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

The scientific basis for predicting the impact of environmental change on global systems is investigated by studying the underlying processes. The impact of environmental change on global biomes and the human imprint on oceans, the atmosphere and land is considered. The scientific assumptions and limitations in predicting environmental change are explored. Students acquire the skills necessary to critically review evidence and interpret data to understand environmental processes and change at both local and global scales.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2025UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) understand the controls of environmental change processes; (2) understand the nature of recent and future climate changes; (3) appreciate how climate impacts on the wider global environment; (4) place the science of future climate change into a scientific context; (5) acquire skills necessary to examine evidence and interpret scientific data for understanding environmental processes and climate change; and (6) acquire the ability to synthesise and communicate scientific information related to environmental and climate change.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) a critical review of scientific literature; (2) an integrated group research project; and (3) a final examination. 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)
Prof. Jason Beringer
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
72 points in your chosen degree
Advisable prior study
ENVT2220 The Climate System
or ENVT2221 Global Climate Change and Biodiversity,
or Level 2 units in Geographical Sciences, Environmental Science,
or similar fields of study.
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
workshops: 2 hours per week (flexible)
  • 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.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • 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.