Course Information

OCEANOGRAPHY DEPARTMENT


Course: SO221
Title: INTRODUCTION TO OCEANOGRAPHY
Credits: 3-0-3
Description: A descriptive course designed to provide an overview of significant oceanographic factors and their impact on engineering applications. Prereq: Non-SOC majors only.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014, Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: Non-SOC majors only.
Course: SO231
Title: GENERAL OCEANOGRAPHY I
Credits: 3-2-4
Description: A descriptive survey of and introduction to geological, chemical and physical oceanography. Course content spans subjects such as sea floor spreading, properties and composition of sea water and ocean currents and water masses. A historical perspective is provided. Laboratory exercises concentrate on Chesapeake Bay parameters as seasons change.
Offered: Fall, Spring
Requisites: Prereq: None.
Course: SO234
Title: GENERAL OCEANOGRAPHY II
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: This course continues the general introduction to oceanography started in SO231: General Oceanography I, with an emphasis on the interactions of oceanic physical processes with geological, biological, and chemical processes. Topics that will be covered include: chemical properties of seawater, marine biogeochemistry, nutrient distribution and cycling, marine primary productivity, diagenesis, trophic structure and ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity, marine ecology, and estuarine processes and ecology.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO231.
Course: SO244
Title: BASIC ATMOSPHERIC PROCESSES
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: An introductory course designed for oceanography majors, as well as those interested in taking advanced meteorological electives. This course treats the basic meteorological variables and instruments used for atmospheric measurements, physical processes governing the sun-earth-atmosphere thermal system, basic atmospheric thermodynamics, the chemical and temperature structure of earth's atmosphere, cloud and precipitation physical processes, basic atmospheric circulations and accompanying weather and climatic patterns, as well as an introduction to common meteorological data products used in weather analysis and prediction.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014, Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: None.
Course: SO262
Title: PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
Credits: 3-0-3
Description: The physical environment influences natural resources, human culture, national security, and military operations. This course examines the basic scientific principles of physical geography and how location on earth influences climate, landforms, soils, and natural vegetation. We will study the processes at work, the features created and their spatial distributions. We will use satellite imagery and geographical information systems to look at case studies around the world and examine the wide range of natural environments.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014, Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: None.
Course: SO271
Title: EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE I - THE FLUID EARTH
Credits: 3-2-4
Description: This course introduces Oceanography majors and non-Oceanography majors to Meteorology and Physical Oceanography. The course provides a conceptual and quantitative understanding of the factors and processes governing the Fluid Earth System (atmosphere and hydrosphere). Topics include: Atmospheric thermodynamics; structure of earth's atmosphere; clouds and precipitation; basic atmospheric circulation; winds, weather, and climate patterns; ocean structure; ocean circulation; waves and tides; and air-ocean interactions. The course introduces students to meteorological and oceanographic data collection techniques, data analysis, and data interpretation through hands-on field and laboratory experience.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014, Spring 2013-2014
Requisites:
Course: SO272
Title: EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE II - BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES
Credits: 3-2-4
Description: This course continues from S0271: Earth System Science I, with an emphasis the lithosphere and the ecosphere. The course provides a qualitative and quantitative understanding of the interactions of physical processes with geological, biological, and chemical processes in the ocean and how energy and matter is cycled in marine ecosystems. Topics covered include: rock cycle; plate tectonics; ocean basins; chemical properties of seawater; marine biogeochemistry; nutrient distribution and cycling; marine primary productivity; diagenesis; trophic structure and ecosystem dynamics; biodiversity; marine ecology, and; estuarine processes and ecology. The course includes hands-on field and laboratory experience.
Offered: Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO271.
Course: SO273
Title: APPLIED EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: This course applies the knowledge and skills learned in SO271 & SO272 (Earth System Science I-II) to describe, understand, and quantify physical, geological, biological, and chemical processes in different regions and environments within the Earth System. Topics include: Littoral Zones; Tropics; Deserts and Arid Regions; Mountains; Polar Regions; Climate; and Environmental Hazards. The course culminates in a general introduction to Physical Geography and includes practical, hands-on field and laboratory work.
Offered:
Requisites: Prereq: SO272.
Course: SO335
Title: OCEANOGRAPHIC & METEOROLOGICAL QUANTITATIVE METHOD
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: Oceanographic and Meteorological Quantitative Methods. A course to expose students to products and datasets that are available in oceanography and meteorology and techniques for manipulating the data to arrive at a better quantitative understanding of the oceans and atmosphere.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SM221 or SO231, and SO244.
Course: SO381
Title: TACTICAL OCEANOGRAPHY
Credits: 1-0-1
Description: Oceanographic and bathymetric factors in the battle space play a significant role in mission planning and execution. The natural environment is an important consideration in the decision-making process regarding the timing of military operations and the employment of weapons, platforms, and tactics. This course provides an overview of oceanographic and bathymetric variability and the potential impact of surface and subsurface features on naval operations.
Offered: Fall, Spring
Requisites: Prereq: 2/C or 1/C standing or by permission of the chair.
Course: SO382
Title: AVIATION METEOROLOGY
Credits: 1-0-1
Description: Weather is a crucial element in flight operations, affecting both aircraft performance and safety. This course will provide an overview of meteorological factors that impact flight operations, with particular emphasis on weather hazards and weather products that can assist the pilot with these hazards. Students who intend to select or have selected naval aviation for their warfare specialty will be given first preference for this course.
Offered: Fall, Spring
Requisites: Prereq: 2/C or 1/C standing or by permission of the chair.
Course: SO414
Title: OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC PROCESSES
Credits: 3-2-4
Description: Fundamental equations of motion governing the dynamics of quasi-horizontal, inviscid and viscous fluid flow on the rotating earth are developed. Scale analyses of the basic hydrodynamic equations are used to identify forces responsible for motions of interest. Basic numerical modeling techniques for both oceanic and atmospheric processes are introduced. Laboratory exercises will utilize the MATLAB software package to solve hands-on problems pertaining to fluid flow.
Offered: Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO345 and SO335.
Course: SO416
Title: WAVES AND TIDES
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: Equations governing the dynamics of surface and internal waves, including tsunamis, seiches, internal tides, and tidal bores, are derived and practically applied. Wave theory is compared to wave tank observations. Wave statistics and energy spectra are used to forecast sea and swell. Tide generating and tractive forces are mathematically analyzed, and methods of tidal prediction are reviewed and exercised.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO414.
Course: SO422
Title: NEARSHORE OCEANOGRAPHY
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: Examines the oceanographic regime from the continental shelf break to the intertidal zone and coastal dunes. Concentrates on shallow water wave, surf and beach processes. Includes a discussion of coastal management and engineering procedures.
Offered: Fall, Spring
Requisites: Prereq: SO231 or SO221.
Course: SO426
Title: POLAR OCEANOGRAPHY
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: A descriptive course which covers the history of polar exploration as well as the physical oceanography and meteorology of the polar regions with particular emphasis on the role of sea ice in global warming studies. Current DoD polar programs will be reviewed including the following: Deep Freeze, International Ice Patrol and Navy operations such as ICEX and TEAMWORK.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014, Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO221 or SO231.
Course: SO427
Title: INTRODUCTION TO ESTUARINE OCEANOGRAPHY
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: The physical, geological and biological aspects of the estuarine environment are studied. Laboratory sessions, which include YP cruises and field trips, focus on practical and hands-on applications. Environmental issues such as water quality and pollution are discussed. The use of numerical models as a tool is explored.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014, Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO221 or SO231.
Course: SO431
Title: ENVIRONMENTAL REMOTE SENSING
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: An overview is given of the various platforms and sensors currently in use and planned. The electromagnetic spectrum and radiation laws are explained. Applications exercises give "hands-on" experience with image processing systems.
Offered: Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO221 or SO231.
Course: SO432
Title: GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: Geographical Information Systems (GIS) use computers to manipulate geographic data, combining maps and data bases. This course examines the basics of map projection and datums, raster and vector data bases, and the design, manipulation, and analysis of geographic data. We will discuss the use of remote sensing to collect data and provide background maps, and the use of digital elevation models to provide a framework for 3D display.
Offered: Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO221 or SO231.
Course: SO441
Title: SYNOPTIC METEOROLOGY
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: A practical course in meteorological analysis and forecasting as applied to operational planning. A variety of meteorological datastreams available in the computerized Meteorology Laboratory are used to analyze and predict the current and future state of the atmosphere.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014, Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO244.
Course: SO442
Title: TROPICAL METEOROLOGY
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: A study of the special processes affecting meteorological analysis and forecasting in the tropics, including satellite imagery analysis, with particular emphasis on hurricane or typhoon prediction, creation, movement and decay.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO244.
Course: SO445
Title: GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: This course will review the science of climate and the natural factors that influence global climate on different spatial and temporal scales. It will also discuss how human activities may impact local, regional, and global climate. Global climate data, past and present, will be examined from geologic and modern records including satellite data, land/sea observations, ice cores, etc. Related climate topics, such as the Ozone Hole, Greenhouse Effect, and El Nino will also be reviewed.
Offered: Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO244.
Course: SO451
Title: BIOLOGICAL OCEANOGRAPHY
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: A study of patterns and concepts of biological production in the ocean. Emphasis is on the integration of the biological and physical environment. Laboratory includes student planned studies and conceptual exercises. All aspects of the course emphasize the use of various knowledge areas to solve a problem.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO234.
Course: SO461
Title: GEOLOGICAL OCEANOGRAPHY
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: Introduces marine geological/geophysical instrumentation, theory, data collection, analysis, interpretation and applications. Geomorphology, structure, petrology, sedimentation, stratigraphy, origin and development of ocean basins and margins are examined in light of theory of plate tectonics. Practical studies of the Chesapeake Bay are part of the laboratory work.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO234.
Course: SO470
Title: CAPSTONE SEMINAR
Credits: 3-0-3
Description: A course for SOC majors to provide guidance on the construction of the capstone paper and the oral presentaion of the capstone paper. The course will include background readings and corresponding discussions, and instruction on scientific writing and presentation. The course culminates in the production of the capstone paper and the oral presentation the capstone paper. Five versions of this course are offered: SO470A Capstone Seminar in Biological Oceanography SO470B Capstone Seminar in Geology and Geographical Information Systems SO470C Capstone Seminar in Meteorology SO470D Capstone Seminar in Physical Oceanography SO470E Capstone Seminar in Bioacoustics and Marine Mammal Conservation
Offered: Spring
Requisites: Prereq: 1/C Oceanography Major.
Course: SO475
Title: READINGS IN OCEANOGRAPHY AND METEOROLOGY
Credits: 0-6-3
Description: An independent study course in conjunction with a faculty member to prepare midshipmen to conduct independent research. In this course, the midshipmen will meet with their adviser to discuss topics in scientific literature related to their research project. They will also write a summary report of the scientific literature they have reviewed, which will be integrated in their final research project report in the following semester.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: 2/C or 1/C standing and approval of department chair.
Course: SO476
Title: READINGS IN OCEANOGRAPHY AND METEOROLOGY
Credits: 0-6-3
Description: An independent study course in conjunction with a faculty member to prepare midshipmen to conduct independent research. In this course, the midshipmen will meet with their adviser to discuss topics in scientific literature related to their research project. They will also write a summary report of the scientific literature they have reviewed, which will be integrated in their final research project report in the following semester.
Offered: Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: 2/C or 1/C standing and approval of department chair.
Course: SO503
Title: HONORS RESEARCH METHODS
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: Honors Research Methods in Oceanography and Meteorology. Statistical methods and techniques applied to research topics, oceanographic and laboratory instrumentation, remote sensing and mathematical modeling. Discussion of current research topics. Prepares students to undertake independent research in oceanography or meteorology.
Offered: Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: 2/C Honors Oceanography Major.
Course: SO505
Title: HONORS INDEPENDENT RESEARCH
Credits: 0-6-3
Description: Independent research in oceanography or meteorology on a subject of the student's choice, culminating in a written report and presentation to the faculty.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO503 and SOCH major.
Course: SO506
Title: HONORS INDEPENDENT RESEARCH
Credits: 0-6-3
Description: Independent research in oceanography or meteorology on a subject of the student's choice, culminating in a written report and presentation to the faculty.
Offered: Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO503 and SOCH major.
Course: SO513
Title: HONORS OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC PROCESSES
Credits: 3-2-4
Description: Course is an advanced version of SO414 for honors students.
Offered: Spring 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SM311O and SO345H.
Course: SO516
Title: HONORS WAVES AND TIDES
Credits: 2-2-3
Description: Course is an advanced version of SO416 for honor students.
Offered: Fall 2013-2014
Requisites: Prereq: SO513 and SOCH major.