Curriculum for the Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences at the Faculty of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences of the University of Innsbruck

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1 The English version of the curriculum for the Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences is not legally binding and is for informational purposes only. The legal basis is regulated in the curriculum published in the University of Innsbruck Bulletin on 27 April 2007, issue 44, No On the basis of 25 para. 1 no. 10 University Organisation Act 2002, BGBl. I (Federal Law Gazette) No. 120, most recently amended by Federal Law BGBl. I (Federal Law Gazette) No. 134/2008 and 32 Section "Regulations of Study Law", republished in the University of Innsbruck Bulletin of 3 February 2006, Issue 16, No. 90, most recently amended by the University of Innsbruck Bulletin of 7 May 2008, Issue 42, No. 272, the following is decreed: Curriculum for the Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences at the Faculty of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences of the University of Innsbruck Resolution of the curriculum committee at the Faculty of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences on March 23rd, Qualification Profile The Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences at the Faculty of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences adds knowledge and skill to the Bachelor s Programme in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, which are necessary for highly qualified, autonomous and creative work in operations, development and research. Additionally, students of the Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences will learn problem solving strategies, markedly expanding possibilities within their future chosen profession. The career fields for graduates of the master s programme range from meteorological and hydrological services, weather consulting companies, avalanche warning services, environmental agencies, domestic and foreign research institutions and operational centres, to interdisciplinary areas of responsibility where meteorology plays a key role. The Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences introduces students to modern research methods. Central among its objectives is the ability to autonomously carry out scientific investigations based on an advanced knowledge of atmospheric science. The master s programme further provides specialised training in the Atmospheric Sciences, through courses in meteorology (general, synoptic and dynamical meteorology), climatology, Alpine meteorology, weather forecasting, glaciology, atmospheric dynamics and hydrology; and through the use of modern natural scientific methods, including modelling, scale analysis, geospatial analysis, remote sensing, theoretical analysis, high performance computing, data assimilation and field measurements. Overall, students will gain sufficient expertise to continue within the field, either professionally or by embarking upon a PhD programme.

2 Alongside a deeper comprehension of the basic knowledge acquired in the bachelor s programme, students will learn to independently apply scientific methods to the interpretation of weather maps, to prepare large-scale and local weather forecasts based on the comprehension of the workings of current operational forecasting models. The programme also provides an in-depth understanding of geophysics, with a focus on snow and ice, climate and global change, applied meteorology (environment, energy, glaciology), the application of advanced observation systems (satellite technology) for data assimilation and process modelling in the area of environment and forecasting, or the analysis of the significance of complex orography in the dynamics of atmospheric flows. Besides providing technical expertise in the field of meteorology, the programme additionally teaches students to evaluate scientific topics of meteorology and atmospheric physics in an interdisciplinary context, and to autonomously apply themselves to new areas of study, incorporating the university s research specialities (climate and cryosphere; high performance computing). 2 Length and Scope (1) The Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences comprises 120 ECTS credits. One ECTS credit corresponds to a work load of 25 hours. This corresponds to a study duration of four terms. (2) (2) The Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences comprises nine mandatory modules and four elective modules (see 6). 3 Entry Requirements The entry requirements for the Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences are a bachelor s degree in a related field, a bachelor's degree in a related field from a university of applied sciences ( Fachhochschule ) or another equivalent degree from an accredited domestic or foreign post-secondary educational institution. 4 Types of Courses and Number of Participants (1) Lecture (VO): Lectures introduce students to the main areas of the subject matter and its applicable methods, with particular reference to essential facts and key doctrines in the field. In addition, lectures cover special research areas and incorporate the latest advances in scientific development. Maximum umber of participants per course: 200 (2) Tutorial (UE):

3 Tutorial courses are evaluative and cover aspects of the subject in the form of practical work, case reviews, short presentations and homework discussions. They complement the lectures, with a deeper examination of the subject matter. Maximum number of participants per course: 20 (3) Lecture/tutorial (VU): The lecture/tutorial is an integrated evaluative course, where lectures and tutorials are closely linked with one another. The tutorials cover key issues and their solutions, in accordance with the scientific objectives of the master s programme regarding professional practice. Maximum number of participants per course: 20 (4) Field trip/tutorial (EU): The field trip/tutorial is evaluative, and covers study topics in the field. In doing so, students will learn the appropriate methods to meet the demands of defined practical challenges and problems. Maximum number of participants per course: 20 (in difficult terrain: 12) (5) Seminar (SE): Seminars are evaluative courses comprised of scientific discussion. Participants must contribute in written and oral form, which will be evaluated on its technical and methodical merits, as well as the quality of presentation. Maximum number of participants per course: 20 (6) Introductory Seminar Course (PS) Introductory seminar courses are evaluative courses, preliminary to seminars. They convey a basic understanding of scientific criteria, introduce technical literature and methodologically analyse practical case studies in the form of presentations or project work, complemented by discussions and presentations. Maximum number of participants per course: 20 (7) Field Course (PR) Field courses are evaluative, and develop practical problem-solving methods for scientific in the field. Maximum number of participants per course: 20 5 Modules (Title, Type, Description, Course ). (1) Mandatory modules 1. Module 1. Boundary Layer and Radiation Students learn the basic physical principles governing the atmospheric

4 boundary layer and atmospheric radiation processes. Atmospheric Boundary Layer, VO2 This course looks at the equations of emotion and their averaging, turbulent transport, parameterization, turbulent kinetic energy and Ekman equations. Atmospheric Radiation Processes, VO 2 This course covers the sun, extinction, the transition of direct solar radiation through the atmosphere, diffuse and global radiation, albedo, radiation transfer in the atmosphere, twilight colours and atmospheric optics. 2. Module 2. Mathematical Methods in Physics Students master the basics and methodological applications of mathematics to physics. Mathematical Methods in Physics, VO This course looks at probability theory, differential equations, Fourier series, vector analysis, analytic functions and linear partial differential equations. Introductory Seminar Course in Mathematical Methods in Physics, PS This course provides a deeper understanding of the lecture topics through practical application and discussion. 3. Module 3. Ice and Climate Students are introduced to the basics of the earth s climate system, with particular reference to the cryosphere. Physical Glaciology, VO2 This course looks at the energy and water cycles between atmosphere

5 and cryosphere, the mass balance and movement of glaciers and polar ice sheets as measured and formulated in models), equilibrium quantities and their response to climate change, and basic hydro-meteorological models of basins. Physical Climatology, VO2 An introduction to the climatic regions of the earth, atmospheric circulation, hydrosphere and cryosphere, the ocean, biochemical cycles, aerosols, volcanoes and climate, energy balance, the greenhouse effect, and the role of the sun as an energy source. 4. Module 4. Basic Concepts of Scientific Research Students learn the basic concepts of scientific research, including the standards of good scientific practice, the application of literature and scientific tools (including computer programming) and the identification of relevant scientific issues. Scientific Computer Programming, VU This course builds on a foundational understanding of computer programming, illustrating the applications of this expertise, such as conceptual models. Basics of Scientific Criteria, PS This course covers the application of literature, the drafting and structuring of a scientific article, the formulation and testing of a hypothesis and scientific questions, project management and project implementation. 5. Module 5. Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Students master the core of geophysical fluid dynamics. GFD is an interdisciplinary field which comprises various topics dealing with rotating, stratified fluids. Requirements Positive assessment in module 2 Geophysical Fluid Dynamics, VO 3 5.0

6 An examination of the main concepts behind basic wave theory; linear and non-linear processes, solitons, governing equations, Euler equations, vorticity and vortex theory, vortex theorems, potential vorticity, shallow water theory, flow with and without friction, barotropic fluids, baroclinic flow the concept of quasi-geostrophy and its application to the Earth's atmosphere, stability concepts, modal and non-modal stability theory and GFD s applications in the atmosphere and ocean, including wave processes in the atmosphere and ocean, atmospheric general circulation and energetics. Tutorials for Geophysical Fluid Dynamics, UE A deeper comprehension of the lecture topics is provided through the application of numerical algorithms to selected problems. 6. Module 6. Remote Sensing Students learn the basic theories and measurement techniques of remote sensing in meteorology, atmospheric environmental physics, glaciology and climate research, gaining the practical skills to independently utilise remote sensing in the analysis of these subjects. Requirements Positive assessment in module 3 Remote Sensing in Glaciology, VU 2 This course explores the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with snow and ice in the visible, infra-red and microwave spectral regions, and satellite systems and measurement techniques used for snow, glaciers, ice sheets and sea ice. Students engage in practical analysis of the mass balance and dynamics of glaciers, as well as the physical properties of snow covers through the use of satellite data. Remote Sensing of the Atmosphere, VU 2 This course is an introduction to the remote sensing of wind, precipitation, clouds, aerosols, trace gas concentrations and emissions using active and passive sensors in the optical and microwave spectral regions. The major ground-based, airborne and satellite-based measurement systems, as well as case studies on the derivation of the atmospheric parameters from remote sensing data for applications in meteorology, environmental

7 monitoring, and climate research are examined. 7. Module 7. Mountain Meteorology Students learn about the basic concepts of mountain meteorology. This course focuses on the influence of topography upon the atmosphere and the resulting weather. Mountain Meteorology, VO 2 This course examines topographically influenced flow, valley and slope winds, the flow over and around topographical obstacles, and atmospheric inversions. Hydrometeorology, VO An introduction to the formation of precipitation, the parameterization of precipitation and convection, runoff, as well as local and global water budgets with special reference to the alpine terrain. Atmospheric Chemistry and Pollutants, VO This course covers the chemistry and physics of pollutants, the dispersion of pollutants in complex terrain, techniques for the measurement of pollutants and the conceptual modelling of pollutant dispersion. 8. Module 8. Synoptic Meteorology Students know the basic concepts of synoptic meteorology and their practical applications. Advanced Weather Forecasting, VU2 5.0 This course introduces methods for nowcasting using remote sensing data. Long term forecasts (from monthly to seasonal) are also examined. The course then explores the basics and specifics of forecasting in complex terrain, such as modifications by mountain ranges of cyclogeneses, fronts, precipitation, convection, low stratus decks and fog, and mountain phenomena such as foehn. Weather Briefing, PR 2 2.5

8 This course provides a deeper understanding of the lecture content through the preparation of weather forecasts. 9. Module 9. Master s Thesis Defense 2.5 ECTS credits After having written their own thesis on a topic from the major subject areas, which meets the criteria of good scientific practice, students will be able to defend their results in an oral presentation. Thesis Defense The master s thesis is presented and defended before a committee in a public lecture. 2.5 (2) Elective Modules 1. Module 10. Glaciological Field Course Students learn to apply the basic principles of glaciological data analysis in the field. Requirements Positive assessment in modules 1 and 3 Introductory Seminar for Glaciological Field Course, PS 2 This course covers the theoretical and practical preparation and review of the glaciological field course. Participants must deliver a presentation. Glaciological Field Course, PR 2 This course encompasses practical work in the field, such as measuring mass and energy balances, the application of geophysical methods, observation of the boundary layer over a glacier, the study of snow pits, the study of radiation conditions. 2. Module 11. Glaciological Methods and Models

9 Students gain an understanding of the geophysical measurement techniques and models applicable to glaciology. Requirements Positive assessment in modules 10, 14 or 15 Glaciological Modelling, VU 2 This course examines the concepts of numerical modelling in glaciology (e.g. ice dynamics, energy and mass balance, runoff) and their practical implementation. Geophysical Methods in Glaciology, VO 2 This course covers the basic theories, analysis and application of seismic, electromagnetic and gravimetric measurement techniques as utilised in glaciology. 3. Module 12. Alpine Meteorological Field Course Students learn the basic principles of conducting meteorological analysis in an alpine environment. Requirements Positive assessment in modules 1 and 3 Introductory Seminar for Alpine Meteorological Field Course, PS 2 This course covers the theoretical and practical preparation and review of the alpine meteorological field course. Participants must deliver a presentation. Alpine Meteorological Field Course, PR 2 This course examines the monitoring of the atmosphere (particularly of the boundary layer in alpine terrain), the diurnal cycle of meteorological elements in the mountains, the study of the influence of surface processes upon local circulation, development of convection, clouds and their formation, radiative processes, wind systems and weather hazards in the mountains.

10 4. Module 13. Alpine Meteorological Modelling Students learn the essentials of modelling the topographically influenced atmospheric flows. Requirements Positive assessment in modules 12, 14 or 15 Atmospheric Modelling, VO 2 This course covers the scale problem in modelling, model hierarchies, simple conceptual models of topographically influenced atmospheric currents (waves), standard simulations using existing models, approaches to the independent development of simple flow configurations (e.g. temperature conditions over a sunny slope) and the influence of surface conditions (for example, snow cover) on the atmospheric circulation. Tutorial on Atmospheric Modelling, UE 2 Students enhance their comprehension of the lecture topic by conducting their own experiments and by a hands-on exploration of conceptual modelling approaches. 5. Module 14. Numerical Methods A Students learn the basics of numerical mathematics, statistics, and data analysis. Requirements Positive assessment in module 2 Numerical Mathematics, VO This lecture covers the numerical solutions of ordinary differential equations, boundary and eigenvalue problems for ordinary differential equations, and partial differential equations of hydrodynamics and magnetohydrodynamics. Statistics and Data Analysis, VO This course covers the statistical basics of data collection, statistical tests

11 (also of rare events), statistics of detectors and the analysis of images and time series. 6. Module 15. Numerical Methods B Students learn the basic concepts and selected algorithms for numerically solving e partial linear and non-linear differential equations. Requirements Positive assessment in module 2 Numerical Analysis of Partial Differential Equations, VO This lecture covers numerical methods for solving partial differential equation systems, the finite element method and finite difference method, stability analysis and error estimation. Introductory Seminar Course for Numerical Analysis of Partial Differential Equations, PS Students enhance their comprehension of the lecture topics through practical application and discussion. 7. Module 16. Electronic Data Processing and Databases Students master advanced concepts in the field of electronic data processing and databases. Informatics and Databases, VO This lecture examines major modern concepts in the field of informatics, in particular the structure and organisation of data in databases (with a special focus on geophysical applications). 8. Module 17. Palaeoclimate Students learn about palaeoclimatic processes and conditions, and are able to address them in relation to contemporary conditions.

12 Palaeoclimatology, VO This lecture examines how palaeoclimatological data are gathered (e.g. from ice cores), interpreted and ordered chronologically. In addition, the historical climate of the Earth is discussed based upon other proxy data. 9. Module 18. Advanced Atmosphere Dynamics Students learn about recent scientific research findings in the field of atmospheric dynamics. Selected Aspects of Atmospheric Dynamics, VO Based on recent literature, this lecture focuses on specific elements of atmospheric dynamics, such as vortex dynamics, the development and application of numerical forecasting models, and the theoretical explanation of observed weather and climate phenomena. 10. Module 19. Advanced Mountain Meteorology Students gain in-depth knowledge of mountain meteorology through observation, description and modelling. Aspects of Mountain Meteorology, VO This lecture focuses on specific aspects of mountain meteorology such as downslope winds (foehn, Bora), regional climatology, boundary layers in complex terrain, wind systems (valley and slope winds), renewable energy in the Alpine area (wind eand solar), orographically influenced precipitation, and pollutants in tmountainous regions(their distribution, dispersion, and measurement). 11. Module 20. Satellites and Remote Sensing Students gain an understanding of results from recent research in remote sensing, through satellite-based measurements of meteorologically and geophysically relevant parameters. Selected Chapters of Satellite Remote Sensing, VO 3 7.5

13 This lecture provides recent results and selected topics of remote sensing research. Special emphasis is put on techniques and results within glaciology and the cryosphere, and on the use of meteorological data to provide a description of the atmosphere. 12. Module 21. Polar Meteorology Students learn about the meteorological, glaciological and atmospheric conditions in the polar regions. Meteorology and Glaciology in the Polar Regions, VO This lecture discusses the climate, meteorological, glaciological, radiation and temperature conditions in the Earth s polar regions, as well as polar glaciology. 13. Module 22. Extended Gender Aspects Students are familiar with the current approaches in gender-issue research and are able to apply them in regards to sustainability, in anthropological as well as natural scientific disciplines and in the field. Gender Aspects in Spatial Planning, VO 2 This course covers current and developing approaches to gender research. The focus will be on theoretical planning issues, in particular on gender implications of urban, regional, technical, and above all environmental planning. Additionally, feminist ethics are considered in relation to spatial planning. Gender Issues in Regional Development and Planning, UE2 This course examines selected aspects of gender research, particularly in relation to regional and urban development, as well as ecological and environmental planning. Additionally, the results of natural scientific feminist and gender research are considered in relation to spatial planning.

14 14. Module 23. Applied Geology (2) The students gain advanced practical knowledge in practical geology enabling them to tackle challenges in geological engineering and hydrogeology. Hydrogeology (2), VO 1 This course covers selected aspects of hydrogeology incorporating current research in this area. 2.0 Hydrogeology (2), UE1 The tutorials deepen the basic theoretical concepts introduced in the lecture. 1.0 Geological Engineering (2), VO2 This course covers selected aspects of geological engineering and examines current research in this area. Geological Engineering (2), UE 1 The tutorial deepens the basic theoretical concepts introduced in the lecture Module 24. Quaternary Geology Students develop a sound knowledge of Quaternary climate and environmental changes, identifying sediments and landforms that were formed by these changes and ascribing them to individual processes. Quaternary Geology & Palaeoclimatology, VO2 This lecture covers the evidence for Quaternary climate change, exploring the causes and effects through the use of various marine and terrestrial climate archives. Quaternary Tutorial, VU2 Through introductory theory and subsequent practice, students learn about Quaternary field techniques with an emphasis on profile recording and mapping.

15 16. Module 25. Basics of Global Change and Risk Research Students grasp the basic theoretical and practical concepts of the humanenvironment relationship, and can apply them to issues of global change and risk research. Basics of the Human-Environment Relationship in the Global Change and Risk Research, VO2 The lecture covers the basics of different theoretical approaches to the human-environment relationship. Using selected examples, this lecture will demonstrate how these approaches can be implemented in the context of specific issues affecting global change and risk research, including those of gender. Aspects of the Human-Environment Relationship, SE 2 In this seminar selected aspects of global change and risk in the humanenvironment relationship are discussed in-depth and evaluated, both verbally and in writing. 17. Module 26. Geography of Mountain Regions Students gain a direct understanding of the human-environment relations in mountain systems, along with the ability to transfer basic environmental and social principles to different regions. Basics of Mountain Region Research, VO 2 This lecture considers both the environmental and cultural elements of mountain research, encompassing environmental processes, landform configuration, climatic characteristics and height variations of vegetation and its uses, as well as height limits, settlement regions and economy, population trends and the cultural characteristics of mountain regions, including internal and external correlations. Comparative Geography of Mountain Regions, VO2 Global mountain regions are compared using selected thematic examples. 18. Module 27. Mathematical Methods in Physics

16 Students learn advanced techniques in mathematical physics. Mathematical Methods in Physics 3, VO This lecture covers group theory, stochastic processes or mathematical software packages in physics. Mathematical Methods in Physics 3, UE This tutorial deepens the theoretical basic concepts introduced in the lecture. 6 Elective Modules A part of the academic requirement of the Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences must be fulfilled from four elective modules. This part of the academic requirement consists of (1) two interrelated modules for specialisation, which must be chosen from the fields of a. climate and cryosphere (modules 10 and 11) or b. Alpine meteorology (modules 12 and 13) as well as (2) an additional module from modules 14 or 15, as well as (3) either a. one of modules 10, 11, 12 or 13 (if not already selected under (1)) or b. one of modules 16 to 21, or 27 or c. one of the modules of an other master s programme at the Faculty of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences; namely the following modules stated in 5: i. Module 22 ii. Module 23 iii. Module 24 iv. Module 25 v. Module 26 7 Master's Thesis Students must write a master's thesis in the extent of 2. The master's thesis is a scientific work which serves as proof of the students ability to work independently on a topic from a specialised field in atmospheric sciences. The topic must be chosen in prior agreement with the advisor.

17 8 Participation Restrictions For courses (tutorial, lecture/tutorial, field trip/tutorial, seminar, introductory seminar course and field course) with a limited number of participating students, selection is determined as follows: (1) Students are preferred if non-inclusion would prolong the duration of their studies. (2) If criterion (1) is insufficient to regulate the admission to a course, students for whom the course is part of a mandatory module are preferred to students for whom the course is part of an elective module. If criteria (1) and (2) are insufficient to regulate the admission to a course, the existing places will be decided by lot. 9 Examination regulations (1) The performance evaluation of a module is determined by course examinations. (2) Courses of type VO (lecture) are subject to a written examination. In seminars, the success of the seminar paper, an oral presentation and class participation will be evaluated. For all other evaluative courses the tutor will determine the examination method at the beginning of the course. (3) The master s thesis must be defended to an examining committee. The Master s Thesis Defense comprises a presentation of the main findings of the master s thesis, a public discussion and the cross-examination of the committee members. (4) If modules/courses from other Master studies are held in the Faculty of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences or in the studies at other faculties, the corresponding examination regulation is valid. This applies to modules 22, 25, and 26 from the Master s Programme in Geography: Global Change - Regional Sustainability of the Faculty of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences and modules 23 and 24 from the Master s Programme in Geosciences of the Faculty of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences as well as the course of mathematical methods in physics 3 in module 27 of the Master s Programme in Physics at the Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Physics. 10 Academic degree The graduates of the Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences are awarded the academic degree of Master of Science ", abbreviated as MSc. 11 Assignment of the programme The Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences is assigned to the natural scientific studies.

18 12 Implementation The curriculum comes into force on October 1st, 2007.

19 Annex 1: Recognition of examinations Positive examination results from the Meteorology and Geophysics diploma at the University of Innsbruck (curriculum published in the Bulletin on August 16th in 2001) are recognised as equivalent for the Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences in accordance with 78, paragraph (1), University Act Master s Programme in Atmospheric Sciences Diploma Studies in Meteorology and Geophysics Curriculum of August 16th in 2001 Module 1 Boundary Layer and Radiation Atmospheric Boundary Layer VO 2 Atmospheric Boundary Layer VO 2 General Meteorology III Atmospheric Radiation Processes VO 2 (radiation) VO 3 Module 3 Ice and Climate Physical Glaciology VO 2 Basics of Glaciology VO 3 Physical Climatology VO 2 Physical Climatology VO 3 There are no additional equivalents.