Southern Ocean in the Global Carbon Cycle unit (KSA308)

Hobart

Introduction

The Southern Ocean may seem far away, but it plays a critical role as a climate change ‘shock absorber’, literally absorbing carbon dioxide that would otherwise worsen climate change right here in Hobart. Utilising the skills in data analysis and understanding of ocean dynamics, this unit provides instruction on the role of the Southern Ocean in the global carbon cycle and its future changes. Despite covering only a quarter of the ocean surface, the Southern Ocean exerts a strong impact on the natural and anthropogenic carbon cycle. Notably, changes in the Southern Ocean’s carbon cycling are believed to have played a key role in driving the large decreases in atmospheric CO2 observed during glacial periods. The ocean south of 35°S has accounted for about 40% of total ocean uptake of anthropogenic CO2.  

This unit explores the reasons for the Southern Ocean’s outsized role in the global carbon cycle. You will gain an understanding of fundamental concepts in carbonate chemistry, gas exchange and biological production and export, within the unique physical context of the Southern Ocean.  

In computer-based practical's students will gain a quantitative perspective on aspects of Southern Ocean carbon cycling and develop skills in data science by analysing observational data from ships, floats, satellites, integrated products and global biogeochemical models. Wet labs will provide an opportunity for students to deepen their understanding through hands-on activities. 

Summary

Unit name	Southern Ocean in the Global Carbon Cycle
Unit code	KSA308
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies
Discipline	Oceans Ice and Climate
Coordinator	Professor Zanna Chase
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Advanced

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 1

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 1	22/2/2026	16/3/2026	19/4/2026	13/6/2026

* 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 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Solve theoretical problems in biogeochemistry using box models
• Discuss the ocean’s carbonate system using quantitative and qualitative metrics
• Calculate and evaluate carbon cycling in the Southern Ocean using diverse data sets
• Analyse biogeochemical cycles in the Southern Ocean 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
010713	$1,192.00	$1,192.00	not applicable	$2,862.00

• 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 UniConnect 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.

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	On-Campus:¿¿Each week: 1-hour in-person seminar,  3-hour practical.
Assessment	Box Model Problem Set (10%)|Carbon System Problem Set (10%)|Data Visualisation Problem Set (20%)|Regional Carbon Cycle Analysis, Report and Presentation (60%)
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.

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