Course Listings - Spring 2004

Geology 110 - Introductory Geology
(4 semester hours)
Kathi Bladh

This section of G110 focuses on the geology of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. A geologic understanding of these hazards, by means of class study of such topics as the products of deadly eruptions and how earth materials respond to earthquake shaking, allows educated citizens to make informed decisions in order to lessen damage and loss of life caused by these hazards. $15.00 will be added to tuition bill to pay for class books. This amount covers the textbook and lab manual (no other book is required). The course has two one-hour lectures and a one two-hour lab per week. Attendance at both hours of lab is required. Math placement of 22 or above recommended.

Geology 110 – Introduction to Geology
(4 semester hours)
C. Ormand

This section of Geology 110 focuses on understanding our planet through a study of the geology of our National Parks. We will examine what the Earth is made of, its history, and the processes by which it is constantly changing. Students will learn to think like geologists, by developing skills of observation and interpretation. These skills, in conjunction with an understanding of geological processes, can be used to infer the geological history of your surroundings, wherever your travels may take you! If there is sufficient interest, there will be an optional (one-day) field trip.

A Math Placement score of 22 or above is strongly recommended, as many lab exercises incorporate basic math skills. This course has both lecture and lab periods that each student must attend. Lab manual fee of $5.00 is billed directly.

Geology 110 - Introduction to Geology
(4 semester hours)
M. Zaleha

This course is intended to provide students not majoring in geology with a contemporary view of the Earth sciences by exploring Earth’s systems, their interactions (including with humans) and natural hazards. Students will gain an understanding of the nature of scientific inquiry and how the analysis of present systems permits inferences about the past and future of the Earth (i.e., how we know what we think we know). Much of the material covered in this course is topical (i.e., items covered by the media) and intended to give students practical knowledge which can be applied to everyday life and other disciplines.

A Math Placement score of 22 or above is strongly recommended, as many lab exercises incorporate basic math skills. This course has both lecture and lab periods that each student must attend. Lab manual fee of $5.00 is billed directly.

Geology 150 - Physical Geology
(5 semester hours)
C. Ormand

Geology 150 is a comprehensive introduction to the science of geology. The course is recommended for students who are interested in the possibility of a geology major or minor, other science majors, or any student who desires a more comprehensive treatment of geology. Concepts and topics include: (1) the structure and constitution of the earth, (2) internal and surficial processes, (3) recent research concerning the nature and origin of the continents and ocean basins, and (4) methodology, experimentation, and observations used by geologists in attempting to understand the physical and biological evolution of Earth in time. Videos, 35 mm slides, demonstrations, and field trips augment the course. The lab includes an introduction to minerals and rocks, topographic maps, and geologic maps. Departmental lab manual costs $8 and is billed directly. Math placement 22 or above strongly recommended.

Geology 220 – Environmental Geology
(5 semester hours)
J. Ritter

Environmental Geology is intended as an introduction to applied geology for both science and non-science students. The primary objective of the course is to understand human interaction with the physical environment. We will employ methodology used by geologists to study natural processes, such as flooding, mass wasting, coastal erosion, and natural resources, such as groundwater and wetlands as well as develop mitigation strategies dealing with them. The course will incorporate GIS software and hardware into discussions and laboratory exercises. The course may include one weekend field trip to lake Erie. Laboratory attendance is mandatory - do not schedule a conflict with lab. Writing Intensive.
Prerequisite: Geology 110 or 150.

Geology 300 - Optical Mineralogy
(2 semester hours)
Kathi Bladh

A methodology course devoted to mineral identification by means of polarized light microscopy. A prerequisite to all 400-level petrography courses. This is mainly a laboratory course. Students are responsible for pre-lab preparation that includes readings in the text, and occasional use of video tapes and computer simulations. Brief lectures supplement as necessary. Prerequisite: completion of Geology 200 (Earth Materials).

Geology 400 - Sedimentology
(5 semester hours)
M. Zaleha

This course is a process-based approach to the study of sediments and sedimentary rocks. The first part of the course will investigate the physical processes of sediment erosion, transport, and deposition. These principles will then be applied to the study of modern depositional environments and processes as they relate to the interpretation of ancient deposits. Emphasis will be on siliciclastic and carbonate depositional environments and rocks. The course will conclude with brief treatments of stratigraphy, basin analysis, and sedimentological/tectonic/eustatic/ climatic interactions. Labs include flume work, identification of important sedimentary structures, lab and field methods (day trips and possibly one 4-day trip).
Prerequisite: Geology 150.