Module Outline (Lecture Themes)
Lecture themes:

• Introduction to Glaciology: glacier distribution, classification and formation

• Glacier structure and mass balance

• Glacier response to climate change

• Glacier motion: (i). internal deformation or creep

• Glacier motion: (ii). basal sliding

• Glacier motion: (iii). bed deformation

• Glacier hydrology: (i). Surface melting, supraglacial and englacial flow

• Glacier hydrology: (ii). Subglacial flow

• Glacier hydrology: (iii). Bulk discharge quantity and quality

• Surging Glaciers: occurrence, behaviour, mechanisms and geomorphic effects

• Glacier erosion; processes, models and landforms

Module objectives / Learning outcomes
By the end of module students will understand:

• the physical relationships between glacier size, climate and climate change.

• glacier motion and its environmental controls.

• the functioning of glaciers as dynamic hydrological systems.

• glaciers as land forming agents.

• the techniques employed in glaciological investigations.

• contemporary research issues in glaciology.

Module Aims
To provide students with a firm understanding of the fundamental principles of modern glaciology and its study.