DEPARTMENT OF EARTH, OCEAN, AND ATMOSPHERIC SCIENCE

Undergraduate Department of Earth, Ocean & Atmospheric Science

COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES

Chair: Robert Hart; Professors: Baco-Taylor, Bourassa, Cai, Chanton, Chassignet, Dewar, Fuelberg, Fuentes, Hart, Huettel, Humayun, Liu, Mason, Misra, Mookherjee, Nicholson, Salters, Spencer, Stukel, Wang, Wu, Ye; Associate Professors: Atwood, Holmes, Owens, Parfitt, Sura, Wing, Young; Assistant Professors: Bono, Diamond, Evans, Herbert, Nam, Stewart, Stokes; Teaching Faculty: Chagnon, Goddard; Professors Emeriti: Ahlquist, Burnett, Clarke, Cowart, Ellingson, Hsueh, Iverson, R. Krishnamurti, T.N. Krishnamurti, Landing, Loper, MacDonald, Marcus, Nof, O'Brien, Odom, Parker, Pfeffer, Staley, Stern, Sturges, Thistle, Tull, Weatherly, Winchester, Wise

In 2010, the departments of Geological Sciences, Oceanography, and Meteorology merged to form the department of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Science (EOAS). While retaining their perspective programmatic focus, the geology, oceanography, and meteorology faculty offer a new level of interdisciplinary integration. This creates fresh opportunities for undergraduate and graduate education in the geosciences. The department provides students with an opportunity for holistic study of Earth's physical environment in preparation for professional careers in government, private, and academic sectors. Due to concerns about climate change, environmental sustainability, availability of natural resources, and environmental pollution and degradation, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an overall 5-7% increase in geoscience-related occupations between 2019 and 2029, which is the average growth rate for all U.S. occupations. The opportunities for study and the degree requirements are described below for:

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Policy
Bachelor of Science in Geology
Bachelor of Science in Meteorology
FSU Teach Geoscience Program (BS)
FSU Teach Environmental Science Program (BS)

The Department of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Science maintains the resources of the three original departments. Our oceanography and meteorology programs are among the leading programs in the country. Our meteorology program is the flagship program in the southeastern United States and is considered one of the top five comprehensive meteorology programs in the nation.

Research programs are conducted within the department and may involve collaborative work with members of the departments of Physics and Chemistry, the College of Engineering, the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Institute, the Department of Scientific Computing, the Center for Ocean and Atmospheric Prediction Studies, and the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. Within EOAS, the Geology department conducts cooperative programs with the Florida Geological Survey, Northwest Florida Water Management District, Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, and the United States Geological Survey.

The Florida Climate Center and Office of the State Climatologist are housed in the department and are equipped with archives of Florida weather and climate records. An instrumentation facility is also located in the department, including data loggers and a variety of modern and historical instruments, and a rooftop meteorological tower for real-time local observations. The National Weather Service Forecast Office, located in the adjacent Love Building, facilitates interactions between faculty and students with professional operational forecasters.

The department has a complete television studio equipped with state-of-the-art broadcasting technology, where students prepare weathercasts for class (MET 3940) and for regular broadcasts on Florida State University's cable television channel, which is seen in surrounding counties and streamed over the Internet. Students often use this experience to develop internships with television stations and to gain employment. Other internship opportunities through private companies or state, local, or federal agencies also are possible. In particular, partnerships and internships with the headquarters of state government agencies located in Tallahassee continue to offer opportunities for our students.

Available for use on student projects is a full array of equipment for investigating radon and radium in the environment, and three mass spectrophotometers capable of measuring stable isotope ratios. The department has equipment for investigating carbon dynamics including greenhouse gasses in the laboratory and the field. The geochemistry program at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory has facilities to measure trace level concentrations of most elements of the periodic table as well as measure the isotopic composition of many stable and radioactive elements. These capabilities allow researchers to fingerprint the sources of different elements in the environment as well as to trace chemical processes. Students and faculty have access to five different types of mass spectrometers to take measurements based on their area of specialization. The laboratories also include a “clean lab” which allows processing of small samples as well as determining concentrations at very low levels. The department also houses a large array of equipment for investigation of microbial ecology including equipment for the cultivation of anaerobic microorganisms.

Graduate Study in Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Science

Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Science offers the Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Geology, Meteorology, and Oceanography, a non-thesis Master of Science in Aquatic Environmental Science, and a Professional Science Master's in Aquatic Environmental Science, a Law and Aquatic Environmental Science and a Physical Environmental Science PhD program.

Undergraduates interested in Oceanography or Geology graduate degrees will find the Environmental Science BS degree excellent preparation for graduate study. Students may choose a specific area of emphasis including geology (coursework will permit graduates to take the examination leading to Professional Geologist Certification), environmental engineering, biogeochemistry, atmospheric science, or marine biology.

Environmental Science

Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Science offers two degrees in Environmental Science. Environmental Science is the interdisciplinary study of environmental systems from a scientific perspective. Drawing principally from the areas of oceanography, geology, and meteorology, the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science will prepare students in the broader and technical area of geoscience where the greatest expansion in employment opportunities is predicted. It is an attractive option for students seeking a broader interdisciplinary major with the rigor of mathematics and the physical sciences at its core. The BS degree will provide a strong basis for graduate study in environmental and earth sciences.

The department also offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science and Policy. This degree differs from the traditional BS degree in its lower-level mathematics requirements and a greater emphasis on policy. These programs aim to prepare exceptionally well-qualified graduates equipped to work in the interdisciplinary earth sciences, whether in government agencies, NGOs, or the private sector. For additional information, see the department's website at https://eoas.fsu.edu.

Geology

Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Science offers the Bachelor of Science (BS), Master of Science (MS), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in geology. Emphasis is on fundamental applications of chemistry, physics, biology, and the scientific method in the study of the earth; field experience is also stressed. Faculty members offer coursework in many areas of surficial, tectonic, environmental, and stratigraphic geology; hydrology; and geochemistry.

The major program is intended to provide a well-rounded introduction to the study of the Earth as well as to prepare the student for more advanced study in the fields of natural resources, environmental planning, oceanography, geophysics, and other earth science specialties.

Various scholarships are offered (and part-time work is available) within Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences, with the Florida Geological Survey of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and with other agencies of the state and federal governments.

Honors in the major can be earned by talented juniors and seniors by engaging in an independent project ending in an honors thesis. For requirements and other information, please see the Honors section.

Meteorology

Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Science offers the Bachelor of Science (BS), Master of Science (MS), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees in meteorology. Meteorology traditionally is divided into four branches: physical, dynamical, synoptic, and applied meteorology. Physical meteorologists deal with topics such as the physics of rain formation, atmospheric electricity, radiative transfer, and remote sensing. Dynamical meteorologists work in such areas as the mathematical representation of atmospheric flow patterns and the numerical prediction of these patterns. Synoptic meteorologists are involved with the description of atmospheric disturbances and with weather forecasting. Applied meteorologists deal with the application of meteorological and climatological knowledge to such areas as agriculture, architecture, ecology, and air pollution. The undergraduate curriculum provides a broad overview of these branches of meteorology while graduate students are encouraged to specialize in one of them. Meteorologists are needed in research, forecasting, and operational positions to study, interpret, and predict weather and climate processes and patterns and to relate these to human activities. Severe storms, floods, droughts, and air pollution are examples of atmospheric phenomena, that influence health, transportation, agriculture, and business activities.

Digital Literacy Requirement

Students must complete at least one course designated as meeting the Digital Literacy Requirement with a grade of “C–” or higher. Courses fulfilling the Digital Literacy Requirement must accomplish at least three of the following outcomes:

Evaluate and interpret the accuracy, credibility, and relevance of digital information
Evaluate and interpret digital data and their implications
Discuss the ways in which society and/or culture interact with digital technology
Discuss digital technology trends and their professional implications
Demonstrate the ability to use digital technology effectively
Demonstrate the knowledge to use digital technology safely and ethically

Each academic major has determined the courses that fulfill the Digital Literacy requirement for that major. Students should contact their major department(s) to determine which courses will fulfill their Digital Literacy requirement.

Undergraduate majors in applied geosciences/FSU-Teach satisfy this requirement by earning a grade of “C–” or higher in CHM 1045L or ISC 3523C. Undergraduate majors in environmental science and environmental science and policy satisfy this requirement by earning a grade of “C–” or higher in CHM 1045L or BSC 2011L. Undergraduate majors in geology satisfy this requirement by earning a grade of “C–” or higher in CHM1045L. Undergraduate majors in meteorology satisfy this requirement by earning a grade of “C–” or higher in CHM1045L.

State of Florida Common Program Prerequisites for Earth Ocean Atmosphere Sciences

The Florida Virtual Campus (FLVC) houses the statewide, internet-based catalog of distance learning courses, degree programs, and resources offered by Florida's public colleges and universities, and they have developed operational procedures and technical guidelines for the catalog that all institutions must follow. The statute governing this policy can be reviewed by visiting https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2021/1006.73.

FLVC has identified common program prerequisites for the degree program in Earth Ocean Atmosphere Sciences. To obtain the most up-to-date, state-approved prerequisites for this degree, visit: https://cpm.flvc.org/programs/1232/3529.

Specific prerequisites are required for admission into the upper-division program and must be completed by the student at either a community college or a state university prior to being admitted to this program. Students may be admitted into the University without completing the prerequisites but may not be admitted into the program.

Definition of Prefixes

EOC—Ocean Engineering

ESC—Earth Science

EVR—Environmental Studies

GLY—Geology

IDS—Interdisciplinary Studies

ISC—Interdisciplinary Sciences

MAP—Mathematics Applied

MET—Meteorology

OCB—Biological Oceanography

OCC—Chemical Oceanography

OCE—General Oceanography

OCG—Geological Oceanography

OCP—Physical Oceanography

PEN—Physical Education Activities (General): Water, Snow, Ice

SCE—Science Education

Undergraduate Courses

EARTH SCIENCE

ESC 1000. Introductory Earth Science (3). This course is an introduction to the study of planet Earth, its internal dynamics, and surficial weathering, erosion, sedimentary processes, the composition and motion of its oceans and atmosphere, and its origin as part of the solar system. Course credit may not be received for this course and also GLY 1000, GLY 1030, or GLY 2010C.

ESC 1000L. Earth Science Laboratory (1). This course is a laboratory introduction to earth science as the study of planet earth, specifically a study of minerals, rocks, maps, oceans, and the atmosphere. Course prerequisite or corequisite: GLY 1030 or ESC 1000.

ESC 3100C. History of Earth Systems (4). Prerequisites: GLY 2010C; or ESC 1000 and ESC 1000L. This course examines the history of the earth, its tectonic, chemical, and biological systems, and how they influence one another. Special attention is given to important tectonic, environmental, and biological events.

GLY 1000. Dynamic Earth (3). This course is an introduction to geology as the study of planet Earth, its internal dynamics, and its surficial weathering, erosion, and sedimentary processes. Course credit may not be received for this course and also GLY 1030 or GLY 2010C.

GLY 1000L. Dynamic Earth Laboratory (1). Pre- or corequisite: GLY 1000 or GLY 1030. This course is a laboratory introduction to geology as the study of plant Earth, specifically a study of minerals, rocks, and maps.

GLY 1001. Earth as a System (3). This course presents a holistic approach to Earth's history with a view toward using that history to explore the planets future. The course explains how interactions of the biosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, and exosphere are expressed in Earth's ever changing environment.

GLY 1030. Environmental Issues in Geology (3). This course examines environmental issues as they relate to geological phenomena, which include volcanic and earthquake hazards, resource and land-use planning, air and water pollution, waste disposal, glaciation and sea-level change, landslides, flooding, shoreline erosion, and global change issues. Course credit may not be received for this course and also GLY 1000 or 2010C. Credit can be received for taking GLY 1000L.

GLY 1102. Dinosaurs and Disasters on an Evolving Earth (3). This course examines the history of the earth and its organisms as recorded in the fossil and rock record; principles of geological and paleontological research; evolution of the dinosaurs, mass extinctions, and effects of past continental movements on the diversity of life. Course credit may not be received for this course and also GLY 2100. GLY 2100L recommended.

GLY 2010C. Physical Geology (4). This course is an introduction to surficial and internal processes affecting a dynamic planet Earth. For majors in geology and natural sciences. Two hour laboratory required. Course credit may not be received for this course and also GLY 1000 or GLY 1030.

GLY 3039. Energy, Resources, and the Environment (3). Prerequisites: GLY 1000 and GLY 2010C; or instructor permission. This course examines the origin of our energy and mineral resources (e.g., fossil fuels, uranium, hydrogen), their global supply, and the environmental impacts of extracting and utilizing these resources. Emphasis is placed on the chemical nature of the resources and the impact on the chemical composition of the ocean/atmosphere and the global heat budget. Field trips, in-class demonstrations, and homework exercises provide firsthand experience.

GLY 3200C. Mineralogy and Crystallography (3). Pre- or corequisites: CHM 1045 and GLY 2010C. This course is an introduction to mineralogy, crystal chemistry, and crystallography. Three hour laboratory required.

GLY 3310C. Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology (3). Prerequisite: GLY 3220C. This course focuses on the classification, description, and origin of igneous and metamorphic rocks; relation of these rocks to tectonic processes. Three hour laboratory required.

GLY 3400C. Structural Geology (4). Prerequisites: GLY 2010, ESC 3100, and GLY 3200C. This course focuses on the theory, processes, mechanics of rock deformation and the deformation of the earth's crust. Field trip is required.

GLY 3610C. Paleontology (4). Prerequisite: ESC 3100C. This course is a review of invertebrate biology, with emphasis on hard-part nomenclature; the occurrence, distribution, evolution, and ecology of fossil invertebrates.

GLY 4240. Principles of Geochemistry (3). Prerequisites: GLY 2010C and basic chemistry. This course focuses on the crystal chemistry of silicates and other minerals; chemical principles applied to igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments and processes; chemistry of natural aqueous systems; chemical equilibria of geologic systems.

GLY 4451. Introduction to Geophysics (3). Prerequisites: MAP 2302 and PHY 2049 or instructor permission. This course explores plate tectonics and earth structure. Current methods of probing the interior: seismology and seismic tomography, geomagnetics, geoid and gravity, geochemistry and geochronology, heat flow, mantle convection, core convection and the geodynamo.

GLY 4544C. Sedimentation and Stratigraphy (4). Prerequisite: GLY 2010C. This course provides a comprehensive and rigorous introduction to sedimentary processes and interpretation of stratigraphic sequences both for undergraduate geology majors and for graduate students with backgrounds in archeology, geography, physics, biology, ecology, and other allied sciences. Processes observed in modern environments on Earth and inferred from ancient records are introduced.

GLY 4700C. Geomorphology (3). Prerequisite: Senior standing. This course is an introduction to the description of landforms and landscapes on the earth's surface. Emphasis is placed on the basic mechanisms that govern landform evolution, and on the history of geomorphic study. Several field trips are required.

GLY 4721. Hydrogeology and Field Methods (3). This course introduces the fundamental principles of groundwater flow and solute transport in aquifers and the interactions between groundwater and the environment. The course also introduces field methods essential for studying groundwater in field conditions.

GLY 4750. Geological Field Methods (1). (S/U grade only.) Corequisite: GLY 3400C. This course provides a working knowledge and some experience of techniques, procedures, and tools that are essential to geological field research, the professional geologist, and the required summer field course.

GLY 4751C. Introduction to Remote Sensing, Air Photo Interpretation and GIS for the Earth Sciences (3). Prerequisites: GLY 3400C and PHY 2049. This course is an introduction to the study of the earth using photographic and electronic imaging acquired from aircraft and satellites; physics of the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and materials of Earth's surface and hydrosphere; principles of electronic and microwave imaging; and use of digital image analysis and GIS in the study of earth resources and global change.

GLY 4790. Geology Field Course (6). This field camp is designed to give upper-level undergraduate and beginning graduate students the observational skills and experience, the interpretative framework, and the self-confidence to undertake detailed field studies in a variety of geologic settings. This is an experiential learning course where students integrate data into a larger geologic framework to build testable hypotheses.

GLY 4812C. Ore Deposits (3). Prerequisites: GLY 3310C and GLY 3400C. This course is an introduction to the study of metallic ore deposits. Laboratory studies of ores using the reflected light microscope and economic evaluation of ore deposits.

GLY 4820. Principles of Hydrology (3). Prerequisites: CHM 1046 and PHY 2049C. This course focuses on the fundamentals of hydrogeology with an emphasis on groundwater flow and hydrochemistry. Both theory and applications are addressed.

GLY 4884. Environmental Geology I (3). This course examines the application of geologic and geochemical principles to environmental issues. Topics include: an evaluation of contaminants in surface water and ground water; hydrocarbon geochemistry and petroleum storage tank problems; waste management, including solid, toxic, and nuclear waste; air quality issues including radon and asbestos; geologic hazards in upland and coastal areas; environmental geologic methods and instrumentation; quality assurance and quality control in environmental analysis; principles of toxicology; risk assessment and risk management; and environmental assessments.

GLY 4905r. Directed Individual Study (1–9). May be repeated to a maximum of nine semester hours.

GLY 4903r. Advanced Topics in Earth Science (3–4). Consent of instructor required. Topics vary. May be repeated to a maximum of eight semester hours when content changes.

GLY 4915r. Undergraduate Research (1–9). (S/U grade only.) This course includes projects in the Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Science department arranged in advance between the student and a member of the teaching faculty of the department. May be repeated to a maximum of nine semester hours.

GLY 4917. Senior Thesis (1). (S/U grade only.) Prerequisite: GLY 4915r. This course consists of a written report and an oral presentation discussing research work done under GLY 4915. The grade is assigned by a committee of three faculty members.

GLY 4930r. Advanced Topics in Earth Science (3–4). Prerequisite: Consent of instructor required. Topics vary. This course may be repeated to a maximum of eight semester hours when content changes.

GLY 4989r. Honors in the Major Research (1–6). In this course, students accepted into the Honors in the Major program complete an original research or creative project in their major area of study. This course must be repeated at least twice to complete a minimum of six (6) credit hours total, but may be repeated up to a maximum of twelve credit hours in total.

IDS 2133. Trilobites to T. Rex: History of Life on Earth (3). This course is an overview of fossil record of life on earth from its first appearance to the dinosaurs. Emphasis is placed on the nature of fossil data, relationship to modern biology and how inferences about life habits are made.

SCE 4939r. Seminar in Contemporary Science, Mathematics, and Science Education (1). This course includes presentations of contemporary and interesting issues in science, mathematics, or academic methods. Content varies from semester to semester. May be repeated to a maximum of four semester hours.

ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

EOC 4631. Marine Pollution (3). Prerequisite: Understanding of chemical processes. This course introduces students to chemical, physical, and biological aspects of dominant marine pollutants, including dissolved toxic metals, complex organic and inorganic contaminants, and particulate pollutants. Topics cover the sources and types of dominant contaminants, their key characteristics, their pathways (as traced through the marine ecosystem from the source to the sinks), their impact on the environment, as well as approaches that could lead to the reduction or elimination of pollutants in the marine environment.

EVR 1001. Introduction to Environmental Science (3). This course is an introduction to environmental science that covers the basic functioning of the earth's environmental system and human effects on that system.

EVR 1001L. Introduction to Environmental Science Laboratory (1). This course is a virtual-reality lab that covers various aspects of environmental science. Students submit lab reports on-line for each module that include data analysis and graphical interpretation.

EVR 3464. Marine Megafauna Ecology and Conservation (3). This course covers the evolution, general anatomy and physiology, ecology and population biology, and distribution and movement of marine and megafauna. Students will use real-world case studies and explore the interdisciplinary nature of marine conservation and how science and research, societal and cultural values, and law and policy each play a role in marine conservation and management.

EVR 4450C. Wetlands: Patterns and Processes (3). Prerequisites: BSC 2010 and CHM 1045. This course focuses on the role of wetlands on the earth, especially in terms of nutrient, bigeochemical and water cycles, how to recognize wetlands, and their functions as habitats.

EVR 4922. Environmental Science Capstone (4). Corequisite: OCE 4008. This course allows students an opportunity to apply knowledge from coursework to a number of individual and group projects. There is a strong field component conducted on and off campus using techniques in basic surveying, sampling, and safety. Meets Liberal Studies upper division writing skills requirement.

IDS 2240. Sustainable Food and Water: Soil, Animals, Vegetables, and Grain (3). This course provides an overview of the issues involved in food and water security on a planet where a billion people are malnourished, while at the same time another billion are overweight. The course examines the science and sustainability of food production, water quality, and soil development.

ISC 2003. Global Change, Its Scientific and Human Dimensions (3). Prerequisites: Two years high school science and two years high school math. This course covers global environmental change, scientific and human dimensions, and international public policy implications.

OCEAN SCIENCE

OCB 4265. Coral Reef Ecology (3). Prerequisite: A good basic understanding of biological, chemical, and physical processes. This course teaches students the components of warm water coral reef ecosystems, their functions and interactions, and their response to environmental change. Biological, chemical, and physical processes that govern the ecology of warm water coral reef ecosystems, as well as the anthropogenic impact on reef ecosystems and the management of coral ecosystems are addressed.

OCB 4631. Estuarine and Coastal Ecology (3). Prerequisite: Understanding of chemical processes. This interdisciplinary course addresses the ecology of estuaries and the part of the inshore waters with which estuaries interact directly. The lectures address the general ecological principles that govern the productivity and diversity of estuaries, including their hydrodynamics, sedimentology, chemistry, as well as plant and animal community structure. Key species of estuarine systems are introduced and cycles of carbon and nutrients are explained.

OCB 4637. Marine Benthic Ecology (3). Pre- or corequisite: ZOO 4203C or instructor permission. This course studies the physical setting and ecological organization of the communities found in the rocky intertidal, in the fouling habitat, on sandy beaches, in subtidal soft bottoms, and in the deep sea. This is presented through lectures, substantial reading, and class discussions.

OCC 4002. Basic Chemical Oceanography (3). Prerequisite: CHM 1046. This course focuses on the chemical composition of seawater, carbon dioxide system, nutrients, trace elements, and biogeochemistry.

OCC 4060. Environmental Science Modeling (3). Prerequisites: MAC 2311, MAC 2312, and either STA 2122 or STA 4102. This course gives students an understanding of explanatory and predictive models of the earth's systems and environmental processes therein. Analytical and numerical methods for solving equations are examined and applied. Discussions cover relevant scientific issues, mathematical and computational procedures, visualization techniques, as well as the use of models in research and decision making.

OCE 1001. Elementary Oceanography (3). Prerequisite: MGF 1106 or MGF 1107. This course studies the structure and motion of the ocean and its environs, properties, populations, and energy budget. Not intended for upper-division science or mathematics majors. Upper-division science or mathematics majors are encouraged instead to take OCE 4008.

OCE 3555. Environmental Science II: Habitable Planet (3). This course explores the earth system at and above the surface of the earth. It combines earth and biological sciences to explore the co-evolution of the earth and life over geological time. Evolution of the hydrosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere are discussed.

OCE 4008. Principles of Oceanography (3). Prerequisite: A science major or minor status and junior or senior standing. This course focuses on dynamic motions and life processes in the marine environment. Long-term geologic history of the oceans and recent changes caused by man. An overview of oceanography for upper-division students majoring in science, mathematics, or science teaching.

OCE 4017. Current Issues in Environmental Science (3). This course is taught at an introductory level and includes discussions of current ground-breaking research, environmental problems, and approaches to solving them. It consists of presentations by experts on their current research topics or environmental issues.

OCE 4064. Marine Conservation Biology (3). Prerequisite: BSC 2011. This course discusses anthropogenic impacts on the world's marine biological resources and ways to mitigate those impacts. The course begins with a brief overview of some relevant key concepts in marine biology and ecology.

OCE 4905r. Directed Individual Study (1–3). (S/U grade only.) May be repeated to a maximum of ten semester hours.

OCE 4906r. Directed Individual Study (1–4). Prerequisite: Instructor permission. May be repeated, subject to limitations that may apply from the individual student's major departments, to a maximum of eighteen semester hours.

OCE 4930r. Studies in Oceanography (1–4). Prerequisite: Instructor permission. Topics vary. May be repeated to a maximum of nine semester hours when content changes.

OCG 3103. The Earth System (3). This course is an examination of the modern approach to understanding Earth's climate history and climate change on a global scale.

OCP 4005. Introduction to Physical Oceanography (3). Prerequisite: MAC 2313. This course examines waves, currents, tides, El Niño, and climate change prediction.

PEN 1136. Theory and Practice of Compressed-Gas Diving (1). This course is an introduction to the field of compressed-gas diving that exposes students to the use of underwater technology and techniques in support of science.

ATMOSPHERIC SCIENCE

MET 1010. Introduction to the Atmosphere (3). This course covers the structure of the atmosphere; weather processes and weather systems, including climatic processes. Credit may not be received in this course if student has already received credit in 2000-level or higher MET courses.

MET 1020. Introduction to Atmospheric Science (3). This course utilizes algebraic equations where appropriate to describe the structure of the atmosphere, weather processes and weather systems, including climate change.

MET 1010L. Introductory Meteorology Laboratory (1). Prerequisites: MAC 1105 or equivalent and college-level algebra. Corequisite: MET 1010. This course covers data analysis, instruments, and weather system models.

SCE 4835C. Teaching Earth and Space Science (3). This course examines the pedagogical content knowledge needed to teach earth/space science.

REQUIRED COURSES FOR METEOROLOGY MAJORS

MET 2507C. Weather Analysis and Forecasting (2). Prerequisite: MET 2700 with a grade of “C” or better. This course is an introduction to meteorological observations, data, codes, and scalar analysis practices. Weather applications software systems and computing environments for meteorological analysis and weather forecasting techniques are examined.

MET 2700. General Meteorology (3). Prerequisites: CHM 1045 and MAC 2311, both with a grade of “C-” or better. Corequisite: PHY 2048C. This course covers atmospheric structure and composition; weather and circulation systems; physics of atmospheric processes, including thermodynamics of dry and moist air.

MET 3107. Physical Climatology (3). Corequisite: MET 2700. This course covers global distribution of principal climatic elements with emphasis on physical causes. Statistical analysis of distributions of climatological variables.

MET 3220C. Meteorological Computations (3). Prerequisites: MAC 2312 (“C-” or better), MET 3101 (“C-” or better), and MET 3231 (“C” or better). This course covers the solution of meteorological problems using statistical metrics, distributions of meteorological variables, and meteorological programming.

MET 3231. Introduction to Atmospheric Thermodynamics and Dynamics (3). Prerequisites: CHM 1045 and MAC 2311. This course examines a variety of topics, including equations of motion, mass conservation, thermodynamics, vorticity, and geostrophic, gradient and thermal winds.

MET 3300. Introduction to Atmospheric Dynamics (3). Prerequisites: MAC 2312 (“C-” or better), PHY 2048C (“C-” or better) and MET 2700 (“C” or better). This course examines a variety of topics, including equations of motion, mass conservation, thermodynamics, vorticity, and geostrophic, gradient and thermal winds.

MET 4301. Atmospheric Dynamics I (4). Prerequisite: MET 3300 with a grade of “C” or better. Corequisites: MAP 2302 or MAP 3305 and MET 4420. This course covers acceleration in rotating curvilinear coordinates; momentum, continuity, and energy equations; geostrophic, gradient, and thermal winds; generalized coordinates; circulation and vorticity theorems; scale analysis; Reynolds stresses; Prandtl and Ekman layers; developing baroclinic systems.

MET 4302. Atmospheric Dynamics II (4). Prerequisites: MET 4301 (“C-” or better), MAP 2302 or MAP 3305 (“C-” or better). This course covers linear perturbation theory; sound, gravity, and Rossby waves; numerical weather prediction; baroclinic and barotropic instability; energetics. An introduction to theory of partial differential equations applied to meteorological problems also is presented.

MET 4400C. Meteorological Instrumentation and Observations (3). Prerequisites: PHY 2048C and MET 2700, both with a grade of “C” or better. This course covers theory and practice of calibration and operation of basic sensors, measurement of temperature, heat flow, fluid flow, pressure, and moisture. Two hours lecture, three hours laboratory.

MET 4420. Atmospheric Thermodynamics and Cloud Physics (3). Prerequisites: MAC 2313, MET 3231, PHY 2048C, and PHY 2049C. This course covers classical equilibrium thermodynamics; first and second law, entropy, phase changes, potentials. Physics of moist air; physics of aerosols; condensation of water vapor on aerosols. Microphysics and dynamics of clouds; growth of ice crystals.

MET 4500C. Synoptic Lecture-Laboratory I: Basic Analysis Techniques (4). Prerequisites: MET 3231. Corequisites: MET 3220C, MET 4301, and MET 4420. This course covers the analysis of scalar and vector fields, the three-dimensional structure of atmospheric systems, and thermodynamic diagrams.

MET 4501C. Synoptic Lecture-Laboratory II: Four-Dimensional Structure (4). Prerequisites: MET 4500C or MET 5500C; MET 4301 or MET 5311; MET 4420 or MET 5420; and STA 2122 or equivalent. This course covers synoptic calculation and four-dimensional analysis of weather systems.

MET 4535. Tropical Meteorology (3). Prerequisites: MET 3220C, MET 4302, and MET 4501C. This course covers convection, boundary layer processes, local weather phenomena, mesoscale tropical systems, and hurricane structure.

MET 4640. Atmospheric Chemistry (3). Prerequisites: CHM 1045, MET 3231, PHY 2049C, and MAP 2302 or MAP 3305. Corequisite: MET 4420. This course explores the role of atmospheric chemistry in air pollution, climate change, and environmental health. Students examine the physical and chemical processes that control the composition of the atmosphere and the global cycles of airborne pollutants. Specific topics include transport and dispersion of pollutants, surface and stratospheric ozone, acid rain, aerosols, and numerical modeling of atmospheric chemistry.

REQUIRED COURSES FOR FSU TEACH APPLIED GEOSCIENCES

ISC 3523C. Research Methods (3). Prerequisites: SMT 1043 and SMT 1053. In this course, students learn appropriate scientific research methods for several types of research questions. Using the inquiry method of learning, they develop a research question and an experiment to answer it, and then use statistical techniques to analyze their resulting data.

MET 3103C. Climate Change Science (3). Prerequisite: MET 2700 with a grade “C” or better. This course enables students to explore the science behind our understanding of climate change. The course provides an in-depth exploration of the use of proxi, in situ, remote-sensing data, climate models, and their public policy implications. Students gain experience in evaluating internal and external forcings on the climate system and make quantitative assessments of change. The course also gives students an understanding of energy transfer methods between the atmosphere, cryosphere, oceans, and fresh-water systems.

ELECTIVE COURSES FOR METEOROLOGY MAJORS

MET 1050. Natural Hazards and Disasters: From Hurricanes to Meteorites (3). This course provides a survey of earth, ocean, and atmospheric sciences through an examination of natural hazards and disasters. The course examines the nature and physical processes that drive the hazards, the dangers associated with it, the scientific methods of forecasting such events, and approaches to their mitigation.

MET 3103C. Climate Change Science (3). Prerequisite: MET 2700. This course enables students to explore the science behind our understanding of climate change. The course provides an in-depth exploration of the use of proxi, in situ, remote-sensing data, climate models, and their public policy implications. Students gain experience in evaluating internal and external forcings on the climate system and make quantitative assessments of change.

MET 3520r. Current Weather Discussion (1). (S/U grade only.) Prerequisite: MET 2700. This course includes discussion of facsimile analysis and prediction materials. Three meetings per week. May be repeated to a maximum of four semester hours.

MET 3940r. Weathercasting (1). (S/U grade only.) Prerequisite: MET 1010. Corequisite: MET 2700. This course includes practice in preparing and presenting weathercasts for radio and television. May be repeated to a maximum of four semester hours.

MET 4159r. Selected Topics in Meteorology (1–3). Prerequisite: MET 2700 with a grade of “C” or better. Corequisites: MET 2101, MET 3300, and instructor permission. This course covers selected topics in meteorology and climatology not covered in other courses. May be repeated as content changes to a maximum of twelve semester hours.

MET 4114. Regional Hydroclimatology (3). Prerequisite: MET 3107 and MET 3300. This course covers the physical and dynamical basis for the maintenance and variations of regional hydroclimate in the current and a changing future climate.

MET 4302. Atmospheric Dynamics II (4). Prerequisite: MAP 2302 or MAP 3305 with a grade of “C-” or better and MET 3201 with a grade of “C-” or better. This course covers linear perturbation theory; sound, gravity, and Rossby waves; numerical weather prediction; baroclinic and barotropic instability; energetics. An introduction to theory of partial differential equations applied to meteorological problems is also presented.

MET 4370. Boundary Layer Physics and Air/Sea Interaction (3). Prerequisite: MET 3320C. Corequisites: MET 4301 and MET 4420. This course covers the physics of processes coupling the ocean and the atmosphere, with an emphasis on turbulent transfer and boundary layers.

MET 4450. Radiative Transfer and Remote Sensing (3). Prerequisite: MET 4420 and MET 3220C. This course covers radiative processes in the atmosphere; radiative transfer equation, absorption by gases, Rayleigh scattering, as well as remote sensing using radars and satellites.

MET 4536. Mesometeorology (3). Prerequisites: MET 4500C. Corequisite: MET 4501C. This course covers the basic structure and dynamics of mesoscale atmospheric systems, including mesoscale instabilities, thunderstorms, sea breezes, and orographic circulations.

MET 4640. Atmospheric Chemistry (3). Prerequisites: CHM 1045, MET 3231, PHY 2049C, and MAP 2302 or MAP 3305. Corequisite: MET 4420. This course explores the roles of atmospheric chemistry in air pollution, climate change, and environmental health. Students examine the physical and chemical processes that control the composition of the atmosphere and the global cycles of airborne pollutants. Specific topics include transport and dispersion of pollutants, surface and stratospheric ozone, acid rain, aerosols, and numerical modeling of atmospheric chemistry.

MET 4705. Operational Meteorology (2). Prerequisite: MET 4500C. This course introduces observational analysis products used in operational weather forecast offices. Topics include applications of radar and satellite data, the various applications of numerical weather prediction, and types of weather forecasts.

MET 4900r. Honors in the Major Research (1–6). In this course, students accepted into the Honors in the Major program complete an original research or creative project in their major area of study. This course must be repeated at least twice to complete a minimum of six (6) credit hours total, but may be repeated up to a maximum of twelve hours in total.

MET 4905r. Directed Individual Study (1–3). May be repeated to a maximum of nine semester hours.

MET 4945r. Meteorology Internship (1–9). (S/U grade only.) This course is a supervised internship individually assigned to accommodate student's background and objectives. Credit proportional to scope and significance of work. May be repeated to a maximum of nine semester hours.