Courses in Geology and Environmental Geoscience
GEOS 105Earthquakes and Volcanoes
An investigation of the theory of plate tectonics and how it explains the distribution of earthquake and volcanic activity throughout the world. Destructive historical earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are examined with consideration of the impact of these disasters on human populations. Advances in the prediction of earthquake and volcanic activity also are evaluated. May include lab some semesters.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | 1 course |
GEOS 107
Geology of America's National Parks
Study of the geologic history of America via the National Park System. The course focuses on origin and evolution of landforms in various national parks and the geologic processes that created and sculpted them. Park features serve as a point of departure for interdisciplinary discussions on society's impact on the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere. May include lab some semesters.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | 1 course |
GEOS 110
Earth and the Environment
Includes laboratory. An introduction to the materials that make up the earth and the interplay between constructive and destructive processes that shape the earth, including plate tectonics. Laboratories include mineral and rock identification, field trips, and topographic map interpretation.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | 1 course |
GEOS 117
Weather, Climate and Climate Change
An introduction to the Earth's atmosphere through the study of weather, climate and climate change. Topics covered include atmospheric composition,structure and function, weather phenomena and climate, and natural and human-induced climate change. Global societal responses to rapid climate change are also discussed.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | 1 course |
GEOS 125
Introduction to Environmental Science
An introduction to the study of environmental science. Topics include matter, energy, ecosystems, human populations, natural resources, and the impact of human activity on the natural environment. Special attention is given to current environmental problems including air and water pollution, acid rain, stratospheric ozone depletion, climate change, deforestation, and species extinctions.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | 1 course |
GEOS 183
Off-Campus Extended Studies Course
Winter or May Term off-campus study project with a geosciences theme.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
variable |
GEOS 190
Topics
An exploration of selected topics in the geosciences. May be repeated for credit with different topics.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | 1 course |
GEOS 195
Energy, Environment, & Climate (formerly GEOS 190)
An introduction to energy resources and the environmental impacts of their use, particularly in relation to climate change. The course not only examines the importance of nonrenewable fossil fuels in modern industrialized societies, but also explores the potential economic costs and societal impacts of transitioning to renewable and sustainable sources of energy. In addition, given that climate change is the most significant global impact of our energy use, participants will consider human and natural climate-change agents, the evidence for climate change, and projections for climate change in the future.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | 1 course |
GEOS 197
First-Year Seminar
G. Geography. S. Geology. A seminar focused on a theme related to the study of geology or geography. Open only to first-year students.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
1 course |
GEOS 205
Introduction to GIS
Includes laboratory. An introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and their applications. Emphasis on cartographic concepts, strengths and limitations of different GIS data formats, spatial statistics, and spatial analysis. Students use a variety of specialized GIS tools to solve spatial problems and map spatial phenomena. Prerequisite: GEOS 110.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | GEOS 110 | 1 course |
GEOS 210
Historical Geology
Includes laboratory. An introduction to earth history and the methods that geologists use to interpret the rock record and the fossil record. The origin and evolution of the earth and life through time are examined with emphasis on the interrelationships of earth history, evolution and plate tectonics. Prerequisite: GEOS 110.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | GEOS 110 | 1 course |
GEOS 220
Geologic Field Experiences
Includes laboratory. A. West Virginia B. Utah C. Nevada D. California E. Other. An introduction to field geology through intensive study of a geologic province. Students collect and interpret geologic data, construct geologic maps and cross sections, and read published professional papers in order to interpret the tectonic, stratigraphic and geologic history of a province. Topics include the Valley and Ridge Province in West Virginia, the Colorado Plateau Province in Utah, and the Basin and Range Province in Nevada. A week-long field trip to the geologic province is required during spring break. A course fee covers field trip expenses. May be repeated for credit with different topics. Prerequisite: GEOS 110.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | GEOS 110 | 1 course |
GEOS 230
Environmental Geology (formerly GEOS 109)
An intermediate examination of the processes that influence the physical and chemical nature of the Earth's surface with special attention given to the influence of human actions on the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. Students learn how the risks from natural hazards are assessed and minimized; understand the consequences of natural resource extraction; and consider the sources, transportation, fate, and remediation of waste and pollution in the environment. Real-world examples emphasize the importance of these topics for solving environmental problems. Prerequisite: GEOS 110 or permission of instructor.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
GEOS 110 or permission of instructor | 1 course |
GEOS 280
Mineralogy
Includes laboratory. A qualitative and quantitative study of the physical, chemical and optical properties of minerals. The physical properties of minerals are studied through the identification of hand samples and geometric analysis of crystal models. Mineral chemistry is studied using literature sources and laboratory work. The optical properties of minerals are examined using the petrographic microscope. Prerequisite: GEOS 110.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | GEOS 110 | 1 course |
GEOS 290
Topics
An exploration of selected topics in the geosciences. May be repeated for credit with different topics.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Variable |
GEOS 300
Writing in the Geosciences
In this course, students will further develop their writing skills by reading and discussing texts about writing in the geosciences, writing original papers for different audiences, providing feedback for other purposes in the class, and editing and revising their own work. Students will be evaluated based on their ability to 1) effectively communicate their ideas using appropriate geologic terms and concepts, 2) adapt their writing style for different audiences, and 3) appropriately incorporate references and citations into their papers.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
1/2 course |
GEOS 310
Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
Includes laboratory. Detailed study of the formation, transportation, and deposition of sediments, and criteria for inferring the geologic history of sedimentary rocks. The application of facies models in recognizing and interpreting ancient depositional systems is emphasized. Prerequisite: GEOS 110.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
GEOS 110 | 1 course |
GEOS 315
Map Interpretation
Includes laboratory. Analysis and interpretation of topographic maps, geologic maps, and geologic cross sections. Course focuses on the relationship of map patterns to tectonic, geomorphic, hydrogeologic and climatic processes that shape and influence landform development. Involves some work with Google Earth and Adobe Illustrator software packages. Prerequisite: GEOS 110.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Science and Mathematics | GEOS 110 | 1 course |
GEOS 320
Petrology
Includes laboratory. Genesis, classification and identification of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. These rock groups are studied through the use of hand samples, rock and mineral chemistry, computers and petrographic analysis. Laboratory exercises include field trips to examine and interpret outcrops in Indiana and adjacent states. Prerequisite: GEOS 280.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
GEOS 280 | 1 course |
GEOS 330
Geochemistry
Includes laboratory. An introduction to thermodynamics and kinetics applied to geological problems, with special emphasis on aqueous geochemistry. Students learn field collection techniques, sample analysis, and methods of presenting geochemical data. Prerequisites: GEOS 110, CHEM 130, and CHEM 170; or permission of the instructor.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
GEOS 110, CHEM 130, and CHEM 170; or permission of the instructor | 1 course |
GEOS 350
Structural Geology and Tectonics
Includes laboratory. Recognition, description and origin of structural features that form the architectural framework of the upper crust. Geometric (shape), kinematic (motion) and dynamic (mechanical) development of structural features is emphasized. Fieldwork and applied laboratory work with computers facilitate analyses of structures over a wide range in scale. Prerequisite: GEOS 110.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
GEOS 110 | 1 course |
GEOS 370
Applied Hydrogeology
Includes laboratory. An investigation of the occurrence and movement of water within the hydrologic cycle. Special attention is given to water quality and water supply concerns. Lab and field work develop skills to apply course concepts to real world problems. Prerequisite: GEOS 110. MATH 135 proficiency recommended.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
GEOS 110. MATH 135 proficiency recommended | 1 course |
GEOS 380
Environmental Geophysics
Includes laboratory. Application of geophysical techniques to solving problems in geology, with emphasis on their applicability in environmental and exploration investigations. Course provides basic theory, field methods and interpretation techniques for seismic refraction/reflection, magnetic, gravitational, and electrical methods of geophysical prospecting. Outdoor work required. Prerequisites: GEOS 110 or permission of instructor. MATH 135 proficiency and PHYS 120 recommended.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
GEOS 110 or permission of instructor. MATH 135 proficiency and PHYS 120 recommended. | 1 course |
GEOS 390
Topics
An exploration of selected topics in the geosciences. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing. May be repeated for credit with different topics.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Variable |
GEOS 395
Topics in Geography
An examination of a topic in Geography. May be repeated for credit with different topics. Prerequisite: Permission of chair of the department.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Permission of chair of the department | 1/2-1 course |
GEOS 450
Senior Seminar
Students read, present and discuss research papers in the geosciences. Prerequisite: A departmental major and senior standing.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
A departmental major and senior standing | 1 course |
GEOS 470
Readings in Geology
Topical investigation using primary geological literature sources, including written analyses and oral presentations. Prerequisite: Permission of chair of the department.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Permission of chair of the department | 1/4-1/2 course |
GEOS 480
Problems in Geology
Advanced problems in geology, including written analyses and/or oral presentations. Prerequisite: Permission of chair of the department.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Permission of chair of the department | 1/4-1/2 course |
GEOS 490
Research Thesis
Original research in geology, including a written thesis and an oral defense. Prerequisite: Permission of chair of the department.
Distribution Area | Prerequisites | Credits |
---|---|---|
Permission of chair of the department | 1/4-1/2-1 course |