A basic understanding of the physical causes and impacts of 
atmospheric hazards on society

An ability to analyze social and legal actions that mitigate or 
enhance the risks due to atmospheric hazards

An ability to identify gaps in our knowledge of and policies 
relating to atmospheric hazards

An opportunity to apply critical thinking to issues at the 
intersection of the human-natural climate system 


This course meets the following General Education Abilities by 
accomplishing the specific learning objectives listed below:

Communicate effectively through writing.  This is met by a 
series of writing  assignments associated with supplemental 
reading and data analysis of atmospheric hazards.
 
Communicate effectively through speech.  This is met by oral 
presentations, discussion leading, and classroom participation.

Computer Literacy is addressed through course administration, 
student-faculty electronic interaction, and data analysis 
activities and assignments.

Critical Thinking is central to the learning objectives of this 
class, and is developed through homework assignments, lecture, 
classroom discussion, and inquiry-based learning efforts.
       
Moral Reasoning (Ethics) is an important element of this 
course, as it explores the atmospheric threats to life and 
property as well the human choices that mitigate or enhance 
these threats.  Moral reasoning is developed through lectures, 
writing assignments, classroom discussion, and inquiry-based 
learning activities.

Introduction to atmospheric hazards

Hurricane hazards and coastal flooding

Hazards due to thunderstorms and tornadoes

Hazards due to mid-latitude cyclones and non-convective high 
winds

Flood and drought hazards

Hazards due to heat waves and cold outbreaks

Air pollution hazards

Natural climate change hazards

Anthropogenic climate change hazards