Scripps Institution of Oceanography - undergraduate program

Scripps Institution of Oceanography

[ undergraduate program | graduate program | faculty ]

All courses, faculty listings, and curricular and degree requirements described herein are subject to change or deletion without notice.

Courses

For course descriptions not found in the UC San Diego General Catalog 2019–20, please contact the department for more information.

Lower Division

SIO 1. The Planets (4)

Space exploration has revealed an astonishing diversity among the planets and moons in our solar system. The planets and their histories will be compared to gain insight and a new perspective on planet Earth. Prerequisites: none. (W)

SIO 3. Life in the Oceans (4)

An introduction to the wide variety of organisms that live in the oceans, the habitats they occupy, and how species interact with each other and their environment. Included will be examinations of adaptations, behavior, ecology, and a discussion of local and global resource management and conservation issues. This course is designed for nonbiology majors. Prerequisites: none.

SIO 10. The Earth (4)

An introduction to structure of the Earth and the processes that form and modify it. Emphasizes material that is useful for understanding geological events as reported in the news and for making intelligent decisions regarding the future of our environment. Prerequisites: none. (S)

SIO 12. History of the Earth and Evolution (4)

Evolution of the Earth from its origin in the early solar system to formation of continents and ocean basins, and how the planet became habitable. It examines the geologic record of evolution, extinction, plate tectonics, and climate changes through time. Prerequisites: none. (F)

SIO 15. Natural Disasters (4)

Introduction to environmental perils and their impact on everyday life. Geological and meteorological processes, including earthquakes, volcanic activity, large storms, global climate change, mass extinctions throughout Earth’s history, and human activity that causes and prevents natural disasters. Prerequisites: none. (F)

SIO 16. Geology of the National Parks (4)

An introduction to fundamental concepts of geology and environmental science through the lens of the national park system. Topics covered include the geologic time scale; plate tectonics; igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary processes; geomorphology; climate change; and environmental degradation. Prerequisites: none. (S)

SIO 20. The Atmosphere (4)

Descriptive introduction to meteorology and climate studies. Topics include global and wind and precipitation patterns, weather forecasting, present climate and past climate changes (including droughts, El Niño events), greenhouse gas effects, ozone destruction, the “little ice age,” acid rain. Prerequisites: none. (W)

SIO 25. Climate Change and Society (4)

Climate change is one of the most complex and critical issues affecting societies today. This course will present the scientific evidence for climate change and its impacts and consider governmental policy responses and possible adaptation strategies. Prerequisites: none. (W)

SIO 30. The Oceans (4)

Presents modern ideas and descriptions of the physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects of oceanography, and considers the interactions between these aspects. Intended for students interested in the oceans, but who do not necessarily intend to become professional scientists. Prerequisites: none. (F)

SIO 35. Water (4)

This course will examine the properties of water that make it unique and vital to living things. Origin of water on Earth and neighboring planets will be explored. Socially relevant issues concerning water use and contamination will be covered. Prerequisites: none. (W)

SIO 40. Life and Climate on Earth (4)

Explores life on Earth and its relationship to the environment—past, present, and future. Topics include origins of life, earth history, elemental cycles, global climate variability and human impacts on our environment. Prerequisites: none. (F)

SIO 45. Volcanoes (4)

This class will provide students with an introduction to volcanoes, including the mechanisms, products, and hazards associated with various types of volcanic eruptions. A key area of emphasis will be the impact of volcanism on human societies. Prerequisites: none. (W)

SIO 45GS. Volcanoes (4)

This class will provide students with an introduction to volcanoes, including the mechanisms, products, and hazards associated with various types of volcanic eruptions. A key area of emphasis will be the impact of volcanism on human societies. Prerequisites: students must apply for and be accepted to the Global Seminars Program.

SIO 46GS. Global Volcanism (4)

This global seminar course will focus on European volcanism—past, present, and future. Students will learn in detail about the volcanoes of Europe, including their geologic origins, eruptive styles, and histories. A special focus will be on the impact of volcanic hazards on the people, cultures, and societies of this heavily populated region. Notable volcanoes and historical eruptions (Vesuvius and Pompeii, Mt. Etna, Santorini, Campi Flegrei) will be discussed in detail. Program or materials fees may apply. Prerequisites: students must apply for and be accepted to the Global Seminars Program.

SIO 50. Introduction to Earth and Environmental Sciences (6)

This course is an introduction to how our planet works, focusing on the formation and evolution of the solid earth, and the processes affecting both its surface and interior. Laboratories and substantial field component complement and extend the lecture material. Program and/or materials fees may apply. Prerequisites: none. (F,S)

SIO 60. Experiences in Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences (4)

Oceanic and atmospheric sciences are introduced through a series of modules where students learn basic principles in the classroom and then have hands-on experiences demonstrating these principles. The course will include trips to the beach, the Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier, and laboratories at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Prerequisites: none.

SIO 87. Freshman Seminar (1)

The Freshman Seminar Program is designed to provide the new students with the opportunity to explore and intellectual topic with a faculty member in a small setting. Topics vary from quarter to quarter. Enrollment is limited to fifteen to twenty students, with preference given to entering freshmen. (P/NP grades only). (F,W,S)

SIO 90. Undergraduate Seminar (1)

Perspectives on ocean sciences. This seminar introduces students to exciting and current research topics in ocean science as presented by faculty and researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Formerly ERTH 90. Prerequisites: none.

SIO 96. Frontiers in the Earth Sciences (2)

An introduction to current research in the earth sciences. Background in science not required but may be useful for some topics. Areas covered vary from year to year. Prerequisites: none.

SIO 99. Independent Study (2 or 4)

Independent reading or research on a problem by special arrangement with a faculty member. Prerequisites: lower-division standing, completion of thirty units of UC San Diego undergraduate study, a minimum UC San Diego GPA of 3.0, and a completed and approved Special Studies form, UC San Diego Application for Enrollment Special Studies Courses 97, 98, 99.

Upper Division

SIO 100. Introduction to Field Methods (4)

Mapping and interpretation of geologic units. Fieldwork is done locally, and the data are analyzed in the laboratory. There will be one mandatory weekend field trip to Anza Borrego State Park. Program and/or materials fees may apply. Prerequisites: SIO 50 or consent of instructor. (F)

SIO 101. California Coastal Oceanography (4)

This course emphasizes oceanographic connections between physical and climate forcing and marine ecosystem responses using examples from and activities in the California coastal environment. The approach is inquiry-based, combining classroom and experiential learning to build critical and quantitative thinking and research insights and abilities. Prerequisites: CHEM 6A or consent of instructor. (F)

SIO 102. Introduction to Geochemistry (4)

An introduction to the chemical composition and evolution of the Earth and solar system. Applications of chemical methods to elucidate the origin and geologic history of the Earth and the planets, evolution of oceans and atmosphere, and human environmental impacts. Prerequisites: SIO 50, CHEM 6A-B-C, or consent of instructor. (W)

SIO 103. Introduction to Geophysics (4)

An introduction to the structure and composition of the solid earth. Topics include seismology, the gravity and magnetic fields, high-pressure geophysics, and concepts in geodynamics. Emphasis is on global geophysics, i.e., on the structure and evolution of the planet. Prerequisites: MATH 20A-B-C-D and PHYS 2A-B-C, SIO 50, or consent of instructor. SIO 160 recommended. (W)

SIO 104/SIOG 255. Paleobiology and History of Life (6)

An introduction to the major biological transitions in Earth history from the origins of metabolism and cells to the evolution of complex societies. The nature and limitations of the fossil record, patterns of adaptation and diversity, and the tempo and mode of biological evolution. Laboratories and substantial field component complement and extend the lecture material. Program and/or materials fees may apply. Prerequisites: undergraduate: BILD 3 or consent of instructor. Graduate: graduate-level standing or consent of instructor. Graduate students, additionally, will give oral presentation or research paper. (S)

SIO 105. Sedimentology and Stratigraphy (4)

This course will examine sedimentary environments from mountain tops to the deep sea across a variety of time scales. The focus is to develop the skills to interpret stratigraphy and read the history of the Earth that it records. Laboratories and substantial field component complement and extend lecture material. Program and/or course materials fees may apply. Prerequisites: SIO 50 or consent of instructor. (S)

SIO 106. Introduction to Hydrogeology (4)

An introduction to the theory and practice of hydrogeology, emphasizing current concepts of aquifer and water properties and practical considerations related to groundwater quality, groundwater flow, and sustainability of groundwater reservoirs. Prerequisites: SIO 50, MATH 20C, PHYS 2C, and CHEM 6C; upper-division standing or consent of instructor. (F)

SIO 108. Introduction to Paleoclimatology (4)

An introduction to basic principles and applications of paleoclimatology, the study of climate and climate changes that occurred prior to the period of instrumental records. A review of processes and archives of climate data will be investigated using examples from Earth history. Prerequisites: ESYS 102 or SIO 50 or SIO 12 or consent of instructor.

SIO 109. Bending the Curve: Climate Change Solutions (4)

This course will focus on scalable solutions for carbon neutrality and climate stability. The course adopts climate change mitigation policies, technologies, governance, and actions that California, the UC system, and cities around the world have adopted as living laboratories and challenges students to identify locally and globally scalable solutions. (Students may not receive credit for POLI 117 and SIO 109.)

SIO 110. Introduction to GIS and GPS for Scientists (4)

A hands-on introduction to science applications of geographic information systems and global positioning system. Students acquire data through GPS field surveys, design and construct GIS using ESRI’s ArcGIS software, analyze spatial data, and present the results in a web-based environment. Prerequisites: upper-division standing or consent of instructor. (W)

SIO 111. Introduction to Ocean Waves (4)

The linear theory of ocean surface waves, including: group velocity, wave dispersion, ray theory, wave measurement and prediction, shoaling waves, giant waves, ship wakes, tsunamis, and the physics of the surf zone. Cross-listed with PHYS 111. Prerequisites: PHYS 2A–C or PHYS 4A–C and MATH 20A–E, or consent of instructor. (W)

SIO 113. Introduction to Computational Earth Science (4)

Computers are used in the geosciences to understand complex natural systems. This course includes beginning programming with a user-friendly language (Python). Prerequisites: SIO 50 or consent of instructor. (S)

SIO 114. The Science and Analysis of Environmental Justice (4)

Introduction to the scientific basis and critical analysis of environmental justice, with an emphasis on case studies, activism, and community engagement. This course will prepare students to critique and develop scientific models, research designs, and measurements consistent with environmental justice. Students may not receive credit for ETHN 136 and SIO 114. Prerequisites: upper-division standing or consent of instructor.

SIO 115. Ice and the Climate System (4)

This course examines the Earth’s cryosphere, including glaciers, ice sheets, ice caps, sea ice, lake ice, river ice, snow, and permafrost. We cover the important role of the cryosphere in the climate systems and its response to climate change. Prerequisites: MATH 20A–D and PHYS 2A–C or consent of instructor. (S)

SIO 116. Climate Change and Global Health: Understanding the Mechanisms (4)

This course will introduce students to the public health effects of global climate change. The course will begin by understanding the climate change phenomena and explaining the direct and indirect links between climate change and human health, including the public health impacts of infectious diseases, atmospheric air pollution, and extreme weather events. The second part of the course will be dedicated to adaption and mitigation solutions with a particular focus on vulnerable populations. Students may not receive credit for SIO 116 and SIO 116GS. Prerequisites: upper-division standing or consent of instructor.

SIO 116GS. Climate Change and Global Health: Understanding the Mechanisms (4)

This course will introduce students to the public health effects of global climate change. The course will begin by understanding the climate change phenomena and explaining the direct and indirect links between climate change and human health, including the public health impacts of infectious diseases, atmospheric air pollution, and extreme weather events. The second part of the course will be dedicated to adaption and mitigation solutions with a particular focus on vulnerable populations. Students may not receive credit for SIO 116GS and SIO 116. Program or materials fees may apply. Prerequisites: students must apply for and be accepted to the Global Seminars Program.

SIO 117. The Physical Basis of Global Warming (4)

Introduction to the processes behind global warming, including the physics of the greenhouse effect, controls on greenhouse gases, atmospheric and oceanic circulation, climate feedbacks, relationship to natural climate variability, and global environmental issues related to global warming. Prerequisites: MATH 20D and PHYS 2C or consent of instructor. (F)

SIO 118GS. Responding to Climate Change: Possible Solutions (4)

This course will be taught in Dharamsala, India, and explores societal solutions to climate change. Course topics include mitigation and adaptation policies, including a guide to design, implement, and evaluate an adaptation policy, and the public health cobenefits of addressing climate change. Prerequisites: students must apply for and be accepted to the Global Seminars Program.

SIO 119. Physics and Chemistry of the Oceans (4)

Basic physical and chemical processes that influence the biology of the oceans, such as ocean circulation, ocean acidification, carbonate chemistry, trace metal chemistry. Prerequisites: PHYS 1C or 2C, CHEM 6C, or consent of instructor. (W)

SIO 120. Introduction to Mineralogy (4)

Application of mineralogical and x-ray crystallographic techniques in earth sciences. Topics include symmetry, crystal structure, chemical, and physical properties of minerals with special emphasis on the common rock-forming minerals. Laboratory component includes polarizing microscope and x-ray powder diffraction methods. Prerequisites: SIO 50, or consent of instructor. (W)

SIO 121. Biology of the Cryosphere (4)

The cryosphere comprises sea ice, glaciers, snow, and other frozen environments. Changing rapidly in the face of global climate change, these environments host unique and highly adapted ecosystems that play an important role in the global earth system. In this course we will explore the physiology and ecology of organisms in the cryosphere and peripheral habitats. A special emphasis will be placed on sea ice as a habitat archetype, but glacier, snow, and permafrost will also be covered. Prerequisites: BILD 1, BILD 2, BILD 3, or consent of instructor.

SIO 121GS. Geology of the Alps (4)

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This global seminar course will examine the geology of the Alps range. Students will develop an in-depth understanding of the geology, tectonics, and geomorphology of this fascinating, beautiful, and geologically complex region. The course will focus closely on the tectonics of the region and the subsequent geologic processes that have shaped it (e.g., glaciation) since the late Mesozoic Alpine Orogeny. Classroom study will be strongly augmented with local and regional field excursions. Program or materials fees may apply ospheric...