Units / EAE4020
EAE4020 · Statistics for climate dynamics
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 4School of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
The unit will discuss some basic statistical methods for analysing climate dynamics with the aim of understanding the physical mechanisms driving the observed structures (statistics). The unit will start with a discussion on the basics of probability theory, time series analysis, stochastic models and multivariate data (pattern) analysis. It will then focus on the principles of decision making in statistical analysis (significance tests), which is followed by a discussion of the pitfalls and general strategies in statistical analysis. The unit will not focus on deriving statistical parameters, but rather will emphasise how these methods can be applied and will discuss the potential pitfalls in interpreting statistical results.
Areas of study: Master of Science in Atmospheric Science
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Clayton | First semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Assignments | Written | 50% | — |
| 2 | Final assessment - Exam (2 hours and 10 minutes) | Examination | 50% | — |
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
prohibitions
- EAE5020 — Statistics for climate dynamics
Learning outcomes
- Do a statistical analysis on probability distributions, time series, and multivariate data.
- Apply standard statistical methods in climate dynamics data analysis.
- Interpret the outcomes of the statistical analysis in the context of climate dynamics.
- Read, understand and critically analyse the scientific literature on data analysis in climate dynamics.
Workload
A total of 12 hours per week comprising: • One 2-hour practical class and • 10 hours of independent study per week
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Practical activities | 24 hours |
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