Ice Age Earth

Through a detailed investigation of Earth’s cryosphere – the frozen components of the Earth System at and below the land and ocean surface – this course explores how Earth’s recent climate has shaped the physical landscape, distributed its resources, influenced the course of human history, and threatens its future. Topics include the characteristics of Earth’s “Ice Age” climate; the formation of glaciers, ice sheets, sea ice, and permafrost; the influence of climate on both ancient and modern human history; observed and projected impacts of climate change on Earth’s cryosphere. Graded on A-F basis only.