Geology    101

4 (crs.)

Geology of the National Parks (XL)

Introduction to Earth and Environmental Science through the study of the geology of the National Park System. Emphasis on past and present Earth processes that created and sculpted the geomorphic features of the National Parks in various geologic provinces within the United States of America. Includes a lab with study of minerals, rocks, fossils, and maps that apply to National Parks. Discussions of sustainability and conservation in the context of the Earth and its resources. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    102

1 – 5 (crs.)

Earth: Dynamic Planet (XL)

The course is centered on the nature and origin of Earth, including its minerals, rocks, geological processes such as erosion, Earth resources, climate, earthquakes, mountain building, and plate tectonics. Understanding geologic hazards and Earth resources is the core of sustainability. Laboratories illustrate geological methods of scientific inquiry through studies of minerals, rocks, Earth deformation, topographic and geologic maps, and Wisconsin’s geologic history through a field trip. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    102Q1

4 (crs.)

Physical Geology (XL)

The course is centered on the nature and origin of Earth, including its minerals, rocks, geological processes such as erosion, Earth resources, climate, earthquakes, mountain building, and plate tectonics. Understanding geologic hazards and Earth resources is the core of sustainability. Laboratories illustrate geological methods of scientific inquiry through studies of minerals, rocks, Earth deformation, topographic and geologic maps, and Wisconsin’s geologic history through a field trip. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    104Q2

4 (crs.)

The Sustainable Earth (XL)

In-depth examination of the ways that humans can live sustainably with Earth. Includes inquiry activities that examine the social, ethical, environmental and economic impacts of humans living with: plate tectonic processes; natural hazards/disasters; Earth and mineral resources; climate change; the rock, water/hydrologic, and carbon cycles among other topics. Activities in the classroom, field, and laboratory focus on ways that humans can live harmoniously with Earth, protect Earth from damage and destruction, and work within the Earth system to attain social, environmental and economic justice and well-being. Course includes exploration of ethical responsibilities associated with sustainably living on the Earth. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    109

4 (crs.)

Evolution of the Earth (XL)

Evolution of the Earth is the focus with emphasis on plate tectonics, the geologic history of North America, and the history of life as revealed in the geologic record. A field trip is required. This course is appropriate and very useful for future K-12 teachers, especially future science teachers. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 101, 102, 102Q1, 104Q2, 110 or 150. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    110

5 (crs.)

Honors: Geology (XL)

This course provides the scientific foundation to understand how the earth works and why geologic events occur when and where they do. It is divided into three areas of study. The first considers the materials which make up the earth and the processes that produce them. These materials include the common minerals and rocks of the earth as well as the scarce ones that are so important for our economy. Next, a thorough treatment of internal earth processes provides the foundation for understanding the large-scale motions and upheavals of the earth including continental drift, the formation of mountains, eruption of volcanoes, and the origin of earthquakes. The third part of the course studies the surface processes that wear down the mountains and sculpture our landscape into varied and interesting configurations we see today. The laboratory provides hands-on experience with the three aspects of geology and introduces the student to geological methods of scientific inquiry. A field trip is part of the laboratory. Prerequisite: Enrolled in good standing with The Honors College with prior or concurrent enrollment in HNRS 175Q. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    112

3 (crs.)

Dinosaurs and the Age of Reptiles (XN)

This course explores the geologic record of when dinosaurs ruled the world. Students examine the geologic record and the tools used by geoscientists to determine ancient environments, their geologic ages, the evolutionary histories and extinctions of organisms, dinosaurian evolution, biology, and behavior, and the mechanisms of global change ranging from plate tectonics to asteroid impacts. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    113

3 (crs.)

Landscapes of North America (XN)

A general survey of the characteristics and origins of major natural/physical regions of North America, with emphasis on national parks and monuments and other public areas. Field trip(s) may be required. Cross-listed: GEOG 113/GEOLOGY 113. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    140

1 (crs.)

Introduction to Geologic Field Methods

Introduction to principles and techniques for observing, describing, and interpreting geological features in the field. Prerequisite or concurrent enrollment: GEOLOGY 102, 110 or 150. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    150

1 – 5 (crs.)

Environmental Geology (XL)

The physical environment and human interaction with it. Emphasis on earth processes which affect humans, such as rivers, erosion, groundwater, landslides, and earthquakes. Includes a laboratory with study of rocks and minerals, soils, water quality, maps, hydroprocesses, and a local field trip. Discussions of sustainability in the context of earth and its resources. Course is recommended for non-majors. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    174

3 (crs.)

Disasters – Living on the Edge – No Lab (XN)

Study of various environmental hazards, their causes, impacts on humans, and mitigations. Core topics are natural hazards (earthquakes, volcanoes, flooding, landslides, tornadoes, hurricanes), and anthropogenic hazards (climate change/global warming, nuclear hazards, and overpopulation). Additional topics may be covered: coastal hazards, pollution of ground water, air, soil, and water, other atmospheric hazards (extreme weather, droughts), impacts from space, extinctions, biohazards, chemical hazards, and terrorism. Cross-listed: GEOG 174/GEOLOGY 174.

Geology    175

3 – 4 (crs.)

Disasters – Living on the Edge (XL)

Study of various environmental hazards, their causes, impacts on humans, and mitigations. Core topics are natural hazards (earthquakes, volcanoes, flooding, landslides, tornadoes, hurricanes), and anthropogenic hazards (climate change/global warming, nuclear hazards, and overpopulation). Additional topics may be covered: coastal hazards, pollution of ground water, air, soil, and water, other atmospheric hazards (extreme weather, droughts), impacts from space, extinctions, biohazards, chemical hazards, and terrorism. Cross-listed: GEOG 175/GEOLOGY 175.

Geology    200

3 (crs.)

Earth’s Changing Climate (XN)

This course will examine contemporary scientific thought on understanding climate in Earth history, past climate change events, evolution of the atmosphere through time, and will compare past events to today’s changing climate.  Close emphasis will be placed on geological evidence for climate change in deep time, its causes and effects, and evidence for environmental changes. Past periods of radical climate shifts, such as during the Permian Extinction, will be analyzed in order to understand how life was affected by extreme changes during those events to better understand scientific thought for the current climate emergency as well as future climate trends. There are no prerequisites, but at least one previous Geology or Geography course is encouraged.

Geology    200Q2

3 (crs.)

Earth’s Changing Climate (XN)

This course will examine contemporary scientific thought on understanding climate in Earth history, past climate change events, evolution of the atmosphere through time, and will compare past events to today’s changing climate. Close emphasis will be placed on geological evidence for climate change in deep time, its causes and effects, and evidence for environmental changes. Past periods of radical climate shifts, such as during the Permian Extinction, will be analyzed in order to understand how life was affected by extreme changes during those events to better understand scientific thought for the current climate emergency as well as future climate trends. There are no prerequisites, but at least one previous Geology or Geography course is encouraged.

Geology    205

4 (crs.)

Mineralogy (XL)

Crystallography and crystal chemistry of the major groups of minerals. Mineral associations, alteration, and economic importance. Laboratory work consists of mineral identification using physical and chemical properties and mineral associations. Field trips may be taken to selected areas to illustrate principles taught in the course. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 102, 110 or 150; and CHEM 105 (may be taken concurrently). Special course fees may apply.

Geology    206

4 (crs.)

Lithology

Genesis and classification of igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks; principles of magmatic differentiation and sedimentary and metamorphic facies. Laboratory work with hand specimens of rocks and minerals. Field trips may be taken to selected areas to illustrate principles taught in the course. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 205. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    299

1 – 3 (crs.)

Intermediate Independent Study

Supervised undergraduate reading and research. See Independent Study under Course and Academic Advisement Policies information for general course description, general prerequisites, and proper contract form requirements.

Geology    306

1 (crs.)

X-Ray Mineralogy

Principles of x-ray diffraction and application to mineral studies using powder methods. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 205. 306/506

Geology    307

3 (crs.)

Optical Mineralogy

Theory and practice of mineral identification using the petrographic microscope. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 206. 307/507

Geology    308

3 (crs.)

Petrology

The character and origin of igneous and metamorphic rocks. Laboratory examination of thin sections of igneous and metamorphic rocks with a petrographic microscope. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 205. Special course fees may apply. 308/508

Geology    309

3 (crs.)

Bringing Fossils to Life

Introduction to the concepts and applications of paleontology, including taphonomy, functional morphology, taxonomy, paleoecology, organic evolution, extinction, and the stratigraphic distribution of invertebrate and vertebrate fossils. Recommended: GEOLOGY 109. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    311

3 (crs.)

Stratigraphy and Basin Analysis

Application of stratigraphic concepts to the study of basin evolution and the genesis and architecture of sedimentary rock successions.  Discussion of the tectonic evolution of basins, principles of stratigraphic correlation, interpretation of terrestrial and marine depositional systems, sequence stratigraphy, event stratigraphy, stratigraphic modeling, and hydrocarbon systems. Laboratory experiments with outcrop sample suites, core and subsurface geophysical data sets.  Field trips to describe and interpret local sedimentary rock succession. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 206. Special course fees may apply. 311/511

Geology    314

3 (crs.)

Sedimentology: Environments Through Time

Study and interpretation of environments through time. Analysis of sediments, sedimentary rocks, and their physical, chemical, and biological aspects. Includes study of factors that drive environmental, climate, and sea-level change.  Prerequisite: Previous lab science course. Special course fees may apply. 314/514

Geology    315

1 (crs.)

Sedimentary Petrology

Description, classification and interpretation of sedimentary rocks in hand specimen and thin section. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 314. Special course fees may apply. 315/515

Geology    317

3 (crs.)

Forensic Geology

This course will explore geological applications in forensic sciences. Students will examine how geologic process and materials are utilized in solving crimes through hands-on experience and reviews of cases studies. Students will also learn about the tools used by geoscientists and forensic scientists to reconstruct events pertaining to forensic studies and cases with strong emphases on the scientific method and science ethics. No prerequisites are required but GEOLOGY 102, 110, or 150, GEOLOGY 109 or 112, and GEOLOGY 309 are recommended.

Geology    320

3 (crs.)

Geomorphology

Fundamentals of surficial geology and landscape form and process. Laboratory work includes study of topographic maps, geologic maps, and air photos which are representative of major physiographic provinces in the United States. A field trip is required. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 109 or 110. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    322

3 (crs.)

Mineral Deposits

Principles that govern the accumulation of the metallic ores. Consideration of the geology and genetic processes associated with a variety of metallic ore deposits. A field trip to one of several mining areas and/or areas currently being explored for mineral deposits in the Lake Superior area is required. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 206. Special course fees may apply. 322/522

Geology    323

3 (crs.)

Minerals, Energy, and the Environment

A course in environmental and economic geologic principles as they relate to society’s quest for earth materials for various applications. Interactive lectures and a field trip to review geologic processes that lead to mineral and energy resource deposit formation and redistribution. Students will learn scientific approaches to mineral and energy exploration, and review global and local economic and environmental factors that influence energy and metals markets driving these industries. Special attention will be given to environmental topics by examining the long and short-term environmental impacts for specific case studies of historic and modern mining and energy resource development. Cross-listed: ENV STDS 323/GEOLOGY 323. Prerequisites: GEOLOGY 102, 150 or 110; Recommended: CHEM 105.

Geology    326

3 (crs.)

Geophysics & Geotectonics

Application of principles of physics to the study of the earth. Discussion of plate tectonics theory, and nature and distribution of regional scale tectonic features of the earth, such as mountain belts.  Laboratory use of certain geophysical instruments, field trips, and problems involving reduction and interpretation of geophysical data. Prerequisites: MATH 108 or equivalent; GEOLOGY 102, 110 or 150. Strongly recommended: GEOLOGY 331. Special course fees may apply. 326/526

Geology    328

3 (crs.)

Oceanography and Climate

This course focuses on the phenomena and conditions of the oceans and connections to global climate through time. The course includes the development of the science of oceanography, structure of ocean basins, chemistry and physics of seawater, ocean circulation, ocean life, the deposits on the seafloor. Important aspects of the oceans’ roles in Earth’s climate are explored. Prerequisite: 8 credits of lab science. Special course fees may apply. 328/528

Geology    331

3 (crs.)

Structural Geology and Tectonics

Introduction to principles of rock deformation, description and interpretation of geologic structures, and geotectonic processes.  Laboratory exercises using methods for structural analysis.  Field trip required. Prerequisites: GEOLOGY 102, 110 or 150. Recommended: MATH 106 or 108. Special course fees may apply. 331/531

Geology    333

3 (crs.)

Advanced Mineralogy

In-depth studies of crystallography and crystal chemistry. Investigations of the fundamental chemical principles that dictate the structure and composition of minerals. Introduction to the wide varieties of minerals that occur in the major mineral groups. Geological processes associated with the genesis of individual mineral species. Advanced field and laboratory techniques for identifying minerals. Prerequisites: CHEM 105 and GEOLOGY 205. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    335

3 (crs.)

Glacial Geology

The origin, movement, and decay of glaciers; landforms developed by glaciers; the glacial succession and associated environmental changes, and the economic aspects of glaciation. A field trip is required. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 102, 110 or 150. Special course fees may apply. 335/535

Geology    342

2 (crs.)

Applied Geologic Field Methods

Principles and techniques of acquiring and interpreting geological and geophysical field data. Includes geologic mapping using base maps, aerial photographs, plane table surveys, and pace-and-compass surveys; geophysical surveys with portable instruments. A field trip and a final written report are required. Prerequisite: GEOLGOY 102, 110 or 150 (concurrent enrollment). Special course fees may apply.

Geology    344

6 (crs.)

Field Geology

Application of the theories and methods of field geology in the mountains of the western United States.  Provides practical experience and instruction in geologic mapping and field analysis of geologic structures and sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rock assemblages. GEOLOGY 344 meets for six weeks during the summer. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 206, 331 and instructor consent. Strongly recommended: GEOLOGY 309 and 311. Contact instructor for application materials and information regarding special course fees.

Geology    355

3 (crs.)

Geology of Wisconsin

The Precambrian, Paleozoic and Pleistocene history of Wisconsin and surrounding area, emphasizing the nature and chronology of geological processes which have formed the rocks.  Field trips to selected areas illustrate a variety of geological features. Prerequisite: Instructor consent. 355/555

Geology    360

1 – 3 (crs.)

Field Course in Geology

Formal classroom study of an area of geologic interest followed by field study of the area. Study areas change from year to year, but have included the Florida reef tract, coastal North Carolina, the Catskills, the Grand Canyon, the Guadalupe Mountains, Big Bend National Park, the Gulf Coast, and central Coahuila, Mexico. A final examination follows the trip. May be taken for credit more than once. Special sections may be arranged to accommodate students with differing backgrounds in geology.  Prerequisite: Instructor consent. Contact instructor for information regarding special course fees. 360/560

Geology    361

1 (crs.)

Lake Superior Trip

Field trips to selected areas of the Lake Superior region to examine and study various aspects of igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, and structural features that relate to the tectonic history of the region. Glacial features will also be studied. See instructor for special course fees. Prerequisite: Instructor consent.

Geology    365

3 (crs.)

Physical Hydrogeology

This course explores various aspects of the water cycle.  Major topics include evaporation, precipitation, surface water hydrology, occurrence of soil moisture and groundwater, properties of aquifers, principles of groundwater flow, groundwater flow to wells, and the geologic settings of groundwater supplies.  Laboratory exercises will familiarize students with sources of hydrologic data and with mathematical and graphical methods of analyzing those data to solve applied problems.  Prerequisites: GEOLOGY 102, 110, or 150; MATH 108 or equivalent; or instructor consent. Special course fees may apply. 365/565

Geology    366

3 (crs.)

Chemical Hydrogeology

This course provides the background necessary to address groundwater contamination problems.  Major topics include 1) the chemistry of natural waters and the important reactions affecting groundwater chemistry, 2) an introduction to the physical and chemical processes affecting solute transport, 3) the characteristics of common groundwater contaminants, and 4) methods of site characterization and remediation.  Laboratory sessions will be a mix of case studies, demonstrations, and exercises that will familiarize students with sources of hydrogeologic and hydrogeochemical data and with mathematical and graphical methods of analyzing those data to solve applied problems. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 365 and CHEM 106. Special course fees may apply. 366/566

Geology    369

3 (crs.)

Geochemistry of Earth Environments

Quantitative and qualitative study of chemical interactions of earth’s interior and environments on earth’s surface. Mineral-water interactions, chemical weathering, and solution chemistry of waters in earth environments. Behavior of naturally occurring elements, stable and radioactive isotopes, geochronology, analytical techniques, thermodynamics of reactions, geothermometry and geobarometry. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 102, 110 or 150; CHEM 105; and MATH 104 with a grade of C or better or placement into MATH 106 or higher. CHEM 106 is recommended. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    370

2 (crs.)

Field Methods in Hydrogeology I

This field course is designed to provide students with the range of field skills needed by the practicing hydrogeologist to characterize subsurface geology and aquifer properties.  Topics to be covered include drilling methods, geophysical techniques, well installation, determination of groundwater flow direction, and aquifer testing.  The course includes lecture, lab, and field components. For each topic there will be an introductory lecture followed by a field exercise designed to give students experience with data collection. Lab time will be used for data analysis. Field exercises will make use of the wells located on the UWO campus, however there will also be a day-long field trip to off-campus locations.  Prerequisite: Pre or Corequisite in GEOLOGY 365 or instructor consent. Special course fees may apply. 370/570

Geology    371

1 (crs.)

Field Methods in Hydrogeology II

This field course is designed to provide students with the range of field skills needed by the practicing hydrogeologist.  Topics to be covered include collection of water samples, characterization of natural water quality, and methods of characterizing the presence and extent of groundwater contamination. The course includes both a lecture component and an extensive field component.  For each topic there will be an introductory lecture followed by a field exercise designed to give students experience with data collection and analysis. Field exercises will make use of the wells located on the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh campus; however, there will also be field trips to off-campus locations, some of which may require overnight stays. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 366 or instructor consent. Special course fees may apply. 371/571

Geology    380

3 (crs.)

Earth Science Museums and Collections

This course is an overview of theory and practices of natural history museums designed for those interested in careers in geology or paleontology. This science course includes specimen acquisition and permitting, collections preservation and
management, museum governance, exhibition, public education, research practices, professional ethics, and the history of natural science collections and museums. No prerequisites are required but GEOLOGY 102, 110, or 150, GEOLOGY 109 or 112, and GEOLOGY 309 are recommended.

Geology    381

1 – 3 (crs.)

Earth Science Museum Internship

This course provides practical experience in one or multiple aspects of museum collections management, exhibition, and outreach. Students will work with a professional museum staff member to take part in an original project that will emulate the process by which geologic specimens are handled from the field to the exhibit space. This course will take part at the Weis Earth Science Museum or any comparable museum with permission from the instructor and host institution. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 380.

Geology    398

1 – 3 (crs.)

Geology Workshop

A workshop on special topics of interest to teachers. Prerequisite: Instructor consent. 398/598

Geology    399

3 (crs.)

Geology of Wisconsin – Field Course

A multi-institutional, team-taught field trip throughout Wisconsin. The trip will provide an opportunity to study some of the exposures on which the geological history of Wisconsin has been interpreted. Undergraduates will take three exams; graduates will take the exams and do small mapping projects. See instructor for special course fees. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 206 and instructor consent. 399/599

Geology    444

1 – 3 (crs.)

Research in Geology

A student will work collaboratively with a professor on a research project, which may be field- or laboratory-based or both.  This is an opportunity for a student to learn how to initiate, pursue, and complete a geologic research study.  Geology students are encouraged to take this course because it will prepare them for graduate work or geological employment.  Prerequisite: Instructor consent. Special course fees may apply.

Geology    445

1 – 3 (crs.)

Geology Internship

Application of geologic training to business/government job environment. Student will be supervised on the job by geotechnical professional. Internships can be arranged any term. The number of credits to be received and the grading criteria will be agreed upon in advance with the faculty member who is the on-campus supervisor. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 206 and faculty consent.

Geology    446

1 – 3 (crs.)

Independent Study

See Independent Study under Course and Academic Advisement Policies information for general course description, general prerequisites, and proper contract form requirements.

Geology    456

1 – 3 (crs.)

Related Readings

See Related Readings under Course and Academic Advisement Policies information for general course description, general prerequisites, and proper contract form requirements.

Geology    460

1 – 3 (crs.)

Topics in Geology

The study of selected topics in geology. Topics may be of current interest or may expand on material covered in other courses. The topic will be announced in the timetable when the course is offered. The course may be repeated for credit only if the content is different. Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 206, instructor consent, and a GPA in Geology of 3.0 or higher. 460/660

Geology    474

3 – 6 (crs.)

Honors Thesis

The Honors Thesis is one of two options offered to Honors students to meet the senior capstone requirement of The Honors College. Students who choose the thesis engage in research as an independent study over two semesters (fall/spring or spring/fall) with the support of a faculty advisor. They decide on a topic in their major or minor, address recent scholarship, develop a prospectus, and produce substantial work (e.g., a written thesis, scientific experiment or research project, or creative arts exhibit or production). At the end of the term in which the capstone is completed, students give presentations at the Honors Thesis Symposia. Credits are applied to the respective program. Prerequisites: In good standing with The Honors College, prior enrollment in HNRS 175Q and HNRS 275Q, and senior status.