Understanding Subduction Zones and Geologic Hazards in the Asia-Pacific Region refers to the study of tectonic processes that have hazardous potential by combining understanding from geology, geophysics, geochemistry, and other subfields of Earth Sciences.  Such hazards include, but are not limited to, earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.

This course is aimed at upgrading knowledge and understanding of concepts related to geologic and tectonic hazards of Australia and neighboring countries and oceanic regions, which will be achieved by integration of lectures, laboratory practicals, field trips, and discussion sessions.

Two one-day field trips will elucidate and reinforce relationships discussed in lectures.

Laboratory exercises will help students learn the observational skills necessary for field excursions and the skills necessary for data compilation and interpretation necessary to develop an understanding of geologic and natural hazards.

Discussion sessions will focus on recent scientific findings published in peer-reviewed journals and will help students learn the skills necessary for critical thinking and analysis.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will have the skills and confidence to understand the geologic and tectonic hazards of the Asia-Pacific region.

On completion of this course, students will have:

• an understanding of how the principles of plate tectonics affect subduction zone hazards;
• an understanding of the factors associated with hazard and risk modeling and analysis; and
• a geologic understanding of the geographic distribution of tectonic hazards.