Program Overview
The Certificate in Weather Study provides students with a comprehensive understanding of meteorology and related disciplines without committing to a full major. The program covers core topics such as oceanography, atmospheric physics, weather forecasting, and climate change. Students can also select from a range of electives to further their knowledge in specific areas of Earth sciences. Upon completion, graduates will possess the knowledge and skills necessary to interpret weather patterns, make basic forecasts, and understand the impact of weather and climate-related events.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Certificate in Weather Study program is designed for those who want to learn more about meteorology and related disciplines without committing to a full major. This program allows students to deepen their understanding of weather and climate, develop the ability to read and interpret weather maps, and make basic weather forecasts. Upon completion, students will gain knowledge of climate change and other important weather and climate-related topics.
Outline:
Meteorology Core Requirement (14 Units):
- ERTH 172 Our Dynamic Ocean (Lecture and Lab): This course explores the physical, chemical, and biological processes that govern the oceans, focusing on the interactions between the ocean and the atmosphere.
- ERTH 260 Physical Processes in the Atmosphere: This course examines the physical principles governing the atmosphere, including atmospheric composition, radiation, temperature, pressure, winds, and humidity.
- ERTH 490 Public Weather Forecasting: This course provides practical training in weather forecasting using real-time data and weather models.
- ERTH 535 Planetary Climate Change: This course explores the science of climate change, including its causes, effects, and potential solutions. Students will gain an understanding of the global climate system and the role of human activity in shaping the planet's climate.
Electives (10 Units):
- Students must select at least 10 units from the following courses, with the advice of a program advisor.
- ERTH 310 The Violent Earth: This course examines the causes and impacts of natural disasters, including earthquakes, volcanoes, and tsunamis.
- ERTH 360 California Weather Events: This course explores the unique weather patterns and events that occur in California, including droughts, floods, wildfires, and heat waves.
- ERTH 365 Extreme Weather in a Warming World: This course delves into the relationship between extreme weather events and climate change, examining how these events are changing in frequency and intensity as the planet warms.
- Any Earth Sciences (ERTH) course numbered 410 or higher: This option provides flexibility for students to explore more advanced topics in Earth Sciences, with examples including:
