and responses to stress, and the basis of the distribution of plants and plant assemblages across the landscape. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 51 or 60A and 60C or Biological Sciences E106. Concurrent with Earth System Science 168 and Biological Sciences E127.

270 Environmental Microbiology (4) F. Establishes a fundamental understanding of microbes living in the environment, including their distribution, diversity, and biochemistry, and discusses how they attribute to global biogeochemical cycles. Prerequisites: Earth System Science 53 or 60A and 60C or Biological Sciences E106. Concurrent with Earth System Science 170 and Biological Sciences E163.

280A-B-C Special Topics in Earth System Science (1 to 4). Each quarter is devoted to current topics in the field of Earth System Science. Prerequisite: Earth System Science 200 or equivalent, or consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. Formerly Earth System Science 280.

282A-B Special Topics in Climate (1 to 4). Each quarter is devoted to in-depth analysis of an important and rapidly developing area in the field of climate dynamics. Prerequisite: Earth System Science 200 or equivalent, or consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit as topics vary.

284A-B-C Special Topics in Atmospheric Chemistry (1 to 4) F, W, S. Each quarter is devoted to current topics in the field of Atmospheric Chemistry. Prerequisite: Earth System Science 200 or equivalent, or consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit as topics vary.

286A-B Special Topics in Biogeochemistry (1 to 4). Each quarter is devoted to in-depth analysis of a subarea in biogeochemistry which is undergoing rapid development. Prerequisite: Earth System Science 200 or equivalent, or consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit as topics vary.

288A-B-C Special Topics in Ecosystems (1 to 4) F, W, S. Each quarter is devoted to current topics relating to Ecosystems. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. Prerequisite: Earth System Science 200 or equivalent, or consent of instructor.

290 Seminar (1) F, W, S. Weekly seminars and discussions on topics of general and current interest in Earth System Science. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Prerequisite: graduate standing. May be repeated for credit as topics vary.

298 Practicum in Earth System Science (4) S. Designed to introduce first-year graduate students to research. Students explore research opportunities and develop a proposal for a summer research project under the direction of a faculty mentor.

299 Research (2 to 12) F, W, S. Supervised original research in areas of Earth System Science. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit.

399 University Teaching (1 to 4) F, W, S. Required of and limited to teaching assistants. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory grading only. May be repeated for credit.