Earth & Space Sciences

This course is offered to non-science majors. This course explores the universe and its relationship to man from the viewpoint of ancient people to that of modern astronomers on space satellite. It emphasizes relevance of astronomy in natural sciences, engineering, humanism, and art.

This class presents a modern overview on the cosmos, as well as the multiple interrelations between humans and the universe. Topics include the basics of astronomy, planets and solar system, the sun, stars, galaxies, tools of astronomy (telescopes, satellites, etc.), spaceflight, life on earth, extreme objects (white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes), and cosmology.

This field-based research project course engages in all stages of earth and environmental science field investigations and allows students to gain an understanding of different research methodologies: from design to implementation, through collection and analysis of data that addresses specific research questions, identified independently by each student. The course also allows students to experience collaborative research work with clear objectives and milestones. Students draw upon the knowledge and practical skills gained during the “Volcanology of the Mediterranean” course to identify case-studies and research themes of interest to study in-depth, choosing from the wide range of geological and man-made processes and environments which students are exposed to throughout the program. During the results interpretation stage the attention is focused on developing skills for reporting field results in the format of scientific publications. While the majority of the research work is self-directed, a research advisor is assigned to each student, who provides guidance during scheduled appointments on how to locate resources and collect data, as well as review the appropriateness and feasibility of the research methods and tools in a collaborative manner with the student. Earth science and Environmental science disciplines are grounded in observations at all scales, from satellite and drone imagery to microscopic sampling; upon placing the results of such observations into geographic, spatial, and temporal frameworks, conclusions may be drawn about the processes that occur within complex environmental systems, and predictive models may be developed to assess the effect of human interactions. This course provides students with an opportunity to practice and hone key skills in gathering and analyzing data from primary sources, as well as developing a coherent and compelling argument in a scholarly manner.

This research internship program offers selected students the opportunity to participate in research projects or work as an intern in research centers or organizations at Yonsei University. Students are expected to participate in research projects for approximately 20 hours per week throughout the program. Projects will vary depending on placement. Graded Pass/No pass only.

The course introduces field study and geological surveying methods. The teaching material is lecture based and includes the concept of field geological surveying and the Heng-Chun Peninsula, which the class will embark on a four-day trip to Southern Taiwan to examine the rock and land formations of the area. Field practice is held during the semester, and performance during the field observation is the main determinant for performance assessment. A final examination is given after the field study, covering information on land formations, geological mapping, etc.

This multi-disciplinary course treats the question of life in the Universe. Where can life have developed? Must it be on a planet similar to Earth? How does life on a planet develop and evolve? Under what extreme circumstances can life persist? We discuss these and similar questions from physical, biological, and social perspectives. This course also reviews the methods to find and explore planets around other stars (exoplanets) and the search for intelligent life in the Universe as well as possible philosophical and other consequences of its possible discovery. Entry requirements: at least 60 credits of approved courses within the faculties of either science, technology and/or medicine. Earlier studies in astronomy or biology are not presumed.