GEOLOGY 110B - Introductory Geology
(4 credits)
Miller, David
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.
This course provides students with a topical view of Physical Geology and how it relates to the human race. Students will gain an understanding of the nature of scientific inquiry, geological processes, and geological issues. Much of the material we will treat consists of items covered by the media and is intended to give students practical knowledge that they can apply to everyday life and to 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. Note the required Saturday field trip to Ohio Caverns and Cedar Bog April 16 for section 01.
GEOLOGY 111B - Volcanoes and Earthquakes
(4 credits)
Bladh, Katherine
Open to all students.
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 volcanic eruption products and how the type of ground beneath buildings affects the severity of earthquake shaking, allows educated citizens to make informed decisions that can lessen damage and loss of life caused by these geologic hazards. A score of 22 of the Math Placement Exam is strongly recommended. Every year. Students may complete an additional project, using foreign language skills, for one-credit CLAC credit. See Language Department course descriptions.
GEOLOGY 115B - Topics in Physical Geology
(4 credits)
Fortner, Sarah
This course will explore geologic environmental cycles and the role of humans in their alteration. For example: Will we always have abundant fossil fuels and what are the consequences of our rate of consumption? How have natural cycles of rock deposition and erosion been altered by agricultural practices? Are humans responsible for the greatest mass extinction? Students will be engaged in both quantitative (e.g. taking measurements in the field and then using MS Excel to calculate rates) and qualitative learning (discussions/debates). Individual papers will also be completed and evaluated by peers who will suggest improvements for final drafts. Readings will be assigned prior to many activities to minimize lecture time and maximize group work and active learning.
GEOLOGY 260 - Sedimentology
(5 credits)
Zaleha, Michael
Prerequisite: Geology 150B or 160B or one course from the Geology 110B-115B Series in combination with Geology 151.
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, and field trips.
Geology 280: Geology of Earth Resources and Mineral Fuels
(4 credits)
Dr. Ken Bladh
Prerequisite: One previous course in Geology
This course will study the geologic characteristics and theories of origin for important occurrences of abiotic natural resources (metals, non-metals, gems, industrial rocks and minerals) and mineral fuels. Industrial economies depend on the availability of affordable fuels and raw materials for construction, agriculture, and the manufacture of goods. The economic factors in resource availability, environmental considerations in their extraction and processing, and sustainability issues will also be examined. Each student will prepare a poster summarizing the geology and resource status of a commodity of personal interest in lieu of a final exam.
GEOLOGY 392 - Junior Seminar
(1 credit)
Zaleha, Michael
Prerequisites: Open only to Geology majors with junior standing.
Required of all Geology majors during the spring semester of their junior year. The purpose of this course is to prepare students in the skills necessary for them to conduct their senior research and to produce a written proposal for that research. Every year.
GEOLOGY 460 - Geology Seminar
(1-5 credits)
Zaleha, Michael
Exploration of topics beyond the scope of regularly offered courses or collaborative research experience. Prerequisite: permission of supervising instructor. Offered as the need arises. This course may be repeated for credit.
GEOLOGY 492 - Senior Seminar
(1 credit)
Fortner, Sarah
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.
