Department of Earth, Environmental, and Atmospheric Sciences

GISC 216    Geotech in a Global Community    3 Hours

Introduces the purpose, operation and application of Geographic Information Science technologies in contemporary society. This course cannot be substituted for any other GIS course. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG | SB

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023

GISC 316    Geographic Information Systems I    4 Hours

Geographic Information Science I Introduces spatial thinking with a cross-disciplinary foundation in dealing with spatial/geographical data; their manipulation, analysis, interpretation and use in problem solving. Includes data creation, digitizing, database organization, queries and geoprocessing.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GISC 317    Geographic Information Systems II    4 Hours

Geographic Information Systems II will further explore the principles, concepts, and applications of GIS. Through case studies, guest speakers, focused autonomous research investigations, students will apply this geospatial technology to solving real-world issues.

Prerequisite(s): GISC 316 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GISC 414    Remote Sensing Fundamentals    3 Hours

Fundamentals of remote sensing theory and application including the electromagnetic spectrum, history of remote sensing, sensing platforms, system limitations, and applications for vegetation studies, land-use change, and environmental management. Course includes a lab component. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GISC 317

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2023; fall 2024

GISC 417    GIS Analysis & Modeling    3 Hours

Develops expertise with a broad range of spatial analysis and modeling functions using GIS. A problem-oriented approach. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GISC 317 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GISC 418    Web Applications in GIS    3 Hours

Understanding and utilizing different techniques for creating, analyzing, and disseminating GIS data and services via the Internet. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GISC 317 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023; spring 2024

GISC 419    GIS Programming    3 Hours

Learning the process of expanding GIS functionalities. Customizing a GIS system via computer programming. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GISC 317 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GISC 423    GIS and Location Analytics    3 Hours

Explores selected issues related to location analytics of GIS. Students will develop applied skills and knowledge in transportation, urban management, locational analysis and business geography.

Prerequisite(s): GISC 317 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; spring 2023

GISC 443    GIS Databases    3 Hours

The concepts and principles of GIS database planning, design, implementation, and administration. Focuses on the development of state-of-the-art GIS databases. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): CS 170 with a minimum grade of C and GISC 317 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023; spring 2024

GISC 477    Special Topics in GIS    3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

Applications of GIS technologies in selected technical areas such as 3D GIS and Enterprise GIS or directed research of a selected domain-specific problem. Repeatable once for credit. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GISC 317 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

GEOG 103    Our Dynamic Planet    3 Hours

Introduction to Earth's dynamic systems and processes and how their spatial dimensions affect people and the environment. This includes the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere, and the interconnectedness of Earth's systems. Students are encouraged to think about the interdisciplinary nature of geoscience from examples emphasized throughout the course. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS

Equivalent(s): GEOL 103

Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2022; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; winter 2023; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GEOG 110    World Regional Geography    3 Hours

A general survey of the political, social, and ecological systems of the world. The course is concerned with the complexity and diversity of world peoples and cultures. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SB | SB

Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2022; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024

GEOG 175    University Experience-EEAS    2 Hours

Transition to university experience. Topics include study skills, critical thinking skills, library education, exploration of majors and careers, degree programs, campus resources, and personal development. Special attention is given to educational requirements, careers and resources in the geosciences. Note: For beginning college freshmen or transfer students with fewer than 24 semester hours of credit.

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Junior, Sophomore or Senior may not enroll.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024

GEOG 200    Latin American Society: Past and Present    3 Hours

A broad interdisciplinary introduction to the study of Latin America, emphasizing its regions, peoples, and cultures. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Equivalent(s): ANTH 200, SPAN 200, PS 200, HIST 200

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023

GEOG 210    Environment and Ecological Policy    3 Hours

A survey of the geography, history, and current conditions of environmental policy and regulation development, particularly in the United States, with an emphasis on humans as an integral component of the natural environment.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023

GEOG 225    Visualizing Geography    3 Hours

Students will use data visualizations, interactive and static maps, digital tools, photographs, and illustrations to explain the diversity of human-environmental interactions influencing society, political systems, natural resources, and development across space and time, from local communities to our increasingly interconnected world. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 226    Our Dangerous Planet    3 Hours

Introduction to how normal Earth processes concentrate their energies to create devastating impacts to humans and the built environment, with emphasis on survival techniques. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024

GEOG 227    Our Vulnerable Planet    3 Hours

Explore how anthropogenic processes such as climate change, pollution, urban sprawl, deforestation, and desertification impact the people on Earth and its ecosystems. Does not count toward the ESGS major. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2022; spring 2022

GEOG 275    Applied Independent Research    1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

Restricted to freshmen, sophomores, and Gatton Academy students. Supervised research independent study or internship with faculty, research center, lab, government, community, or private sector. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024

GEOG 280    Environmental Science and Sustainability    4 Hours

A general understanding of how the environment functions, the complexity of human-environmental interactions, and the application of geoscience in solving environmental problems. Lab component provides practical experiences associated with the theories outlined in the course content.. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS, E-SL | NS

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024

GEOG 295    Introduction to Research Techniques    3 Hours

This course will introduce basic environmental, sustainability, and geographical research methods and techniques, provide exposure to lab and field environments, and focus on methods for data analysis. The main components will include interdisciplinary methods and techniques of data collection, processing and analysis of data, synthesizing and communicating methods and datasets, professional ethics, and/or other research-oriented topics. Field trips and application-based exercises may be required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2024

GEOG 300    Writing in the Geosciences    3 Hours

Students conduct investigations into writing, reading, and research conventions in the geosciences and receive advanced instruction in planning, drafting, arranging, revising, and editing geoscience-specific essays and research projects. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code F-W2 | WC

Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 and GEOG 110 or (GEOG 103 or GEOL 103 or GEOL 111 or METR 121)

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024

GEOG 310    Global Hydrology    3 Hours

An introduction to descriptive and quantitative hydrology. The hydrologic cycle, precipitation, evaporation, and transpiration will be covered under descriptive hydrology. Hydrographs, runoff relations, ground water, and storage routing will be covered under quantitative hydrology. Consideration is given to use and management of water as a resource.

Prerequisite(s): (GEOL 111 or GEOG 103 or GEOL 103)

Equivalent(s): GEOL 310

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 328    Elements of Biogeography    3 Hours

An examination of the spatial interaction and distribution of global biomes. This course examines, through examples at a variety of spatial and ecological scales, the development of human-induced and naturally-occurring biogeographical changes.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

GEOG 330    Introduction to Cultural Geography    3 Hours

An overview of core concepts in cultural geography based on five major themes: region, mobility, globalization, nature-culture, and cultural landscape. Field trips required. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GEOG 344    Environmental Ethics    3 Hours

Examination of how environmental ethics and philosophy determine the use and alteration of the natural environment by humans. Analysis of human responsibility towards protecting the environment, environmental decision-making, sustainable development, and respect for indigenous cultures.

Prerequisite(s): GEOG 280

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2024

GEOG 350    Sustainable Economic Development    3 Hours

This course will examine the modern role of sustainability methodologies and models to the functional interrelationships among economic and business activities in consumption, production, marketing and exchange of goods and services. Students may engage in sustainable economic research and field experiences during the course with an emphasis on innovation through sustainability. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code SB

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 352    Geography of Kentucky    3 Hours

No course description is available

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GEOG 360    Geography of North America    3 Hours

Analysis of selected problems related to natural conditions, land use, settlement patterns, and regional structure of the United States and Canada. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code SB

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GEOG 364    Geography of Europe    3 Hours

A geographic analysis of Europe. Aspects of regional integration, with a focus on the European Community, and problems of economic growth in disadvantaged regions.

Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2023

GEOG 378    Food, Culture, and Environment    3 Hours

Exploration of geographical patterns of agricultural production and cuisine through the intersection of environment, technology and culture. Field trips required. Students will share the cost of several meals. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 380    Global Sustainability    3 Hours

An introduction to the major themes and scientific principles of sustainability, with an emphasis on developing critical thinking skills. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG

Prerequisite(s): (GEOG 280 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status and (GEOG 280 with a minimum grade of C or GEOG 103 or GEOL 103)

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023; spring 2024

GEOG 385    Climate, Resources, & Society    3 Hours

Discussion of global climate change from a societal and resources perspective; particularly how humans affect global climate change through population size, natural resource use, policy implementation, personal behavior, and societal norms, and vice versa. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status and (GEOG 103 or GEOG 110 or GEOG 280)

Equivalent(s): EDU 385

Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2023

GEOG 386    Geography of Potent Potables:Brewing, Distilling, and Wine Making    3 Hours

Students explore the geographies of alcoholic beverages, including the patterns of production, distribution, and consumption of beer, distilled spirits, and wine, and associated cultural and environmental impacts. Breweries, wineries, and distilleries are important elements of many diverse cultural and economic landscapes and reflect local geographies and global influences. The role of location is explored as it relates to such topics as access to raw materials, terroir, the rise of craft breweries and distilleries, sustainability, and cultural attitudes toward the production and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024

GEOG 391    Geoscience Data Analysis    4 Hours

Statistical concepts and methods emphasizing their applications in a spatial context. Statistical description and hypothesis testing. Visualization analysis of spatial patterns and relationships. Note: Special permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): (MATH 183 or MATH 136) and GISC 316

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024

GEOG 420    Geomorphology    3 Hours (repeatable max of 3 hrs)

Systematic study of the processes that shape and modify Earth’s landforms and landscapes in a variety of spatial and temporal scales. Coupling between climatic, biologic, tectonic, and human influences on landscape changes is examined.

Prerequisite(s): (GEOL 111 or GEOG 103 or GEOL 103)

Equivalent(s): GEOL 420

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 425    Political Geography    3 Hours

A study of the political system as a spatial phenomenon from pre-literate forms and socio-political integration to the nation-state and other modern forms of political unification. Examples from local, metropolitan-regional, national, and international levels. Note: Permission of instructor required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 427    Water Resource Management    3 Hours

Examines the use, management, and conservation of water resources. Discusses environmental, economic, political, and social implications of water usage, as well as emerging trends in water availability, pollution, regulation, and technology.

Prerequisite(s): GEOG 103 or GEOL 103

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023

GEOG 430    Topics in Cultural Geography    3 Hours

Examines the concept of culture as it relates to the geographic landscape. Topics include the built environment, symbolic landscapes, representation of place in film, literature, photography, music, subaltern geographies, landscapes, and cultures of work and place-situated identity. Course provides an overview of research methods and themes in cultural geography. Field trip and field research required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOG 330

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 452    Applied Geoscience Field Experiences    1-6 Hours (repeatable max of 12 hrs)

Applied geoscience experiences in a variety of field-based settings, including, but not limited to, Study Abroad and Study Away programs, field camps, and extended fieldtrips to national or international settings. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2023; summer 2024

GEOG 455    Global Climate Change    3 Hours

Explores the science behind global climate change, including how models, observations,and proxies are used to understand and predict past and future climate, international perspectives on global climate change, and mitigation strategies put forth by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOG 280 or METR 322 with a minimum grade of C or GEOL 301 with a minimum grade of C or permission of instructor

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2024

GEOG 459    Advanced Hydrology    3 Hours

Builds upon the principles of descriptive and quantitative hydrology using a geologic- and calculus-based approach to understanding the Earth's hydrologic cycle. Includes components of atmospheric, surface, and ground waters and the principles of fluid dynamics that govern the physical and chemical processes that affect water and its behavior in the natural world.

Prerequisite(s): MATH 136 with a minimum grade of C and (GEOG 310 or GEOL 310) or (GEOG 420 or GEOL 420)

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 461    Karst Environments    3 Hours

Provides a fundamental understanding of karst, focusing on the processes, landforms, and evolution of karst landscapes over time, with an emphasis on the characterization, distribution, and function of various karst environments. Field trips and field-based exercises are required. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): (GEOG 310 or GEOL 310) or GEOG 420 or permission of instructor

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023

GEOG 465    Geography of East Asia    3 Hours

Analysis of selected contemporary geographic issues in East Asia. Emphasis is on a synthesis of various geographic factors and phenomena, including physical, cultural, political, social, and economic systems.

Prerequisite(s): GEOG 110

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022

GEOG 471    Technological Applications in Natural Resource Management    3 Hours

Examines the application of technology to address current resource management challenges and ensure the efficient utilization of natural resources. Discussions may address, but are not limited to, timber, fisheries, oil and gas, and wildlife management. Note: Permission of instructor may be required. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code SB

Prerequisite(s): GEOG 280 and GISC 316

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2024

GEOG 474    Applied Environmental Planning    3 Hours

Analysis and application of advanced topics and results of recent research in environmental and general land use planning. Broad examination of mitigation, remediation, and land use planning challenges from an applied perspective as they relate to problem-solving scenarios in sustainable development. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOG 280

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022

GEOG 475    Selected Topics in Environment, Geography, and Sustainability    1-3 Hours

Special topics in applied or basic environmental, geographic, sustainability, or geoscience topics. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024

GEOG 480    Sustainable Cities    3 Hours

This course explores the consequences of urban development and the essentials of sustainable urbanism. Topics include environmental and human costs of urbanization, landscape change, mobility, and urban responses to climate change. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code SB

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024

GEOG 481    Sustainable Tourism    3 Hours

An applied and critical exploration of sustainable tourism with an emphasis on the sustainability methodologies and models that are employed by the tourism industry, as well as the environmental, social, and economic outcomes and consequence that are related to tourism activities. Sustainable tourism will be examined at a variety of geographic scales and in diverse environmental and cultural contexts. Students may engage in sustainable tourism research and field experiences during the course.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 486    Seminar in Environmental Science and Sustainability    1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

Guided seminar-style course focused on current environmental and sustainability issues from an applied perspective. Students will discuss/debate environmental science and sustainability topics and lead discussion through examination of published literature, reflection, and having expert professionals and scientists in their respective fields provide experiential context for the issues being discussed. Career pathways will be discussed using examples from the discipline.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 487    Environmental Management and Law    3 Hours

An introductory course on environmental management and law. Environmental Law is comprised of a vast body of legislation and common law, and management and law dominate all aspects of society. It is important to understand that law isn’t designed to determine what is ‘right or moral,’ but rather to enforce what is expedient for society’s optimal functioning. This course will include a thorough examination of major legislative, administrative, and judicial management approaches to addressing current environmental conditions related, but not limited to, natural resource consumption and air, water, and hazardous pollutants, in the United States and abroad.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 489    Alternatives in Sustainability    3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

Addresses aspects of sustainability theory and practice, including problem-solving and decision-making techniques and critical analyses of prominent sustainability plans. Content focuses on a single topic within the sustainability discipline for the entirety of the course.

Prerequisite(s): GEOG 280

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOG 492    Advanced Geospatial Analytics    3 Hours

Applying advanced spatial analytical techniques in GIS environment. Quantitative analysis in Geosciences is emphasized. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOG 391 with a minimum grade of C and GISC 317 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022

GEOG 495    Applied Research, Independent Study, or Internship    1-9 Hours (repeatable max of 12 hrs)

Supervised research, independent study, or internship with faculty, research center, lab, government, community, or private sector. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credit hours in the major, with a maximum of 6 credit hours permitted in minor programs.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GEOG 499    Professional Preparation    1 Hour

Professional career or graduate school preparation, resume writing, college-to-career transition, professional ethics, graduate school application and requirements, written senior assessment, and selected seminar topics. Outside speakers from industry and academia will be included.

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman or Sophomore may not enroll.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023; spring 2024

GEOL 103    Our Dynamic Planet    3 Hours

Introduction to Earth's dynamic systems and processes and how their spatial dimensions affect people and the environment. This includes the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere, and the interconnectedness of Earth's systems. Students are encouraged to think about the interdisciplinary nature of geoscience from examples emphasized throughout the course. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS

Equivalent(s): GEOG 103

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024

GEOL 106    Geology and Cinema    1.5 Hour

Examines how Hollywood depicts geology and geologists in movies. Addresses facts and fallacies in selected movies and in so doing explores basic geological processes and Earth materials. No credit for the Geology major or minor.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 107    Backyard Geology    1.5 Hour

Applies basic geologic principles to local surroundings. Explains how geologic processes create local rock forms and structures. Field trips required. No credit for the Geology major or minor.

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 111    The Earth    3 Hours

The study of Earth including rocks, mineral resources, energy, soils, surface geologic processes, earthquakes and Earth's interior, global tectonics, hydrology, and environmental geology. Students electing to meet their general education laboratory requirement through GEOL 113 must simultaneously enroll in the GEOL 111 lecture course. Laboratory is required for Geology majors and some prospective science teachers, but is optional for most others. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; winter 2023; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; winter 2024; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GEOL 112    Earth's Past and Future    3 Hours

Deep time study of Earth, life, and climate to understand how the plantet - our only home - has changed in the past and what this means for the future of human species. Students electing to meet their general education laboratory requirement through GEOL 114 must simultaneously enroll in GEOL 112. Laboratory (GEOL 114) is required for Geology majors and some prospective science teachers, but is optional for most others. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024

GEOL 113    The Earth Laboratory    1 Hour

Laboratory work designed to accompany GEOL 111. Minerals, rocks, topographic maps, geologic maps, streams, and groundwater are studied. This laboratory is required for Geology majors and some prospective science teachers, but is optional for most others. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL | SL

Prerequisite(s): (GEOL 111 (may be taken concurrently) or GEOG 103 (may be taken concurrently) or GEOL 103 (may be taken concurrently))

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; winter 2023; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; winter 2024; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GEOL 114    Earth's Past and Future Lab    1 Hour

Laboratory to accompany GEOL 112, which is a deep time study of Earth, life, and climate. This laboratory is required for Geology majors and some prospective science teachers, but is optional for most other students. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL | SL

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 112 (may be taken concurrently)

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024

GEOL 250    Environmental Geology    3 Hours

Survey of the geologic principles in relation to environmental problems arising from human actions. Topical environmental issues controlled by whole Earth processes, and the use of geologic knowledge in their remediation will be investigated. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL, E-NS | SL, NS

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

GEOL 270    Analytical Techniques in Geology    3 Hours

Basic analytical techniques used to examine and analyze Earth materials. Topics include precision and accuracy, sample preparation, contamination, calibration techniques, analysis of data sets. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 and GEOL 112

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 301    Earth's Climate in Time    3 Hours

This paleoclimate course is a survey of Earth’s past climate changes, the present state, and what these mean for the future of our planet – our only home. Factors and processes that influence Earth’s climate over a variety of timescales are examined. Connections between climate and life are emphasized. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024

GEOL 305    Earth System Science for Teachers    3 Hours

Engages students in Earth System Science (ESS) as an integrating method for teaching about the Earth. Primarily designed for undergraduate students who plan to become K-12 teachers, students use real-world examples in lessons they can adapt for their own future classroom use. Applicable towards a major in Geology only for those students seeking teacher certification.

Prerequisite(s): (GEOL 111 and GEOL 113) or (GEOL 112 and GEOL 114)

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023

GEOL 310    Global Hydrology    3 Hours

An introduction to descriptive and quantitative hydrology. The hydrologic cycle, precipitation, evaporation, and transpiration will be covered under descriptive hydrology. Hydrographs, runoff relations, ground water, and storage routing will be covered under quantitative hydrology. Consideration is given to use and management of water as a resource.

Prerequisite(s): (GEOL 111 or GEOG 103 or GEOL 103)

Equivalent(s): GEOG 310

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023

GEOL 311    General Oceanography    3 Hours

A course in basic fundamentals pertaining to the geological, chemical, physical and biological aspects of the marine environment. Topics for discussion include the topography, structure and history of the ocean basins and their margins, ocean waters and oceanic circulation, tides and waves, marine geochemistry, ocean sediments and sedimentation, near-shore geologic processes and the ocean as a biogeochemical system. The resources of the ocean and the influence of humans are also considered. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 and GEOL 113

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2024

GEOL 315    Energy, Climate and Carbon    3 Hours

Energy, Climate and Carbon investigates our current reliance upon carbon-based sources of energy, the effect of fossil-fuel emissions on the environment and climate at local-to-global scales, and current efforts to limit fossil-fuel emissions and global climate change. The course is particularly focused on carbon-capture technologies, geological carbon sequestration and renewable energy resources. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY

Prerequisite(s): (GEOL 111 or GEOL 112 or GEOL 103 or GEOG 103) and 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 325    Introduction to Minerals and Crystalline Rocks    3 Hours

The sight identification of minerals andcrystalline rocks is stressed. The description, origin and classification, economic uses, and occurrences of the major mineral andcrystalline rock groups are discussed. Appropriate rock and mineral specimens are examined in the laboratory.

Prerequisite(s): (GEOG 103 or GEOL 103 or GEOL 111) and GEOL 113

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 330    Mineralogy    4 Hours (repeatable max of 4 hrs)

The systematic study of minerals. Includes crystallography, crystal chemistry, mineral stability, the classification of minerals, and the origin, characteristics and occurrences of the major mineral groups. Laboratory work includes crystal symmetry, mineral identification, and an introduction to the optical microscope. A field trip may be required. Note: One semester of college chemistry or permission of instructor required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 and GEOL 113

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 350    Mineralogy and Petrology    4 Hours (repeatable max of 4 hrs)

The study of the origin, characteristics, formative processes, and classification of minerals, and igneous and metamorphic rocks. Their occurrence in relation to plate tectonics is stressed. Laboratory work includes mineral identification, and petrographic study of igneous and metamorphic rocks in hand specimen and in thin section. A field trip may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 and GEOL 113

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023

GEOL 360    Sedimentology and Stratigraphy    4 Hours

Introduces sedimentary processes, including sediment origins, erosion, transportation, deposition, and diagenesis. Sedimentation patterns and stratigraphic architecture are studied in the context of depositional and tectonic settings.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 112 and GEOL 114

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024

GEOL 380    Introductory Field Techniques    3 Hours

Techniques of geological field work. Topics include sampling, rock identification and description, field notes, and the transition from field to laboratory analysis. Field work is required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 and GEOL 113

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2023

GEOL 399    Research Problems in Geology    1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 3 hrs)

Individual research projects are conducted under faculty supervision. May be repeated with a change of content, but only 3 hours will be counted toward the major. A written report is required. Note: Permission of research project director.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024

GEOL 405    Paleontology    4 Hours (repeatable max of 4 hrs)

A basic course in paleobiology including the nature of the fossil record, preservation, basic factors and theories relating to the origin and development of living systems and the process of evolution, the species concept, systematics, and paleoecology. Major invertebrate taxa with a significant fossil record are also studied. Laboratory work includes the examination, description, and classification of fossil specimens. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 112 and GEOL 114

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 408    Structural Geology    4 Hours (repeatable max of 4 hrs)

This course introduces the mechanics, characteristics, occurrences, and resultant structures associated with the major processes of deformation of the earth's crust. Major structural regions of North America are discussed. The laboratory emphasizes graphical and mathematical solutions of structural problems. Field trip required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 and GEOL 113

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; spring 2024; fall 2024

GEOL 415    Applied Environmental Geology    3 Hours

The interrelationships of geologic processes, earth materials, and human activities. Assessment of geologic factors with respect to site selection, energy production, land use, waste disposal, planning, water resources, engineering practices, and the recognition and control of geologic hazards. Class exercises stress the application of geologic knowledge to specific environmental situations. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 and GEOL 113

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2024

GEOL 420    Geomorphology    3 Hours (repeatable max of 3 hrs)

Systematic study of the processes that shape and modify Earth’s landforms and landscapes in a variety of spatial and temporal scales. Coupling between climatic, biologic, tectonic, and human influences on landscape changes is examined.

Prerequisite(s): (GEOL 111 or GEOG 103 or GEOL 103)

Equivalent(s): GEOG 420

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023

GEOL 430    Optical Mineralogy    3 Hours

A study of the optical constants and phenomena exhibited by and characteristic of crystalline mineral materials. Topics covered include the behavior of light in crystalline solids, the origin and nature of interference colors, refractive index, birefringence, optical character, and optical identification of minerals. Laboratory work concerns techniques employed with the petrographic microscope and the use of the microscope in mineral identification.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 and GEOL 113

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 432    Diffraction and Spectroscopy    4 Hours

Theory and experimental practices of modern analytical techniques for the analysis of crystal structures. Focuses on the study of crystallography, crystal chemistry, and their physical and chemical properties. Laboratory fee required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 and GEOL 113

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 440    Hydrogeology    3 Hours

Origin, occurrence, and movement of ground water; water wells and aquifer evaluations; exploratory investigations; quality of ground water supplies; legal aspects.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 or GEOL 103 or GEOG 103

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2024

GEOL 445    Aqueous Geochemistry    3 Hours

An introduction to geochemical processes of surface and ground water including concentrations of ions and organic compounds, chemical equilibria, and analytical techniques. Carbonate and clay minerals will be studied in detail.

Prerequisite(s): CHEM 120 and CHEM 121

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 455    Field Geology    1-6 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)

Geological field experiences in a variety of settings and locations, designed to teach the hands-on methods of fieldwork and data collection, and the preparation of geologic maps, cross sections and reports.

Prerequisite(s): (GEOL 111 and GEOL 113) or (GEOL 112 and GEOL 114) or permission of instructor

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 465    Geophysics    3 Hours

The fundamentals of general and exploration geophysics. Topics include the origin of the earth and solar system, the earth's interior, geochronology, gravity and isostasy, seismology, the earth's heat, geomagnetism, upper atmosphere, continents and ocean basins, ridges and island arcs, and plate tectonics. The theory and applications of exploration geophysics are also covered, especially gravity, magnetic, and seismic methods. Note: One year of college physics or permission of instructor required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111

Equivalent(s): PHYS 465

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2024

GEOL 470    Tectonics    3 Hours

A survey of recent and past global tectonic activities and environments, including mantle plumes and processes, rifted continental margins, oceanic ridges, subduction and transform zones, mountain building and landforms, tectonic geomorphology, and interplay between climate and tectonics. Tectonic implications of environmental changes, natural hazards, and natural resources are discussed.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 or GEOL 103 or GEOG 103

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2024

GEOL 475    Special Topics in Geology    1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 12 hrs)

A lecture-discussion or supervised research course in which advanced or special topics in geology are considered in detail. Special topics courses may not replace required courses in the geology major/minor but may be applied as elective credit. Note: Permission of instructor required.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; fall 2023; summer 2024

GEOL 485    Geology of Fossil Fuels    3 Hours

Formation of coal, petroleum, and natural gas including depositional setting, source materials, and processes of thermal maturation. Stratigraphic and structural relations, modes of occurrence, exploration techniques, and resource evaluation are emphasized. Field trip required. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 or GEOL 112

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 490    Petroleum Geology    3 Hours

Concepts of oil formation, source-rock evaluation, thermal maturation, and petroleum migration are reviewed. Emphasis is placed on characterization of petroleum reservoirs and traps and on the techniques employed by geologists in exploration for oil and gas accumulations. Field trip required.

Prerequisite(s): GEOL 111 or GEOL 112

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

GEOL 499    Professional Preparation in Geology    2 Hours

Professional career preparation in geology including senior assessment, resume writing, college-to-career transition, professional ethics, and selected seminar topics. Outside speakers from industry and academia will be included.

Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman, Junior or Sophomore may not enroll.

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024

METR 121    Meteorology    3 Hours (repeatable max of 3 hrs)

An introduction to the elements of the atmosphere, severe storms, atmospheric environmental issues, the interdependence between human life and the atmosphere, and rudimentary forecasting of basic weather systems. A self-paced laboratory is required. (2 hour lecture; 1 hour lab) Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL, E-NS | NS, SL

Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2022; spring 2022; fall 2022; winter 2023; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; winter 2024; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024

METR 122    Aviation Meteorology    3 Hours

The emphasis of the course will be on weather elements and their measurements, weather instruments, weather codes needed by aviators, weather effects upon flying, and weather hazards of aviation.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024

METR 322    Global Climate Systems    3 Hours

Analyzes the elements of climate and their world distribution with emphasis on the climatic controls and processes; surveys the influences of climates on environment; introduces climatic classification systems and climatological regions of the world.

Prerequisite(s): METR 121

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023

METR 324    Weather Analysis and Forecasting    3 Hours

Analysis of the atmosphere using satellite and radar imagery. Weather forecasting techniques using surface and upper air data are also examined. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): METR 121

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024

METR 325    Meteorological Instrumentation and Measurement    3 Hours

Introduces the purpose, operation, and application of meteorological instrumentation and the treatment of meteorological measurements.

Prerequisite(s): METR 121

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2024

METR 326    Applied Meteorology / Climatology    3 Hours

This course offers a practical insight into the influence of meteorology and climatology on everyday life. Environmental problems caused by changes in the atmosphere are also examined. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): METR 121

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023; fall 2024

METR 335    Satellite/Radar Meteorology    3 Hours

An introduction to remote sensing specific to the atmospheric sciences. Specific attention is given to analysis, diagnostic, and prognostic determinations using various satellites, as well as surface and space-based active radar systems. Specific applications focus on synoptic and mesoscale phenomena, including large-scale kinematics and morphology, clouds, derived radar interpretation, precipitating systems, and precipitation measurement.

Prerequisite(s): METR 324

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023

METR 422    Physical Climatology    3 Hours

Addresses the complexity of climactic processes at various spatial and temporal scales. Budgets of energy, water, and momentum, and soil-plant-atmosphere interactions at the earth's surface are explored from both a theoretical and practical point of view.

Prerequisite(s): METR 324 with a minimum grade of C and MATH 237 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023

METR 425    Field Methods in Severe Weather Analysis and Forecasting    4 Hours (repeatable max of 8 hrs)

Provides an intensive, comprehensive field-based weather analysis and forecasting experience that focuses on all forms of severe weather, including tornadoes. Students will travel across the Great Plains collecting and analyzing weather data, predicting severe convective thunderstorms, and formulating logistical plans to document forecast outcomes each day. Students will also have the opportunity for applied learning approaches in leadership, collaborative team-building, and professional aptitude development.

Prerequisite(s): METR 324

Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2023; summer 2024

METR 430    Meteorological Computing    3 Hours

Introduction to Python-based skills for meteorological data manipulation, processing, and visualization. Mainstream meteorological data sources and formats (e.g., ASCII, CSV, GRIB, NetCDF) will be involved in weather analysis and map generation.

Prerequisite(s): METR 324 and CS 170

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2024

METR 431    Dynamic Meteorology I    3 Hours

Introduction to large-scale dynamics of the Earth's troposphere focusing on fundamental topics, the basic governing equations of motion in the atmosphere, and dry thermodynamics.

Prerequisite(s): METR 324 with a minimum grade of C and MATH 237 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2023

METR 432    Synoptic Meteorology    3 Hours

Addresses the analysis and prediction of large-scale weather systems, such as extra-tropical cyclones, fronts and jet streams through the application of fundamental dynamical concepts of meteorology.

Prerequisite(s): METR 324 with a minimum grade of C and MATH 237 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2024

METR 433    Dynamic Meteorology II    3 Hours

Analysis of phenomena related to large scale dynamics of the Earth's troposphere including thermodynamics, elementary applications of the basic equations, and circulation and vorticity.

Prerequisite(s): METR 431 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024

METR 437    Mesoscale Meteorology    3 Hours

Addresses the analysis and prediction of convective and mesoscale phenomena, such as mesoscale convective systems, severe thunderstorms, tornadoes and hurricanes.

Prerequisite(s): METR 432 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023

METR 438    Physical Meteorology    3 Hours

Addresses the microscopic processes related to cloud formation, radiative transfer, precipitation processes and dry and moist thermodynamics.

Prerequisite(s): METR 431 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2024

METR 439    Atmospheric Modeling    3 Hours

An introduction to numerical weather and climate modeling techniques and models, with focus on modeling fundamentals, including dynamics, physical parameterizations, grids and resolutions, model structures and components. Includes hands-on experience with designing numerical experiments, configuring and running model simulations, post-processing model outputs, and visualization.

Prerequisite(s): METR 324 with a minimum grade of C and CS 170 with a minimum grade of C

Recent Term(s) Offered: None

METR 460    Climate Teleconnections    3 Hours

Analysis of the climate impacts and physical mechanisms of atmospheric and oceanic teleconnections that commonly affect weather patterns in the northern hemisphere. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.

Prerequisite(s): (METR 322 or METR 324)

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023

METR 475    Selected Topics in Meteorology    1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 12 hrs)

A study of a selected problem under the supervision of a faculty member.

Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024