Monash University: University Handbooks: Undergraduate Handbook 2003: Units indexed by faculty
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Atmospheric science


General information

Coordinators: Dr Steve Siems (School of Mathematical Sciences), Professor Nigel Tapper (School of Geography and Environmental Science)

The discipline

Atmospheric science explores the structure and evolution of the atmosphere, and includes the problems of forecasting the day-to-day weather, the climate and the role of both in environmental issues. The undergraduate program is designed to introduce the scientific principles behind these phenomena as well as provide a broad understanding of them. An interdisciplinary approach is essential in studying atmospheric science. The field draws on the strengths of environmental science, applied mathematics and physical geography; it involves applications of concepts in physics and chemistry. Modern scientific and computing techniques are employed to approach some of the fundamental problems facing our society. The discipline offers a balance of field work, data analysis, theoretical research and state-of-the-art modelling.

The atmospheric science program is offered jointly by the School of Mathematical Sciences and the School of Geography and Environmental Science.

Units offered

Level one
Level two
Level three

Sequence requirements

Minor sequence in atmospheric science (24 points):

Major sequence in atmospheric science (48 points):

Details of the MTH units, and some related sequences, are described in the `Geography and environmental science' and `Mathematics' entries in this section of the handbook.

In addition to these requirements, students completing a major sequence in atmospheric science are required to have completed at least MTH1030 and MTH2010.

Recommendations

Level one

ATM1010 is designed for any science student, not necessarily those wishing to major in the discipline, and it is not a prerequisite for any higher- level units. However, students wishing to take a minor sequence in atmospheric science are encouraged to take ATM1010.

Students considering taking a major sequence in atmospheric science, however, will need to complete a 12-point sequence of level-one mathematics (either MTH1020 and MTH1030 or MTH1030 and MTH2010). Also, as atmospheric science is a broadly based discipline, a level-one unit in either physics or chemistry is recommended.

Level two

Students considering taking a major sequence in atmospheric science sequence must complete the prerequisite mathematics unit MTH2010 and are strongly encouraged to take MTH2032 as well (as it is a prerequisite for MTH3362).

Level three

Students taking a major sequence in atmospheric science should take the four core units ATM3011, MTH3362, ATM3212 and ATM3251, although some substitution is allowed with the approval of the coordinator.

Honours

Students may apply for honours studies in atmospheric science through the completion of satisfactory level-three studies in either atmospheric science, mathematical sciences or geography and environmental science. Students will further develop their research skills through individual research projects supervised by staff members, as well as through lectures on advanced topics.

Students also have the option of studying some atmospheric science at the honours level through either the School of Mathematical Sciences or the School of Geography and Environmental Science. Students choosing this option should see the entries for those areas in this handbook.

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