0836. Disasters: Geology vs. Hollywood (3 s.h.) RCI: GS.

Clips from Hollywood disaster movies will drive our inquiry into geologic phenomena. Can you really drive over a lava flow in a jeep? (Dante’s Peak) Are we foolish not to prepare for a major earthquake in New York City? (Aftershock) Could global warming melt the polar ice caps turning “dry land” into a myth? (Waterworld) Would the impact of an asteroid the “size of Texas” kill half the Earth by heat and freeze the remainder in a nuclear winter? (Armageddon) Learn the fundamentals of plate tectonics, how petrologic properties control volcanic explosivity, how to calculate earthquake locations from seismic data, and prepare a disaster readiness plan for a major U.S. city.

Note: This course fulfills a Science & Technology (GS) requirement for students under GenEd and Science & Technology Second Level (SB) for students under Core.

0837. Evolution & Extinctions (3 s.h.) RCI: GS. $.

(Formerly: GE-SCI 0064.)

Basic geologic principles and the fundamentals of evolutionary thought combine to bring to life the 4.5 billion year story of our planet and its creatures. Through hands-on experience with fossils and rocks, students discover how to decipher past environments from the geologic record and investigate changes in life through time. You may have read that an asteroid impact wiped out the dinosaurs, but can “natural” Earth-based processes also cause mass extinctions? Should we be less worried about rocks from space, and more about “down to Earth” phenomena such as climate change?

Note: This course fulfills a Science & Technology (GS) requirement for students under GenEd and Science & Technology Second Level (SB) for students under Core. Mode: Lecture and Laboratory format.

0842. Sustainable Environments (3 s.h.) RCI: GS.

Americans account for over a quarter of all fossil fuel consumption, own more cars than there are licensed drivers, and build new homes 40 percent larger than they did in 1975, despite shrinking household size. We feel for the pandas and polar bears, while contributing mightily to global climate change, resource inequity, and ecosystem destruction. How do we reckon with environmental crises at multiple scales, from the neighborhood to the atmosphere and oceans? “Think globally, act locally” environmentalists admonish us! Direct our vast human ingenuity and collective spirit toward technologies and behaviors that bring peace with the planet. Course mission: enhance your capability to make informed choices, based on a sound understanding of the ecological, technological, economic, political, and ethical dimensions of environmental sustainability.

Note: This course fulfills a Science & Technology (GS) requirement for students under GenEd and Science & Technology Second Level (SB) for students under Core.

Students cannot receive credit for this course if they have successfully completed GUS 0842 or EVRN ST 0842.

1001. Introductory Geology (4 s.h.) F S SS. RCI: SA. $.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY C050.)

An introduction to the basic principles and processes of geology. Wide range of topics, including rocks and minerals, surface processes, plate tectonics, and the earth’s interior.

Note: This course can be used to satisfy the university Core Science & Technology First Level (SA) requirement. To determine if this course in combination with another course can satisfy the GenEd Science & Technology requirement, see your advisor. Mode: Lecture and laboratory

1005. Evolution (4 s.h.) RCI: SB.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY C057.)

This course is an introduction to the basic concepts of macroscopic organismal evolution as reflected in the geologic record, and the application of paleontologic data to solving basic geologic problems. Includes one two-hour laboratory session per week.

Note: This course can be used to satisfy the university Core Science & Technology Second Level (SB) requirement. Mode: Lecture and laboratory.

1015. Environmental Resources (4 s.h.) F S SS. RCI: SB.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY C081.)

Interrelationships of people and the environment, problems of pollution, of availability, and of consumption of natural resources.

Note: This course can be used to satisfy the university Core Science & Technology Second Level (SB) requirement. Mode: Lecture and Laboratory.

1021. Catastrophic Geology (4 s.h.) F S SS. RCI: SB.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY C051.)

Substantial description and theory of plate tectonics as related to the geological catastrophes: earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, and floods. Causes, occurrences, properties, and use are given a scientific basis.

Note: This course can be used to satisfy the university Core Science & Technology Second Level (SB) requirement. Mode: Lecture and Laboratory.

2001. Physical Geology (4 s.h.)

(Formerly: GEOLOGY 0155.)

Introductory geology course designed for geology and environmental studies majors and focused on theory and concepts needed for advanced study. Laboratory sessions (3 hrs/week) focus on the properties of mineral and rock specimens, map skills, and the development of basic field techniques. Mode: Lecture and laboratory.

2011. Mineralogy I (4 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY 0201.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 1001 (C050) or EES/GEOLOGY 2001 (0155). Co-Requisite: Chemistry 1031 (C071).

Fundamentals of hand-specimen analysis including crystallography, bonding, physical properties, chemical composition and growth of common minerals. Mode: Lecture and laboratory.

2012. Mineralogy II (4 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY 0202.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 2011 (0201).

Microanalysis by polarized light microscopy, powder x-ray diffractometry and microprobe including site occupancy, crystal growth, and microstructural defects with emphasis on silicates. Mode: Lecture and laboratory.

2021. Facies Models (4 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY 0211.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 1001 (C050) or 2001 (0155), or equivalent.

Analysis of sedimentological and stratigraphic data to derive facies interpretations. Laboratory and field exercises emphasize data collection, interpretation and graphical presentation.

Note: Several required day-long field trips. Mode: Lecture and laboratory.

2022. Paleontology and Stratigraphy (4 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY 0212.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 2021 (0211).

Fundamental concepts of stratigraphy combined with functional/ecological analysis of fossil invertebrates. Two multi-day field trips focused on correlation of strata, paleoecologic analysis, and reconstruction of geologic history.

Note: Two multi-day field trips. Mode: Lecture and laboratory.

2061. Introduction to Geochemistry (4 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY 0261.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 1001 (C050) or 2001 (0155), or equivalent. Co-Requisite: Chemistry 1031 (C071).

Application of chemical principles and quantitative methods to understand and solve various geological problems. Field trips and laboratory exercises will emphasize techniques of obtaining and measuring geological samples. Students will analyze, summarize, and present data in oral and written reports. Mode: Lecture and laboratory.

2096. Climate Change: Oceans To Atmosphere (4 s.h.) S. RCI: WI.

(Formerly: EES/GEOLOGY 2015.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 1001 (C050) or 2001 (0155).

The major topics in Oceanography will be covered in addition to introducing students to meteorology through the study of the Atmospheric circulation system. These topics will give students a better understanding of climate change and forecasting. The course includes a significant writing project.

Note: This course is taught every other year. Mode: Lecture and laboratory.

3001. Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology (4 s.h.) S.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY 0301.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 2011 (0201).

Understanding of the chemistry, physical properties, global distribution, origin, and identification of igneous and metamorphic rocks. Laboratory work will emphasize mineral and rock identification in both hand sample and using microscopes. Thin section production techniques will be introduced. Term paper and oral presentation required. Mode: Lecture and laboratory.

3011. Remote Sensing and GIS (4 s.h.)

(Formerly: GEOLOGY 0310: Use of Microcomputers in Geology.)

Prerequisite: Computer experience and science or engineering majors with Junior or Senior level standing.

The focus of this class is on remote sensing technologies and geographic information systems. Remote sensing is a dynamic field; new, high-resolution satellites are coming online almost daily, and there has been an exponential growth in applications of remote sensing data during the past decade, including: mineral exploration, precision agriculture, watershed management, land use classification, military intelligence, and climate monitoring. The demand for college graduates with experience in this field is growing exponentially as well. By the end of this class you won’t be a remote sensing expert, but you will have a fundamental understanding of the uses and limitations of remote sensing data for geologic and environmental applications, as well as fundamental geographic information systems skills.

Note: Prior to Spring 2009, this course was titled “Use of Microcomputers in Geology.” Mode: Lecture and computer laboratory.

3021. Introduction to Hydrology (4 s.h.) F.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY 0210.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 1001 (C050) or 2001 (0155) or equivalent, C- or better in MATH 1021 (C073) or higher.

This course provides an introduction to the science of hydrogeology. Topics include how geology influences groundwater flow and geochemistry, how groundwater and surface water interact, and contamination and remediation issues. Student understanding of groundwater and contaminant movement is developed though a series of take-home problem sets that require basic algebra skills. Mode: Lecture and laboratory.

3042. Coastal Processes and Geomorphology (4 s.h.)

Prerequisite: EES 2001 and EES 2021.

The course will apply a process geomorphological approach to understanding coastal behavior. Subjects will include the global distribution of coasts, wave and tidal hydraulics, barrier morphodynamics, nearshore and aeolian sediment transport, and morphological signatures of extreme events.

3091. Research Methods (3 s.h.)

Prerequisite: SCI TEC 1189.

Cross Listed with Biology 3091, Chemistry 3091, Physics 3091.

Research Methods is required for all of the TUteach with Teaching majors. It is one of several content courses specially designed to meet the needs of future teachers. Sections meet two hours per week for non-traditional, interactive lectures and two hours per week for lab. The course is cross-listed in Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science, and Physics. The goals of the course are (1) to provide students with the tools that scientists use to solve scientific problems; (2) to give students the opportunity to use these tools in a laboratory setting; (3) to make students aware of how scientists communicate with each other through peer-reviewed scientific literature; and (4) to enable students to understand how scientists develop new knowledge and insights, the most important of which are eventually presented in textbooks and taught in conventional science classes. Students design and carry out four independent inquiries, which they write up and present in the manner that is common in the scientific community. The inquiries incorporate mathematics and the various science disciplines, thus the team of instructors teaching this course have expertise in different disciplines and are available to supervise all students as they work on their inquiries in the lab. The combination of Research Methods and the TUteach course “Perspectives on Science and Mathematics” (Philosophy 2196) provides prospective science and mathematics teachers with an in-depth understanding of how the scientific enterprise works.

4082. Individual Study Program (1 to 3 s.h.) F S SS.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY 0293.)

Prerequisite: Written permission of the faculty member who will be responsible for their program and approval of the undergraduate advisor.

Individual independent study and research under supervision of a member of the Earth & Environmental Science Faculty. A final written report will be submitted to the faculty member. For further information and details, see the undergraduate advisor.

Note: Student must have a GPA of 3.25 at the end of the first semester of their junior year.

4096. Structural Geology (4 s.h.) S. RCI: WI.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY W302.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 2011 (0201), C- or better in 2021 (0211), and C- or better in Physics 1061 (C087), 2021 (0121), or 2921.

The purpose of this course is to train students in the concepts and techniques of structural geology. Students will learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret geologic data drawn from a variety of disciplines pertinent to structural geology and present a cohesive written argument. Results are presented as maps, reports, and computer models.

Note: Geology B.S. Capstone. Mode: Lecture and laboratory.

4197. Environmental Seminar (3 s.h.) S. RCI: WI.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY W381.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 1001 (C050) or 2001 (0155). Must have Junior or Senior level standing as defined by credit hours completed.

In this class you will study the environmental controversies that are in the news, specifically focusing on global warming and the energy industry. We discuss both the scientific evidence at the heart of environmental controversies and the techniques, foul or fair, that try to persuade us to take sides.

Note: This course is designed for upper level Geology Majors and Environmental Studies students. Geology B.A. Capstone. Mode: Seminar.

4200. Topics in Geoscience (3 to 4 s.h.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 1001 (C050) or 2001 (0155), and permission of instructor.

This seminar will allow students to study current problems in geology and environmental science.

Note: Elective for Earth and Environmental Science majors (Geology and Environmental Science). May be taken multiple times (on different topics) with permission of instructor.

4589. Field Geology (6 s.h.)

(Formerly: GEOLOGY 0352.)

Prerequisite: Junior or Senior level standing and C- or better in all of the following: EES/GEOLOGY 1001 (C050), 2011 (0201), 2021 (0211) or 2022 (0212), and 4096 (W302).

The purpose of this course is to train students in the techniques and methodologies of field geology. Students will learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret field data across a variety of geologic disciplines. Results are presented as maps, reports, measured sections, and computer models.

Note: Students take this course through other institutions. The selection of the camp must be approved by the Geology undergraduate advisor.

4601. Vertebrate Paleontology and Taphonomy (3 s.h.)

Prerequisite: One of EES/Geology 2021 (0211) and EES/Geology 2022 (0212). Co-Requisite: The other of EES/Geology 2021 (0211) and EES/Geology 2022 (0212).

Cross Listed with EES 5601.

This course examines vertebrate fossils and their importance for interpreting and reconstructing terrestrial ecosystems. Students will learn the basics of vertebrate skeletal anatomy, interpret transport and depositional histories of skeletal elements and assemblages, and combine this information with geologic data to reconstruct paleoenvironmental settings and paleocommunity associations. Several class sessions will meet off-campus at local museums; one weekend field trip is required.

4811. Planetary Geology (4 s.h.)

Prerequisite: EES/GEOLOGY 2001 (0155); MATH 1041 (C085) or 1941 (H095); and either EES/GEOLOGY 3001 (0301) or EES/GEOLOGY 2061 (0261).

This course explores the modern and ancient geologic processes on other planets and discusses how studies of other planets can aid us in a better understanding of our Earth. The course will also cover topics such as planetary exploration and astrobiology. Includes a lab.

4997. Honors Environmental Seminar (3 s.h.) S. RCI: WI.

(Formerly: GEOLOGY H391.)

Prerequisite: C- or better in EES/GEOLOGY 1001 (C050) or 2001 (0155); Must be a Junior or Senior level student.

In this class you will study the environmental controversies that are in the news, from ozone depletion to Superfund reauthorization to Clean Water Act Amendments. We discuss both the scientific evidence at the heart of environmental controversies and the techniques, foul or fair, that try to persuade us to take sides.

Note: This course is for Geology Majors, Environmental Studies students, and Honors Students. Mode: Seminar.