Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit gives students the opportunity to develop an advanced understanding of the physical processes associated with catchment and river environments. Students are given the opportunity to develop advanced research, analytical and field-based skills in catchment hydrology and fluvial geomorphology. The unit covers topics including hillslope and catchment hydrology, ecohydrology, fluvial geomorphology, salinity and water management, riparian and river management, and considers the impacts of land use and land management changes, terrestrial to marine linkages, and climate change and climate variability on environmental systems.

The unit is focused around a compulsory field trip, usually taught in the sixth week of teaching. Students must attend the field trip to complete the unit. Charges apply for accommodation and food, while transport is provided.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Non-standard teaching periodUWA (Perth)Face to face
Non-standard teaching periodOnlineOnline timetabled
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Honours option in Environmental Science; Natural Resource Management [Bachelor of Science (Honours)]
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an advanced comprehension of physical processes associated with catchment hydrology and fluvial geomorphology; (2) appropriately apply research methods in a field-based setting to measure and analyse catchment, riparian (floodplain) and riverine (in-stream) processes; and (3) interpret and evaluate the links between physical processes and management issues in catchment and river environments.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) 3MGC (Three Minute Geomorphology Concept); (2) field trip (group) presentation; and (3) management report and conceptual model. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Nik Callow
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
72530 Master of Environmental Science
or 72540 Master of Hydrogeology
or 72520 Master of Biological Science
or 71570 Master of Geographic Information Science
or HON-ENVSC Environmental Science
or HON-NRMGT Natural Resource Management
Advisable prior study
All students expected to have some physical geography/geomorphology/hydrology background (e.g.
ENVT2251 Environmental Hydrology, GEOS4499 Land and Water Fundamentals (conversion unit) or equivalent study).
Incidental fees
Incidental student fees and charges are costs incurred by students as part of their studies at UWA that are in addition to their tuition fees (further information is available here).
Participation in this unit will incur the following incidental fee(s):
Field trip (estimated cost - Up to a maximum of $120 per night. Up to $600, but likely charge is significantly lower than this figure.).
Contact hours
lectures: 3 hours per week
field trip: one week in week 6
Note
The cost of food and accommodation for the field trip is borne by the student.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.