Climate Science
Climate science is the study of earth’s natural systems. In this program you’ll gain a scientific understanding of human-caused climate change and the science of climate solutions. You'll also use programming, mapping and data science to better understand the impacts of climate change on communities.
Potential careers
What can you do with climate science degree? Here are a few jobs and fields that relate to the program:
- climate adaptation consultant
- climate change researcher
- environmental technician
- renewable energy scientist
Some of these roles may require post-graduate studies or training.
Find a career that fits you
- Explore your career options at an appointment with a career educator.
- Attend career development workshops as you search for work.
- Take part in the Career Clarity program to generate career ideas and plan your next steps.
Experience & connections
Opportunities in the earth and ocean sciences program
- With the Co-op Program you can alternate study with paid work.
Opportunities outside your program
- With a work study position you can develop skills during your study term.
- Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community while you build skills.
Networks you can connect to
Here are a few professional associations related to earth and ocean sciences:
Hands-on learning opportunities
These courses in the earth and ocean sciences program offer extensive hands-on learning.
Co-op
Co-op work terms
Alternate academic study with paid work terms to gain workplace experience
Course-based
EOS 130 - Climate Change
Learn about fundamental physical principles governing the climate of the Earth
EOS 365 - Climate and Society
Learn about the interplay between science, media, public relations and public policy
GEOG 371 - Water Resources Management
Study water resources management in different parts of the world
Field experience
EOS 460 - Earth System Science
Write, present and defend a research proposal for your peers
Field school
EOS 401 - Oceanographic Field School
Attend a field school at Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre
Lab
EOS 261 - Climate System
Examine dynamics of the climate system through research and climate models
GEOG 222 - Introduction to GIS
Learn the fundamentals and techniques of spatial data and analysis
GEOG 373 - Applied Climatology
Study urban effects on climate, air pollution and human bioclimatology
Research project
EOS 489 - Climate Solutions
Identify a climate change issue in partnership with community and/or research partner
EOS 499A - Honours Thesis I
Begin a graduating honours thesis under the direction of a faculty member
EOS 499B - Honours Thesis II
Research, write and orally defend a graduating honours thesis
Work experience
Work experience work terms
Take part in a modified co-op program requiring one or two work experiences
These courses are not always offered as described.
What you'll learn
Every student at UVic builds skills all employers look for. At UVic Co-op & Career we call these "competencies". This is what you’ll learn in the climate science program.
Climate science
- understand the processes and mechanisms that determine Earth’s Climate
- learn how the Earth’s climate is changing, and the causes of climate change
- study how climate change will affect society
- learn how to adapt to, and mitigate the effects of, climate change
- use weather and climate data
- discover the spatial patterns of economic activity, cultural groups, social issues and international well-being
- study the major concepts, approaches, perspective and findings in geography
- understand how biogeography, climatology and geomorphology contribute to the study of the physical environment
- learn about natural forces that affect weather, the ocean and the earth
- study how to apply your knowledge of the physical environment to resource management, planning, and conservation
Scientific method
- gather evidence through observation and experimentation
- analyze data, define a research problem and predict the outcome
- use inductive reasoning and deductive methods to form testable, falsifiable hypothesis
- design an approach or experiment to test and evaluate hypotheses
- observe and record the results of research
- analyze results using chemistry knowledge and mathematical techniques
- draw conclusions
- communicate the results and identify the need to conduct further research
Computer skills
- create and modify scientific software
- use science software
- develop and use computer modeling as a proxy for physical experiments
- develop and use computational methods to analyze large data sets
Field work
- observe behaviour or properties of subjects or phenomena
- measure subjects or phenomena or their environment
- identify and collect samples for analysis
- use field equipment, tools and machinery
Lab work
- take accurate measurements
- follow the methods and techniques relevant to chemistry
- develop and optimize methods and techniques
- analyze, make, purify, modify and characterize compounds, samples or devices
- use, maintain and troubleshoot lab instruments
- troubleshoot procedures
- use safe and careful practices
Education and training
- teach science at a level appropriate to the audience
- assess achievement of learning outcomes
- train and supervise others to perform scientific or lab procedures