Geology 111- Introduction to Geology: Earthquakes and Volcanoes
(4 credits)
Katherine Bladh
This section 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 one two-hour
lab per week. Attendance at both hours of lab is required. Math placement of
22 or above recommended.
Geology 150 - Physical Geology
(5 credits)
Zaleha
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 through time. Videos, 35 mm slides,
demonstrations and field trips augment the course. The lab includes an introduction
to the use of topographic maps, aerial photographs, and geologic maps. Lab manual
fee of $5 is billed directly. Math placement 22 or above recommended. Students
who have taken a course from the Geology 110 series (Geol 110-115) are not eligible.
Geology 151 - Physical Geology Lab Practicum
(1 credit)
Zaleha
This course is the lab portion of Geology 150. It is available for students
who have completed a course in the Geology 110 series (Geol 110-115) and wish
to take advanced geology courses or major in Geology or Earth Science. Students
who have completed Geology 160 and wish to major in Geology or Earth Science
are also required to take this course. Prerequisites: Geology 160 or one course
from the Geol 110 Series and permission of the Department Chair. A score of
22 on the Math Placement Exam is strongly recommended. Will meet for one 3-hour
lab per week.
Geology 240 - Process Geomorphology
(5 credits)
Ritter
Landforms are a function of geology (lithology and structure), climate and tectonics,
as well as the resultant earth processes that operate on them. In process geomorphology
we will study earth surface processes and their impact on landforms. Weathering,
mass wasting, stream erosion and deposition, groundwater, and glacial processes
among others will be studied in the context of a course project. The course
project will focus on regional landscape evolution. Each student will be responsible
for developing a research project, paper, and presentation based on one of these
topical areas as it pertains to the course project. Laboratory sessions will
focus on topical areas of the course and involve tools that can be used to collect
and analyze data pertaining to the project. The tools will include GIS, map
and photo interpretation, and several topic-specific field techniques related
to streamflow, soils, and infiltration, among others. Prerequisite: a course
from the Geology 110 Series (Geol 110-115) or Geology 150 or permission of the
instructor.
Geology 340 - Earth History
(5 credits)
Zaleha
The objectives of the course are to (1) develop the skills, and learn to use
the tools with which to decipher Earth’s history, and (2) learn the general
history of Earth and its life forms (as preserved in the fossil record) with
emphasis on the North American continent. Students will learn to look at outcrops
and geologic maps and interpret the geologic history of a particular area. Students
will develop the ability to conjure up an image of a particular setting given
a place and geologic time period. Slides and field trips augment the course.
Prerequisite: Geology 260. Alternate years.
Geology 470 - Field Seminar: Kentucky
(3 credits)
Ritter/Zaleha
This course provides practical field experience examining Mississippian rocks
and stratigraphy, and the geologic controls on the evolution of karst landscapes
and associated surface and subsurface hydrology. Problem-solving exercises emphasize
basic principles of geologic science. Students keep a daily field notebook during
the trip and present a final report. Students pay for their own food. Transportation,
camping fees, and tents are provided. Prerequisites: Geology 110 or 150 or equivalent
and permission of the Geology Chairperson. Enrollment priority given to Geology
majors; open to Geology minors and others as space permits. Will be graded CR/NC
only. Requires a 4-6 day absence from campus.
Geology 492 - Senior Seminar
(1 credit)
Ritter
The purpose of this course is to encourage student reflection and integration
of their course work in geology relative to the discipline of geology generally
and the departmental learning goals specifically. The course will enable students
to complete assembly and analysis of their senior assessment materials. The
course is open only to senior geology or earth science majors.
