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Course Criteria
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4.00 Credits
This course focuses on principles of invertebrate paleobiology, morphology and taxonomy as they are applied to the study of fossils. All macro-invertebrate groups having a significant fossil record are examined. Laboratory work centers on techniques employed in fossil preparation, on recognition of taxa from fossil material, and on the stratigraphic and evolutionary significance of invertebrate fossils. Oral and written presentations on paleontological issues are expected of each student as an introduction to the literature of the discipline. Participation in a field trip is expected. Prerequisite: Geology 103.
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4.00 Credits
The challenge of understanding the organizing principles, the evolution of and the functioning of ecosystems of the Earth is the essence of this course. Earth is entering a time of massive extinction, which happens first to species and then to communities and ecosystems. In paleoecology one aim is to understand how, why and when ecosystems collapse by studying the geologic record of such collapse events in the past. Such understanding may reveal our future. Techniques employed in these studies blend theory with application. The course is appropriate for students who have some paleontology or biology experience.
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4.00 Credits
This course involves a study of the nature of light in its interaction with crystalline material. Specifically, it studies the optical characteristics and properties of minerals and how minerals may be identified using the petrographic microscope. Participants gain experience in microscopic mineral identification and in the preparation of rock thin sections.
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4.00 Credits
Geomorphology, literally "earth-shape-study," is the study of thelandscape, its evolution and the processes that sculpt it. The purpose of this course is to enhance the student's ability to read geologic information from the record preserved in the landscape. This is achieved through understanding the relationship between the form of the Earth's surface and the processes that shape that form. Students combine quantitative description of the landscape with study of landscape-shaping processes into a comprehensive investigation of the dynamic landscape system including glaciation, hills, rivers, mountains and plains. Prerequisite: Geology 103. Also offered as Environmental Studies 211.
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4.00 Credits
This course explores the processes of sedimentation and their products in different depositional environments. It covers characteristics and origins of sedimentary rock types; processes that erode, transport and deposit sediments; and post-depositional modification. Emphasis is on modern depositional environments and how their study can help us better understand ancient depositional environments. The course also covers the principles of stratigraphy and reconstruction methods of sea level and paleoclimate. Field and laboratory analyses, including petrography, focus on description and classification of sedimentary rocks, and on the interpretation of their origin. Field trips required. Prerequisite: Geology 103.
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4.00 Credits
Few groups of animals are more recognized than the Dinosauria; likewise, there are few groups about which more misinformation (pseudoscience) has been circulated. (Was Jurassic Park actually Jurassic?) In the setting of vertebrate evolution, this course presents the science of Dinosauria, explains the history of their study, and investigates the origins of the group, its paleoecology, collection techniques, morphology and taxonomy. We consider cutting-edge issues of dinosaur research (are birds simply dinosaurs with feathers?), and confront all manner of misinformation, anachronism and illusion based on dinosaur myths.
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4.00 Credits
This interdisciplinary course is intended for students interested in environmental science (e.g., environmental studies, biology, geology or chemistry majors or minors). Familiarization with experimental design and statistics and training in field techniques includes map and compass work, basic surveying, and water, soil, vegetation and faunal sampling. Introduces students to the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for research in environmental science. Students acquire a working knowledge of ArcView GIS software and gain experience creating and managing GIS projects. Students interested in developing highly marketable GIS and field skills in the context of environmental research should consider taking this course. Also offered as Biology 241.
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4.00 Credits
Semester-long studies in appropriate areas of the earth sciences may be designed in consultation with an individual instructor in the geology department. May use seminar format when appropriate. Permission of instructor and sophomore standing are required.
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4.00 Credits
Petrology is the study of the origin of rocks, based on detailed observation of rock characteristics (petrography) together with theoretical/experimental approaches. This course provides a review of the occurrence, characteristics and origins of the common igneous and metamorphic rocks. Areas of study include the origin and differentiation of primary magmas, common rock associations, metamorphic zones and facies, the nature of the deep crust and use of phase diagrams in the understanding of igneous and metamorphic petrogenesis. The relationship of plate tectonics to the formation of these generally holocrystalline rocks is emphasized. Prerequisite: Geology 203 or permission of instructor.
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4.00 Credits
This seminar examines the details of at least two million years of Earth history. During this period, extreme fluctuation in the climate caused great ice sheets to form and melt many times, working profound changes on the environment. The course examines the causes, mechanics and effects of glaciation in the context of long-term climatic and environmental change. Prerequisite: Geology 211 or permission of instructor.
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