Program Overview

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Program Overview

The University of Copenhagen offers a course in Coastal Processes and Coastal Morphology, which provides an introduction to the dynamic processes, sediment transport, and geomorphology in the coastal environment.

Course Description

The course covers the interaction between dynamic processes (waves, currents, sea level changes, tides), sediment transport, and geomorphology in the coastal zone, leading to an understanding of the development and dynamics of different coastal types. Conceptual morphodynamic models are used to describe morphological changes in response to changes in dominant processes, such as climate change (sea level changes and changes in wave climate) and human intervention. Coastal protection methods to mitigate the consequences of climate change are also discussed.

Course Objectives

The course aims to provide students with knowledge of:

• The morphodynamic system of the coast
• External drivers such as hydro- and aerodynamic processes, wave theory, current systems, sediment dynamics, and sediment transport
• Coastal morphology, barrier coasts, and cliff coasts
• Sea level changes, coastal erosion, and flooding

Course Skills

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

• Explain and calculate wave transformations from deep water to the surf zone
• Explain the different breaking-induced processes in the littoral zone, such as the formation of different types of current systems
• Understand the effect of different wave and current types on sediment mobilization and sediment transport
• Explain the effect of sediment transport on the morphological development of the beach and foreland
• Explain morphodynamic relationships in the coastal zone
• Classify a given coastal stretch according to a conceptual morphodynamic model
• Explain the response of different coastal types to sea level changes, changed storm frequencies, and changes in sediment budget
• Understand the positive and negative consequences of different types of coastal protection

Course Competencies

Students will be able to evaluate, analyze, and perform calculations related to coastal morphological problems.

Teaching Methods

The course consists of exercises and a 1-day excursion.

Course Materials

The course plan is available on the course homepage on Absalon. The required reading includes a book on Introduction to Coastal Processes and Geomorphology and selected journal articles.

Recommended Prerequisites

To follow the course, a level of knowledge equivalent to the BSc in Geography and Geoinformatics program's compulsory courses is recommended.

Assessment

The course is assessed through a written on-site exam, 2 hours with supervision. The exam is an ITX exam, and all aids are allowed except Generative AI and internet access.

Course Type

The course is an elective course, 7.5 ECTS, at the Bachelor level.

Duration

The course is taught over 1 block.

Language

The course is taught in Danish.

Department

The course is offered by the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management, Faculty of Science.

Capacity

The course has a capacity of 27 students. However, there may be fewer places available if you enroll during the late enrollment period or as a merit or single-course student.