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Climate Variability, Change and Society

Key information

  • Module code:

    5SSG2051

  • Level:

    5

  • Semester:

      Spring

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

This module will explore the physical processes and patterns of natural climate variability and change and consider how these aspects of climate impact on society. Emphasis will be placed on the concepts that climate is not only a determinant of human activities but is one of humankind's greatest resources while also being one of its greatest threats through the occurrence of climate extremes and anthropogenic related changes to the global climate system. 

Assessment details

Examination (100%)

Learning outcomes

At the completion of the module, students should be able to:

  • Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of the relationship between climate and society;
  • Have knowledge of climate oscillations and teleconnections as well as the mechanisms underlying climatic variability;
  • Have the knowledge required to undertake a basic climate impact assessment;
  • Have an understanding of the nature of direct and indirect impacts of climate on society and the the science of climate change and how climate climate change impact assessments are conducted;
  • A conceptual knowledge of climate risk and its assessment; the ability to describe how climate knowledge can be applied to the problem of sustainable development

Teaching pattern

20 hours lectures

Module structure
1. The Framework of Climate Science
2. North Atlantic Climatology
3. Tropical Climatology
4. Orbital-scale Climate Change
5. Greenhouse Effect and Greenhouse Gases
6. Climate Modelling
7. Climate Change Scenarios and Projections
8. Framing and Impacts of Climate Change
9. Vulnerability and Adaptation
10. Climate Mitigation

Subject areas

Department

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.