University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 1 | Credits: 5

The coastal zone exists at the interface of land, sea and atmosphere, making it a highly complex environment. Only through improved understanding of the processes operating in this zone can we hope to understand and manage this valuable resource in a sustainable manner. This course introduces the basic concepts of coastal science. The role of waves, wind and sea-level in shaping the coast are explored. Conversely, the shape of coastal landforms affects these processes; this interaction between process and form is considered within a morphodynamic framework.

Learning Outcomes
  1. Demonstrate an understanding of using the systems approach to coastal environments.
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of contemporary coastal processes and landforms.
  3. Appreciate and develop skills that are used in the investigation of coastal environments, with fieldwork as an essential part of this learning process.
  4. Identify complex constraints on, and opportunities for, human exploitation of coastal resources.
  5. Comprehend and evaluate the patterns and processes controlling long-term coastal evolution and relative sea-level change.
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "Coastal Processes and Geomorphology" by Masselink et al.
    Publisher: Hodder
  2. "Coastal Systems" by Haslett, S. K.
    Publisher: Routledge
  3. "The World's Beaches: A Global Guide to the Science of the Shoreline" by Pilkey et al.
  4. "Handbook of beach and shoreface morphodynamics" by Short, A.D.
    Publisher: Wiley
  5. "Coastal Environments" by Carter, R. W. G.
    Publisher: Academic Press
  6. "Beaches and Coasts" by Davis Jr., R. and Fitzgerald D.
    Publisher: Blackwell
  7. "Coasts: Form, process and evolution." by Woodroffe, C. D.
    Publisher: Cambridge University Press
The above information outlines module TI303: "Coastal Dynamics" and is valid from 2016 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.