Courses & Units
Ocean Dynamics and Global Climate Variability KSM310
Hobart
Introduction
Building on your understanding of oceanographic techniques, observation, and modelling, this unit delves into the dynamics of ocean circulation and its influence on global climate variability.
You will gain an understanding of fundamental concepts in ocean dynamics across various scales, including ocean turbulence and mixing, eddies, planetary Kelvin and Rossby waves, and the circulation of major ocean current systems.
These fundamental concepts will be used to explore a range of climate variability phenomena, such as marine heatwaves, climate modes (e.g. ENSO, IOD, and SAM), and the global overturning circulation.
The unit will discuss the global impacts of these phenomena and the potential for change in the future. Practical sessions will provide hands-on experience using observations, laboratory, and computer models to apply these concepts to realistic ocean conditions. Upon completion of this unit, you will have a robust understanding of the fundamental physical processes that govern ocean circulation and their contribution to climate variability.
Summary
| Unit name | Ocean Dynamics and Global Climate Variability |
|---|---|
| Unit code | KSM310 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | College of Sciences and Engineering Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies |
| Discipline | Oceans Ice and Climate |
| Coordinator | Professor Neil Holbrook |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Advanced |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 24/2/2025 | 25/3/2025 | 14/4/2025 | 1/6/2025 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2025 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2025 will be available from the 1st October 2024. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Discuss fundamental concepts and principles in ocean dynamics.
- Discuss the fundamental link between ocean dynamics and the global climate system.
- Apply ocean dynamics concepts and principles to conduct oceanographic experiments.
- Critically evaluate and communicate ocean-driven climate variability using a range of techniques.
Fee Information
| Field of Education | Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 | Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 | Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 | Domestic Full Fee 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 010907 | $1,164.00 | $1,164.00 | not applicable | $2,726.00 |
- Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
- HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
- FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4
1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.
If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.
Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.
Requisites
Prerequisites
KSA205Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | On-Campus:¿¿Pre-recorded 2-hour lectures, 1-hour seminar. Fortnightly 3-hour practical.¿ |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Assignment 1 - Fundamentals of Ocean Dynamics (20%)|Assignment 2 - Ocean climate change and variability (20%)|Assignment 3 - Large-scale ocean circulation changes (20%)|KSM310 End of Semester Exam (40%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.