Introduction to Earth's climate system. Formation and characteristics of the atmosphere and oceans. Impact of climate change on severe weather, watersheds, groundwater and glaciers.
Examines the causes, effects, and options available to respond to and potentially mitigate the effects of natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunami, landslides, severe weather, and floods. Differing impacts in developing and industrialized countries will be discussed.
(3 lecture, 3 laboratory) An exploration of the complex changes in Earth's environment, the science behind these changes, and impacts on human populations requiring interdisciplinary strategies to solve problems.
This course will examine various energy resources including fossil fuels, nuclear, and green energy alternatives. We will learn how these resources form, how they are utilized, and how their utilization impacts the environment and society.
(3 lecture, 3 laboratory) Investigation of rock and mineral chemistry, formation, identification, and significance to society. Focus on clay and analytical instrumentation. Field trip(s) required.
(2 lecture, 3 laboratory) Course covers research methods, statistical analysis, manipulation and presentation of data. Multiple projects using and solving authentic Earth and Atmospheric Science data and research problems.
Preparation for graduate school or job market. Includes finding jobs, internships, and/or appropriate graduate schools; also cover letters, resumes, GRE preparation, phone and in-person interviews, and expectations. S/U graded.
(2 lecture, 2 laboratory) Students will expand their knowledge of Earth Science and learn methods for teaching earth science including integration of other subject areas.
Distribution, characteristics, and interaction of elements and related ions in the Earth system with an overview of analytical techniques. Emphasis on geochemical cycles as related to use in human society.
Identify/describe how plants, animals, and ecological communities will respond to global change across different scales (temporal, spatial, etc.). Introduction to global climate models and using relevant climate and ecological data to predict future change.
Industrial safety covers the theory of historical occupational hazards, current safety issues, agencies that regulate workplace hazards, accident causation and prevention, and training needed for the workplace.
(3 lecture, 3 laboratory) Students will quantify and model the movement of water within the hydrologic and geologic cycles, including surface and groundwater hydrologic processes. The course will consist of lectures, laboratories, field projects, and presentations. Two field trips are required.
Invited speakers, including faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates, present current earth science research topics in seminar format. Students also learn about STEM-based career paths and internship opportunities. S/U graded.
Analysis and investigation of contemporary issues and development of research skills in the field of earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, environmental sciences, or geosciences. The course may include extensive field work.
Internship in a public agency or private firm to provide professional experience under the supervision of an area specialist. S/U graded.
This course explores advanced topics for qualified undergraduates in an area of Earth Science. S/U or letter graded.
Special Notes
Consent of instructor required
Exploration of contemporary issues associated with natural hazards, resources and environmental change impacting society, culture, and diverse ecosystems at international sites. Research skill development in geology, meteorology, and environmental sciences.
Original research in the earth sciences conducted under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Results of the investigation are to be presented both in a written report and orally.