GEOL 100: Geology in the Field

This course is an introduction to the fundamental principles of geology through first-hand field work. The great majority of our time will be spent outdoors at nearby sites of geological interest. Using field observations, descriptions, data-gathering, hypothesis-testing, and interpreting, supplemented by lab work and reading, students will gradually piece together the most important elements of the long and complex geologic history of southern Minnesota. Two weekend field trips will be included. Evaluation will be based on weekly reports and an end-of-term summary report and presentation. 6; S/CR/NC; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Fall 2009 -- C. Davidson

GEOL 110: Introduction to Geology

An introduction to the study of earth systems, physical processes operating on the earth, and the history of the earth. Field trips, including an all-day trip, and laboratories included. Not open to students who have taken Geology 120. 6; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Fall 2009, Spring 2010 -- Staff

GEOL 120: Introduction to Environmental Geology

An introduction to geology emphasizing environmental health and humankind's use and abuse of soil, water, fuels, and other resources. Field trips and laboratories included. Not open to students who have taken Geology 100 or 110. 6; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; not offered 2009-2010

GEOL 190: Energy and the Environment

This course focuses on the scientific evidence of climate change and how human behavior impacts the composition of the atmosphere through the burning of fossil fuels. We also explore the potential of reducing or eliminating carbon from the energy stream. Students work in groups to research and present the scientific, economic, political, legal, and/or social consequences/implications of 1) global warming, 2) our current energy system, and 3) alternative energy systems in three related case studies. Writing briefs, oral presentations and panel discussions are emphasized. Does not count toward the Geology major. 6; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; not offered 2009-2010

GEOL 210: Geomorphology

Study of the geological processes and factors which influence the origin and development of the surficial features of the earth. Laboratories and field trips included. Prerequisite: One introductory geology course (110 or 120), or consent of the instructor. 6; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Fall 2009 -- M. Savina

GEOL 220: Tectonics

This course focuses on understanding the plate tectonics paradigm and its application to all types of plate boundaries. We will explore the historical development of the paradigm, geophysical tools used for imaging the structure of the Earth and determining plate motions, and possible driving mechanisms of this global system. Students will independently explore a particular tectonic plate in detail throughout the term. Laboratories included. Prerequisite: One introductory geology course. 6; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Winter 2010 -- Staff

GEOL 230: Paleobiology

Fossils: their anatomy and classification, evolution, and ecology. Special emphasis on the paleobiology of marine invertebrates. Field trips and laboratories included. Prerequisite: One introductory geology course (110, or 120, ENTS 110 or an introductory biology course), or consent of the instructor. 6; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Spring 2010 -- C. Cowan

GEOL 250: Mineralogy

The study of the chemical and physical properties of minerals, their geologic occurrence and associations. Topics include crystallography, crystal chemistry, x-ray analysis, phase equilibria, classification, optical mineralogy, and environments of formation. Laboratories are included. Prerequisite: One introductory geology course (110 or 120), or Chemistry 123 or 128. 6; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Fall 2009 -- B. Haileab

GEOL 255: Petrology

An introduction to the fundamental physical, chemical and tectonic principles that are relevant to the formation of igneous and metamorphic rocks. Labs emphasize description and interpretation of the origin of rocks based on hand specimen and thin section study. Field trips and laboratories are included. Prerequisite: Geology 250. 6; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Spring 2010 -- C. Davidson

GEOL 258: Geology of Soils

The study of soil formation, and physical and chemical properties of soils especially as related to geomorphology and land use. Laboratories and field trips will emphasize how to describe and interpret soils. Prerequisite: One introductory geology course (110 or 120). 6; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; not offered 2009-2010

GEOL 281: Geology in New Zealand: Plate Tectonic Evolution of New Zealand

This course covers the overarching geology of New Zealand, and at various sites along the program route we will analyze field relationships and read the appropriate scientific literature (and discuss the geology with local experts) to piece together the tectonic evolution of New Zealand. Students will write a short paper that summarizes their understanding, focusing on how the sites visited on this program fit into the larger tectonic story. 4; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Winter 2010 -- C. Cowan

GEOL 282: Geology in New Zealand: Geologic Mapping and Field Observations

In this course, we will focus on learning and applying geological field skills. We will map structured areas, log stratigraphic sections, and generally hone our skills of observation on a variety of field problems. 4; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Winter 2010 -- C. Cowan

GEOL 283: Geology in New Zealand: Modern Geological Processes as Analogues for the Rock Record

We will study modern systems with a view to understanding the volcanic, sedimentary and geomorphologic history of New Zealand. These may include various sites throughout the program, such as volcanic systems-hot springs, modern marine-estuarine settings, and terraced fluvial-alluvial systems. 4; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Winter 2010 -- C. Cowan

GEOL 284: Geology in New Zealand: New Zealand Cultural Studies

This will include visits to cultural sites and museums, guest lectures, and an introductory lesson in Maori pronunciation. 2; S/CR/NC; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Winter 2010 -- C. Cowan

GEOL 292: Geology in New Zealand: Research Project on New Zealand Geology

Participants will work in small teams to develop and execute research projects related to various aspects of our investigations of New Zealand. 4; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement; offered Winter 2010 -- C. Cowan

GEOL 340: Hydrology

A seminar on major principles of ground and surface water hydrology and their application to contemporary hydrologic problems. The course will draw considerably on student-directed investigation of critical areas of study in hydrology. Prerequisites: Geology 210 or junior/senior standing in one of the physical sciences. 6; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement; not offered 2009-2010

GEOL 350: Special Topics in Advanced Geology

Intensive study of the original journal literature of a particular geologic province or subfield of geology, culminating in cooperative preparation of a professional field trip guide, review paper or major presentation. Prerequisite: Senior standing in Geology or permission of instructor 3; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Winter 2010 -- M. Savina

GEOL 360: Sedimentology and Stratigraphy

This course is based on field examination of outcrops of Lower Paleozoic sedimentary rock. We will interpret the processes involved in the creation, movement, and deposition of these ancient sediments, and try to determine their paleoenvironments. Also of interest are the transformation of these sediments into rock and the analysis and correlation of strata. Weekly laboratories, one overnight trip, and one Saturday trip are required. Please note the late laboratory times for this course. Both paleobiology and geomorphology prepare students for work in sedimentology. This course is intended for upperclass Geology majors, and much of the work is done in teams. Prerequisite: Three 200-level Geology courses. 6; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; offered Fall 2009 -- C. Cowan

GEOL 365: Structural Geology

This course focuses on rock deformation at scales ranging from the collision of continents to the movement of individual atoms within crystals. We will examine structures that develop within different layers of the Earth's lithosphere and discuss how and why these structures form. Reading, discussion, and presentation of scientific literature is expected throughout the term as we focus on deformation and tectonics in a single region. Laboratories and one weekend field trip are included. Prerequisite: One introductory geology course, six credits of Physics numbered 131 and above is recommended. 6; Mathematics and Natural Sciences; not offered 2009-2010 -- C. Davidson

GEOL 370: Geochemistry of Natural Waters

The main goal of this course is to introduce and tie together the several diverse disciplines that must be brought to bear on hydrogeochemical problems today. This course will explore: principles of geochemistry, applications of chemical thermodynamics to geologic problems, mineral solubility, stability diagrams, chemical aspects of sedimentary rocks, geochemical tracers, radiogenic isotopes and principles of stable isotope fractionation. Laboratories included. Prerequisite: Chemistry 123 or instructor's consent. 6; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement; offered Winter 2010 -- B. Haileab

GEOL 400: Integrative Exercise

Each senior geology major must take a total of six credits of Geology 400. One of the credits will be awarded in the spring term for the preparation and delivery of a formal talk and attendance at the talks or other seniors. The other five credits must be taken in the fall and/or winter terms. Credits can be divided between those two terms or all five credits may be taken in the same term. All seniors must attend the Geology 400 seminars which will meet weekly fall and winter term. Geology 400 is a continuing course, and the grade will not be awarded until the end of spring term. 6; S/NC; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement; offered Fall 2009, Winter 2010, Spring 2010 -- Staff