Geology Courses

Materials of the earth, structures, and geologic features of the surface in relation to the processes and forces producing them. Laboratory study of minerals and rocks, topographic and geologic maps. Additional one-day field trips may be required. Prerequisite: Physics 100 or equivalent.

Fundamentals of the circulation of the atmosphere, sequence of weather events, severe weather. Includes some interpretation of weather maps. Prerequisite: Physics 100 or equivalent.

Geology 201 (Fall, even years) 3 lectures per week (3 credit hours)
Physical Geography

Study of the physical or natural aspects of humankind's environment with emphasis on landform development, oceanographic features, and climate.

An introduction to the interpretation of topographic maps, aerial photos, and satellite images. Designed to compliment Physical Geology. Prerequisite: Geol 201 or equivalent may be taken concurrently.

Geology 300 (Spring, even years) 4 lectures per week (4 credit hours)
Environmental Geology

An introduction of man's relationship to the earth's environment. The impact and mitigation of natural disasters, such as volcanoes, earthquakes, landslides, floods, subsidence, meteorite impacts, and climate change. Includes discussion of oil spills, surface mining, waste disposal, groundwater contamination and other man-made geologic disasters. The limitations of natural resources and projections of future needs are considered in terms of humankind's demands on the environment. Prerequisite: five credits in physical science, physics, and/or chemistry.

Geology 320 (on demand) 3 lectures, 1 lab per week (4 credit hours)
Historical Geology

A comprehensive study of the history of the earth within a plate-tectonics context. Emphasizes global evolution of landscapes and the fossil record. Laboratory includes geologic mapping, interpretation and reconstruction of earth history from map and fossil data, and fossil identification. Prerequisite: Geology 110 (Biology 101 recommended).

Topics vary. Seminar and/or in-depth field study for upper division students. Extended field trips will require a special lab fee. Prerequisite: Geology 320 and/or consent of the instructor.

Geology 499 (on demand) (1-3 credit hours)
Problems in Geology

Individual work under the supervision of a staff member with credit and hours to be arranged. Prerequisite: minimum GPA of 3.0 in 20 hours of science, Geology 110, and a proven interest in geology.