For the most current course requirements, please refer to the Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences Undergraduate Studies Department's Majors, Minors, and Certificates page to view all available Major Sheets.
GEOL 0055 Geology Laboratory
This lab provides a hands-on survey of the fundamentals of physical geology. We introduce the identification and interpretation of rocks and minerals. We use topographic maps, air photos, and satellite images to analyze and understand a variety of dynamic systems, including rivers, groundwater, glaciers, sea coasts, and deserts. Finally, we examine geologic time, structural geology, geologic maps, and plate tectonics. Connections are drawn whenever possible between people, resources, and the natural Earth systems. There is a required day-long Sunday field trip to examine local geological and environmental features. This class stands alone but is best taken concurrently with or following GEOL 0800 or GEOL 0820. Offered every fall and spring term. Combined lecture/lab over 2 hours on Tuesdays and quizzes in less than 1 hour on Thursdays.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: No prerequisites. Corequisites: GEOL 0800 or GEOL 0820.
GEOL 0060 History of the Earth
Historical geology focuses on the long-term evolution of the Earth. The course begins with the formation of the Earth, traces the origin and growth of the continents, and looks at the interaction between life, the Earth's atmosphere, and global climate. It continues with a strong focus on the many forces and geologic events that have shaped North America. Finally, major episodes in the history of life are summarized. The associated lab and homework exercises emphasize a variety of techniques geologists use to unravel the mysteries of the past. This course plus GEOL 1020 fulfills one "W" requirement. Offered every spring term. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: GEOL 0055. [CG CEG EES]
GEOL 0800 Geology
Geology is the study of how the Earth works. This class covers the classification and origin of basic rocks and minerals; examines the role of plate tectonics in shaping the Earth and producing such hazards as earthquakes and volcanoes; and examines the forces that shape beaches and rivers and sometimes threaten our lives and property. We also survey the evidence for changing climate and the future of such resources as groundwater, fossil fuels, and ores. Offered every term. Lecture 2 hours; recitation 1 hour. No prerequisites.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 0802 Geology of the National Parks
Many of the U.S. and Canadian National Parks are showcases of geology. The student will learn to interpret regional geological history by examining the rock layers exposed within various park areas. The geological development of the North American continent will be developed in the framework of plate tectonic theory and of the physical geological processes that have shaped the landscape into the spectacular scenery of the parks. Offered occasionally. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 0820 Natural Disasters
The geologic, hydrologic and atmospheric processes that impact the human environment in catastrophic ways are examined in this course. Natural Disasters focuses on how normal Earth processes can concentrate energy to deal devastating blows to humans and their structures. Topics covered include, energy cycles, plate tectonics, and focused studies of the following hazards: earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis, wildfires, flooding, landslides, climate change and mass extinctions. Students will get hands on experience and must sign up for a weekly recitation. And those students interested in this subject may count this course as credit toward other related courses and majors in Geology and Planetary Science.
Offered every spring term. Lecture 2 hours; recitation 1 hour.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 0840 Environmental Science
This class is an interdisciplinary introduction to the science underlying environmental issues. Focusing on the principles of geology, biology, and chemistry and in their application to human impacts on the environment, strategies for sustainable management of environment and natural resources, and global change.
Number of Credits: 3
GEOL 0860 Environmental Geology
This course takes an integrated Earth systems approach to understanding our planet and its resources. We will investigate geologic processes and hazards (e.g., earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, weather hazards), geologic resources (water, soil, minerals, energy) and the local and global ramifications of human interaction with the Earth (e.g., air, soil and water pollution, ozone depletion, and climate change). GEOL 0860 also serves as an introductory course for three majors in the Department of Geology and Planetary Science. Students may concurrently take GEOL 0055 (Geology Laboratory - 2 credits) to allow entry to other environmentally related courses in Geology. Offered every fall term. Lecture 2 hours; recitation 1 hour.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 0870 The Planets
A survey of our solar system designed for students without technical or mathematical backgrounds. This course examines the historical development of knowledge of our place in the universe, the various bodies that make up the planetary system, including planets, satellites, asteroids and comets, how they were formed, and the factors that control the nature of their surfaces and atmospheres. Of special interest are the effects of these concepts on our understanding of our own home, the Earth. Extensive use will be made of results from manned and unmanned spacecraft. We use the most cutting edge results to show our curent understanding of the solar system, as well as looking at new and emerging fields such as the discovery of exoplanets, and the potential of the existance of life elsewhere in our solar system. Offered every Fall Semester. Lecture 2 hours; recitation 1 hour.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 0871 Intelligent Life in the Universe
"Either we are alone or we are not; either way is mind-boggling" (Dubridge). The purpose of this course is to give students a sufficient scientific background for an informed discussion of whether intelligent creatures are likely to exist elsewhere in the Universe, where such creatures might be found, what they might be like, and how we might contact them. Like the newly created field of astrobiology, this course unites a wide range of topics to address these questions. We will examine the origin of the Universe, the formation of the Solar System, the history of the Earth, the origin and evolution of life and intelligent life on Earth, and the problems associated with trying to contact and communicate with life located across the vast distances of space. By the end of this class you not only will have an informed appreciation of the probability of finding intelligent life elsewhere, but also a sound knowledge of the many surprising twists and turns that led to human life on Planet Earth. Offered every fall term. Lecture 2 hours; recitation 1 hour.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 0890 Oceanography
The world’s oceans play a central role in the Earth’s climate system and in supporting a stunning diversity of life. We will survey the oceans and sea floor, examine the important chemical properties of sea water, and then consider the forces that drive the vast circulation cells of the world's oceans. We will then see what factors control the overall biological productivity of the oceans and how biological productivity and oceanic circulation each help regulate global climate. The final part of the class looks at the major invertebrate and vertebrate groups that populate the world’s oceans and investigate how dramatically humans have affected ocean life over the past few centuries. Finally, we will look at efforts to protect and restore ocean ecosystems.
Number of Credits: 3
GEOL 1001 Mineralogy
Physics and chemistry of minerals. Includes physical properties, crystal chemistry, crystal structure and symmetry, mineral identification using a petrographic microscope, and the processes of mineral formation and breakdown. A required course for Geology and Environmental Geology majors. Offered every fall term. Lecture 2 hours; laboratory 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 4
Prerequisites: GEOL 0055 and CHEM 0110. [CG CEG EES]
GEOL 1003 Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
A lecture and laboratory course concerned with a study of the origin, occurrence, identification, and classification of igneous and metamorphic rocks. The primary purpose of the course is to familiarize the student with the physical and chemical processes that control the formation of the main rock types. The main lecture topics are the distribution of igneous and metamorphic rocks, the contrasting geological environments in which the principal rock types form, physical and chemical properties of the earth's crust and mantle, origin of magmas, and crystallization processes of silicate melts. Offered every spring term. Lecture 2 hours; laboratory 4 hours.
Number of Credits: 4
Prerequisites: GEOL 1001. [CG EEG]
GEOL 1015 Colloquium
Geology colloquium is open to undergraduate students in geology and planetary science. It is a formalization of the seminar series with weekly guest speakers from industry, academia and government. Each seminar will focus on a different research topic in earth sciences describing on-going projects of interest to students. The course may be taken multiple times. Offered every fall and spring term. Lecture 1 hour.
Number of Credits: 1
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1020 Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
Sedimentology is the study of the erosion, transport, and deposition of sediment in rivers, deltas, beaches, and many other sedimentary environments. Our understanding of modern deposits is used to recognize their ancient equivalents in the sedimentary record. Near the end of the semester we will use the principles of sequence stratigraphy to understand how long-term changes in sea level and sediment supply act to shape regional-scale sedimentary systems. The labs will reinforce the lectures with a focus on identifying and interpreting sedimentary rocks and structures and on applying the basic methods of stratigraphy to particular problems. There are several required field trips. This course is required for geology majors and is useful for archaeologists, geographers, environmental scientists, land planners, and civil and petroleum engineers. This class meets 1/2 of an A&S "W" (writing) requirement in geology. About 8 to 10 pages of writing and rewriting are required. The other half of the "W" requirement will be met in GEOL 0060. Offered every fall term. Lecture 3 hours; laboratory 2 hours.
Number of Credits: 4
Prerequisites: GEOL 0055. Cross-listed with ANTH 1520. [CG CEG EES]
GEOL 1030 The Atmosphere, Oceans, and Climate
Warming of the climate system is now evident from observations of increases in surface air and ocean temperatures, widespread melting of glaciers and ice caps, and shrinking Arctic sea ice extent. Most of the observed increase in global average temperatures is very likely due to the increase in atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations associated with human activities (e.g., agriculture, industry, and land-use changes). Nonetheless, considerable debate surrounds the establishment of greenhouse gas emission limits, and informed government, corporate, and individual action to mitigate the extent and impact of warming has been limited. Improving our knowledge of the Earth's climate system and past climate changes is therefore a matter of urgency. This course will examine the atmospheric and oceanic interactions that determine the nature of the global climate system. Specifically, the course will explore the origin, evolution, and structure of the Earth's oceans and atmosphere, radiative and non-radiative components of the Earth's energy balance, global, synoptic, and mesoscale atmospheric circulation patterns, and surface and deep ocean currents. The course will also consider records of past climate, evidence for recent warming, climate change projections, and climate change policy.
Offered every fall term. Lecture 2 hours; recitation 1 hour. No prerequisites. [CES]
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1045 Statistics for Earth Science
A statistics course geared toward environmental science and geology majors with an emphasis on applying data analysis and statistical techniques to environmental data. Topics will include: visualizing data, summary statistics, correlation, selected parametric statistics (t-tests, general linear models), selected non-parametric methods, statistical inference, and experimental design.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: STAT 0200 OR STAT 0800 OR STAT 1000 OR STAT 1100
GEOL 1050 Surface Water Hydrology
This course shall provide an Earth systems science overview of the processes that govern the hydrologic cycle including precipitation, evapotranspiration, runoff and discharge, infiltration, and groundwater. The course shall emphasize the movement of water through the atmosphere, over the land surface, and within the unsaturated and saturated zones.
Number of Credits: 4
Prerequisites: (GEOL 0800 or 0820 or 0840) and (MATH 0120 or 0220)
GEOL 1051 Groundwater Geology
This course serves as an introduction to physical and chemical processes controlling movement and composition of groundwater. The course will emphasize both theoretical (e.g., derivation of governing equations from first principals) and practical aspects (e.g., tools for characterizing groundwater contamination) of groundwater. Most of the class will be devoted toward physical process in geologic context, with the remainder devoted to geochemical aspects of groundwater quality. Whenever possible, class examples and problems will focus on regionally important facets of groundwater, ranging from fractured bedrock flow to coal mine hydrology to urban sewer-groundwater cross-connections. Offered every spring term. Lecture 3 hours; laboratory 2 hours.
Number of Credits: 4
Prerequisites: GEOL 0055 and CHEM 0110 and MATH 0220 or consent of instructor. [CEG EG EES]
GEOL 1052 Paleoclimatology
The goal of this course is to present an overview of the methods used to reconstruct the earth's climate history and the techniques used to determine the timing of environmental changes. Paleoclimate data from proxy records, such as ice cores or tree rings, provides a longer perspective on climatic variability than is possible from instrumental or historical records. Particular emphasis will be given to the climatic changes during the late Cenozoic - the time of the ice ages. Topics to be discussed will include: paleoclimatic reconstruction, climate and climatic variation, dating methods, ice cores, marine sediments and corals, lake sediments, spelothems, soils, pollen analysis, dendrochronology, documentary data, and paleoclimate models. Offered alternate years during spring term. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: GEOL 0800, 0820, or 0860. [EG EEG EES]
GEOL 1055 Environmental Ethics, Science and Public Policy
This course examines the interrelationships among environmental science, ethics, and policy. It covers such topics as origin and development of the environmental movement, environmental values and attitudes, enactment and mechanics of environmental regulations and statutes, environmental economics and politics, and future environmental scenarios. The various socio-economic, legal, and political implications will be scrutinized within the context of specific case studies of environmental/ecological concern, ranging from local to global. Offered every spring term. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1056 UHC Environmental Ethics, Science and Public Policy
This course examines the interrelationships among environmental science, ethics, and policy. It covers such topics as origin and development of the environmental movement, environmental values and attitudes, enactment and mechanics of environmental regulations and statutes, environmental economics and politics, and future environmental scenarios. The various socio-economic, legal, and political implications will be scrutinized within the context of specific case studies of environmental/ecological concern, ranging from local to global. Offered every spring term. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: MIN CUM GPS 3.25 . [CES]
GEOL 1060 Geomorphology
A lecture and laboratory course involving examination of terrestrial landforms and the surficial processes which shape them. Fluvial, Coastal, Aeolian, Glacial and Volcanic settings will be examined with emphasis on landforms that have developed in the last 10,000 years of earth history. This course is of particular interest to those majoring in geology, anthropology and engineering.
Offered alternate years during spring term. Lecture 2 hours; laboratory 1 hour.
Number of Credits: 4
Prerequisites: GEOL 0055. [EG EEG EES]
GEOL 1100 Structural Geology
An introduction to basic geologic structures, including the development of folds, faults, joints, and foliation. The use of these structures in geologic mapping, and their interpretation in terms of structural geometry will be covered. The concepts of stress and strain will also be introduced. These basic concepts will be integrated into a study of the evolution of mountain belts. Offered every spring term. Lecture 3 hours; laboratory 2 hours.
Number of Credits: 4
Prerequisites: GEOL 0055. Corequisites: GEOL 1020 and GEOL 1003. [CG CEG]
GEOL 1200 UHC Paleontology
"Nothing endures but change." We cannot understand the world we live in, nor any of a host of predicted future trends, without exploring the past. That's where paleontology comes in - the fossil record provides a wealth of insight into the evolution (and revolution) of life on earth. In this class we will explore both the methods and the limitations of using fossils to interpret past environments, ecologies, systematic relationships, and the events that have fundamentally reorganized the earth's biota. Short in-class labs will provide hands-on access to fossil specimens of plants and invertebrate and vertebrate animals. We'll also examine paleontology's role in society - its historical development, how and why it captures the public imagination, and its portrayal (and occasional abuse) in the news and popular media. Offered once a year. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: MIN CUM GPS 3.25
GEOL 1201 Marine Paleoecology
Dramatic extinction events, shifts in atmospheric and marine chemistry, paleoclimatic upheavals, competition for resources, and other factors have shaped marine life over 3.5 billion years of evolution, and without this context it is impossible to fully understand the oceans today. In this course we will examine the origins of life on earth, important patterns of evolution, paleoecology, and extinction of the major invertebrate groups, and the evolution of modern marine ecosystems. In-class lab time will focus on identifying invertebrate fossils and learning how to interpret their lifestyles, behaviors, and interactions with their environment and other organisms. Offered occasionally. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1240 Evolution of the Dinosaur
The study of dinosaurs is an inherently interdisciplinary science, incorporating a variety of elements from the fields of geology and biology. Through the lens of these disciplines we will tackle the traditional questions about dinosaurs: what are they? How did they evolve? How diverse were they? What are their evolutionary relationships? Why are they extinct? Additionally, we will explore relatively new questions that recent innovations have permitted answers to as never before: are birds really dinosaurs? How do you discern the gender of an extinct animal? What color were the dinosaurs? Living dinosaurs: science fiction or distinct possibility? Given the somewhat fantastic nature of these very real animals, the influence of dinosaurs on pop culture will be woven throughout the course. Offered occasionally. Lecture 3 hours.
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1309 Physiochemical and Geological Limnology
This course will examine the physical, chemical, and geological aspects of inland waters (lakes, reservoirs, rivers, springs, and wetlands). Specifically, the course will examine the origin and evolution of lakes, the physicochemical properties of fresh and saline waters, watershed hydrology, and the biogeochemical cycling of major elements and nutrients. The course will also explore long-term impacts of human populations on aquatic systems, lake and reservoir management and restoration, and sediment records from lake sites. Offered alternate years during Spring term. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: CHEM 0110 and either GEOL 0055 or GEOL 0800 or instructor's consent. [EG EEG EES]
GEOL 1313 Communication for Environmental Professionals
This course serves as a W-course for environmental studies. We will sample various tools and methods (typical "professional" tasks such as memos and letters, building into comprehensive assignments such as case studies), all while concentrating on how audience and purpose affect communication. Offered every fall and spring term. Lecture 3 hours. Fulfills the "W" requirement for environmental studies majors.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: Any ENGCMP Course and ENVGEO or ENVSTD or GEOL. [CES]
GEOL 1315 Communication in the Geosciences
This class is perfect preparation for undergraduate research or graduate school. It will introduce students to the main scientific journals, how to read and assimilate the scientific literature, discuss how to give oral presentations, and address how to write clear scientific papers. Students will also explore topics of potential interest that they either propose or select from a provided list.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: GEOL 0060 or 1003 or 1020 or 1030 or 1051 or 1060 or 1515 or 1100 or 1641
GEOL 1330 Sustainability Flash Lab
Sustainability involves a systems approach. By exploring the inputs and outputs of energy and resources, we will ask broad questions: How do we measure production and consumption? How do geographical and socio-economic environments affect these things? How do we go beyond traditional measurements to quantify more comprehensive impacts and life-cycles? Answering these larger questions begins on a smaller, very specific, and personal scale: Where you live, and how you live. By examining and measuring resource use (including electricity, water and sewage, garbage and recycling, energy use, and transportation), we trace inputs and outputs to their source/destination, and begin to unravel and understand the complex web of production, distribution, delivery, and environmental consequences. We will investigate how these metrics change due to location and societal practices, as well as changes created through conservation and public policy. Eventually, it is the aim of this course to also reflect, at cultural and philosophical levels, on our energy/resource usage and underlying causalities thereof.
Number of Credits: 3
GEOL 1331 Health and Safety (HAZWOPER)
HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response) is a 40-hour course that promotes awareness of safety and response plans for those who may work with chemical and other hazards in the work-site. Students will learn how hazardous materials are handled and identified; human responses to exposure; learn what to do in case of site emergencies; use appropriate safety methods and work practice controls; and understand labels that are used to alert personnel of danger involving hazardous material. (Many employers in environmental consulting firms and other industries require 40-hour OSHA training.) The course will count as an elective in the Environmental Studies major. Offered once a year.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1332 Management of Environmental and Non-Profit Organizations
It's true that a little enthusiasm goes a long way in the nonprofit world, but those who get involved need to have real skills if they're going to make a lasting impact. The goal of this course is to introduce students to nonprofit environmental organizations & issues, & to provide them with the tools to effectively participate in & organize environmental campaigns. The course covers the "inner workings" of environmental organizations & campaigns, what it takes to succeed, & why effectively communicating environmental issues at the grassroots level is so important & so difficult. Offered occasionally. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None'
GEOL 1333 Sustainability
Sustainability is a term that has many meanings, and we will cover most them in this class, from green rooftops to "green-washing". The class will feature guest speakers from the academic, governmental, nonprofit and business sectors to offer as many perspectives as possible on sustainability topics. The real focus of the class, though, is the development of new and the continuation of existing sustainability projects at the local and campus levels. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of sustainability-oriented events and field trips. Offered every spring term. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1334 Environmental Policy
Focus on environmental ethics and its application in real-world context, including the regulatory and policy interface in the public arena. Discusses ethics surrounding national and global environmental issues, consumer choices, and ongoing public debate. Offered once a year. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1335 Environmental Issues: Air Quality
Pittsburgh has had a checkered past when it comes to air quality issues, and faces an uncertain future. Once known as "hell with the lid off" due to industrial emissions, Pittsburgh and its environs once had some of the worst air in the nation. In 1948, a noxious cloud killed 22 in nearby Donora and sickened thousands. But Pittsburgh also became one of the first American cities to pass legislation aimed at cleaning its air. Today it faces a new threat from emissions from coal-burning utilities in Ohio and West Virginia. This course is one in a series that focuses on the history, progress and current events of environmental issues in southwestern Pennsylvania that also have application throughout the region and U.S. Emphasis is on a balanced presentation of the issues, discussions of various approaches to solving problems and development of writing skills. To accomplish this, the course will (1) focus on a single environmental issue, (2) structure individual classes around a single aspect of that issue, (3) feature guest lectures and presentations by government regulators and policymakers, interest groups, corporate leaders and experts. Offered fall of odd-numbered years. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1336 Environmental Issues: Air Quality (W section)
This is the same as GEOL 1335, but it fulfills the University Writing Requirement. Pittsburgh has had a checkered past when it comes to air quality issues, and faces an uncertain future. Once known as "hell with the lid off" due to industrial emissions, Pittsburgh and its environs once had some of the worst air in the nation. In 1948, a noxious cloud killed 22 in nearby Donora and sickened thousands. But Pittsburgh also became one of the first American cities to pass legislation aimed at cleaning its air. Today it faces a new threat from emissions from coal-burning utilities in Ohio and West Virginia. This course is one in a series that focuses on the history, progress and current events of environmental issues in southwestern Pennsylvania that also have application throughout the region and U.S. Emphasis is on a balanced presentation of the issues, discussions of various approaches to solving problems and development of writing skills. To accomplish this, the course will (1) focus on a single environmental issue, (2) structure individual classes around a single aspect of that issue, (3) feature guest lectures and presentations by government regulators and policymakers, interest groups, corporate leaders and experts. Offered fall of odd-numbered years. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1337 Environmental Issues: Water Quality
This course will focus on environmental issues related to water quality, including the effects of Marcellus Shale waste water on public and private drinking water supplies. The emphasis will be on southwestern Pennsylvania, but we'll look at the effects of Marcellus Shale industry operations on a state and regional basis too. Emphasis is placed on a balanced, in depth presentation of the issues that must be addressed to realistically solve modern environmental problems. This will be accomplished by (1) focusing on a single environmental issue of relevance to southwestern Pennsylvania (2) structuring weekly sessions around a single aspect of that issue, and (3) giving students an opportunity to learn about the issues from local professionals and community leaders active in these fields. Offered in alternate years. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1338 Environmental Issues: Water Quality (W section)
This is the same as GEOL 1337, but it fulfills the University Writing Requirement. This course will focus on environmental issues related to water quality, including the effects of Marcellus Shale waste water on public and private drinking water supplies. The emphasis will be on southwestern Pennsylvania, but we'll look at the effects of Marcellus Shale industry operations on a state and regional basis too. Emphasis is placed on a balanced, in depth presentation of the issues that must be addressed to realistically solve modern environmental problems. This will be accomplished by (1) focusing on a single environmental issue of relevance to southwestern Pennsylvania (2) structuring weekly sessions around a single aspect of that issue, and (3) giving students an opportunity to learn about the issues from local professionals and community leaders active in these fields. Offered in alternate years. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1339 Environmental Issues: Mining and Gas Drilling Issues
This term's focus is on mining issues. Mining and oil and gas extraction has a long, important and sometimes dark history in Pennsylvania. Almost since the first black chunk was pried from the first mine, coal has been King in the Keystone State. It has fueled industries, heated homes, and powered trains and river tugs. It has been politically powerful. It has also colored streams, creeks and rivers orange and left them dead. It has scarred the rolling Allegheny hills, first with strip mines and now with "valley fills." How is mining's environmental legacy being addressed? How effective are current laws in regulating the industry? What's the latest, best, mining technique, and what is its public impact? What has been industry's response? What impacts, what's different and the same about the latest extractive industry in the state: Marcellus Shale natural gas development. Guest speakers from industry will be scheduled. Offered in alternate years. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1340 Environmental Issues: Mining and Gas Drilling Issues (W section)
This is the same as GEOL 1339, but it fulfills the University Writing Requirement. This term's focus is on mining issues. Mining and oil and gas extraction has a long, important and sometimes dark history in Pennsylvania. Almost since the first black chunk was pried from the first mine, coal has been King in the Keystone State. It has fueled industries, heated homes, and powered trains and river tugs. It has been politically powerful. It has also colored streams, creeks and rivers orange and left them dead. It has scarred the rolling Allegheny hills, first with strip mines and now with "valley fills." How is mining's environmental legacy being addressed? How effective are current laws in regulating the industry? What's the latest, best, mining technique, and what is its public impact? What has been industry's response? What impacts, what's different and the same about the latest extractive industry in the state: Marcellus Shale natural gas development. Guest speakers from industry will be scheduled. Offered in alternate years. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1341 Environmental Issues: Parks & Forests
This course is one in a series that focuses on environmental issues in southwestern Pennsylvania. Forests are made up of trees. "Timber" is what they yell when the trees are cut and fall. With maturing forests scraping the sky in Pennsylvania and other parts of the northeastern United States, and controversial restrictions on national forest timbering in the Pacific Northwest, there is tremendous pressure to cut the local hardwood forests. But unlike the turn of the century when all of Penn's Woods was clear-cut, there is a growing ethic that believes trees are more valuable growing than cut - for recreation and environmental reasons. This course on forest and parks issues is the fourth in a series that focuses on environmental and public policy issues in south western Pennsylvania. Through newspaper articles, field trips and guest speakers, the course will explore the issues and conflicts that abound in our wildlands and urban woods. Emphasis is on a balanced presentation of the issues, discussions of various approaches to solving problems and development of writing skills through a number of short assignments based on readings and presentations of guest speakers. Offered in spring of odd-numbered years. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1342 Environmental Issues: Parks & Forests (W section)
This is the same as GEOL 1341, but it fulfills the University Writing Requirement. This course is one in a series that focuses on environmental issues in southwestern Pennsylvania. Forests are made up of trees. "Timber" is what they yell when the trees are cut and fall. With maturing forests scraping the sky in Pennsylvania and other parts of the northeastern United States, and controversial restrictions on national forest timbering in the Pacific Northwest, there is tremendous pressure to cut the local hardwood forests. But unlike the turn of the century when all of Penn's Woods was clear-cut, there is a growing ethic that believes trees are more valuable growing than cut - for recreation and environmental reasons. This course on forest and parks issues is the fourth in a series that focuses on environmental and public policy issues in south western Pennsylvania. Through newspaper articles, field trips and guest speakers, the course will explore the issues and conflicts that abound in our wildlands and urban woods. Emphasis is on a balanced presentation of the issues, discussions of various approaches to solving problems and development of writing skills through a number of short assignments based on readings and presentations of guest speakers. Offered in spring of odd-numbered years. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1410 Exploration Geophysics
An introduction to the theory, methods, and instrumentation used in exploration geophysics. Topics include gravity, magnetics, electromagnetics, and seismic. The application of these tools to the assessment of formations conducive to the production of geothermal energy, natural gas or oil; the sequestration of CO2; and the short-term storage of high pressure hydrogen or natural gas will be covered.
Offered every other year. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1413 Geophysical Well Logging
An introduction to the interpretations of well logs derived from various geophysical measurements to down-hole rock properties. Students will learn to infer lithology, fluid characteristics, production zones, and other features useful to geologists, natural gas and oil engineers, geothermal energy engineers, and engineers tasked with the sequestration of anthropogenic CO2 or the short-term storage of high pressure hydrogen or natural gas. A class in sedimentology and stratigraphy is recommenced but not required.
Number of Credits: 3
GEOL 1445 GIS, GPS and Computer Methods
This course aims to introduce the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) across a broad number of fields. We cover the basis for cartographic systems, different geodetic models, and data types. Furthermore, we then look at the different methods with which raster and vector data can be processed and interpreted in the GIS framework. We also explore the principals behind and the use of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) as a tool in GIS. Weekly homework exercises are set to give students significant practical experience in the use of ESRI software, ArcGIS Pro. This course is a core course for the GIS Certificate.
Offered every Fall and Spring Semester. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1446 Advanced Geographical Information Systems
The goal of this course is to continue to gain expertise in ArcGIS, GeoTrans and software related to GPS process and computer workstations. Students will use GIS instruments to collect GIS data, import and export DEM and DLG data in a variety of format, be introduced to map projections, ModelBuilder models, and work with the TIN, grid, and network modules of ArcGIS on computer workstations.
Offered every Spring term. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: GEOL 1445. [EG EEG]
GEOL 1460 Introduction to Remote Sensing
This course provides a foundation in the theory and techniques of remote sensing and geospatial data visualization spanning the electromagnetic spectrum from the ultraviolet to microwave wavelength region. Topics will include light/matter interaction, optics and sensor design, image analysis using commercial software, as well as current applications of remote sensing to science and engineering problems. The course and integrated image-processing laboratory are designed to provide you with an appreciation of current remote sensing issues, the geologic and human processes that impact remotely-gathered data, and how those processes can be measured using remote sensing.
Offered every Fall and Spring Semester. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1515 Environmental Geochemistry
This course explores the complex interactions of Earth's rock, water, air, and life systems that determine the chemical characteristics of our environment. We will examine the distribution, cycling, and transport of chemical compounds in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and terrestrial environment on local and global scales. Topics will include water chemistry, organic and inorganic pollution and related toxicology, hazardous wastes, acid rain, acid mine drainage, photochemical smog, ozone depletion, and global climate change. A class project involves chemical analysis of student-provided water samples.Offered every fall term. Lecture, 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: GEOL 0055 and CHEM 0110 or permission of instructor. [CES EG EEG]
GEOL 1641 - Ecosystem Ecology
This course will provide students with an introduction to the principles of ecosystem ecology and associated applications to environmental change. Broad course themes include descriptions of the physical environment, community ecology, ecosystem ecology, ecological biogeography, and human ecology.
Number of Credits: 4
GEOL 1701 Geology of the Planets
This course aims to give an overview of our planetary neighborhood; the geology of the planets and moons, the processes that occur, the formation of our solar system, and how we are looking to observe and explore this region of space.We use comparative planetology by comparing the landforms we see on other planets and moons to those that we see on Earth. Particular focus is paid to the processes that occur through the solar system and how these vary for each object. You complete homework exericses using the JMars software to explore planetary remote sensing datasets using a custom GIS package.
Offered every Spring Semester. Lecture 3 hours.
Number of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: GEOL 0055 or consent of instructor. [EG EEG]
GEOL 1900 Internship
This course places the student in an "on-the-job" setting in which he/she receives practical experience in a supervised training environment. Students must receive permission (and number of credits) through advisor or faculty member.Offered every terms. Off-site work and regular meetings with instructor.1-4 Credits
Number of Credits: 4
Prerequisites: Department Consent Required. [CES]
GEOL 1901 Independent Study
This course permits undergraduates to explore specific topics in the geological sciences. The course is designed in a more flexible format than a directed study, stressing a higher degree of independent library research.Offered every terms. No prerequisites. Department Consent Required. Regular meetings with instructor.
Number of Credits: 4
Prerequisites: None
GEOL 1903 Undergraduate Research
This course provides the opportunity for undergraduates to obtain "hands on" experience in geology by actively inter-acting with faculty members on research projects. Offered every term. Variable research hours and regular meetings with instructor.1-4 Credits
Number of Credits: 4
Prerequisites: Department Consent Required. [EG EEG]
GEOL 1904 - Directed Reading
Number of Credits: 1-3 This course explores various topics in geology, environmental science, and environmental studies. Topics and class structure vary from term to term.
GEOL 1910 - Undergraduate Thesis
This course is the culmination of an undergraduate research project. This class allows a student to write a formal thesis under the supervision of a faculty member. The thesis will be evaluated by this faculty member plus two others agreed upon by the faculty member and student. The thesis will also be presented in the form of a public oral lecture. 1-3 Credits
GEOL 1930: Yellowstone Field Class
This class uses a month of day hikes to explore the myriad natural resources in and around the greater Yellowstone region. The first ten days focus on unraveling the forces that have produced the spectacular geology of the region as well as the underlying natural resources that plants, animals, and humans need to make a living. The biology section focuses on the diverse ecosystems of the region, including those of the dry basins, the relatively wet mountains and plateaus, and the near-arctic settings of the Beartooth Plateau. Particularly noteworthy is the diversity and abundance of birds, mammals, and wildflowers across the region. The final third of the class focuses on how people should best interact with the natural resources of the area. What roles should government regulation and private enterprise have when it comes to hunting wolves and elk, exploiting petroleum and mineral resources, protecting wild areas, and making the natural wonders of Yellowstone and beyond accessible to tourists? Students will see abundant wildlife, amazing geology, and come to appreciate the cultural distinctness of the West.
To see a PowerPoint that outlines the experiences featured in this class, please click here. An amusing video that captures the spirit of both Wyoming GEOL classes (made by Yellowstone student Alex Turnshek in 2012) may be found here. For full information, visit the Study Abroad Spring Creek webpage.
No pre-requisites. To enroll in this 4-week summer class, please apply through the Study Abroad office (802 William Pitt Union).
Number of Credits: 4
GEOL 1950 Wyoming Field Studies in Ecology and Paleontology
This 6-week course is a unique introduction to the practices of paleontology, ecology, and archeology, with a strong emphasis on field techniques. This program focuses on the rich resources of Pitt’s Spring Creek Preserve outside Laramie, WY, which includes pristine beds of dinosaur fossils, Native American artifacts, and an intact, mixed-grass prairie. We explore ecological systems ranging from prairie basins to alpine forests to mountain snowfields; we study mammals, birds, insects, and stream ecosystems; we excavate dinosaurs and find and document Native American artifacts; we reconstruct ancient environments revealed by rock outcrops and the fossils they contain; we discuss water rights, cattle grazing, wind farms, and economic development; and we experience a spectacular array of natural wonders while on a hiking and camping trip around the state that includes Yellowstone and the Tetons. This class seeks to develop an understanding of the complex geological, biological, and historical processes that shape the landscape, habitats, and natural and human communities we see today. These lessons apply both to Wyoming and the world at large.
To see a PowerPoint that outlines the experiences featured in this class, please click here. For full information, visit the Study Abroad Spring Creek webpage.
To enroll in this 6-week summer class, please apply through the Study Abroad office (802 William Pitt Union).
Instructors vary, but contact Charles E. Jones if you have questions not addressed in the Study Abroad Spring Creek webpage.
Number of Credits: 6
Prerequisites: No pre-requisites
GEOL 1960 Field Camp
The geology summer field camp is the capstone experience for geology majors. It provides extensive exposure to the fundamental field methods used by Earth scientists and ideally integrates most of the undergraduate curriculum into a single comprehensive experience. Students return from field camp saying that they finally feel like a real geologist! Field camp is necessary to most careers in geology, it is a requirement for admission to most graduate programs, and it is required to get the Professional Geologist license.
Field camps are offered only through outside institutions, usually in the summer. The ideal field camp is accredited, involves field mapping and report writing, and is worth at least 4 to 6 semester credits. You must get your selected field course pre-approved by your advisor.
Prerequisites: Department Consent Required. Prerequisites: Most require GEOL 1100 as well as other geology core classes.