EAS 6850

Ocean Circulation and Climate

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

We will build a descriptive understanding of the dynamics that govern ocean circulation in order to explore the ocean’s role in Earth’s climate system. The course emphasizes large-scale ocean circulation, with a particular focus on the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) and Southern Ocean Meridional Overturning Circulation (SOMOC) and the role of polar and subpolar processes in these systems. We will engage with contemporary scientific literature to examine how ocean circulation is changing and how these changes impact the redistribution of heat, carbon, and oxygen within the climate system. Intended for students in Earth and Climate Sciences, Atmospheric Science, Engineering, Marine Biology, and other science majors. Prior coursework in oceanography is not assumed.

Prerequisites one semester of calculus (MATH 1110 or MATH 1910, or equivalent) and one semester of introductory physics (PHYS 1101, PHYS 1112, or PHYS 2207, or equivalent), or permission of instructor.

Last 4 Terms Offered (None)

Learning Outcomes

• Describe the role of large-scale ocean circulation in global heat and carbon redistribution, and its impact on climate.
• Explain observed and projected changes in large-scale ocean circulation in a warming climate, including points of consensus and debate within the scientific community.
• Critically interpret the motivations, methods, and key findings of scientific journal papers.
• Communicate scientific knowledge effectively, both orally and in writing.

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