Course focuses on the nature and formation of our solar system and the planets associated bodies it contains, with emphasis on the physical and chemical processes significant in the system's origin and evolutionary history. Our approach provides the basis for understanding key differences between the Earth-like terrestrial planets and those farther out in the solar system (the gas giants). We also explore recent discoveries on Mars and moons of the gas giant planets and their implications for the search for life elsewhere in our solar system.

Course focuses on the nature and formation of our solar system and the planets associated bodies it contains, with emphasis on the physical and chemical processes significant in the system's origin and evolutionary history. Our approach provides the basis for understanding key differences between the Earth-like terrestrial planets and those farther out in the solar system (the gas giants). We also explore recent discoveries on Mars and moons of the gas giant planets and their implications for the search for life elsewhere in our solar system.

Course provides an introduction to the discipline of Philosophy of Science, but from an Earth Science perspective. Considers various philosophical perspectives on the nature of science and scientific progress, drawing from works by thinkers such as Aristotle, Popper, Kuhn and Lakatos. Particular attention is given to the following questions: What is scientific knowledge? Is the acquisition of scientific knowledge a rational process? And, what makes some scientific discoveries "revolutionary"? These questions are considered using examples from the history of scientific progress in the Earth Sciences, focusing on groundbreaking discoveries such as the age of the earth, the evolution of organisms as observed in the fossil record, sea-floor spreading, and modern-day global warming.

Introduces students to the four oceanographic disciplines: the geology of the ocean basins, including the creation of oceans and continents. The physics of the seas, including the origin of the ocean currents and their effect on the Earth's climate. The chemistry of the ocean waters, including how the distribution of elements reflects circulation and biology. The life in the ocean, including animals, plants and microbes, and humanity's influence on them. Lab.