Postgraduate Courses

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ENVR

Environment

ENVR 5250
Environmental Economics and Management
[3-0-0:3]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 525
Exclusion(s)
ECON 5351, PPOL 5351
Description
The course is designed to introduce students to key contemporary concepts in environmental economics and equip them with the approaches in economics that are generally applied to analyze environmental problems and policies.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Describe basic concepts and frameworks in Microeconomics.
- 2.
  Apply a structured process to solve environmental problems.
- 3.
  Distinguish different ethical basis of environmental actions.
- 4.
  Formulate environmental problems to be solved by economic concepts and approaches.
- 5.
  Measure the benefits and costs of environmental protection actions by applying cost and benefit analysis (CBA).
- 6.
  Explain the economic arguments of promotion of clean technology.
ENVR 5260
Environmental Policy and Management
[3-0-0:3]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 526
Description
This course focuses both on how to make and how to study environmental policy and management. It will review major theories related to the formulation of environmental policies, including government regulation and economic incentives, and discuss the types of policy measures implemented in various public and business sectors. The discussion of environmental problems and policies will focus on examples that are relevant for Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, but will also include the experience of other countries and the debate surrounding global environmental issues.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Identify key global socio-economic, socio-technological and ecological trends that influence environmental policy.
- 2.
  Explain intricacies of environmental policies.
- 3.
  Evaluate issues in environmental policies by taking into account the complex interdependencies between humans, society and economy.
- 4.
  Explain the role of science in environmental politics, policy, planning and management.
- 5.
  Develop well-supported arguments or points of view by using proficient data mining and literature review skills.
- 6.
  Develop basic public speaking and presentation skills.
ENVR 5290
Climate Change: Science, Policy and Management
[3-0-0:3]
Description
This course prepares graduate students for the development of interdisciplinary research on environmental science, policy and management through a detailed investigation of climate change issues. Based on a review of the scientific research and models that have been developed through international cooperation, students will discuss relevant approaches of atmospheric and oceanographic science and the likely consequences in terms of climate change. In addition, the various technologies of mitigation and adaptation will be surveyed, leading to a discussion of appropriate policies for managing climate change at the global or national level.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Explain the critical physical processes responsible for global warming and its impact.
- 2.
  Summarize essential components of global climate models and analyze climate data set.
- 3.
  Identify key stakeholders in climate discussions and policymaking and explain their roles.
- 4.
  Evaluate the difficulties and opportunities of some technology options for climate adaptation and mitigation.
- 5.
  Assess the strategy and progress in climate risk management by some countries through literature review and data analysis.
ENVR 5310
Atmospheric Dynamics
[3-0-0:3]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 6040G
Description
The study of atmospheric motions is essential for a better understanding of the relevant meteorological phenomena. This course introduces the conservation laws for primitive equations and classical concepts in fluid dynamics, which will allow students to gain physical insight into the fundamental nature of atmospheric motions. This course is suitable for students who require the foundation of fluid dynamics for advanced study in meteorology, oceanography, atmospheric and climate sciences.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Apply the basic concepts of fluid dynamics and key variables describing the structure and motion of atmosphere.
- 2.
  Formulate the primitive equations and perform their simplifications.
- 3.
  Define circulation and vorticity, and their relationship.
- 4.
  Describe dynamical structure of the ﬂow in the planetary boundary layer.
- 5.
  Describe the quasi-geostrophic theory to depict and explain the mid-latitude synoptic-scale motions.
- 6.
  Interpret the observed characteristics of large-scale atmospheric motions with fundamental principles.
ENVR 5320
Environmental Data Analysis
[3-0-0:3]
Background
Fundamental knowledge of the statistic concepts and experience in using at least one data analysis tool such as excel, python or Matlab
Description
This course is designed for students at the start of their postgraduate studies. The course will provide students with knowledge in understanding and using statistical methods in environmental science and applications. Probability distributions, parametric tests of significance against non-parametric tests, Monte Carlo methods, Principal Component Analysis, etc. will be taught in the course facilitated by extensive use of real world problems as example.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Explain the concepts of basic statistical methods.
- 2.
  Use probability distributions, parametric tests, non-parametric tests and Monte Carlo methods to analyze environmental database and solve environmental problems creatively.
- 3.
  Use Principal Component Analysis, and correlation methods to analyze environmental datasets and discover the linkage between the data results and with environmental problems.
- 4.
  Solve the real world environmental problems using statistical tools independently and creatively.
ENVR 5330
Environmental Geographical Information System
[3-0-0:3]
Exclusion(s)
EVSM 5240
Description
This course will cover a broad spectrum of concepts and practices in Geographical Information System (GIS). It starts with the fundamental concepts and elements in geographic science and technology. Spatial data modeling and integration methods will then be discussed followed by various geospatial analysis approaches for both vector and raster data. Cartographic principles, spatial relationships, projection and coordinate systems will be discussed in-depth. During the course, students will be introduced to contemporary GIS software and apply GIS technology support local and regional environmental planning and management.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Manage spatial data, including images from satellites and field data.
- 2.
  Interpret spatial model data such as wind and temperature in Hong Kong.
- 3.
  Analyze situations to incorporate environmental considerations into socioeconomic development.
- 4.
  Formulate solutions to environmental problems by integrating and applying geospatial technologies.
- 5.
  Apply GIS theory to effective resource management, environmental policy formation and decision making.
ENVR 5340
Fundamentals of Sustainability Science and Technology
[3-0-0:3]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 6040J
Background
Some engineering knowledge will be a plus while not a specific requirement.
Description
The course is intended to link the interaction between the human and natural environment, focusing on how the anthropogenic activities have altered the natural environment and provide an overview on the emerging science and technology of sustainability. The course will identify the impacts associated with resource consumption and environmental pollution, and present the quantitative tools necessary for assessing environmental impacts and design for sustainability. At the end of the course, the students should be cognizant of the concept of sustainability, the metrics of sustainability and be able to use the principles of sustainable engineering in their respective field of practice.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Describe and explain social, environmental, and ecological indicators of Sustainability.
- 2.
  Identify grand challenges for sustainability and discuss emerging solutions for these challenges.
- 3.
  Define and explain the principles of sustainable engineering and make links to their respective field of practice.
- 4.
  Apply a life-cycle thinking in design for environment and conduct life cycle analysis to assess the environmental impacts of different products, processes and systems.
- 5.
  Work effectively in a team and interpret the project‘s contribution to sustainability improvement.
ENVR 5350
Climate Dynamics
[3-0-0:3]
Background
Fundamental knowledge of (geophysical) fluid dynamics is recommended.
Description
This course covers the dynamics of the atmosphere and ocean and the coupled dynamics, which govern our weather and climate. The course will introduce the essential features of the atmosphere and ocean circulation, as well as theories about instabilities in geophysical fluids. Knowledge and skills for running weather and climate models and analyzing data are also practiced in the course.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Describe basic structures of the atmospheric and oceanic circulation.
- 2.
  Explain known mechanisms governing the variability of the climate.
- 3.
  Conduct further research related to climate variability.
- 4.
  Present their research/practice results to experts and general audience.
ENVR 5360
Sustainable Development Research and Practice
[3-0-0:3]
Description
This course introduces postgraduate students to critical sustainability challenges and the state-of-the-art sustainable development practices. The course will cover the up-to-date research in understanding the emergence of sustainability challenges and solution development. It will combine lectures and in-class discussions to provide students with the opportunity to think outside their ongoing research framework and enhance their transdisciplinary research capabilities of delivering useful knowledge and methods that contribute to sustainable development.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Recognize the importance of sustainable development and the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration in the delivery of sustainable development instruction and assessment.
- 2.
  Understand and explain the causes of critical sustainability challenges.
- 3.
  Design and integrate multi-disciplinary knowledge to define a research framework for solving a particular sustainable development issue.
- 4.
  Experience problem solving and collaboration in studying solution development.
- 5.
  Connect and expand their current research domain to the area of sustainable development in pursuit of future academic careers.
ENVR 5370
Energy Systems, Sustainability, and Policy
[3-0-0:3]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 6090B
Description
This course provides postgraduate students the opportunity to enhance their multidisciplinary understanding of sustainable energy systems, transitions, and policy, with regards to the need to deliver sustainable development for all and accelerating climate action. With climate change accelerating, the ways we generate, distribute and use energy has been duly challenged, opening up new opportunities to rethink a rapid shift from fossil fuel-based generation to the deployment of sustainable energy systems. This course offers students a wide range of topics from conventional to renewable energy generation to electric mobility and transport to transmission and storage to markets and multi-level policy approaches to effect sustainable energy transitions. The course exposes the students to the sociotechnical nature of energy systems—in Hong Kong, China, and internationally, and an understanding that energy systems are not purely technological systems but are also embedded within politics and social dynamics.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Explain and provide possible solutions to local and global environmental problems with their social and economic contexts using advanced scientific and management knowledge and concepts.
- 2.
  Evaluate environmental impacts with scientific and evidence-based approaches.
- 3.
  Analyze contemporary and emerging environmental issues from different disciplinary and stakeholder perspectives.
- 4.
  Appropriately communicate an environmental agenda to different stakeholders.
- 5.
  Develop strategies and solutions to promote sustainability in government, business or educational sectors.
ENVR 5380
The Circular Economy – Governance, Business Practices and Modes of Transition
[3-0-0:3]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 6090C
Description
This course provides an insight into the Circular Economy (CE) concept and its modes of implementation at the (1) governmental and (2) the corporate level. The former focusses on the CE development in mainland China, Hong Kong, Germany, Japan and the European Union, while the latter will investigate CE business concepts as well as their application in selected cases. In terms of theories and methods, this course introduces (1) institutional (rule-based) change concept, (2) the dynamics of stakeholder interests (competition vs cooperation) and (3) concepts from waste management, industrial symbiosis as well as CE relevant concepts.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Understand the significance and performance of institutions (rule systems) in the circular economy (CE) context.
- 2.
  Explain key concepts theories and metrics for CE system analysis.
- 3.
  Recognize how competing interests affect the formation of CE structures.
- 4.
  Identify municipal solid waste recovery practices and techniques conducive for the CE.
- 5.
  Individually identify and develop CE innovation concepts for companies.
- 6.
  Master insights into international CE practices at the national level.
ENVR 5390
Satellite Remote Sensing and Informatics
[3-0-0:3]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 6040L
Description
Satellite remote sensing technique measures geophysical parameters from the electromagnetic energy emitted or reflected from the earth, and can be used to estimate earth surface characteristics, atmospheric compositions and profiles, and meteorological processes. This course provides a brief overview of the fundamental essentials to understand the remote sensing process, satellite data products, and their applications in atmosphere, land, and ocean.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Identify and describe the algorithm and process used by satellite remote sensing to measure the physical properties of distant objects.
- 2.
  Compare and contrast the most common sensors and techniques for satellite remote sensing.
- 3.
  Explain basic electromagnetic concepts and applications to optical sensors.
- 4.
  Define and exemplify the principles of applications in atmosphere, land, and ocean.
- 5.
  Access satellite remote sensing products from online data archives.
- 6.
  Apply data products for spatial and temporal variation analysis on parameters, compositions, and profiles of atmosphere, land, and ocean.
ENVR 5400
Weather, Climate and Air Pollution
[3-0-0:3]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 6040M
Background
Basic knowledge of physics and chemistry learned from high school and college.
Description
In this course, the students will gain a deeper understanding of the weather and climate systems that affect Hong Kong and the Asia/Pacific sector, the basic physical principles governing the atmospheric motion, and the formation mechanism of severe air pollution; and be able to use online tools to assess the cause of severe air pollution episodes in Hong Kong and mainland China.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Explain how the weather and climatic systems affect Hong Kong and their associations with air pollution.
- 2.
  Illustrate the basic physical principles and dynamics governing the atmospheric motion and circulation.
- 3.
  Correlate the atmospheric thermodynamics and dynamics and their impacts to pollutant dispersion.
- 4.
  Account for the causes of severe air pollution episodes, and in particular the interaction between weather, climate, and air pollution.
- 5.
  Integrate the knowledge and utilize available web resources to explain the formation, maintenance, and dissipation of air pollution episodes in Hong Kong and mainland China.
ENVR 5410
Atmospheric Chemistry
[3-0-0:3]
Co-list with
CHEM 5410
Exclusion(s)
CHEM 5410
Background
Basic knowledge of physical chemistry
Description
A fundamental introduction to the physical and chemical processes determining the composition of the atmosphere and its implications for climate, ecosystems, and human welfare. Atmospheric transport and transformation. Stratospheric ozone. Oxidizing power of the atmosphere. Regional air pollution: aerosols, smog, and acid rain. Nitrogen, oxygen, carbon, sulfur geochemical cycles. Climate and the greenhouse effect.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Apply the fundamental concepts to describe the physical and chemical processes governing air pollution.
- 2.
  Identify important chemical reactions and processes in the stratosphere and troposphere.
- 3.
  Understand the formation mechanism and destruction processes of various pollutants in the air.
- 4.
  Assess the potential impacts of various atmospheric chemical processes on environment, climate and human health.
- 5.
  Use investigative skills, critical thinking and ability to evaluate atmospheric chemistry-related information and data.
ENVR 5420
Climate Finance and the Carbon Markets
[3-0-0:3]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 6090D
Description
The world’s businesses and governments must take aggressive and coordinated steps in order to avert a climate catastrophe. Climate finance (investments in systems, companies and projects that sequester carbon) and the creation of new financial instruments that price carbon emissions – is a critical part of this required transformation of the global economy. This course will explore the economic and environmental impacts of climate change and the financial tools that can be used to mitigate those impacts and accelerate the sequestration and capture of carbon. Focus areas are: capital markets and exchanges, emissions trading systems, investments in low emissions technologies, project finance for nature-based climate solutions, renewable energy and other project types, corporate finance of decarbonization beyond their value change, carbon credits/offsets, and related regulatory changes.
ENVR 6010
Postgraduate Seminar
[0-2-0:0]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 601, AMCE 601
Description
Advanced seminar series presented by postgraduate students, faculty and guest speakers on selected topics in atmospheric environmental science or environmental science, policy and management. This course is offered once a year. Graded P or F.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Learn to describe thesis research in layman language.
- 2.
  Prepare and orally deliver a 10-15 min presentation to explain thesis research background, progress, and findings.
- 3.
  Gain a broad understanding of research topics in the field of environmental science, policy and mangament.
- 4.
  Practice to critically peer-review research of fellow PG students.
ENVR 6040
Special Topics in Environmental Science
[1-4 credit(s)]
Description
Offerings are announced each term, if deemed necessary, to cover emerging topics in environmental science not covered in the present curriculum.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Identify the latest technologies and scientific developments on topic concerned.
- 2.
  Integrate with the status quo knowledge/practices on the topic/subject.
- 3.
  Project the near future trend of development concerned.
- 4.
  Anticipate the research/business/in-field opportunities on the topic/subject.
ENVR 6050
Introduction to Oceanography
[3-0-0:3]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 605, AMCE 605
Co-list with
OCES 5001
Exclusion(s)
OCES 5001
Background
second year Science or Engineering
Description
An introduction to the fundamentals of physical, chemical, geological, geochemical, and biological oceanography. It unveils the mystery of the oceans including the formation of the continents, oceanic circulation, and formation of precious minerals in the deep oceans; discovers ocean resources from phytoplankton to fish. The course will lay the foundation for sustainable use of the oceans and discuss human threats such as global warming, overfishing, and coastal pollution.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Describe ocean sciences from interdisciplinary perspectives including physics, chemistry, biology, and geology.
- 2.
  Analyze environmental and earth system problems based on fundamental scientific principles and by applying interdisciplinary skill and knowledge.
- 3.
  Communicate problem solutions using correct oceanographic terminology in English.
ENVR 6090
Special Topics in Environmental Management
[1-4 credit(s)]
Description
Offerings are announced each term, if deemed necessary, to cover emerging topics in environmental management not covered in the present curriculum.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Identify the latest development in the technologies or management strategies on the topic concerned.
- 2.
  Integrate with the status quo knowledge/practices on the topic/subject
- 3.
  Project the near future trend of development concerned.
- 4.
  Anticipate the research/business/in-field opportunities on the topic/subject.
ENVR 6100
Independent Study
[1-3 credit(s)]
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 610, AMCE 610
Description
Study on selected topics in environmental science under the supervision of a faculty member. The course may be repeated once for credits if the topic is different. Graded P or F.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Conduct an independent study or a mini-project on a specific environmental topic
- 2.
  Apply an interdisciplinary approach in the studied topic
- 3.
  Communicate key findings through a written report.
ENVR 6770
Professional Development in Environmental Science, Policy and Management
[0-1-0:1]
Description
This one-credit course aims at providing research postgraduate students with basic training in research management, career development, and related professional skills. This course consists of a number of division-specific workshops. Graded PP, P or F.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Develop a comprehensive set of essential transferrable skills to enhance professional development in the discipline.
- 2.
  Recognize the major issues and updated development in the area of environment.
ENVR 6990
MPhil Thesis Research
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 699, AMCE 699
Description
Master's thesis research supervised by a faculty member. A successful defense of the thesis leads to the grade Pass. No course credit is assigned.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Acquire up-to-date and in-depth knowledge of areas of their specialization.
- 2.
  Apply experimental or modeling techniques/skills for investigations of problems in their thesis research.
- 3.
  Conduct directed research, develop experimental/modeling/data analysis protocols and interpret results.
- 4.
  Communicate effectively the results of scientific research in writing and by oral presentation to peers and researchers in related disciplines.
ENVR 7990
Doctoral Thesis Research
Previous Course Code(s)
ENVR 799, AMCE 799
Description
Original and independent doctoral thesis research. A successful defense of the thesis leads to the grade Pass. No course credit is assigned.
Intended Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- 1.
  Acquire up-to-date and in-depth knowledge of areas of their specialization.
- 2.
  Apply experimental or modeling techniques/skills for investigations of problems in their thesis research.
- 3.
  Conduct independent research, propose laboratory/field/modeling experiments, develop protocols, evaluate results and formulate hypotheses.
- 4.
  Communicate effectively the results of scientific research in writing and by oral presentation to peers and researchers in related disciplines.
- 5.
  Evaluate and critique current research, approaches and methodologies in their chosen thesis research areas.

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