Geology 111B – Volcanoes and Earthquakes
(4 credits)
Bladh, Katherine
Open to all students, except those who have previously taken Geology 110B-115B, 150B, or 160B. A math placement score of 22 or above is recommended.
Intended for non-science majors. Fulfills General Education requirement for natural science with a lab. This course 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.
Geology 150 - Physical Geology
(5 credits)
Zaleha, Michael
Open to all students, except those who have previously taken Geology 110B-115B or 160B.
A Math placement score of 22 or above is recommended .
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, 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.
Geology 240 - Process Geomorphology
(5 credits)
Ritter, John
Prerequisites: Geology 150, 160, or Geol 110B-115B with permission of instructor
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.
Geology 340 - Earth History
(5 credits)
Zaleha, Michael
Prerequisite: Geology 260
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.
Geology 470 - Field Seminar - Missouri
(3 credits)
Ritter, John
Zaleha, Michael
Prerequisites: Geology 110B-115B, or 150, or 160
This course provides practical experience examining a wide variety of lithologies, landforms and geologic relations, such as unconformities, erosional surfaces, faults and folds in natural settings. Problem-solving exercises emphasize basic principles of geologic science. Students keep a daily field notebook during the trip and present a final report at the Fall Student Research Poster Session. Transportation, camping fees and tents are provided. Enrollment priority given to Geology majors; open to Geology minors and others as space permits. Will be graded CR/NC only. Requires a 6 day absence from campus.
Geology 492 - Senior Seminar
(1 credit)
Ritter, John
Prerequisites: Open only to senior geology or earth science majors.
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.
