Apr 29, 2024  
2016-2017 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2016-2017 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


 

Geography

  
  • GEOG 335. Geography of Africa


    3.00
    An introduction to the regional Geography of Sub-Saharan Africa that examines the physical geography of the continent, the historical roots of its present political geography, the consequences of its colonial past on communities and cultures as well as its natural resources. Students will examine continental issues such as resource management, food production, hunger, disease patterns, and management of wildlife.
  
  • GEOG 336. Environmental Hazards: A Focus On Southeast Asia


    3.00
    This course will focus on interactions between earth surface systems and social environments to demonstrate the complexity of natural hazards, and particularly those of Southeast Asia. Through regional geography, students will learn differing adaptation mechanisms of societies and cultures unique to the area and some of the natural hazards within the region. Prerequisites: GEOG 210  with a “C” or better
  
  • GEOG 337. Geog Latin America


    3.00
    A study of countries in Latin America which includes their physical landforms, weather and climate, biogeography, natural resource base, attitudes toward the physical environment, characteristics of the economy, the current political role in international activities, and population characteristics that include growth rate, distribution, migration and ethnicity.
  
  • GEOG 338. Geography of the Philippine Islands: Problems and Possibilities


    3.00
    Exploration of the Philippines focuses on poverty, environmental conservation, resource exploitation, and ecosystem degradation in upland and marine environments. Topics include population dynamics, political pressure and instability, and urban challenges. The future of the country is investigated on all geographic scales with regard to its role in a globalized world economy.
  
  • GEOG 339. Geography of the Caribbean


    3.00
    This course is designed to give students a general geographical overview of the islands states and territories surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. Students will study physical landforms, weather and climate, environmental issues, population characteristics, history, local and regional politics, and economic aspects of political units in the region.
  
  • GEOG 340. Biogeography


    3.00
    This course emphasizes geographical biogeography and is as an advanced physical geography class. Included are analyses of spatial patterns of biota from local to global scales and examinations of the systems and processes that result in spatial and temporal patterns of species existence and diversity, community composition, energy pathways, adaptive traits, and human influences on biotic systems and processes. Prerequisites: GEOG 210  with a “C” or better
  
  • GEOG 341. Wilderness Techniques


    3.00
    Wilderness legislation, legal mandates, and wilderness issues are examined. Human impacts due to overuse or conflicting uses are studied, as are the philosophical aspects of wilderness ethics. (This course is taught entirely in the field. Camping and hiking, and permission of the instructor are required.) Junior or Senior Standing Only
  
  • GEOG 342. Management and Protection of Natural Resources


    3.00
    This course provides a managerial perspective for protection and management of natural resources. A systems approach for applied management strategies is provided for aquatic, terrestrial, threatened and endangered ecosystems. Topics include application of state, federal, international laws, regulations, policies and guidelines. Students develop management plans and explore jurisdictional resource protection issues. Junior or Senior Standing Only
  
  • GEOG 343. Wildlife Management


    3.00
    An introductory discussion of applied management strategies for wildlife species and their ecological requirements is provided relative to human influences. Management techniques that are useful for determining population or health status are demonstrated for select vertebrate species. The evolution of wildlife laws, policies, and management strategies are addressed to provide relevant awareness into the appropriate concepts of wildlife management. Junior or Senior Standing Only
  
  • GEOG 344. Economic Geography and Development Issues


    3.00
    An overview of the classification of economic activities, the factors involved in the location of various types of economic activities, and the regional variation in the standard of living associated with economic development. Additional topics include regional economic growth and types of economic systems and development perspectives; the roles that politics and demographics play in the economic development of a country; and, the globalization of economic activities.
  
  • GEOG 345. Geography of Poverty


    3.00
    This course provides a geographical perspective on poverty faced by communities and countries of the world today. The focus is on how poverty is defined, measured and mapped, the causes and impacts of poverty, theories for ending poverty, and organizations that work to address poverty it includes a geographical study of communities and countries that have successfully alleviated extreme poverty.
  
  • GEOG 348. Indigenous Geographies


    3.00
    This course introduces indigenous geographic representations. Topics include territorial sovereignty, traditional resource use, sustainable development, and protection of sacred sites. Students will explore the central geographic practice of cartography, which has taken on new meaning as cultural identification for Indigenous peoples. The use of new technologies to represent traditional understandings of Earth is also explored. Prerequisite: GEOG 290  or Permission of Instructor
  
  • GEOG 350. Topics in Geography


    1.00 - 3.00
    Examination of geographic topics that are of current interest. Can be repeated as course content changes. Prerequisite: GEOG 200  or GEOG 210  or GEOG 215  or GEOG 280 
  
  • GEOG 360. Gis for Humanitarian Assistance


    3.00
    Crosslisted: HUMN 360 

    In responding to humanitarian crises, governments and aid organizations must deploy aid workers, deliver essential services, set up temporary settlements, and distribute items such as water and food that are needed for survival. Spatial analysis and maps are critical to the success of these efforts. In this course, students learn the basics of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for humanitarian assistance and learn how relief organizations use GIS in their work.
  
  • GEOG 365. Cartography & Geospatial Visualization


    3.00
    This course examines the fundamentals of visualizing spatial data in static and dynamic environments. Students will learn about cartographic design, thematic cartographic techniques, developing spatial data from non-spatial information and with GPS equipment, and geographic visualization. Students will also develop a portfolio of hard copy and soft copy visualizations. Prerequisite: GEOG 215  with a “C” or better
  
  • GEOG 366. Introduction to Geographic Information Science


    3.00
    An overview of geographic information science and its role in technology and society. Spatial databases and descriptive data will be created and implemented into carious geographic information systems. Advanced analytical operations will be used to practice the analysis capabilities of geographic information systems. Prerequisites: GEOG 215  with a “C” or better or GEOG 161  and Permission of Instructor
  
  • GEOG 375. Political Geography


    3.00
    Geopolitical conflicts and issues are examined. Concepts such as territoriality, nationalism, religious and ethnic struggle, environmental degradation, and freedom and justice are discussed in the context of political unrest. Significant geopolitical theories, and social and economic processes are explored.
  
  • GEOG 376. Urban Geography


    3.00
    Study of the city in its geographic setting, giving perspective of modern urban problems, origin and growth of cities, and influence of location on city functions. Looks at the internal structure of cities and the influence of the internal structure on its population groups. Prerequisite: GEOG 290  or Permission of Instructor
  
  • GEOG 380. Cultural Geography


    3.00
    Introduction to cultural geography with emphasis on diversity of language, religion, and folklore, as well as culture traits and practices and their historical diffusion. Ties to livelihood, the rural-urban continuum and demographic change are explored as are foci on philosophy, power, race, class and gender. Exploitation and sustainability will be introduced as dimensions of cultural and environmental interaction.
  
  • GEOG 380C. Regional Geography Studies - Middle East/North Africa


    3.00
    Students will focus on one of the 10 world regions. All students enrolled will meet with the instructor as a group once a week for discussion of general characteristics of world regions. Most work will be guided/independent.
  
  • GEOG 385. Principles of Remote Sensing


    3.00
    This course is an introduction to remote sensing, the study of images and other types of data acquired by satellites and aircraft. Topics include the principles underlying multiple type of remote sensing, the properties of common data types, making measurements using aerial photographs, basic digital image processing, and applications. Prerequisite: GEOG 216  with a “C” or better
  
  • GEOG 390. Practicing Geographic Science


    1.00
    Professional development for students in geography. Educational opportunities and career options. Library and literature research skills. Junior Standing Only
  
  • GEOG 402. Forest Ecology


    4.00
    Crosslisted: BIO 502, BIO 402 

    A study of the function, structure, and composition of forested ecosystems. The effect of physical geography on the distribution of forest communities will be explored. Issues of forest management and restoration will also be considered. Field laboratory topics will include dendrology and sampling techniques within different forest successional stages. BIO 124 is the prerequisite or permission of the instructor.
  
  • GEOG 406. Forest Inventory: A Geospatial Approach


    3.00
    This course teaches forest measurement at the tree, plot, stand, and forest levels. It includes heights, stem diameters, volumes, and biomasses of individual trees; fixed and variable radius plots; basal area estimates; sampling designs, and stand and stock table construction. Students learn how geospatial technologies can be used to collect data on forests, make forest inventories more accurate and precise, and assist in performing forest-related analyses and visualizations. Prerequisite: GEOG 230  or Permission of Instructor
  
  • GEOG 410. Geography and Film


    3.00
    This course is concerned with the intersection of geography and film. An always-present undercurrent focuses on films whose location and/or culture are an essential backdrop in the cinematic experience.
  
  • GEOG 415. Environment Landscape Culture


    3.00
    This seminar analyzes human-environment interactions as shaped by cultural perceptions, past events, and ecological processes. Place-based and interdisciplinary, landscape studies focus on the unique circumstances of a location and shift temporal and geographic scales to achieve broader understandings of cultural and ecological adaptation and resilience. Methods of historical ecology and field research are introduced. Regional projects underscore readings and research assignments. Prerequisite: GEOG 290  or Permission of Instructor
  
  • GEOG 427. Water Resources of the World


    3.00
    Humans face water challenges that can be understood through the lens of geography. Students will study different physical aspects of Earth’s water, including the hydrologic cycle, climate controls of precipitation, river basin hydrology, water quality and availability, and aquatic ecosystems. The course investigates human dimensions of water such as economics, disease, management and planning, conflict, and the future of water resources. GEOG 210  or permission of the instructor is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOG 429. Sustainability: an Ecological Perspective


    3.00
    Crosslisted: ISAT 429 

    This course examines present global environmental impacts and efforts made to change production and consumption patterns toward those that reduce impact or promote increased ecosystems health. The focus lies in understanding the basic resources of productivity including soils, agricultural systems, agroforestry, forestry, and aquatic environments and applying solutions on a personal and community level. GEOG 290  is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOG 430. Geography of Crop Plants


    3.00
    This course evaluates the influence of geography on crops and crop development by examining the evolution, genetic diversity, and cultivation of agricultural crops. Topics include origins of agriculture, patterns of geographic spread, and the interrelationships between domesticated plants and the societies that grow them.
  
  • GEOG 440. Global Biodiversity


    3.00
    This project-based course emphasizes physical and human-oriented processes that influence Earth’s biodiversity. It includes how human constructs influence the number of species counted, biodiversity measurement techniques, and how geographers contribute to conservation methods. It introduces human challenges that are causing a decline in biodiversity and resultant impacts on human quality of life. Prerequisites: GEOG 290  and GEOG 340 
  
  • GEOG 450A. Topics: Geog Info Systms


    3.00
  
  • GEOG 465. Topics in Geographic Information Science


    3.00
    This course examines varying topical issues in geographic science. This course may be repeated as course topics vary. GEOG 366  or permission of the instructor is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOG 466. Gis & Geographic Databases


    3.00
    An introduction to the creation, use, and management of digital spatial data used by industry and government. Integration of large spatial data sets into the geographic information system, data management and data exchange and the geodetic transformation of data sets are emphasized. Digital elevation models, land use data, population data, digital topographic map and street network data will be used. GEOG 366  or permission of the instructor is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOG 467. Gis Project Management


    3.00
    An introduction to geographic information systems (GIS) project management. Basic project management techniques will be applied by defining, designing, implementing and documenting a geographic information system. GEOG 366  or permission of the instructor is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOG 468. Internet Geographic Information Systems


    3.00
    Theoretical and practical exploration of methods, standards, and policies related to the development and utilization of geographic information systems on the Internet. Students will create and utilize distributed geospatial data and analytical systems using the WWW and the Internet to address geographical problems. Prerequisite: GEOG 365  or GEOG 366 
  
  • GEOG 469. Applications of Geographic Information Systems


    3.00
    The course advances the knowledge of GIS in theory and practice by focusing on specific application areas. Spatial databases and complex attribute data will be created, and GIS modeling techniques will be used to solve problems relevant to the specified topical area. The course may be repeated once for additional credit when the topic changes. GEOG 366  or permission of the instructor is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOG 470. Senior Seminar in Environmental Conservation, Sustainability and Development


    3.00
    This capstone seminar integrates the students’ previous class experiences to provide a holistic exploration of linkages between environmental conservation and human development status and strategies through in-depth analysis of compelling human-environment issues. Topics vary by semester and include environmental politics, global perspectives on population, sustainable communities and global biodiversity. For majors and minors only. Prerequisites: Senior standing & GEOG 290 
  
  • GEOG 476. Sustainable Cities Seminar


    3.00
    This seminar explores ways to make cities more environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable. Students will study key urban sustainability principles, examine global case studies, undertake local fieldwork, and pursue projects developing interventions in real-world city settings. The course emphasizes a geographical approach in addressing urban human and environmental challenges. GEOG 290  is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOG 485. Processing Remotely Sensed Data


    3.00
    This course focuses on computer-based techniques for processing remotely sensed data and application of these techniques. Subjects covered will include geometric and radiometric correction, image enhancement, data transformations, change detection and quantification, and classification. Both traditional techniques and techniques designed for newly available data types will be examined. GEOG 385  or permission of the instructor is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOG 490. Senior Research or Field Practicum


    3.00
    Working with a research adviser, student completes an independent research project around a geographic problem or phenomenon, either alone or within an investigative team. Student delivers interim progress reports and other relevant research products. May be repeated once. GEOG 390  and permission of research adviser are the prerequisites.
  
  • GEOG 491. International Studies


    1.00 - 3.00
    Student will make arrangements for the international experience. A research project or work-study project will be designed by the student and faculty member prior to departure. The research or work will be carried out in the country of travel. May not be taken for capstone credit. May be repeated for credit.
  
  • GEOG 495. Internship in Geography


    3.00 - 6.00
    Practical experience within a public agency, non-profit or private business utilizing geographic methodology. Work experience will be supervised by an official of the business or agency and a faculty member. Periodic written reports are required. Prerequisites: Permission of the faculty sponsor and the GS Program Operations Coordinator. May not be taken for capstone credit.
  
  • GEOG 496. Senior Thesis


    2.00
    Student completes an independent research project, either alone or within an investigative team, to identify and analyze a geographic problem or phenomenon, and provides a written report and public presentation on the problem analysis and solution. Taken during final semester of the GS program. Prerequisite: GEOG 490  and senior standing
  
  • GEOG 497. Independent Study


    3.00
    Student performs an independent research project, either alone or within an investigative team, to identify and analyze a problem from a geographic perspective. May be taken for repeated credit. May not be taken for capstone credit.
  
  • GEOG 499. Honors in Geography


    3.00
  
  • GEOG 499A. Honors in Geography


    1.00
  
  • GEOG 499B. Honors in Geography


    3.00
  
  • GEOG 499C. Honors in Geography


    2.00

Geology

  
  • GEOL 102. Environment: Earth [C3T1G3]


    3.00
    A study of geological processes causing global change and their impact on human thought. The relationship between some geological processes and life on the Earth is also considered. Not available for major or minor credit in geology. May be used for general education credit.
  
  • GEOL 110. Physical Geology [C3T1G3]


    3.00
    A systematic study of earth materials and the internal and external processes that affect earth structure and landforms. Topics include the genesis/properties of rocks and minerals, plate tectonics and the agents of change that drive surface processes and land form development. May be used for general education credit. Co-requisite: GEOL 110L 
  
  • GEOL 110H. Physical Geology - Honors [C3T1G3]


    4.00
    A systematic study of earth materials and the internal and external processes that affect earth structure and landforms. Topics include the genesis/properties of rocks and minerals, plate tectonics and the agents of change that drive surface processes and land form development. May be used for general education credit.
  
  • GEOL 110L. Physical Geology Laboratory [C3T1G3]


    1.00
    This laboratory course is designed to complement and supplement the GEOL 110  course. The laboratory and lecture portions must be taken concurrently. GEOL 110  is the corequisite.
  
  • GEOL 115. Earth Systems and Climate Change [C3T1G3]


    3.00
    This course explores cycles, trends and abrupt events in the Earth system. Analyses of the geologic record and global climate models provide perspective for understanding paleoclimate and future climate changes, including global warning. Current hypotheses for causes of climate change are evaluated, including plate tectonics, orbital cyclicity, variations in the sun’s strength and human activities. The two reoccurring questions of this class are: What are Earth’s climate stories? How do we know? May be used for general education credit.
  
  • GEOL 130. Quantitative Geology


    2.00
    An introduction to quantitative techniques used in descriptive and predictive aspects of the earth-and-environmental-sciences, with emphasis on algorithmic approaches. The focus is on pragmatic application of mathematical methods to geologic problems, considering requirements, uses, and limitations. Automatic computation is stressed.
  
  • GEOL 167. History and Philosophy of the Geosciences


    3.00
    As an introductory experience in the Bachelor of Arts in Earth Science, students will be inculcated in the philosophy of geosciences as an interdisciplinary medium for extending classical science viewpoints to complex earth systems. Students will study the geosciences as distinct among sciences, establishing relevance and value of earth science literacy in professional and personal settings.
  
  • GEOL 200. Evolutionary Systems [C3T1G3]


    4.00
    An investment of a theoretical principle behind evolutionary systems of all types based on mathematical modeling in chaos, complexity theory and artificial life studies with extensive computer experimentation and examples drawn from physical, chemical, biological, economic and social systems. The purpose is to explore what is common and universal to all evolutionary processes.
  
  • GEOL 210. Applied Physical Geology [C3T1G3]


    3.00
    A problem-based study of earth materials and the processes that affect earth structure and landforms. Topics include plate tectonics, the genesis/properties of rocks and minerals, and agents of change that drive surface processes and landform development. Quantitative problem-solving skills will be applied to case studies that address 3D visualization and time-based processes, such as earth materials, solid earth and surface processes, natural hazards and engineering applications.
  
  • GEOL 211. Introduction to Oceanography [C3T1G3]


    3.00
    An introduction to the oceanography of coastal environs including barrier islands, estuaries and tidal marshes. The physical, geological and biochemical characteristics of coastal waters will be discussed in the context of the economic and social pressures brought to bear on these areas by an increasing global population.
  
  • GEOL 230. Evolution of Earth


    4.00
    An introduction to the evidence, methods and assumptions used by scientists to unravel the Earth`s origin and history. Emphasis on rock analysis/interpretation, modern and ancient processes of mountain building, origin and evolution of life, and the history of the North American continent. Prerequisite: GEOL 110L 
  
  • GEOL 272. Planetary Geology


    3.00
    A survey of currently developing ideas in planetology including origin of the planets, meteorites and planetary interiors. Also included are geologic processes and land forms on the moon and terrestrial planets, their modification under various planetary environments, and analogies to familiar earth land forms. Includes laboratory Prerequisite: GEOL 110L 
  
  • GEOL 280. Mineralogy


    4.00
    A comprehensive study of minerals including: crystallography, mineral chemistry, X-ray diffraction, mineral optics with thin section recognition using the petrographic microscope, and hand specimen identification of both silicate and non-silicate minerals. Prerequisite: GEOL 110L 
  
  • GEOL 291. Writing and Communicating in the Geosciences


    1.00
    This course prepares students for independent research by providing them the fundamental skills in literature searches, writing, critical reading, and communication in the geosciences. Prerequisite: GEOL 110  OR GEOL 102 , GEOL 115 ; must take prior to senior year.
  
  • GEOL 300. Introduction to Petrology


    4.00
    Introduction Igneous and metamorphic processes explained using crystallization theory, phase diagrams, thermodynamics and geochemistry; laboratory study of rocks, their chemical and mineralogical signatures, and their geologic origins. Prerequisite: GEOL 280  & CHEM 131 ; or consent of instructor
  
  • GEOL 301. Earth Science for Teachers


    4.00
    Earth science content is blended with a systems approach to provide pre-service teachers with an understanding of how the earth works, as well as strategies for teaching it. Major content themes include reconstructing the geologic history of the mid-Atlantic, exploring the interaction of living things and the environment, and predicting how matter and energy circulate in the earth system.
  
  • GEOL 302. Sedimentary Petrology


    1.00
    This is a course about sedimentary rocks in hand sample and thin section. With the polarizing microscope, students will study thin sections of outcrop and core samples. They will identify common minerals, textures, and fabrics. They will identify the four components of all sedimentary rocks (framework grains, cements, matrix, pore types) and will make qualitative and quantitative measures at a fundamentally different scale than is possible with just a field study of sedimentary rocks. GEOL 280  is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOL 310. Environmental Impact


    1.00 - 4.00
    Focuses on a selected environmental realm. The course will examine the interface between human activities and environmental systems. It will address the impacts of social, economic and political activities on the environment. A-Atmosphere (air pollution); B-Biosphere (vegetation/wildlife); C-Hydrosphere (water); D-Lithosphere (geologic hazards/land issues).
  
  • GEOL 310C. Env Impact: Hydrosphere


    3.00
    Focuses on a selected environmental realm. The course will examine the interface between human activities and environmental systems. It will address the impacts of social, economic and political activities on the environment. GEOL /GEOG 310  A-Atmosphere (air pollution); B-Biosphere (vegetation/wildlife); C-Hydrosphere (water); D-Lithosphere (geologic hazards/land issues). Prerequisite: GEOG 210 , GEOL 100 or 110 .
  
  • GEOL 320. Meteorology


    3.00
    A survey of the science of weather including weather forecasting, weather maps and related atmospheric processes. Emphasis is placed on the dynamic aspects of meteorology and the interrelationships of atmospheric phenomena with land masses and the world ocean.
  
  • GEOL 340. Environmental Soil Science


    3.00
    Crosslisted: ENVT 340 

    The origin, distribution, and chemical, biological, and physical properties of soils are introduced. Processes responsible for soil properties are emphasized. Field trips highlight the sustainability of soils, their distribution across the Shenandoah Valley, and their role in biogeochemical cycles. Prerequisites: GEOL 110  or GEOG 210  or 4 hours of laboratory or permission of the instructor
  
  • GEOL 350. Paleobiology


    4.00
    Crosslisted: BIO 350 

    The evolution and ecological structure of the biosphere from the origin of life to the present, emphasizing the evolution and paleobiology of animal life as shown by the fossil record. Lectures discuss methods used to interpret the fossil record and cover topics such as phylogeny and systematics, functional morphology, biostratigraphy, paleoecology, evolution, and extinction. Laboratories focus on the major groups of invertebrates that are common in the geologic record. Prerequisites: GEOL 230 , BIO 114 , BIO 150  or permission of instructor.
  
  • GEOL 355. Geochemistry of Natural Waters


    3.00
    Crosslisted: CHEM 355 

    Study of chemical theory and reactions important in natural water systems. The role of atmospheric, geologic and biological inputs in determining the geochemistry of streams, rivers and oceans. CHEM 131  and CHEM 132  or equivalent are the prerequisites.
  
  • GEOL 355L. Geochem Nat Waters Lab


    0.00
  
  • GEOL 364. Stratigraphy


    4.00
    Lecture emphasizes application of sedimentologic and stratigraphic principles to identifying and interpreting depositional systems, and examines how eustasy (sequence theory) and local tectonics influence the distribution of depositional systems under different plate tectonic regimes. Lab emphasizes critical field observation, application of theory to stratigraphic analysis and writing scientific papers. GEOL 230  is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOL 365. Structural Geology


    4.00
    Major and minor structures of the Earth`s crust. Mechanical principles involved in folding, faulting, jointing and penecontemporaneous structures. The causes and results of mountain building processes. Preparation and interpretation of geologic maps. Prerequisite: GEOL 110L 
  
  • GEOL 367. Genesis of Solid Earth Materials


    4.00
    This course addresses the natural relationship between minerals and the rocks they make up. Using the concept of mineralizing environments, illustrated by classic examples, students will investigate minerals through the processes of mineral genesis and associated rock types. This approach provides insight and predictive value for natural conditions in which specific minerals and rocks occur. Not acceptable for BS in Geology. Prerequisite: GEOL 110L 
  
  • GEOL 377. Earth Surface Processes


    3.00
    The interrelationships among climate, landscapes, soils and bedrock geology are examined using the mid-Atlantic region as a conceptual laboratory. Course instruction includes lecture, laboratory and field trip meetings. The processes of rock weathering and erosion, and soil formation reinvestigated. Topographic maps and aerial photography are examined for landforms and landscape evolution. Not acceptable for BS in Geology. Prerequisite: GEOL 110L , GEOL 210 , OR GEOG 210 ; or permission from the instructor
  
  • GEOL 380. Genetic Mineralogy


    3.00
    A study of mineral genesis. Emphasis is directed toward mineralogical environments, mineral associations and the geology/mineralogy of classical localities. An appreciation of mineral value and aesthetics is incorporated throughout the course. GEOL 280  is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOL 387. Stratigraphy, Structure, and Tectonics


    4.00
    Examination of how stratigraphic, structural, & tectonic principles control the character and distribution of rocks. Study of principles, regional patterns in sedimentary rocks, and stresses that deform rocks are explored in laboratory and field exercises. Topics and techniques are discussed within the framework of the 1.2 billion year geologic history of the VA region and its connection with tectonic processes throughout the rest of the world. Prerequisites: GEOL 110L  and GEOL 230 
  
  • GEOL 388. Advanced Structure, Stratigraphy and Tectonics


    4.00
    Advanced concepts in structural geology (analyses of rheology, stress & strain, deformation fabrics, and chronologic constraints) applied to the tectonic evolution of orogens and basins. This will include exploration of the mechanisms controlling the stratigraphic record (auto- and allogenic mechanisms and sequence theory) of basins, as well as methods of dating the stratigraphic record (biofacies and biostratigraphy, geochronology and chronostratigraphy, and magneto and chemostratigraphy). GEOL 387  is the prerequisite
  
  • GEOL 390. Lab Tech in Geology


    3.00
    An elective course for science majors. A study of the basic theories and techniques of laboratory methods and instrumentation. Implementation and application of techniques to geological problems. GEOL 280  is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOL 398. Topics in Geology


    1.00 - 4.00
    Study of selected topics in geology at the upper-division level. May be repeated for credit with change of topic.
  
  • GEOL 399. Field Geology


    6.00
    Field methods include use of Brunton compass, telescopic alidade and plane table, and compass traversing. A synthesis of geologic concepts and principles leading to the construction and interpretation of geologic and topographic maps. Prerequisites: GEOL 300  and GEOL 387  or permission of the instructor.
  
  • GEOL 400. Geology and Ecology of the Bahamas


    3.00
    Crosslisted: BIO 400 

    This course explores the geology and ecology of the shallow-water marine environment by examining the preeminent modern example, the Bahamas platform. The Bahamas provide an excellent model for understanding modern and ancient carbonate and reef deposits, and a variety of terrestrial/aquatic habitats. Biological processes are responsible for many of the geological features of the Bahamas, so the course considers the biology/ecology of marine organisms in addition to geological topics. Prerequisites: GEOL 110 , ISCI 165, or 200-level GEOL or BIO course; at least 4 hours of additional lab science; at least sophomore standing; and permission of instructor.
  
  • GEOL 401. Oceanography for Teachers


    3.00
    A comprehensive study of the world’s oceans and the interrelationships among physical, chemical, biological, and geological oceanography for pre- and in-service teachers. Special emphases on Virginia coastal oceanography, the National Ocean Literacy Principles, and the integration of pedagogy applicable to K-12 instruction. Includes a field trip to the VA coast. Credit may not be earned in both GEOL 211  and GEOL 401.
  
  • GEOL 405. Vertebrate Paleontology


    3.00
    Crosslisted: BIO 405 

    A study of the origin and evolution of the vertebrates. Emphasis will be on understanding how the processes of earth evolution and biological evolution have interacted through time to produce a coherent picture of vertebrate history. Prerequisites: GEOL 230 , BIO 114 , BIO 150  or permission of instructor.
  
  • GEOL 406. Paleoclimatology and Paleoceanography


    3.00
    In this advanced level course you will investigate the methodologies and data used to reconstruct Earth’s climate history. Emphasis will be placed on the marine sediment and ice core records of the Cenozoic through detailed lecture and lab activities. Case studies include the Paleocene Eocene Thermal Maximum, the glaciation of Antarctica, Milankovitch cyclicity, and Northern Hemisphere glaciation. Prerequisite: GEOL 230  or GEOL /BIO 350  or permission of instructor
  
  • GEOL 410. Engineering Geology


    3.00
    Study of the applications of geology to engineering practice. Topics include soil mechanics, foundations, engineering classification of soils, slope stability and mineral aggregates. GEOL 110  or 210  or GEOG 210  and MATH 231  or MATH 235  or equivalent are the prerequisites.
  
  • GEOL 415. Geol Evol of N America


    3.00
    A systematic survey of the tectonic evolution of the North American continent, and the corresponding evolution of depositional basins and Paleoenvironments. GEOL 364  and GEOL 365  are the prerequisites.
  
  • GEOL 440. Geophysics


    4.00
    A survey of geophysical methods, with joint attention on near-surface and solid Earth applications. Topics include seismology, heat flow, gravity, magnetism, plate motion, and geophysical aspects of plate tectonics. Labs are a combination of hands-on classroom and computational activities. Prerequisite: GEOL 110L  OR PHYS 140  - PHYS 150  OR PHYS 245 - PHYS 250  OR PERMISSION OF THE INSTRUCTOR
  
  • GEOL 442. Field Geophysics


    3.00
    This course focuses on collection of geophysical data in the field and interpretation, analysis, and technical reporting afterwards. Case studies discussed include applications to geology, archaeology, and engineering. Students will get hands-on experience with geophysical equipment and an understanding of how and where these tools can be applied. Topics include Ground Penetrating Radar, Electrical Resistivity, Magnetism, Seismic Refraction, and Total Station Data. Prerequisite: GEOL 110  or GEOL 210  or ANTH 197  or consent of instructor
  
  • GEOL 444. Topics in Geophysics


    1.00 - 4.00
    An in-depth investigation into selected aspects of geophysics. Topics will be chosen by the instructor and students, and may vary from year to year. Some common candidate issues include earthquake seismology, field survey planning and execution, geophysical interpretation theory, and the geophysical underpinnings of plate tectonic theory.
  
  • GEOL 460. Hydrogeology


    3.00
    Basic concepts of subsurface water as a part of the hydrologic cycle. Topics include storativity and permeability in porous media, principles of flow, computer applications, groundwater exploration, mapping and environmental aspects of groundwater. GEOL 110  is the prerequisite.
  
  • GEOL 468E. Advance Structure, Stratigraphy and Techntonics


    4.00
    Advanced concepts in structural geology (analysis of rheology, stress and strain, deformation fabrics, chronologic constraints) applied to the tectonic evolution of orogens and basins. This will include exploration of the mechanisms controlling the stratigraphic record (auto- and allogenic mechanisms and sequence theory) of basins, as well as methods of dating the stratigraphic record (biofaces and biostratigraphy, geochronology and chronostratigraphy, and magneto and chemostratigraphy).
  
  • GEOL 477. Contemporary Issues in the Geosciences


    3.00
    As a capstone experience, this course serves as an opportunity for students to view issues of the Earth system from an Earth-based perspective. Building on previous course work in the major (physical geology, meteorology, oceanography, etc.), students will investigate such issues as Global Warming, population and sustainable development, and environmental ethics. Particular emphasis is placed upon the Earth’s perspective from a historical viewpoint. Prerequisites: GEOL 211 , GEOL 320 , GEOL 367 , and GEOL 377 
  
  • GEOL 491. Geological Literature & Research


    2.00
    Provides advanced instruction in literature research to meet the BA Earth Science and BS Geology research requirements. Activities include the identification of a literature-based research problem, literature research techniques, critical reading and discussion, and the preparation of individual review papers on each student’s research topic. Prerequisite: GEOL 291  or permission of the instructor
  
  • GEOL 494. Internship in Geology


    1.00 - 3.00
    Student conducts a research or applied project in geology outside of the University. Requires an approved proposal prior to registration and a final report at the culmination of the project. Prerequisite: At least 8 hours and 2.5 GPA in GEOL (RQ 2255)
  
  • GEOL 497. Problems in Geology


    1.00 - 3.00
    An undergraduate research course in one of the fields of geology. Open to advanced students who have adequate preparation. Prerequisite: GEOL 291  or permission of the instructor
  
  • GEOL 499. Honors in Geology


    3.00
    Three semester sequence. Prerequisite: GEOL 291  and GPA of 3.25 or higher
  
  • GEOL 499A. Honors in Geology


    1.00
  
  • GEOL 499B. Honors in Geology


    2.00
 

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