How To Study Environmental Science

Transcription

1 Environmental Science

2 Contents Why choose Environmental Science at Liverpool? 02 Our research in context 04 Example student timetable 06 Degrees 08 Module details 12

3 @livuni UofLTube 01 Explore Study in the field in exciting locations such as California Challenge Tackle the big problems facing our changing environment Discover Learn in our award-winning 23 million Central Teaching Laboratories Excel Study with an academic advisor and network of friendly staff dedicated to help you reach your potential

4 02 Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences Environmental Why choose Science at Liverpool? Understanding the complex interactions between the physical and biological environment is essential if we are to find solutions to the increasing global environmental challenges that face us today. This practical degree, focusing on real-world issues, will prepare you to play your part in tackling those challenges. Study abroad Studying abroad has huge personal and academic benefits, as well as giving you a head start in the graduate job market. Students can currently apply to one of our many worldwide partners in Canada, America, China or Australia. For more information, visit Year in China The Year in China is the University of Liverpool s exciting new flagship programme enabling undergraduate students, from a huge range of departments, including Environmental Science, the opportunity to spend one year at our sister university Xi an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), following XJTLU s BA China Studies degree classes. See goabroad/year-in-china for more information.

5 @livuni UofLTube 03 How you learn You will be assigned an Academic Adviser in each of the three years who will provide pastoral care and help you develop your skills for your chosen career path. To help you meet the intellectual and practical challenges of studying Environmental Science, our programmes are taught using a student-centred approach, involving a range of learning experiences. These include: Small tutor groups (typically six-eight students) through all years High levels of field and lab-based teaching within the School of Environmental Sciences and in Europe s most advanced teaching laboratories An emphasis on active, problem-based learning (learning by doing) Hands-on experience of cutting-edge laboratory technologies Supervised independent and group project work, including a final year independent research-based dissertation supervised by a dedicated expert in the field. How you are assessed Your assessments are designed around developing skills and styles of communication that will be most relevant to future employers. So, in addition to exams and essays, you will also undertake assessments that include computer-based exercises, oral presentations, laboratory reports, field projects, and research reports. You will complete a compulsory 10,000-word dissertation in your final year on a topic of your choice. This is your opportunity to develop your skills as an independent researcher and develop specialist expertise in your chosen career path, supported on a one-to-one basis by an expert in the field. I picked Environmental Science because I love nature and I enjoy studying the relationship between the environment and humans. The Environmental Science degree gave me an interesting way to look at the world we are living in and helped me realise my dream to build a more beautiful world. Liverpool is a great place to be a student because it is an elegant city where you will meet lovely and friendly people from all over the world. Frank Tong Environmental Science BSc (Hons)

6 04 Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences research Our context in Researchers to monitor fracking in UK Researchers in the School of Environmental Sciences will monitor areas where hydraulic fracturing (fracking) will take place in the UK, as part of a nationwide research consortium. The team will monitor groundwater, regional air quality, seismicity and ground movements at two proposed shale gas exploration sites www. liverpool.ac.uk/environmental-sciences/news/ articles/researchers-monitor-fracking-uk Centre for Global Eco-Innovation The School of Environmental Sciences is a partner in Europe s only Centre for Global Eco-Innovation (CGE). The CGE brings together students, academics, experts and SMEs (small and medium sized enterprises) to develop new products, processes and services for the global marketplace which will deliver minimal environmental impacts. Undergraduate as well as PhD students have the opportunity to take up placements as part of their studies Study projects unprecedented loss of corals in Great Barrier Reef due to warming Research by the School of Environmental Sciences exploring the short- and long-term consequences of environmental changes to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia has identified that the coverage of living corals on the Reef could decline to less than 10 percent if ocean warming continues. University of Liverpool s co-author Dr Matthew Spencer explains that the findings are not only important for predicting reef futures under climate change but could also be applied to other ecosystems. Secrets of shelf seas-one of Earth s most important ecosystems The sea off our coasts teems with microscopic life that breaks down the carbon dioxide we pump into the air. University of Liverpool s Professor Jonathan Sharples is working with the National Oceanography Centre and the British Oceanographic Data Centre in a series of expeditions that are aiming to find out more. Read Professor Sharples blog at www. jonathanatsea.wordpress.com Liverpool to develop sensors for Fukushima monitoring Research at the University of Liverpool is developing new sensors that will help the recovery and regeneration of the post-disaster Fukushima region and pave the way for improved monitoring and control of radioactivity at nuclear sites worldwide. The new research, funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), will develop ways to detect, measure and monitor nuclear radiation in the environment so that a radioactive substance beneath the ground can be located and monitored at higher resolution than previously.

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8 06 Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences Timetable Semester One Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Lecture Lecture Reading for computer practical Feedback from tutor on coursework Laboratory practical in Environmental Science Laboratory PC Centre research for coursework Lecture Computer practical Lecture Lecture Reading for laboratory practical Lecture Library preparation for tutorial University event talk by guest speaker Study and employability skills tutorial Library working on coursework University sports event Final preparation of coursework Lecture Careers workshop in Guild on CV writing Online submission of coursework Background reading for lectures this week Guild comedy club Please note that this is a sample timetable. Timetables are subject to your module choice and will vary.

9 @livuni UofLTube 07 Typical week Saturday Sunday Work on coursework Meeting to work on group task Reading for following week s lectures

10 08 Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences Degrees Page Environmental Science BSc (Hons) F750 3 years 08 See for current entry requirements. Environmental Science BSc (Hons) UCAS code: F750 Programme length: 3 years Our Environmental Science degree provides a wide breadth of study opportunities from across the School of Environmental Sciences. Our degree is designed to give you an understanding of both natural and human induced environmental problems. All of our modules centre on real world issues and application, such as food security, climate change, energy security, pollution and natural hazards. In addition to bespoke environmental science classes, our degree allows you to choose from a range of modules in geosciences, ecology, physical geography, and oceanography, so that you can shape your degree to suit your particular areas of interest and career pathway. Focusing on applied skills that are relevant to careers in Environmental Science, you will gain expertise in monitoring, modelling and managing the environment. From your first week to your final year, field classes and laboratory practicals are an integral part of your learning, and provide a firm grounding in the latest techniques and technologies in Environmental Science. You will learn through a combination of individual and group work, including practicals in our purpose built ( 23 million) Central Teaching Laboratories. In addition to making the most of Liverpool s location, you will have the opportunity to undertake fieldwork in locations such as North Wales, Western Scotland, Peak District and Santa Cruz (California). Programme outline Year One In order to give a strong foundation to your degree all students take core modules in Year One which help introduce you to the breadth of the subject, and to provide the key ideas which inform the rest of the course. Core modules include Ecology and Conservation, Theory and Laboratory Experiments in Earth Surface Processes, Evolution and Biodiversity, Experiments in Physical Geography, and Laboratory and Field Techniques for Ecologists. In addition, you can choose other optional modules from within geosciences, ecology, physical geography and oceanography, such as: Living with Environmental Change, Minerals, Magmas and Volcanoes, Climate, Atmosphere and Oceans, Marine Ecosystems Diversity, Processes and Threats, Introduction to Sedimentary Rocks and Fossils, Animal Biodiversity, and Ocean Chemistry and Life. Year Two In Year Two, skills development is a central part of the programme, with core modules in Research Skills, Statistics for Environmental Scientists and a residential field class in the beautiful Peak District National Park. You can either choose additional modules from a range of areas, or choose to specialise in a particular branch of Environmental Science. Choices include Climatology, Environmental Sustainability, Human Impacts on Marine Ecosystems, Quaternary Environmental Change, Geomorphology Ice, Sea and Air, and Marine Pollution.

11 @livuni UofLTube 09 Year Three In Year Three, you will complete an independent dissertation which brings together the skills and techniques learnt in the degree to produce an independent piece of research. There is also the option to complete a work-based dissertation with one of our industry contacts, and to take a two-week field class to Santa Cruz in California. As well as completing a core module in Contemporary Issues in Ecology and Environment, you can choose from a range of specialised modules, such as Human-Environmental Interactions, Conservation Biology, Climate Change A Critical Review, Natural Hazards and Society, Geographies of Energy and Natural Resources, and Surviving the Marine Environment Adaptation, Behaviour And Conservation. Programme in detail Year One Compulsory modules ENVS100, ENVS120, ENVS157, ENVS165, ENVS171, LIFE103 Optional modules ENVS111, ENVS112, ENVS115, ENVS117, ENVS118, ENVS119, ENVS121, ENVS122, ENVS153, ENVS158, LIFE110, LIFE112, LIFE120 Year Two Compulsory modules ENVS203, ENVS222, ENVS285 Optional modules ENVS214, ENVS217, ENVS218, ENVS223, ENVS231, ENVS232, ENVS238, ENVS251, ENVS252, ENVS261, ENVS266, LIFE211, LIFE214, LIFE233 Year Three Compulsory modules ENVS304, ENVS321 or ENVS323 Optional modules ENVS309, ENVS310, ENVS315, ENVS316, ENVS319, ENVS325, ENVS332, ENVS352, ENVS372, ENVS376, ENVS383, ENVS385, ENVS389, ENVS393 See pages for module descriptions. I picked Environmental Science because I liked the wide range of subjects that the modules covered. This was perfect as I knew I wouldn t miss out on any areas of Environmental Science that I enjoy, while also being able to try new subjects which sounded interesting to me. What I liked most about the Environmental Science degree was that it wasn t all just about lectures we did lots of practicals and fieldwork too! Daniel Tindsley Environmental Science BSc (Hons)

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14 12 Please note, modules are provided for information only and may change. Timetabling restrictions may apply. Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences CORE AND SELECTED OPTIONAL MODULES OVERVIEW YEAR ONE Code Title Credit Semester Module description ENVS100 Study Skills 15 1 and 2 Develops essential study and disciplinary skills required by and GIS Environmental Scientists, both for your current studies and future employment by (1) introduces you to key approaches/ concepts and ideas in Environmental Science; (2) helps you to identify and effectively employ appropriate sources of data and information; (3) develops your study skills and provides essential training for subsequent years; (4) develops your personal transferable skills; and (5) introduces the application of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to Environmental Science. ENVS111 Climate, 15 1 Introduces the climate system, the atmosphere and ocean Atmosphere by addressing (1) how the climate system varies and how and Oceans climate is controlled by radiative forcing; (2) how the structure of the atmosphere is determined and how the atmosphere circulates; (3) how the structure of the ocean is determined and how the ocean circulates; and (4) how the atmosphere and ocean vary together. ENVS112 Earth Structure 15 1 (1) Introduces you to the structure and composition of and Plate the Earth, the Earth s gravitational and magnetic fields, and Tectonics dynamics within the deep Earth; (2) introduces you to the physics of Earth material and the geological time scale; and (3) introduces you to plate tectonics. ENVS115 Minerals, 15 1 (1) Introduces the petrological microscope to introduce the Magmas and main rock forming minerals; (2) examines the origins of Volcanoes Earth s magmas, igneous rocks and volcanoes; (3) considers the physical and chemical properties of magmas, how compositions of magmas are changed, and how magma emplacement history is recorded in rock texture; (4) examines the physical processes of the main types of volcanic activity and the associated hazards; and (5) introduces volcanic hazards awareness and principles of risk mitigation. ENVS117 Maths and 15 1 Provides you with (1) a grounding in the basic physics relevant Physics for to processes in the atmosphere, ocean and solid earth; and Environmental (2) practical experience in the application of mathematical Scientists methods to the solution of problems in physical processes in the environment.

15 @livuni UofLTube 13 Code Title Credit Semester Module description ENVS118 Introduction to 15 1 Provides an introduction to the study of sediments and Sedimentary sedimentary rocks and to introduce the main groups Rocks and Fossils of common fossil. The module aims to cover the basic language used to describe sediments and fossils and gives an introduction to a range of physical, chemical and biological concepts. You are introduced to the economic significance of sediments and sedimentary rocks and how fossils provide information on geological time, evolutionary history and ancient environments. ENVS119 Living with 15 1 Introduces you to the grand challenges facing society Environmental and what is being done to address them. Living with Change Environmental Change is a key interdisciplinary research theme currently being addressed worldwide from tackling climate change and carbon emissions to promoting sustainable resource use and energy efficiency. This module illustrates that an interdisciplinary approach across the social, economic, physical and natural sciences is crucial to identifying underlying problems and to finding holistic, sustainable solutions. ENVS120 Experiments 15 1 The module uses laboratory experiments to allow you to in Physical gain first-hand experience of some fundamental physical, Geography 1 biological and chemical processes underlying physical geography, aimed primarily at interactions between people and their physical environment. It provides a foundation for environmental modules in Years Two and Three. It also provides training in careful observation, appropriate handing of liquid and solid samples, and correct use of analytical instruments. Throughout there is emphasis on quality control via replication and reference materials, and appropriate use of descriptive and inferential statistics. ENVS121 Marine Biology: 15 1 This module delivers an introduction to the diversity of life Life in the Seas in the marine environment. It considers the range of living and Oceans organisms in the oceans from microscopic plants and bacteria to whales, and explores some of the diverse mechanisms living organisms have adopted in order to meet the challenge of survival in the marine environment. ENVS122 Marine 15 2 Introduces you to the diversity of ecosystem types in the Ecosystems: marine environment and the various threats that they face. Diversity, Processes and Threats Compulsory Module Continued over... For up-to-date entry requirements and full module details see

16 14 Please note, modules are provided for information only and may change. Timetabling restrictions may apply. Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences CORE AND SELECTED OPTIONAL MODULES OVERVIEW YEAR ONE (Continued) Code Title Credit Semester Module description ENVS153 Environmental 15 2 The module (1) allows you to obtain the basic chemistry Chemistry to understand the chemical reactions and processes that are fundamental to the evolution of our planet generally, and of hydrosphere and the oceans in particular; (2) develops a practical, numerate, ability to quantify processes through worked examples given in the form of assessed homework exercises and workshops; and (3) develops self-learning by learning to look up concepts and examples in books and on the Web. ENVS157 Ecology and 15 2 Using certain key themes, the module introduces you to Conservation the complex and multifaceted nature of environmental issues and ecological science, particularly stressing the interrelationships between their biophysical and human dimensions. ENVS158 Ocean 15 2 The module (1) introduces you to marine chemistry of Chemistry the major and trace elements; (2) demonstrates the dynamic and Life relationship between the chemical ocean environment and biological processes; (3) identifies the main ocean basins and main oceanic transport routes of chemical species; and (4) teaches the necessary practical skills for oceanographic sampling and measurement of chemical species. ENVS165 Theory and 15 2 The module uses a lecture and laboratory-based problem- Laboratory solving approach to explore some of the fundamental Experiments in physical and chemical processes underlying physical Earth Surface geography. It provides a foundation for environmental and Processes physical geography modules in Years Two and Three. It also aims to provide training in careful observation, appropriate handing of liquid and solid samples, and correct use of analytical instruments. Throughout there is emphasis on quality control via replication and reference materials, and appropriate use of descriptive and inferential statistics. ENVS171 Laboratory and 15 2 This practical module provides training in a range of Field Techniques ecological skills in field work and has a wide application for Ecologists many fields of environmental science including modern to biology, ecology and physical geography. Techniques taught include identification of plants and animals, communities and measurement of selected ecological processes. You will learn quantitative skills in field ecology and how they can be used to solve fundamental and applied problems. You will also learn quite a lot of ecology at the same time.

17 @livuni UofLTube 15 Code Title Credit Semester Module description LIFE103 Evolution and 15 1 The module (1) introduces you to evolutionary concepts Biodiversity and theories; (2) describes the genetic basis of evolutionary changes; (3) describes inter-relationships of life forms and biodiversity, by descriptions of specialised biological systems; and (4) develops knowledge and understanding of the subject and the ability to apply, evaluate and interpret this knowledge to solve problems in biology. LIFE110 Microbiology 15 2 The module (1) describes how microbes play crucial roles in maintaining the natural environment; (2) explains the role of microbes in disease processes and how the immune system protects against infections; (3) highlights the roles of microbes in biotechnological processes; and (4) develops knowledge and understanding in microbiology, and ability to apply, evaluate and interpret this knowledge to solve problems in microbiology. LIFE112 Animal 15 2 The module (1) fosters an understanding of structure and Biodiversity function of the basic body plan of the major groups of animals; (2) encourages the appreciation of the evolutionary origins of the basic body plan of animals; (3) develops an understanding of how the basic body plan of animals has been modified to adapt to different modes of existence and habitats; and (4) develops knowledge and understanding in animal biodiversity, and the ability to apply, evaluate and interpret this knowledge to solve problems in zoology. LIFE120 Ecology and 15 2 This module (1) describes the physical and chemical the Global contexts of the biosphere, the cycling of important elements Environment at different scales, the distribution of biomes and the ecosystem concept; (2) discusses ecological concepts such as succession, niche, food web theory, ecosystem stability and the impact of human activities; (3) explains conservation of biodiversity at a range of scales; and (4) develops knowledge and understanding in ecology, and ability to apply, evaluate and interpret this knowledge to solve problems. Compulsory Module For up-to-date entry requirements and full module details see

18 16 Please note, modules are provided for information only and may change. Timetabling restrictions may apply. Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences CORE AND SELECTED OPTIONAL MODULES OVERVIEW YEAR TWO Code Title Credit Semester Module description ENVS203 Research 15 1 and 2 The module (1) provides you with training in research Skills methods and analysis techniques; (2) develops your understanding and appreciation of the Environmental Sciences as a contemporary academic discipline; (3) nurtures your understanding of, and engagement with, theoretical and methodological issues in the Environmental Sciences; (4) develops your skills of critical analysis and academic writing; (5) supports your preparation for individual research projects; (6) develops your study and personal transferable skills; and (7) develop your awareness of careers and employability. ENVS214 Quaternary 15 1 Provides a critical insight on the major environmental Environmental changes that took place during the Quaternary (the last Change 2.6 Ma), a time interval that has witnessed the establishment of high amplitude glacial/interglacial cycles which ultimately shaped our present landscape. Over the module, a variety of archives of environmental changes and the tools for assessing past environmental conditions will be discussed with evidence from case studies. ENVS217 Catchment 15 1 Investigates the main hydrological processes operating Hydrology in drainage catchments in terms of their measurement, operation and controlling factors. The module provides hands-on experience of both observing hydrology and modelling hydrological systems, with an emphasis on applied learning, which might be useful in a vocational sense in the future. ENVS218 Environmental 15 1 (1) Introduces you to current thinking in relation to sustainable development and locate environmental sustainability within this broader framework of ideas; (2) develops an understanding of various dimensions of environmental sustainability and their relationship to patterns of human development; and (3) develops an understanding of the role of the public and private sectors in promoting environmentally sustainable development. ENVS222 Statistics for 15 1 Provides training in statistics for environmental scientists. Environmental We emphasise the use of software to analyse real Scientists environmental data. We do not assume extensive prior knowledge. We will teach the essential theory alongside the practical components. ENVS223 An Introduction 15 1 Introduces you to the rapidly developing field of to Environmental environmental history, and forms a basis for more History advanced environmental courses in Year Three.

19 @livuni UofLTube 17 Code Title Credit Semester Module description ENVS231 Climatology 15 2 Provides knowledge and understanding across a number of areas of meteorology and weather, covering physical processes. These processes are covered at a detailed level and supported by an overview of the subject area. This module gives the scientific foundation for more discursive as well as process orientated final year modules. ENVS232 Marine Pollution 15 1 Marine systems are currently changing under a variety of stressors: global increase of temperatures and increase of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere are affecting the chemistry, physics and biology of the marine systems at unprecedented rates. These changes are expected to accentuate in the coming decades. More localised anthropogenic stressors such as excess nutrients, plastic debris, metals, radionuclides and other emerging contaminants are also affecting our coastal waters and beyond. This module will thus focus on the current state of our seas in relation to the various stressors: what are the causes, how do they affect the marine system and what can be done are general questions that will be looked at for the various polluting substances. Whenever appropriate, comparison to past conditions will be made together with future potential implications. Emerging activities such as deep sea mining may also be presented. ENVS238 Soils, Slopes and 15 2 The module (1) understands the fundamental the Environment properties and characteristics of slopes and soils; (2) understand slope and soil forming processes and evolution; and (3) applies this knowledge to a number of pure and applied problems relating to slope and soil stability. ENVS251 Marine Ecology 15 2 This module provides (1) knowledge of the marine resources and Resource that are exploited by human activities; (2) familiarity with Exploitation practical techniques used to assess human impacts on marine ecosystems; (3) understanding of the impacts of resource exploitation on the marine environment and ecosystem components; (4) an introduction to some of the scientific issues associated with managing the impacts of these activities; and (5) an awareness of the cumulative human pressures in the local marine environment. The module delivers these aims by considering fisheries, aquaculture, pollution, non-living resource extraction, coastal development, and the marine transport sector. ENVS252 Geomorphology: 15 2 The module is divided into four components: glacial, Ice, Sea and Air periglacial, aeolian and coastal geomorphology. The module develops an understanding of these major geomorphic systems and how they create terrestrial landforms. It explores the basic processes that have helped shape the geomorphology of Britain. It investigates magnitude and frequency of events as well as time and space scales over which the processes operate. Compulsory Module Continued over... For up-to-date entry requirements and full module details see

20 18 Please note, modules are provided for information only and may change. Timetabling restrictions may apply. Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences CORE AND SELECTED OPTIONAL MODULES OVERVIEW YEAR TWO (Continued) Code Title Credit Semester Module description ENVS261 Ecology This practical module provides you with an opportunity Practical Skills to experience and gain familiarity with a range of scientific, practical techniques that are used to study the terrestrial environment and its biota. Particular emphasis is placed on acquiring an understanding the applicability of a wide range of survey/analytical techniques, as well as their limitations, and also post-practical handling of data and report preparation. ENVS266 Oceanography 15 2 Covers the oceanographic concepts needed to understand of Estuaries how coastal seas work, reaching from within estuaries, out and Shelf Seas across the shelf sea and to the shelf edge. Topics covered include circulation and transports in estuaries, estuaries as sources of nutrients to the ocean, waves and tides in coastal seas, the links between the physics, the plankton and important fisheries, and the reasons for coastal seas being so different to the open ocean. ENVS285 Environmental 15 2 Provides experience in designing, executing, analysing and Science Field presenting (orally and in a report) a research project in the Class environmental sciences. LIFE211 Introduction 15 1 (1) Provides an introduction to the fundamental evolutionary to Behavioural principles that explain a wide range of animal behaviours; Ecology (2) explains sexual selection and animal mating behaviours; (3) describes the evolution of co-operative societies, as well as conflict and conflict resolution; and (4) develops in you the knowledge and understanding of the subject and the ability to apply, evaluate and interpret this knowledge to solve problems in zoology. LIFE214 Population and 15 2 The module (1) introduces you to the concepts and principles Community underlying the dynamic interactions between species within Ecology communities and populations; (2) describes examples, taken from across the globe, that illustrate: the importance of population ecology; pressures on fish stocks; use of natural predators for biological control processes; (3) describes how mutualistic interactions benefit communities, such as coral reefs and leguminous plants; (4) explores how knowledge and understanding of species- and community-interactions can help to develop plans for ecological restoration; and (5) develops your ability to apply, evaluate and interpret this knowledge and understanding to solve problems in zoology. LIFE233 Biodiversity Develops in you the ability to (1) map taxonomic and Practical Skills evolutionary relationships; (2) construct and use keys for taxonomy; (3) dissect and observe the morphology of specific organ systems; and (4) demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the subject and to apply, evaluate and interpret this knowledge to solve problems in biology.

21 @livuni UofLTube 19 CORE AND SELECTED OPTIONAL MODULES OVERVIEW YEAR THREE Code Title Credit Semester Module description ENVS304 Contemporary 15 1 and 2 Provides a set of complementary skills Issues in that will help you enhance the execution and presentation Ecology and of your research project, prepare you for Year Three Environment assessments and maximise your employment and personal development opportunities. Specifically it (1) enhances the core skills acquired in Years One and Two, including both scientific and broader employability skills; (2) develops an appreciation of contemporary topics in Ecology and Environmental Biology; (3) enables you to gain familiarity with selected ecological databases, and biostatistics commonly used in Ecology-related disciplines; (4) uses field visits to help you critically relate theoretical knowledge to real situations; and (5) uses visiting speakers from key ecological organisations and/or research groups to help you appreciate how these skills can be used in employment. ENVS309 Advanced Field 15 1 Develops self-confidence, adaptability and initiative Skills in Ecology through travel, to promote interpersonal communication skills and independence through work either on independent field courses or at a foreign institute. The field course research project aims to increase experience of the variety of UK biota and to further develop the ability to carry out an independent piece of scientific work. ENVS310 Surviving 15 1 Fosters a broad understanding of contemporary theory the Marine in behavioural ecology, evolutionary biology and Environment: conservation, with special reference to the marine Adaptation, environment, by providing (1) knowledge of adaptational Behaviour and and life history strategies used by animals during inter- Conservation and intraspecific competition; (2) understanding of the evolutionary implications of gene flow in the marine environment and the variety of mechanisms that drive evolutionary processes, from individual adaptation to speciation; and (3) knowledge of how these issues relate to contemporary themes in conservation biology and experimental marine biology. ENVS315 Human Demonstrates and reviews how successful management of Environmental modern and future landscapes often requires a long term Interactions perspective. Two lectures summarise the theoretical basis of this assumption and the appropriate methods for reconstructing landscape and processes. These are followed by student-led case studies that review the histories of human activities and landscapes in various parts of the world. Seminars offer the chance for small group work on the integration of different records within specific environments or regions, forming the basis for the directed mini-projects that form the major part of the coursework. Compulsory Module Continued over... For up-to-date entry requirements and full module details see

22 20 Faculty of Science and Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences Please note, modules are provided for information only and may change. Timetabling restrictions may apply. CORE AND SELECTED OPTIONAL MODULES OVERVIEW YEAR THREE (Continued) Code Title Credit Semester Module description ENVS316 Geographies 15 2 Climate change, pollution, desertification and population of Energy explosions have posed severe threats to natural resources and Natural in the globe. The rising demands for energy, water, land and Resources forests have also pushed our ecosystem to a tipping point. How it is possible to accommodate the rapid growth of our economy, without compromising the sustainability of our natural environment, needs a radical re-thinking. This module will touch on agriculture, energy, marine and waste resources and consider how technology, governance and stewardship may offer solutions to the complex issues. ENVS319 Natural Hazards 15 1 The module introduces contextual perspectives on and Society a variety of natural hazards, the different levels of impact on human societies and the mitigation/adaptation strategies adopted before, during and after an extreme natural event. ENVS321 Dissertation 30 1 and 2 (1) Provides you with the opportunity to apply theoretical or or Work-based concepts to real-life situations; (2) allows you to identify ENVS323 Dissertation a research question, devise a research methodology and conduct a research project on a topic of your choice; and (3) gives you the opportunity to develop transferable skills in a workplace context. ENVS325 Politics of the 15 1 Critically evaluates the political responses to the growing Environment impact that environmental issues and the concept of sustainability are having on decision making at all levels of governance, (international, national and local). More specifically the module (1) develops an understanding of the growing importance of environmental and sustainable development thinking in political decision-making processes; (2) explores different environmental attitudes, values and perspectives and examine the impact on various political perspectives; (3) develops an understanding of the opportunities and limitations of environmental decision making and the international dimension of environmental politics and its impact on nation states; (4) understands the role that environmental pressure groups have in shaping political decisions at the international, national and local levels of governance; and (5) explores the policy responses at national and local levels to the new emerging environmental agenda. ENVS332 Ocean Dynamics 15 1 Provides a high level understanding of ocean dynamics, applied to the open ocean and shelf seas by enabling you to (1) address how tracers spread; (2) understand how jets and eddies form on a rotating planet; (3) understand how the ocean is ventilated; (4) explore the effects of topography in shaping the circulation; (5) address how mixing and turbulence are controlled, particularly in the shelf seas; and (6) understand how the physics affects the cycling of nutrients and growth of phytoplankton.

23 @livuni UofLTube 21 Code Title Credit Semester Module description ENVS352 Field class 30 2 Provides you with experience in (1) application of theory (Santa Cruz) to practical field research; (2) general fieldwork skills (critical observation, data collection and management, continual re-evaluation of progress, etc); (3) team work; (4) synthesis, interpretation, and presentation of data obtained through independent research; and (5) group report writing. ENVS372 Fluvial 15 2 Develops understanding of functioning and stability/instability Environments characteristics of fluvial geomorphic systems in both humid and arid regions over timescales from the Pleistocene to the present day. ENVS376 Coastal 15 1 Considers the response of physical processes and coastal Environments: environments to changes in sea-level and climate. Future Spatial and predictions of climate change and sea-level rise are placed Temporal Change in context with a detailed consideration of recent, historical and geological evidence of past change. Particular attention is given to coastal change in response to Holocene sea-level rise and storm activity. The physical processes investigated in this study of contemporary environments will then be considered in a palaeoenvironmental reconstruction exercise based on stratigraphic evidence. Consideration is also given to the future response of coastal environments to predicted sea-level rise and storm magnitude/frequency, and to the sustainable management of coastal resources. ENVS383 Marine Ecology: 15 2 Develops the connections between ecological theory and Theory and the management of marine communities and ecosystems. Applications The theory covered will mostly be concerned with the dynamics and diversity of communities and ecosystems. ENVS385 Issues 15 2 Gives you the chance to examine a topic or an approach which is new to you. By Year Three, you usually have well-focused areas of study, based on dissertations and module choices. Allows you to take a step back from this focus and to consider new areas of investigation. ENVS389 Climate Change 15 2 Provides you with the knowledge to evaluate likely outcomes A Critical Review climate change and climate variability over the next 100 years, to understand policy decisions at different levels, to obtain a critical understanding of climate predictions, and to understand the importance of reference to past and present climates. ENVS393 Science 15 1 and 2 The module (1) provides you with key transferable skills, Communication including: communication, presentation, practical classroom skills and team working; (2) provides classroom based experience for those who are considering teaching as a potential career; and (3) encourages a new generation of STEM teachers. Compulsory Module For up-to-date entry requirements and full module details see

24 Find out more Accommodation: Fees and finance: Life in Liverpool: Student support: Undergraduate enquiries and applications: T: +44 (0) Environmental Science The University of Liverpool Liverpool L69 7ZQ T: +44 (0) /4642 E: Information provided is correct at time of going to press and is subject to change.