Department of Earth, Environmental, and Atmospheric Sciences
Dr. Leslie North, Chair
Environmental Sciences and Technology Building, Office 305
Phone: 270-745-4555
Website: http://www.wku.edu/geoweb
The Department of Earth, Environmental, and Atmospheric Science offers three undergraduate programs and one certificate program:
- B.S. in Geological Sciences with two concentrations (Geology and Environmental Earth Science).
- B.S in Environmental, Sustainability, and Geographic Studies.
- B.S. in Meteorology.
- Undergraduate certificate Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
These programs are designed to meet the career goals of students in a wide variety of geoscience areas such as atmospheric science, environment/sustainability, cultural/physical geography, geology, environmental earth science, and GIS-geospatial science. The Department's BS programs also provide a strong educational foundation for students interested in continuing their education in graduate school.
Descriptions and course requirements of each bachelor’s program and the undergraduate certificate in GIS are found below.
A five-year bachelors/masters program (JUMP program) is available for students to graduate with a BS degree in one of the Department's undergraduate programs and a Master’s degree in Geoscience. The JUMP is available so that motivated students can focus their research interests early in their program of study. The Department's JUMP allows students to earn a bachelors and Master’s degree in an expedited time frame.
Geographic Info Science (GISC)
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
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; fall 2021; fall 2022
GISC 316 Fundamentals of GIS 4 Hours
Fundamentals of GIS data management and cartographic design. Topics include data organization, map projections, scale and accuracy. Hands-on work in geospatial data acquisition, base map development, and map production. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.
Prerequisite(s): (GEOG 103 or GEOL 103 or GEOL 111 or METR 121) and GEOG 110
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
GISC 317 Geographic Information Systems 4 Hours
The principles, concepts, and applications of GIS. Topics include raster and vector data models, GIS data sources, data acquisition, storage, management, structured query language, relational databases, GIS analysis, and display. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.
Prerequisite(s): GISC 316 with a minimum grade of C
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
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
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022
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
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
GISC 418 Internet 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): CS 170 with a minimum grade of C and GISC 417 with a minimum grade of C
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; fall 2020
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
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
GISC 423 GIS and Location Analytics 3 Hours
Explores selected issues related to urban applications of GIS. Developing analytical skills and knowledge in transportation, urban management, locational analysis and business geography. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.
Prerequisite(s): GISC 317 with a minimum grade of C
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020; fall 2022
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 417 with a minimum grade of C
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020
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 417 with a minimum grade of C and GISC 443 with a minimum grade of C
Course Fee: $10
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022
Geography (GEOG)
GEOG 103 Our Dynamic Planet 3 Hours
Introduction to the spatial dimension of Earth's dynamic systems and how they affect people. These include the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS
Equivalent(s): GEOL 103
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; winter 2021; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; winter 2022; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
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 2020; spring 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; winter 2021; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; winter 2022; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
GEOG 175 University Experience-Geography 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 2020; fall 2021; fall 2022
GEOG 196 Phys Geog Recitation Lab 1 Hour
The physical geography recitation lab is designed to support and enhance the lecture material through practical exercises and problem solving. Map analysis is stressed, as well as critical thinking related to current issues and events. No category D Lab credit.
Corequisite(s): GEOG 100
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
GEOG 198 Regional Geog Recitation Lab 1 Hour
The world regional geography recitation lab is designed to support the lecture material through practical exercises and problem solving. Map analysis is stressed, as well as critical thinking related to current issues and events.
Corequisite(s): GEOG 110
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
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): HIST 200, PS 200, SPAN 200, ANTH 200
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020; fall 2021; fall 2022
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: None
GEOG 225 Visualizing Geography 3 Hours
Visualizing Geography uses photographs, maps, and illustrations to explain the diversity of human societies, political systems, resources, and population movement across space and time, from local communities to our incresingly 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: fall 2020; spring 2021
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 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022
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 towards a major or minor in Geography if GEOG 280 is taken as part of the degree requirements. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY
Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; summer 2021; winter 2022; spring 2022
GEOG 275 Supervised Independent Research in Geography 1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Restricted to freshmen, sophomores, and Gatton Academy students. A study of a selected problem under the supervision of a faculty member. Note: Pemrission of instructor required.
Prerequisite(s): METR 121
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022
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-SL, E-NS | NS
Course Fee: $10
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
GEOG 295 Introduction to Research Methodology 1 Hour
To familiarize Ogden Research Scholars and other research oriented students with the fundamentals of choosing a research topic, performing a bibliographical search on a subject, classification of instruments, data taking, data reduction, professional ethics and other research oriented topics. The common points of research methodology in the different scientific areas will be accentuated. Examples will be drawn from the various disciplines. Use of computers will be emphasized. (Course does not count towards any major or minor.)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
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): GEOG 110 and ENG 100 and (GEOG 103 or GEOL 103 or GEOL 111 or METR 121)
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022
GEOG 310 Global Hydrology 3 Hours
An introduction to descriptive and quantitative hydrology. The hydrologic cycle precipitation, evaporation, and transpiration are covered under descriptive hydrology. Hydrographs, runoff relations, groundwater, and storage routing are covered under quantitative hydrology.
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 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
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: None
GEOG 350 Economic Geography 3 Hours
This course examines the functional interrelationships among economic activities and areas in the consumption, production, and exchange of goods and services. 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 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
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 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
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.
Prerequisite(s): GEOG 110
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
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
Course Fee: $15
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020
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 2020; spring 2021
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: None
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 2020; spring 2021; spring 2022
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
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; fall 2020; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022
GEOG 420 Geomorphology 3 Hours (repeatable max of 4 hrs)
The study of the origin, history, and characteristics of landforms produced by fluvial, glacial, wind, and wave erosion and mass-wasting and ground water or by a combination of these, acting upon the major types of earth materials and structures. Laboratory work includes the interpretation of topographic and geologic maps, air photos, and stereopairs. A field trip may be required. .
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: spring 2021
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): (GEOL 310 or GEOG 310)
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021
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 434 Historic Preservation Planning 3 Hours
An overview of historic preservation methods and practice. The course will include an overview of the historic preservation movement in the United States and an examination of preservation law and methodology. A field project is required.
Equivalent(s): FLK 434
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: spring 2020
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
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020; fall 2022
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
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020
GEOG 462 Geography of South America 3 Hours
Analysis of the physical and cultural bases of South America's geographical patterns with an emphasis on problems of urban and regional development. Note: Permission of instructor required.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
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: spring 2020; fall 2020; fall 2021; fall 2022
GEOG 466 Geography of Africa 3 Hours
A geographic survey assessing the relationships of the physical and cultural patterns to actual and potential economic development. Note: Permission of instructor required.
Equivalent(s): AFAM 466
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
GEOG 467 Geography of the Middle East 3 Hours
This course deals with the various aspects of the sequent occupancy of southwestern Asia and surrounding regions. Emphasized are the physical setting, the historic religious geography of the region, and the contemporary scene. Note: Permission of instructor.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
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: None
GEOG 474 Environmental Planning Applications 3 Hours
Integrative topics in environmental science, sustainability, and planning. Emphasis on sustainable community planning and development in urban and rural settings. Students study current models and policies from around the globe. Note: Permission of instructor may be required.
Prerequisite(s): GEOG 280 and GEOG 210
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022
GEOG 475 Selected Topics in Geography 1-3 Hours
A study of a selected problem under the supervision of a faculty member. Note: Permission of isntructor may be required.
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman, Junior or Sophomore may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
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 2020; fall 2021; fall 2022
GEOG 481 Tourism Geography 3 Hours
Examination of concepts, models, and theories in the geography of tourism. Topics include the evolution of patterns of tourism, economic, environmental, and socio-cultural impacts of tourism, sustainable tourism, environmental tourism, ethical tourism, the politics of tourism, and critical analysis of alternative meanings of tourism sites. Local, national, and international examples in both developed and develping countries are discussed. Field trips may be required.
Prerequisite(s): GEOG 110
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
GEOG 486 Seminar in Environmental Science and Sustainability 1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Current issues related to sustainability and/or environmental science discussed via invited lecturers, community engagements, and/or department and university-wide seminars. Students are expected to participate in assigned seminar activities throughout the duration of the course.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021
GEOG 487 Environmental Management and Law 3 Hours
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. Note: GEOG 210 required for Geography majors and minors.
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman, Junior or Sophomore may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020
GEOG 489 Alternatives in Sustainability 3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Addresses aspects of sustainability theory and practice, includng 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 300 with a minimum grade of C and GEOG 391 with a minimum grade of C
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; spring 2021; spring 2022
GEOG 495 Research Practicum or Internship 1-9 Hours (repeatable max of 12 hrs)
Supervised research or internship with faculty, government, community, or private concerns. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credit hours in the major, with a maximum of 6 credit hours permitted in minor programs. Note: Permission of instructor required.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
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, Junior or Sophomore may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020; fall 2021
Geology (GEOL)
GEOL 103 Our Dynamic Planet 3 Hours
Introduction to the spatial dimension of Earth's dynamic systems and how they affect people. These include the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS
Equivalent(s): GEOG 103
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022
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, minors, and some prospective science teachers, but is optional for most others. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-NS | NS
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
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 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022
GEOL 113 The Earth Laboratory 1 Hour
Laboratory work designed to accompany GEOL 111. Minerals, rocks, topographic maps, geologic maps, and aerial photographs are studied. This laboratory is required for Geology majors, minors 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))
Course Fee: $15
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
GEOL 114 Earth's Past and Future Lab 1 Hour
To make it concise and to reflect corresponding changes in GEOL 112 listing. However, the learning objective for the course will remain unchanged. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SL | SL
Prerequisite(s): GEOL 112 (may be taken concurrently)
Course Fee: $15
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022
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 | NS, SL
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020; spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
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
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
GEOL 295 Introduction to Research Methodology 1 Hour
To familiarize Ogden Research Scholars and other research oriented students with the fundamentals of choosing a research topic, performing a bibliographical search on a subject, classification of instruments, data taking, data reduction, professional ethics and other research oriented topics. The common points of research methodology in the different scientific areas will be accentuated. Examples will be drawn from the various disciplines. Use of computers will be emphasized. Course does not count toward any major or minor. Note: Ogden Research Scholar, or 3.2 grade point average at the end of freshman year, or OCSTH faculty member recommendation.
Equivalent(s): CS 295, PHYS 295, MATH 295, CHEM 295, ENGR 295, BIOL 295
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
GEOL 301 Geology and Climate: Past and Future 3 Hours
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. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY
Prerequisite(s): (GEOL 103 or GEOG 103 or GEOL 111 or GEOL 112) and 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020; fall 2021; fall 2022
GEOL 305 Earth System Science for Teachers 3 Hours
Collaborative, problem-based learning (PBL) experience, using real-world examples to enhance student understanding of earth system science, with a focus on relevance in science teaching grades K-12. Includes PBL-based lesson plan development. 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: fall 2020
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: fall 2020
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
Course Fee: $15
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; spring 2021
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: spring 2020; spring 2021
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
Course Fee: $35
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020; fall 2021
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
Course Fee: $35
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; spring 2021; spring 2022
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
Course Fee: $40
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; spring 2021; spring 2022
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
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020; spring 2022
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 2020; fall 2020; spring 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; fall 2022
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 and BIOL 122 and BIOL 123
Course Fee: $40
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
Course Fee: $40
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; spring 2021; fall 2022
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: spring 2021; fall 2022
GEOL 420 Geomorphology 3 Hours (repeatable max of 4 hrs)
The study of the origin, history, and characteristics of landforms produced by fluvial, glacial, wind, and wave erosion and mass-wasting and ground water or by combination of these, acting upon the major types of earth materials and structures. Laboratory work includes the interpretation of topographic and geologic maps, air photos, and stereopairs. A field trip may be required.
Prerequisite(s): (GEOL 111 or GEOG 103 or GEOL 103)
Equivalent(s): GEOG 420
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021
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 325 or GEOL 330)
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): (GEOG 325 or GEOL 330 or CHEM 222 or PHYS 266)
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): MATH 136 (may be taken concurrently) and (GEOG 310 or GEOL 310)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
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 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
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; fall 2021
GEOL 470 Tectonics 3 Hours
Deformational structure and style of various crustal regions. Regional tectonics of North America is emphasized.
Prerequisite(s): GEOL 308
Course Fee: $20
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
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 2020; fall 2020; spring 2022
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 308
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.
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 2020; fall 2021; fall 2022
Meteorology (METR)
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-NS, E-SL | NS, SL
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2020; spring 2020; summer 2020; fall 2020; winter 2021; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; winter 2022; spring 2022; fall 2022
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 2020; spring 2021; spring 2022
METR 322 Global Climate Systems 4 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. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY
Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status and METR 121
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021
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
Equivalent(s): METR 424
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2020; spring 2021; spring 2022
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
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020; fall 2022
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
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2021
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: None
METR 424 Severe Weather Analysis and Forecasting 2 Hours (repeatable max of 4 hrs)
Provides preparatory and debriefing in-class time for METR 425, Field Methods in Severe Weather Analysis and Forecasting. Students will use this in-class time prior to departure to learn about course expectations, travel logistics, and to practice forecasting current events. Students will use this in-class time upon return to debrief the field component, archive all data, and develop applied research projects for future use.
Prerequisite(s): METR 324 and permission of instructor
Corequisite(s): METR 425
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
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 and permission of instructor)
Corequisite(s): METR 424
Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2021
METR 426 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: None
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 2020; fall 2022
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 2021
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
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020; fall 2022
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 2020; spring 2022
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
Course Fee: $50
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2021
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 2020; spring 2022
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 2021
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.
Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2020; spring 2021; summer 2021; fall 2021; spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022
Utility Management (UM)
UM 101 Water Utility Management 3 Hours (repeatable max of 9 hrs)
Overview of water and wastewater utility activities and functions leading to professional designation in utility management.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
UM 205 Water Utility Organization, Regulation and Law 3 Hours
Overview of the organization, structure, and legal aspects of water and wastewater utilities.
Prerequisite(s): UM 101
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
UM 215 Water Utility Finance and Administration 3 Hours
Overview of the financial and administrative aspects of water and wastewater utilities.
Prerequisite(s): UM 101
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
UM 225 Human Resource Management for Water Utilities 3 Hours
Overview of the staffing, compensation, and human resources utilization aspects of water and wastewater utilities.
Prerequisite(s): UM 101
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
UM 235 Water Utility Management and Human Relations 3 Hours
Overview of the management and human relations aspects of water and wastewater utilities including board/manager, employee, public, and other utility relations.
Prerequisite(s): UM 101
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
UM 245 Modern Technology and Water Utility Management 3 Hours
Overview of the essential functions of public drinking water and wastewater utilities focusing on the emerging technologies and evolving legislation that drive quality and quantity issues.
Prerequisite(s): UM 101
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
UM 290 Internship: Utility Management 3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Internship in water/wastewater management. May be paid or unpaid. Coordination required via WTI Program Coordnator. Note: Requires placement by the WTI Program Coordinator and instructor's permission required.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 200
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
Water/Wastewater Technology (WTTI)
WTTI 200 Water Supply and Wastewater Control 3 Hours
This course is designed to familiarize the student with water supply and wastewater control. Emphasis is on the operational aspects of water supply, water distribution, wastewater collection, and wastewater treatment and disposal. Upon completion, students should be able to apply technical concepts and principles of water supply and wastewater control.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 201 Hydrology for Water Operations 0.5 Hours
The properties, distribution, and circulation of water as it moves through the atmosphere, across and below the earth's surface, with emphasis on water and wastewater operations. Topics include the hydrologic cycle, groundwater, rainfall, droughts, and volume and flow.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 202 Drinking Water Sources, Quality and Standards 0.75 Hours
Examination of sources of drinking water, including identification of the various types and sources of contaminants in natural and artificial water systems, and standards used to establish drinking water quality.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 203 Introduction to Drinking Water Treatment 0.5 Hours
Introduction to the processes and equipment used to create safe drinking water, including treatment at the source, preliminary treatment, and purification.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 204 Introduction to Wastewater Treatment 0.5 Hours
Introduction to the equipment, structures, and processes used in the treatment of wastewater. Examines various legislation and regulations pertaining to wastewater treatment and effluent standards.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 205 Introduction to Drinking Water Distribution 0.5 Hours
Introduction to the equipment and structures used in drinking water transmission and distribution systems. Topics include system design and maintenance, the use of centrifugal pumps and water mains, and computer applications.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 206 Instruction to Wastewater Collection 0.5 Hours
Introduction to the equipment, structures, and design of wastewater collection systems. Topics include the layout and construction of sanitary sewers, lift stations, infiltration and inflow, and treatment methods.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 210 Water Treatment Processes 3 Hours
This course is designed to train prospective wastewater treatment plant operators and managers in the practical aspects of operating and maintaining wastewater treatment plants, with emphasis on the use of safe practices and procedures. Students will learn how to safely operate and maintain coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection processes. They will also learn how to control tastes and odors in drinking water, control corrosion to meet the requirements of the Lead and Copper Rule, perform basic water laboratory procedures, and solve arithmetic problems commonly associated with water treatment plant operation.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 200
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 211 Wastewater Treatment Processes 3 Hours
This course is designed to train prospective wastewater treatment plant operators and managers in the practical aspects of operating and maintaining wastewater treatment plants, with emphasis on the use of safe practices and procedures. Students will learn how to safely operate and maintain racks, screens, comminutors, sedimentation tanks, trickling filters, rotating biological contractors, package activated sludge plants, oxidation ditches, ponds, and chlorination facilities. Students will also learn how to analyze and solve operational problems and how to perform mathematical calculations relating to wastewater treatment process control.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 212 Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection Systems 3 Hours
This course is designed to enable students to understand the operation and maintenance of a waterworks distribution system and to familiarize students with the components of wastewater collection systems. Overview of design installation, operation, monitoring, maintenance and repair/rehabilitation of sewer pipelines, pump stations and related facilities.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 213 Basic Drinking Water Treatment Processes 0.75 Hours
The effects of characteristics of water that hinder quality and treatment techniques which improve water quality. Topics include fluoridation, and the treatment and control of iron, manganese, and hard water.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 203
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 214 Coagulation and Flocculation Processes in Water Treatment 0.5 Hours
Examination of the processes that remove suspended solids from drinking water and wastewater. Topics include chemicals used, rapid-mix facilities, flocculation facilities, regulations, dosage control, safety precautions, and record keeping.
Prerequisite(s): (WTTI 203 or WTTI 204)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 215 Sedimentation Basins and Clarifiers in Water Treatment 0.5 Hours
Course outlining the use sedimentation processes in water treatment. Topics include equipment and structures utilized in the process, operation, other clarification processes, and record keeping.
Prerequisite(s): (WTTI 203 or WTTI 204)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 216 Water Filtration Processes 0.5 Hours
Equipment, structures, and operational factors used in filtration systems for water and wastewater treatment facilities. Topics include approaches to filtration, gravity filters, pressure filtration, regulations, safety precautions, and record keeping.
Prerequisite(s): (WTTI 203 or WTTI 204)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 217 Water Disinfection Processes 1 Hour
Equipment, structures, and processes used during the disinfection process in water and wastewater treatment. Topics include chlorination processes, other oxidant processes, disinfection regulations, control tests, safety precautions and record keeping.
Prerequisite(s): (WTTI 203 or WTTI 204)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 220 Calculations and Hydraulics for Water 3 Hours
This course is designed to provide the student with an understanding of the mathematical principles and practical hydraulic design related to water supply. Topics include the treatment and distribution of water. Study includes solving problems related to treatment systems including hydraulic volumes, dimensional analysis, calculations and chemical dose rates as it relates to water treatment and distribution. Provides information and procedures necessary to predict and manipulate the hydraulics of water transmission. The primary work assignments involve the reading and using of hydraulic principles and then applying them in a real-life case analysis. Upon completion, students should be able to apply principles of mathematics and hydraulic systems to water management practices.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 200
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 221 Calcuations and Hydraulics for Wastewater and Stormwater 3 Hours
This course is designed to provide the student with an understanding of the mathematical principles and practical hydraulic design related to wastewater and stormwater control. Topics include the collection and treatment of domestic and industrial wastewater, wastewater collection and stormwater. Study includes solving problems related to treatment systems including hydraulic volumes, dimensional analysis, primary and secondary sewage treatment, calculations and chemical dose rates as it relates to wastewater and stormwater technology. Provides information and procedures necessary to predict and manipulate the hydraulics of wastewater and stormwater collection. The primary work assignments involve the reading and using of hydraulic principles and then applying them in a real-life case analysis. Upon completion, students should be able to apply principles of mathematics and hydraulic systems to wastewater and stormwater management practices.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 220
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 222 Water and Wastewater Instrumentation and Control 3 Hours
This course focuses on the basic fundamentals of instrumentation applicable to water and wastewater management. The application, maintenance, and calibratioin of instruments in water and wastewater systems are emphasized. Upon completioin, students should be able to read, calibrate and maintain mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic sensing equipment; and indicating, recording, and control equipment.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 200
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 223 Basic Calculations for Water Operations 1.25 Hour
Introduction to calculations used by operators to determine load, demand and other quantities critical to water and wastewater operations. Topics include per capita water use, domestic water use based on household fixture rates, water use per unit of industrial product produced, demand analysis, and load estimation.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 224 Basic Hydraulics for Water Operations 1 Hour
Basic hydraulic concepts and calculations necessary for operating water and wastewater systems. Topics include basic properties of fluids, pressure and force, head and head loss, pumping calculations, flow, thrust control, and computer applications.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 225 Basic Hydraulics in Drinking Water Distribution Networks 0.5 Hours
Basic hydraulic concepts driving the planning, design, construction, and operation of a pressurized network.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 223 and WTTI 224
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 226 Water Chemistry 3 Hours
This course is designed to explore basic chemical concepts and principles such as elements, compounds, states of matter and reactions that are applicable to evaluating and regulating water quality and applies them to water and wastewater treatment. Students also examine laboratory techniques, equipment, quality assurance, and recordkeeping and reporting.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 200
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 227 Basic Hydraulic Concepts in Wastewater Collection Systems 0.5 Hours
Basic hydraulic concepts driving the planning, design, construction, and operation of wastewater collection systems. Topics include the function and operation of open channel and gravity flow collection system networks.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 223 and WTTI 224
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 230 Advanced Water Treatment Processes 3 Hours
This course is a continuation of WTTI 210 and is designed to train prospective water treatment plant operators and managers in the practical aspects of operating and maintaining water treatment plants, with emphasis on the use of safe practices and procedures. Information is presented on drinking water regulations (including the Safe Drinking Water Act), iron and manganese control, fluoridation, softening, trihalomethanes, demineralization, handling and disposal of process wastes, maintenance, instrumentation, and advanced laboratory procedures.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 210
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 231 Advanced Wastewater Treatment Processes 3 Hours
This course is a continuation of WTTI 211 and is designed to train prospective wastewater treatment plant operators and managers in the practical aspects of operating and maintaining wastewater treatment plants, with emphasis on the use of safe practices and procedures. Topics include conventional activated sludge processes, sledge digestion and solids handling, effluent disposal, plant safety and good housekeeping, plant and equipment maintenance, laboratory procedures and chemistry, use of computers of plant operation and maintenance, analysis and presentation of data, and records and report writing. Students will also learn how to analyze and solve operational problems and how to perform the mathematical calculations relating to wastewater treatment process control.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 211
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 232 Wastewater Microbiology 0.5 Hours
Bacteria and other micoscopic organisms in wastewater, the equipment and structures used to grow or remove microorganisms, and the role microorganisms play in the breakdown of waste material.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 204
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 233 Natural Wastewater Treatment Systems 0.5 Hours
Examination of the equipment, structures, and operating factors in natural wastewater treatment systems.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 204
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 234 Basic Infrastructure for Water Distribution & Wastewater 1 Hour
Basic components of drinking water distribution systems and wastewater collection systems, including equipment, structures, and operating factors affecting the planning, design, and construction.
Prerequisite(s): (WTTI 205 or WTTI 206)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 235 Water Distribution System Components 0.75 Hours
Introduction to the components used in drinking water distribution systems and the factors involved in planning, operating, and maintaining them. Topics include hydrants, meters, cross connections, backflow control methods and devices, and records and reporting.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 205
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 236 Water Distribution System Operation and Maintenance 1.25 Hour
Examination of the procedures used in the operation and maintenance of water distribution networks. Topics include pipe shipment and handling, excavation, laying pipe, pressure and leak testing, flushing and disinfection, inspections, site restorations, water main installation, maintaining water quality, maintaining flow and pressure, meter locations, service lines, and thawing.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 205
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 237 Wastewater Collection System Assessment and Repair 0.5 Hours
Procedures used in the operation and maintenance of wastewater collection systems. Topics include operation and maintenance, inspecting and testing components, pipeline and manhole cleaning and inspection methods, and underground repair.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 206
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 238 Wastewater Collection Systems Management 0.5 Hours
Management concepts and considerations in the wastewater industry. Topics include operation and maintenance, information management, system design, construction and assessment, public policy and community relations, budgeting and financial planning, and safety and security.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 206
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 239 Stormwater Management for Operators 0.5 Hours
Control and mitigation of stormwater runoff via wastewater treatment facilities. Topics include estimating stormwater runoff, storm sewer systems, best management practices, floodplains, control of combined sewer overflows, controlling constituent discharges, and computer applications.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 206
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 240 Motors, Engines, and Controls in Water Operations 0.5 Hours
Investigation of the motors, engines, and controls used in water and wastewater treatment operations. Topics include electric motors, combustion engines, electrically driven pumps, motor and engine records, and motor and engine safety.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 241 Introduction to Instrumentation & Control Systems in Water 0.75 Hours
Introduction to the instrumentation and control systems used in water and wastewater operations. Topics include instrumentation, telemetry, control systems, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system components, operation and maintenance, flow, pressure, and level measurement, and automation.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 242 Basic Electricity for Water Operations 0.5 Hours
Investigation of the basic concepts and applications of electricity in water and wastewater operations.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 243 Flowermeters, Sensors and Process Measurements 0.5 Hours
Investigation of the equipment and techniques used to measure flow and other process information in water and wastewater operations.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 244 Automatic Process Control for Water Operations 0.75 Hours
Analysis of the equipment and procedures used in the automated control processes in water or wastewater facilities.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 243
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 249 Basic Water Chemistry for Operators 1 Hour
Assessment of the essential chemical properties of water and how they can affect water quality.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 250 Drinking Water Sampling and Analysis 1 Hour
Study of techniques of sampling and laboratory testing of drinking water resources.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 249
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 251 Wastewater Sampling and Analysis 1 Hour
Investigation of the procedures for effectively sampling and analyzing wastewater. Topics include operating laboratory equipment, analyzing in accordance with NPDES permit requirements, and recording laboratory results.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 249
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 252 Water Operator Safety 0.75 Hours
Basic process of ensuring a safe working environment for water and wastewater operators. Topics include inspections, procedures, and programs which ensure safety in the workplace.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 253 Wastewater Regulations 0.5 Hours
Analysis of all major forms of regulation that apply to the wastewater industry. Topics include the evolution of the Clean Water Act, pretreatment program requirements, permit compliance, safety regulations, and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 254 Corrosion Control in Water Operations 0.5 Hours
Investigation of the methods and techniques used to minimize corrosion in water treatment facilities. Topics include corrosion control methods, facilities, regulations, record keeping, and safety precautions.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 203
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 255 Ion Exchange Processes in Water Treatment 0.5 Hours
Process and equipment used in ion exchange treatment of water. Topics include ion exchange softening, operation of ion exchange processes, and record keeping.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 203
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 256 Adsorption Processes in Water Treatment 0.5 Hours
Analysis of the process and equipment used in the adsorption process in water treatment. Topics include the principles of adsorption, adsorption facilities, regulations, operating procedures, safety precautions, and record keeping.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 203
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 257 Aeration Processes in Water Treatment 0.5 Hours
Investigation of the process and equipment used druing the aeration process in water treatment. Topics include process description, types of aerators, regulations, control tests, operating problems, safety precautions, and record keeping.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 203
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 258 Membrane Processes in Water Treatment 0.5 Hours
Exploration of the processes and equipment used in membrane filtration. Topics include microfiltration facilities, pleated membrane facilities, nanofiltration and reverse osmosis facilities, operating programs, and record keeping.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 203
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 259 Introduction to Residuals Management in Water Operations 0.5 Hours
Equipment, structures, and processes associated with residual management in water and wastewater systems. Topics include sludge calculations, removal of sludge by traditional sedimentation processes, softening sludge, and solids separation technology.
Prerequisite(s): (WTTI 203 or WTTI 204)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 260 Suspended Growth Systems in Wastewater Operations 0.5 Hours
Design and processes of suspended growth systems in wastewater treatment facilities. Topics include the operation of activated sludge plants, controlling biomass inventory, energy use and saving opportunities, aerobic digestion, and solids handling.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 204
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 261 Attached Growth Systems in Wastewater Operations 0.5 Hours
Facilities and processes used in attached growth systems. Topics include trickling filters, biological filters, rotating biological contactors, and operation of attached growth systems.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 204
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 262 Nutrient Removal Processes in Water Operations 1 Hour
Equipment, structures, and design factors used in nutrient removal. Topics include nutrients and their effects on the environment, regulations, structured process models for nutrient removal, troubleshooting for full-scale nutrient removal facilities, and aquatic natural treatment systems.
Prerequisite(s): (WTTI 203 or WTTI 204)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 263 Industrial Wastewater Pretreatment Processes 0.5 Hours
Equipment, structures, and process involved in pretreatment of wastewater. Topics include regulations governing industrial pretreatment, troubleshooting, and maintaining pretreatment operations.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 204
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 264 Wastewater Residuals Management 0.5 Hours
Equipment, structures, and processes used in wastewater residuals management. Topics include the stabilization, thickening, dewatering, drying, and composting of sludge, and biosolids reduction processes.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 259
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 265 Record Keeping and Reporting for Water Operations 0.5 Hours
Techniques for keeping effective records and reports for a water or wastewater utility. Topics include computer recordkeeping systems, equipment and maintenance records, plant operations data, procurement and inventory records, personnel records, and disposition of plant and system records.
Prerequisite(s): (WTTI 203 or WTTI 204)
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 266 Customer Service and Public Relations in Water Operations 0.5 Hours
Analysis of methods by which water and wastewater utilities deal with customers and the public. Topics include the roles of water distribution personnel and informed employees in public relations, formal public relations programs, and general principles of customer inquiries and complaint investigation.
Prerequisite(s): (WTTI 203) or WTTI 204
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
WTTI 291 Internship: Utility Operations 3 Hours
Internship in water/wastewater operations. May be paid or unpaid. Note: Requires placement by the WTI Program Coordinator and instructor's permission.
Prerequisite(s): WTTI 200
Recent Term(s) Offered: None