This short course provides an introduction to the science and implications of climate change, and to policy development and emerging economic strategies to address our vulnerability to climate change.  No prior background in the field is assumed.  The course is delivered in intensive or semi-intensive mode to suit the needs of participants in full-time employment. The course discusses the fundamentals of climate change within the framework of the global climate system, with particular emphasis on observed climate variability and change in Australia.  Examples are drawn from the most up-to-date science, and available information resources are discussed and explored in a practical component.  The nature of climate change impacts exposes different sectors of the economy and society to risk, which is discussed in the context of vulnerability assessment.  As scientific understanding furthers our insight into climate change vulnerabilities and risks, policy development needs to address the need for adaptation strategies and for risk mitigation.  Economic and legal approaches to mitigation in Australia are analysed against the background of international developments.

This course will be available in all sessions by arrangement only.  Contact the course convener for further information.

A combination of lectures and workshop discussion sessions, with an emphasis on participant-led inquiry, is integrated with hands-on practical investigation of information and data resources on a wide range of aspects of climate change.  Selected reading material is provided as background to each session, and web-based resources are used extensively.

To be advised

A 1,500 word essay on aspects of a topic covered in the course, to be submitted two weeks following the end of the course (90%); an oral presentation (10%).

Intensive/semi-intensive, a combination of lectures and workshop discussion sessions, with an emphasis on participant-led inquiry, is integrated with hands-on practical investigation of information and data resources on a wide range of aspects of climate change.  Selected reading material is provided as background to each session, and web-based resources are used extensively.