Introduction to Climate Change Law

Program Overview

This 15-credit online short course from Robert Gordon University explores the legal aspects of climate change, covering both adaptation and mitigation strategies. It examines the international legal framework, including the Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Kyoto Protocol, and the Paris Agreement. Delivered through recorded lectures, forum discussions, and assignments, the course is assessed through written coursework and set exercises.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This program is a 15-credit Short Course at SCQF level 11 titled "Introduction to Climate Change Law" offered by the Law School at Robert Gordon University. The course focuses on the legal aspects of climate change, covering both adaptation and mitigation strategies. It examines the international legal framework surrounding climate change, including the Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Kyoto Protocol, and the Paris Agreement.

Outline:

• Topics:
• Introduction to the environmental, economic, and ethical dimensions of climate change.
• Examination of the nexus between international law and climate change.
• Analysis of treaty-based law-making rules and techniques.
• Exploration of the evolution of the United Nations Climate Regime.
• Critical evaluation of the architecture of the Framework Convention on Climate Change and its legal status.
• Appraisal of the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement.
• Critical examination of climate governance beyond the UN climate change regime.
• Critical review of key legal cases in international climate change litigation.
• Identification of distinctive features and assessment of the effectiveness of climate change law.
• Learning Methods:
• Online learning using Moodle, RGU's virtual learning environment.
• 8 recorded lectures covering key issues and law.
• Additional readings and activities to deepen learning.
• Forum postings and discussions.
• Study groups for peer review and learning.
• Asynchronous engagement through forum postings.
• Mandatory forum postings.
• Written coursework reflecting on material covered.
• Tutor support through Moodle.
• Optional live drop-in sessions for student interaction and questions.
• Course Schedule:
• Full-time online delivery.
• 10 weeks in length.
• Start date: 13 May 2024.
The program is a single short course with a unified curriculum.

Assessment:

• The course is assessed through set exercises and written assignments, including essays.
• The specific assessment methods and criteria are not explicitly outlined in the provided context.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
• The course is delivered online through recorded lectures, additional readings, forum discussions, and assignments.
• Tutor support is available through Moodle.
• Optional live drop-in sessions are offered for student interaction and questions.
• Faculty:
• The course is taught by a team of staff within the Law School at RGU.
• The team includes contract law experts with experience in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, as well as commercial training.
• The team also includes academics responsible for course delivery, innovation, and development.
• Some team members have experience in commercial law practice.
• Unique Approaches:
• The course utilizes Moodle, RGU's virtual learning environment, for online delivery and communication.
• Asynchronous engagement through forum postings allows for flexibility in learning.
• The course encourages peer-to-peer learning through study groups.

Careers:

• The provided context does not explicitly discuss career paths, opportunities, or outcomes associated with completing this program.

Other:

• Independent Study:
• Materials and exercises are available online, allowing for flexible independent study.
• Further reading resources and online tutor support are also available online.
• Academic Support:
• The Inclusion Centre offers support to students with disabilities or learning differences.
• All online learning students have access to CampusMoodle, a collaborative virtual learning environment.
• Study Skills Support:
• The Study Support Team provides training and support in academic writing, study skills, math and statistics, English language, and information technology.
• Library Support:
• The University Library offers resources, workshops, and drop-in sessions for students.
• Disclaimer:
• Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes.
• Course content and structure may change over time.
• RGU Upskilling:
• The university offers a range of online upskilling short courses tailored to the needs of businesses and individuals in Scotland.
• Fee-waiver places are available for eligible Scottish residents.
• Facilities:
• The course utilizes Moodle, RGU's virtual learning environment.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• Course participants must be domiciled in Scotland to be eligible for a fee-waiver place.
• All other applicants can pay to study the course - £350 entire course