BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS IN METEOROLOGY AND CLIMATE SCIENCE (HCMS)
| Module Code | Module Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
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HMCS101 |
Introduction to Meteorology | Definition of the atmosphere, atmospheric structure and composition, including trace gases, aerosols, dust and ash, and pollutants composition, vertical structure of the atmosphere in terms of its constituents, temperature and moisture content. Global mean seasonal patterns of atmospheric variables and their inter-relationships. The impacts of various weather and climate phenomena on society. Functions of meteorological service, service provision, key products and services, accuracy and quality of forecasts. |
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HMCS102 |
Mechanics, Wave Motion and Fluid Mechanics | This module is an introduction to classical physics; topics to be covered include mechanics, waves and fluid dynamics. The module is divided into three parts: Part A involves the study of how the motion of an object can be understood and predicted in terms of the forces that are acting on the object. It is restricted to “classical,” which in this context, means that the study is restricted to speeds that are slow compared to the speed of light, so that the effects of relativity will not have to be taken into account. It will also be restricted to objects which are generally large, compared to atoms or molecules, so that there is no need to consider the effects of quantum theory. Part B covers fundamentals of wave motion, sound and electromagnetic waves, and physical and geometric optics. Emphasis is on physical concepts and mathematical methods that are applicable to many areas of physics. Part C provides a systematic introduction to the main principles of Fluid Mechanics and emphasizes the development of conceptual understanding and problem-solving ability in these aspects. The module will cover Fluid statics (Hydrostatic pressure, density, buoyancy, Archimedes principle, surface and interfacial phenomena) and Fluid Dynamics (Steady flow, Fluid flow continuity, Bernoulli principle, viscous flow, turbulence; Mixing and Entropy). This introductory module is intended to provide students with a fundamental understanding of the laws of classical physics with applications to space sciences. Students will acquire skills in scientific methods, critical reasoning and problem solving. |
|
HMCS103 |
Programming Principles and Applications | This module introduces programming languages (e.g. Python, C++) and problem solving in a structured program logic environment. This module is aimed at students with little or no prior programming experience but a desire to understand computational approaches to problem solving. Topics include language syntax, data types, program organization, problem solving methods, algorithm design, and logic control structures. Students will also learn to document and debug software and to utilize software libraries. Upon completion, students should be able to manage files with operating system commands, use top-down algorithm design, implement algorithmic solutions in a programming language and write small programs that allow them to accomplish useful goals. |
| HMCS104 | Mathematical Methods for Meteorology 1 | This module is designed to cover Calculus and Linear Algebra for undergraduate engineering students with some background of A-Level Mathematics. The first part introduces calculus of single variables and part of calculus of several variables. The concentration is on motivating results and concepts geometrically rather than on providing rigorous proofs. Concepts are defined carefully and results stated precisely, but illustrated by way of vivid, concrete examples. The second part is designed to provide students with a good understanding of the concepts and methods of linear algebra and help the students develop the ability to solve problems using linear algebra. The mathematical topics to be covered include systems of variables, matrices, vectors, span, dimension, linear transformations, basis, inverse, determinant, vector space and subspace, null space, row space, rank, and eigenvector and eigenvalue. |
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HMCS105 |
Meteorological Instrumentation and Methods of Observation | This module provides an explanation of the physical principles used by instruments that measure atmospheric parameters, including upper air. A description of the benefits of measurements and limitations in the instruments is also offered. |
|
HMCS106 |
Statistical Methods in Meteorology | This module will provide basic training in statistics and an introduction to various meteorological data sets and structures. Various statistical packages will be used to apply descriptive statistics, regression, correlation, time series analysis, and filtering to the meteorological data sets. Although the necessary theory will be developed, the focus of this class will be on analysis procedures relevant to meteorology, including practical application and interpretation of large and diverse meteorological data sets. |
|
HMCS107 |
Thermodynamics | This module provides a systematic introduction to the main principles of Thermal Physics and emphasizes the development of conceptual understanding and problem-solving ability in these aspects. It will introduce the tools students need to analyze energy systems from solar panels, to engines, to insulated coffee mugs. More specifically, it will cover the topics of mass and energy conservation principles; first law analysis of control mass and control volume systems; properties and behavior of pure substances; and applications to thermodynamic systems operating at steady state conditions. Numerous research-based teaching strategies will be employed to facilitate student learning and to help students solve problems and relate to physical concepts. In addition, peer-tutoring and seminar presentations will allow students to work collaboratively to understand concepts and develop problem solving strategies. |
| HMCS108 | Atmospheric Radiation and Optical Phenomena | The module discusses the effects of surface conditions and atmospheric constituents (including aerosols, water vapour, clouds, greenhouse gases and reactive gases) on the incoming and outgoing radiation and describes the basic aspects of radiative transfer theory, describes the global energy balance and optical and electrical phenomena. |
|
HMCS201 |
Dynamic Meteorology 1 | This module describes the basics of atmospheric dynamics including conservation laws, development of the equations of motion, gradient wind, thermal wind, circulation and vorticity, geostrophic motions, atmospheric waves and the application of the principles of thermodynamics and convection to weather analysis and forecasting. |
| HMCS204 | Mathematical Methods for Meteorology 2 | This module builds on the level 1 Mathematics module, and aims at providing a broad introduction to Complex Variables, Vector Calculus, Introduction to differential equations (ordinary and partial), Fourier series, Laplace transforms and probability and statistics. Emphasis is placed on physics applications to complement basic theories. |
| HMCS203 | Atmospheric Thermodynamics |
This module covers the concepts of heat and thermodynamics relevant to the atmosphere and its applications to vertical structure of the atmosphere, cloud drop formation, and radiation in the climate system. Laws of thermodynamics and their applications will be used to explain the different thermodynamic diagrams and their applications and to derive the hydrostatic equations and explain its applications. The thermodynamic diagrams will be used to determine different stability processes in the atmosphere and to perform calculations applicable to problems of atmospheric thermal physics, including the role of water in all its phases, gravity and the vertical structure of the atmosphere, droplet and cloud formation, radiative processes and the greenhouse effect. |
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HMCS202 |
Tropical Meteorology and Mesoscale Weather Systems |
This module deals with tropical general circulation and systems that interact to cause the weather/climate in the tropics. Conditions for cyclogenesis and frontogenesis, development and weakening. This module also deals with the climatology and the underpinning science of severe thunderstorms, squall lines, mesoscale convection systems, and their interactions with synoptic scale weather as well as the methods of observing, analyzing, and predicting convective and mesoscale weather including the interpretation of satellite and radar images. It will also discuss impact of synoptic scale weather, such as blizzards, floods, and droughts. It applies atmospheric principles to small-scale weather systems, with an emphasis on the conceptual modeling and short-range prediction of severe thunderstorms. |
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HMCS205 |
Weather Observations, Analysis and Forecasting | This is a practical module that is meant to introduce students to monitoring and observing the weather and processing of observations, atmospheric analysis and weather forecasting. Other topics include synoptic analysis and interpretation of synoptic charts and soundings plotted on a thermodynamic diagram, interpreting radar data, interpreting satellite imagery and integrating conventional and remote sensing data. Practical forecasting of local weather. Forecast process, types of forecasting methods and analysis of conceptual models. The tutorials and laboratory sessions deal with practical weather analysis and forecasting. Current weather will be analysed using a range of observational and NWP inputs. It deals with identification and analysis of the space-time characteristics of the synoptic systems and special focus will be on Africa and East Africa. Also included in the analysis and forecasting of extreme weather events, METARs and TAFs, detailed analysis of clouds and precipitation associated midlatitude synoptic-scale systems. Jet streams and jet streaks, Heat, moisture and momentum transport by midlatitude eddies. The angular momentum budgets. The energy cycles. Cyclogenesis: the QG perspective. Frontogenesis and frontolysis. Case studies will be developed in collaboration with the Meteorological Services Department |
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HMCS206 |
Cloud Physics and Precipitation | This module covers the concepts of heat and thermodynamics and their application in the atmosphere. It also describes the different types of clouds, their formation and why they are important in the earth-atmosphere system |
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HMCS207 |
Remote Sensing and Geographical Information Systems in Meteorology | Remote sensing of the Earth's environment from space has revolutionized the ways in which we acquire and measure environmental phenomenon. Earth observation data is central to the monitoring and prediction of weather events. The primary goal of this module is to teach students the science of remote sensing and its applications in meteorology, the basic principles of how radiation is emitted, transmitted and absorbed in the Earth's atmosphere and the techniques by which space-borne satellites can observe the chemical composition and properties of the Earth's atmosphere and surface. The module targets those students who wish to acquire knowledge and practical skills in the application of Earth observation science in understanding the Earth’s atmosphere. Geographic Information Systems provides the capabilities of logically integrating different data sets in a single system making it essential for weather monitoring and forecasting processes. The array of spatial data (i.e., biophysical) that meteorologists have to deal with can be efficiently managed and analysed in a GIS environment to aid decision making. The aim of this module is to train students in the theory and practical applications of GIS and how they can implement it in meteorology. |
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HMCS208 |
Global circulation, Climates, climate change and climate applications |
The overall aim of the learning outcomes dealing with climatology is to ensure an individual will be able to explain the Earth’s climate, the mechanisms responsible for climate variability and climate change, and impacts in terms of possible changes to the global circulation, primary weather elements and potential effects on society. Input/output devices and sensors are also covered. The module enables students to analyze the requirements of a given task, make decisions in selecting an appropriate controller, design and implement prototype hardware/software for a typical embedded systems product. Practical workshops are designed to introduce microprocessor software development, testing and debugging. Workshops provide students with an opportunity to use both ‘C’ and assembly language. |
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HMCS380 |
Industrial Attachment |
This year long internship allows the student to gain experience working in a professional environment and to apply knowledge gained in the first two years to acquire professional skills or competences. Students will be able to expand their professional network, convert academic knowledge into industrial skills, narrow down their potential careers and gain unforgettable life experiences. The main objectives of the training module are: a) to help the student to put into practice the basic experimental and theoretical skills which were learnt b) to provide exposure to and experience of the industrial environment. c) to give the student an insight into the production activities of Zimbabwe's main industries d)to embark on a research project under the joint supervision of a member from the department and a member of the training institution. The Industrial attachment will be assessed jointly by the industrial supervisor and the academic supervisor as well as by written reports submitted by the student on the industrial attachment experience and the industrial project. |
| HMCS370 | Industrial Project |
This year long internship allows the student to gain experience working in a professional environment and to apply knowledge gained in the first two years to acquire professional skills or competences. Students will be able to expand their professional network, convert academic knowledge into industrial skills, narrow down their potential careers and gain unforgettable life experiences. The main objectives of the training module are: a) to help the student to put into practice the basic experimental and theoretical skills which were learnt. b) to provide exposure to and experience of the industrial environment. c) to give the student an insight into the production activities of Zimbabwe's main industries d) to embark on a research project under the joint supervision of a member from the department and a member of the training institution. The Industrial attachment will be assessed jointly by the industrial supervisor and the academic supervisor as well as by written reports submitted by the student on the industrial attachment experience and the industrial project. |
|
HMCS404 |
Numerical Weather Prediction |
This module describes the various equations used in atmospheric dynamics and how they can be solved numerically to determine the state of the atmosphere. It also explains the different numerical techniques and their applications to weather prediction |
|
HMCS401 |
Mid-latitude Weather Systems |
The overall aim of the module is to ensure the student will be able to use knowledge of dynamic and thermodynamic processes to describe and explain the formation, evolution and characteristics of mid-latitude weather systems. |
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HMCS402 |
Dynamic Meteorology 2 |
A continuation of Dynamic Meteorology 1, this module covers the application of the general principles of mechanics and fluid motions to the study of the atmosphere and its movements. Topics include a study of the fundamental equations of motion, circulation, divergence and numerical weather prediction. Applications of these principles to weather analysis and forecasting are emphasized. Contents include fundamental equations of motion on a rotating earth; horizontal motion under balanced forces; kinematics of fluid flow; the mechanism and influence of pressure changes; surfaces of discontinuity; circulation, vorticity and divergence theorems; and numerical weather prediction. |
| HMCS403 |
Boundary Layer Meteorology and Micrometeorology |
The module covers turbulent processes, surface energy budget, boundary layer variations and profiles and local winds. It also covers measuring techniques of properties of the boundary layer, including air quality, describes the common contaminants and pollutants affecting air quality and their major |
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HMCS406 |
Agrometeorology, Hydrometeorology & Biometeorology |
This module describes surface- atmosphere interaction and its relevance to agriculture and hydrometeorology. It also explains the various requirements for crop growth and how crop production can be improved. This module describes the interaction between meteorology and hydrology phenomena. It deals with an analysis of the hydrological cycle and its interactions with the earth and atmosphere, including the processes of precipitation, evaporation, and stream flow. It also covers the factors determining groundwater and surface water resources, hydrological measurements (e.g. precipitation, evaporation, soil moisture, river flow, groundwater), and the causes of different types of flooding. Biometeorology introduces concepts to understand the interactions between atmospheric processes and living organisms. It covers basic concepts to understand how the atmospheric environment influences the functioning of vegetated ecosystems and how plants in turn modify the surrounding environment and the processes governing the exchanges of energy, mass, and momentum between various landscape types and overlying atmosphere. micro- and meso-scale weather and climate processes relevant to applications in air quality, hydrology, forestry, and agriculture are included. |
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HMCS405 |
Aeronautical Meteorology | This module is aimed at enabling students to gain knowledge and practical skills within the specialization of Aeronautical Meteorology Forecasting. This module also provides the opportunity for students to gain competency in their working environment as will be required by the International Civil Aviation Authority (ICAO). |
| HMCS470 | Research Project/ Dissertation Project | Students are required to do independent investigations of selected problems pertaining to thesis or dissertation under the supervision of a faculty member. Students will be introduced to scientific research, hypothesis generation and testing, use of statistical analysis, as well as scientific writing and electronic reference management. The research project will allow them to acquire the general skills essential for academic and research study, whilst extending their knowledge by introducing them to current topics of research as well as practice in the skills that are relevant to performing research. The research project is a core module, that is, a student has to pass the project in order to graduate. Generally, project proposals originate from the student or Department staff who will then supervise their respective projects. Many projects involve making apparatus and/or recording some observations, followed by appropriate analysis and interpretation. Purely theoretical or mathematical projects are also possible, where the student makes a deeper foray into some particular topic. A written report on the project must be submitted by a specified deadline for assessment. |
