Start and finish dates may change subject to staff availability, refer to the QMS website for further details. http://www.imas.utas.edu.au/qms/qms-unit-information.
QMS units are designed for postgraduate students with a strong background in quantitative analysis, mathematics, physics and chemistry.
Introduction
The purpose of this unit is to introduce physical oceanographic concepts, including the ocean's circulation and physical structure to students with a broad background in university level physics and mathematics. The unit will cover seawater properties, instruments and observing platforms, equations of motion, geostrophic circulation, Ekman layer theory and wind driven circulation, meridional overturning circulation, circulation of the Southern Ocean,waves in the ocean, and basics of ocean modelling. The student will learn the fundamental concepts that are used in physical oceanography for describing and modelling currents, waves, and their role in the climate system.
Summary
| Unit name | Physical Oceanography |
| Unit code | QMS511 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies |
| Discipline | Oceans Ice and Climate |
| Coordinator | Associate Professor Maxim Nikurashin |
| Delivered By | |
| Level | Postgraduate |
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.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Learning Outcomes
- Explain concepts and principles used in physical oceanography
- Solve physical oceanographical problems by applying theoretical and practical principles.
- Analyse experimental observations using laboratory work and computer simulation.
- Use oceanographic data and computer models to interpret and report results.
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | 1 week intensive unit (5 days) consisting of lectures and lab sessions. There will be 15-20 hours of lectures and 15-20 hours of tutorial classes. |
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| Assessment | Labs (50%)|Take-home assignment (50%) |
| 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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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.