GEOL — Geology: Catalog Entries

9 catalog course(s) on file. Undergraduate courses are numbered 100–499; graduate courses 500–699. See the department page for faculty and program information.

GEOL 101 — Physical Geology(4 cr.)

Introduces the materials and processes that shape the earth, including plate tectonics, rock formation, and erosion. Weekly laboratory sessions develop skills in mineral and rock identification.

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GEOL 102 — Historical Geology(4 cr.)

Surveys the history of the earth and life as recorded in the rock and fossil record. Laboratory work emphasizes stratigraphic principles and interpretation of geologic time.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 101

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GEOL 210 — Mineralogy(4 cr.)

Studies the crystallography, composition, and classification of common rock-forming minerals. Laboratory exercises develop skills in optical and physical mineral identification.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 101

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GEOL 250 — Structural Geology(3 cr.)

Examines the deformation of rocks and the interpretation of geologic structures such as folds and faults. Emphasis on reading and constructing geologic maps and cross sections.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 101

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GEOL 310 — Sedimentology and Stratigraphy(4 cr.)

Covers the processes of sediment deposition and the interpretation of sedimentary rock sequences. Laboratory and field exercises emphasize facies analysis and depositional environments.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 210

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GEOL 330 — Hydrogeology(3 cr.)

Introduces the movement and management of groundwater resources. Topics include aquifer properties, contaminant transport, and groundwater modeling.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 250

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GEOL 350 — Field Geology(4 cr.)

Intensive field course applying mapping and observational techniques to regional geologic problems. Requires extended fieldwork outside of regular class hours.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 310

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GEOL 420 — Special Topics in Geology(3 cr.)

Focused examination of a specialized topic in earth science chosen by the instructor. Recent offerings have included volcanology, paleoclimatology, and planetary geology.

Prerequisite(s): Junior standing

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GEOL 495 — Senior Thesis in Geology(3 cr.)

Capstone research course culminating in an original thesis based on independent field or laboratory investigation. Students present their findings at a department symposium.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 350

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