University of Michigan

Climate Change and Adaptation

University of Michigan

Climate Change and Adaptation

This course is part of Climate Solutions Specialization

Rajiv Ghimire
Maria Carmen Lemos

Instructors: Rajiv Ghimire

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

2 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

2 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Critically analyze the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal, Climate Change, and its relationship with development and adaptation.

  • Explain different definitions of adaptation and show how each connects to development at different levels of decision-making and government.

  • Synthesize and integrate different disciplines and methods to design and evaluate sustainability solutions.

  • Understand the implications of different adaptation actions for climate justice.

Details to know

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Recently updated!

July 2026

Assessments

4 assignments¹

AI Graded see disclaimer
Taught in English

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Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the Climate Solutions Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
  • Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 5 modules in this course

In this module, we will examine foundational concepts of climate change, adaptation, and sustainable development through the lens of UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. We will explore the science behind climate change and climate modeling, investigate the human drivers and unequal impacts of climate change, and examine how climate change intersects with broader development goals, including the synergies and trade-offs across social, environmental, and economic systems. We will also differentiate between mitigation and adaptation responses and reflect on how climate vulnerability is shaped by issues of justice, equity, inclusion, and development.

What's included

5 videos7 readings1 assignment4 discussion prompts

In this module, we will explore how climate change is reshaping water systems and intensifying challenges related to water scarcity, water quality, and unequal access to freshwater around the world. You will examine how climate change affects the water cycle and water governance while critically considering how water insecurity is experienced differently across rural and urban communities. Through case studies and discussions of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), you will explore how governance, participation, equity, and adaptive capacity shape efforts to build more resilient and sustainable water futures.

What's included

6 videos5 readings1 assignment1 app item3 discussion prompts

In this module, we will explore how climate change intensifies disasters and shapes vulnerability across communities and countries. You will examine the relationship between disaster risk, adaptation, and development while considering how preparedness, recovery, and resilience are influenced by social, economic, and environmental conditions. Through real-world examples and case studies, this module highlights the importance of equitable and adaptive approaches to managing climate-related risks.

What's included

6 videos3 readings1 assignment4 discussion prompts

In this module, we will explore how climate change affects urban and rural communities differently, with particular attention to vulnerability, inequality, and adaptive capacity. Learners will examine how climate impacts such as flooding, drought, heat, and sea-level rise intersect with poverty, infrastructure, and development in both cities and agricultural regions. Through global case studies and examples, we will highlight the challenges and opportunities involved in building equitable, community-centered climate adaptation strategies.

What's included

6 videos4 readings1 assignment3 discussion prompts

In this module, we will explore climate-resilient pathways and the strategies, partnerships, and forms of governance needed to support adaptation and sustainable development in a changing climate. As you close the course, you will examine how climate action can address issues of equity, justice, and resilience while navigating the uncertainties and trade-offs associated with climate change responses through the development of an adaptation story.

What's included

4 videos5 readings1 peer review

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Instructors

Rajiv Ghimire
University of Michigan
1 Course605 learners
Maria Carmen Lemos
University of Michigan
3 Courses28,997 learners

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¹ Some assignments in this course are AI-graded. For these assignments, your data will be used in accordance with Coursera's Privacy Notice.