Geology (GEOL)

GEOL 101 Physical Geology
(3 Credits, Fall/Spring)

This course investigates the composition of the Earth and the external and internal processes that shape it. Within the context of plate tectonics, it explores the origins of rocks and minerals and dynamic processes such as volcanic and magmatic activity, seismicity, and crustal deformation that are driven by the continual release of the Earth's internal heat. It also examines how air, wind, water, and ice move in response to gravity and energy from the Sun, sculpting Earth's surface by eroding, transporting, and depositing rock materials. COREQ: GEOL 101L. (This CWI course meets Idaho State Board of Education GEM competency requirements for GEM 4 - Scientific Ways of Knowing.). (3 lecture hours, 0 lab hours, 3 credits)

GEOL 101L Physical Geology Lab
(1 Credit, Fall/Spring)

This required lab accompanies GEOL 101. Lab exercises will include rock/mineral identification, applied geologic problems, and local field trips. COREQ: GEOL 101. (This CWI course meets Idaho State Board of Education GEM competency requirements for GEM 4 - Scientific Ways of Knowing.). (0 lecture hours, 2 lab hours, 1 credits)

GEOL 102 Historical Geology
(3 Credits, Spring)

Introduction to the history of the Earth and the life it supports. Major events in Earth and life history are explored, including episodes of mountain building, glaciations, extinctions, climate change, and the evolution of species. The tools, techniques, and methods employed by geologists that help decipher the rock and fossil records are also examined. COREQ: GEOL 102L. (This CWI course meets Idaho State Board of Education GEM competency requirements for GEM 4 - Scientific Ways of Knowing.). (3 lecture hours, 0 lab hours, 3 credits)

GEOL 102L Historical Geology Lab
(1 Credit, Spring)

This required lab accompanies GEOL 102. Lab exercises will include sedimentary rock identification and interpretation, stratigraphic and fossil analysis, geologic dating techniques, geologic maps, cross sections, regional geologic history, and local field trips. COREQ: GEOL 102. (This CWI course meets Idaho State Board of Education GEM competency requirements for GEM 4 - Scientific Ways of Knowing.). (0 lecture hours, 2 lab hours, 1 credits)