ESM 203
Course Name
Earth System Science
This course provides a foundation in the tools and terminology of system science, their application to Earth’s systems, their use in environmental problem solving, and their relevance to environmental management. Students will (1) apply principles of mass, energy, and momentum balance to understand the dynamics of the Earth system; (2) learn to explain critical observations and methods that guide our empirical understanding of global change; (3) be introduced to the basics of environmental physics, including important principles of radiative transfer, fluid dynamics, and heat flow as they pertain to atmospheric and oceanic dynamics, land surface processes, and their connections to the energy, carbon, and water balance of our planet.
ESM 203 Waiver Process
Students wishing to waive ESM 203 must schedule a 30-minute interview with the instructors prior to the beginning of the course. In the interview they will explore the student’s background in Earth system science – previous course work, experience, and knowledge – and make the decision whether or not to grant a waiver. In some cases, partial waivers can be granted, whereby the professors agree that the student can waive the requirement, but must still attend specific lectures that cover material that has not been learned elsewhere. In preparation for the interview, the student should look over previous examinations from ESM 203 that are currently posted on the course web page.
If the professors approve a waiver, the student must submit a complete Bren School petition signed by the professors to the Student Affairs Coordinator. The student does not earn units for a waived class.
If a waiver is not approved, the student will be required to take the course. The student has the right to appeal the decision to the MESM Program Committee for review.
Course Syllabus: Fall 2024