GEOLOGY

GEOL-107  Introduction to Physical Geology

3 Credits (Science Core)

This course is designed as an introduction to the composition and structure of the earth, its rocks and minerals, surface erosional and depositional features, and the agents that form them. Topics include plate tectonics, volcanoes, weathering and erosion, earthquakes, streams and groundwater, glaciers, shorelines, faults and geologic structures. For Introduction to Physical Geology Laboratory, see GEOL-117. (3 hours lecture)

GEOL-108  Historical Geology

3 Credits (Science Core)

This is a course in which the principles of physical geology and stratigraphy are used to study the history of the earth and its inhabitants. Geologic features such as rocks and fossils are used to interpret and date past events. The formations and geologic periods of North America will be emphasized. (3 hours lecture)

GEOL-115  Regional Geology

4 Credits

Regional Geology is a course which examines the major geological provinces of North America with regard to their topographic features and major rock structures. Basic concepts of physical and/or historical geology will be further developed to provide students with better understanding of geological processes in their present day expression. An emphasis will be placed on the local provinces of Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Four field trips are planned to study the geological features of the local provinces. Prerequisite: GEOL-107 (3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab)

GEOL-117  Introduction to Physical Geology Lab

1 Credit (Science Core)

In this course, students will utilize the basic materials and tools of physical geology to identify common minerals and rocks. Students will learn to recognize surface erosional and depositional features on aerial photographs and topographic maps, and will interpret geologic faults and structures on geologic maps and models. There will be several field trips to local sites. Pre- or co-requisite: GEOL-107. (3 hours lab)

GEOL-118  Historical Geology Laboratory

1 Credit (Science Core)

In this laboratory course, students will analyze rock and fossil data, and apply the basic principles of stratigraphy to reconstruct geologic events. Geologic maps and cross-sections illustrating the geologic provinces of North America will be interpreted. There will be several field trips to local sites. Pre- or co-requisite: GEOL-108. (3 hours lab)