An introduction to earthquakes and volcanoes, primarily through case studies. Using the basic principles of plate tectonics, students will learn why, where and how earthquakes and volcanoes occur. The hazards associated with earthquakes and volcanic eruptions will be discussed at length, as well as their societal implications in both the United States and developing world. Earthquake and volcanic hazard mitigation techniques will be addressed. Finally, earthquake hazards in the central United States will be discussed.

The basic principles of geologic processes, materials, and history with primary emphasis on inquiry-based laboratory and field?activities. The course is designed in conjunction with PHY 160 to provide basic concepts of earth science, astronomy and physics appropriate for elementary and middle school teachers. Both courses are taught with an emphasis on inquiry-based, laboratory activities. Lecture, two hours per week; laboratory, three hours per week. Not available for credit to students who have received credit for GLY 220.

How the Earth Works: an integrated course in physical geology, covering the physical, chemical and biological processes that combine to produce geological processes. Attention is focused on plate tectonics, earth surface processes, and properties and formation?of earth materials. Lab exercises emphasize identification and interpretation of geologic materials and maps. Lecture/Discussion, three?hours per week; laboratory, three hours per week.

Individual work on a special problem in geology. Report required. May be repeated to a maximum of six credits. Prereq: Consent?of instructor.

Professional-level, pre-planned learning experience in geological sciences in the work place under the supervision of a faculty?member. The student will complete work of the type done by professional geoscientists in the same setting. May be repeated to a maximum of six credits. Pass/fail only. Prereq: Approval of learning contract by faculty supervisor, director of undergraduate studies,?and department chair.

Survey of active geophysical measurements and passive geophysical observations and their relation to Earth?s structure and composition. Investigation of the relationship between Earth?s elastic, potentiometric, and thermodynamic properties and traditional geophysical methods for measurement (e.g., gravity, magnetics, seismic, and heat flow). Material will help students improve their quantitative problem-solving abilities, but will also emphasize the visual learning skills commonly developed in the broader geology curricula. Prereq: MA 113, PHY 211 or 213, or consent of instructor.

A general seminar in a broad range of topics in the geological sciences. May be repeated to a maximum of six credits under different subtitles. Prereq: Senior or graduate standing in Geological Sciences.

Half-time to full-time work on thesis. May be repeated to a maximum of six semesters. Prereq: All course work toward the degree?must be completed.

Half-time to full-time work on dissertation. May be repeated to a maximum of six semesters. Prereq: Registration for two full-time semesters of 769 residence credit following the successful completion of the qualifying exams.

Residency credit for dissertation research after the qualifying examination. Students may register for this course in the semester of the qualifying examination. A minimum of two semesters are required as well as continuous enrollment (Fall and Spring) until the dissertation is completed and defended.