Geology Learning Center

Computational tools used in mining and geological engineering are introduced in earth resource contexts. Approaches for setting up, testing, and applying tools to solve practical problems are demonstrated and practiced.

• Credits: 1.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
• Semesters Offered: Fall
• Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1160(C) or MA 1161(C) or MA 1121(C)

Introduction to materials and processes that shape the earth we live on. Lecture and laboratories acquaint students with minerals, rocks, earth resources, weathering, geologic time, landslides, groundwater, streams, shorelines, deserts, glaciers, geologic structures, earthquakes, plate tectonics, and the dynamics of the earth's crust, mantle, and core.

• Credits: 3.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-3)
• Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring

This course covers basics in geospatial science from theoretical concepts, data, models, analytical techniques, to practical usage, and applications. Topics will include: fundamental concepts of cartography and mapping systems, characteristics and structure of GIS data, database construction, introduction to GIS data sources, principles and methods in spatial analysis, spatial interpolation, mapping of spatial and applications of GIS. Course will have lab using industry standard software tools.

• Credits: 3.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-1)
• Semesters Offered: Fall
• Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1160 or MA 1161 or MA 1121

Learn how various mining components, from prospecting to financing to reclamation, fit together. Includes advantages and drawbacks of different mining methods and their selection. Introduces ethics and professional development. Use of basic computer and mine design software.

• Credits: 2.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-0)
• Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring

Chemical composition, crystal structure, physical properties, and identification of minerals. Environmental controls on their formation. Formation processes, characterization of and exploration of ore deposits. Laboratory focuses on hand specimen identification and introduction to X-ray diffraction and SEM mineral analysis techniques.

• Credits: 3.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-3)
• Semesters Offered: Fall
• Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
• Pre-Requisite(s): CH 1000 or CH 1112 or (CH 1150 and CH 1151)

Introduction to sedimentary processes and their products. Investigates the physical processes controlling sedimentation along with principles of correlation and interpretation of strata. Focuses on interpreting sedimentary rocks as a record of climate, sea-level and tectonic change.

• Credits: 3.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-3)
• Semesters Offered: Fall
• Pre-Requisite(s): GE 2000 and GE 2310

This course covers the physical and biological history of the Earth from 4.5 billion years to the present. Emphasis on recognizing and evaluating the evidence for large-scale changes in major Earth Systems.

• Credits: 3.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-2)
• Semesters Offered: Fall, in even years
• Pre-Requisite(s): GE 2000 or GE 2100

Introduction to materials and processes that shape the earth we live on. Lecture and laboratories acquaint students with minerals, rocks, earth resources, weathering, geologic time, landslides, groundwater, streams, shorelines, deserts, glaciers, geologic structures, earthquakes, plate tectonics, and the dynamics of the earth's crust, mantle, and core.

• Credits: 3.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-3)
• Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring

Identification, physical properties, chemical composition, occurrence, and origin of the important types of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. Laboratory includes hand specimen description and identification of rocks.

• Credits: 3.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-3)
• Semesters Offered: Spring
• Pre-Requisite(s): GE 2300

This course presents a study of the surface and underground mining methods practiced in coal, metal, and aggregate mine operations, classification of mining methods, support design and equipment selection, general mine planning requirements, mine development sequence, cycle of operations, and method application.

• Credits: 2.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-0)
• Semesters Offered: Spring
• Pre-Requisite(s): GE 2020

An introduction to geophysical used in applied and environmental geophysics concentrating on the fundamentals of data reduction and interpretation. This course is not only pertinent for the practicing geoscientist but also for environmental engineers, civil engineers, and others interested in learning how physics can be used to investigate Earth's substance.

• Credits: 3.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
• Semesters Offered: Spring
• Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior
• Pre-Requisite(s): PH 2200

Rock structures and regional settings resulting from the application of deforming forces, including the geometry, origin, and mechanics of folds, foliations, lineations, faults ad joints, and structures in orogenic belts.

• Credits: 3.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (2-0-2)
• Semesters Offered: Spring
• Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
• Pre-Requisite(s): GE 2000

Introduction to elements of modern geochemistry including aqueous solutions, isotopes, age dating, etc. Emphasizes concepts and quantitative methods. Teaches principles of thermodynamics and phase equilibria from an introductory perspective as they pertain to geologic systems.

• Credits: 3.0
• Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
• Semesters Offered: Spring, in even years
• Pre-Requisite(s): CH 1150 and CH 1151