Course List
Geology Options
GEOL 1112. Understanding the Weather (3-0-3) Corequisite: GEOL 1112L. This course explains the basic processes which control and influence atmospheric conditions, both on a local and global scale. The course will address the composition, origin, and structure of the atmosphere, earth-sun relationships, the atmosphere and energy, atmospheric moisture and state changes in water, air pressure and atmospheric circulation, fog, clouds, air masses, air pollution, climate and climate change, atmospheric optics, and the interaction of all these physical phenomena to produce the weather we experience on our planet.
GEOL 1112L. Understanding the Weather Lab (0-2-1) Prerequisite or Corequisite: GEOL 1112. This course is the lab component of GEOL 1112 Understanding the Weather. Lab exercises cover geographic coordinate systems and maps, temperature and pressure changes in Earth's atmosphere, interactions between solar radiation and the Earth, factors which control temperature, daily and annual changes in temperature and precipitation, atmospheric moisture and humidity, formation of clouds, utilization of data charts in understanding and predicting weather conditions, and construction and utilization of weather maps. Additionally, the course will introduce the various instruments used in meteorology: thermometers, barometers, psychrometers, and anemometers. (Course fee required)
GEOL 1121. Introductory Geo-sciences 1: Physical Geology (3-0-3) This course will explore the fundamental processes that have formed and continue to shape the earth geologically. Surficial and internal geologic processes will be explored in the context of plate tectonics and impacts on society (both modern and historical). Geologic hazards and earth resources will be examined, including the interaction between humans and the geological aspects of our environment. An optional lab (GEOL 1121L) is available to students desiring a laboratory science class. (Course fee required.)
GEOL 1122. Introductory Geo-sciences 2: Historical Geology (3-0-3) Prerequisite: GEOL 1121 recommended as prerequisite or co-requisite. This course covers geologic time, sedimentary environments, fossils, and Earth history. (Course fee required.)
GEOL 1322. Introductory Geo-sciences 2: Historical Geology Lab (0-2-1) Prerequisite: GEOL 1122. Laboratory exercises in the topics of GEOL 1122: techniques for determining relative and absolute ages; identification of fossils; correlating sedimentary rocks, determining paleoenvironments and paleogeography. (Course fee required.)
GEOL 2225. The Fossil Record (3-2-4) A survey of the history of life known from the fossil record. Includes principles of paleontology, evolutionary theory, and mass extinction. Field trips other than class time will be scheduled. (Course fee required.)
