Image

 ![Coastal research landscape used as the Northmoor University hero image.](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2026-01/camilo-botia-k4vFDPJoDZk-unsplash.1600x1200.jpg.avif?itok=ujHvC8nC)

 

 



Course code

ENVS 380

 

Course credit

1.00

 

Covers the physical basis of sea level change, the components contributing to regional departure from the global mean, changes in storm climatology, and the response of shorelines, wetlands and coastal aquifers.

The course treats uncertainty communication as a technical skill in its own right. A regional projection carries an uncertainty that frequently exceeds its central estimate, and delivering that range to a planner without guidance on its use transfers a scientific problem to someone with less capacity to address it. Students practice producing projection statements intended for a non-technical decision-maker and are assessed on whether the statement supports a decision.

Taught jointly by climate science and coastal engineering faculty. The engineering component addresses what protection can and cannot deliver against a moving baseline.



Instructors

[Dr. Farida Haddad](/person/dr-farida-haddad)

[Dr. Daniel Okonkwo](/person/dr-daniel-okonkwo)

 

 

Prerequisite

ENVS 140 or OCEA 110.



 

Terms offered

spring

 

 

Offering frequency

annually