The American system of national parks and monuments provides a natural and exciting basis for learning about geology, the scientific study of the Earth.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Field and laboratory methods for identification and description of rocks and minerals with emphasis on sedimentary rocks and rock-forming minerals. Field study of geologic structures. Interpretation of geologic maps. Laboratory, three hours per week. Eight days in the field.

Field and laboratory methods for identification and description of rocks and minerals with emphasis on sedimentary rocks and rock-forming minerals. Field study of geologic structures. Interpretation of geologic maps. Laboratory, three hours per week. Eight days in the field.

This course focuses on the science behind our understanding of how our planet's climate has changed over time, in particular from 100 million years ago to the present. The most significant processes, astronomical, geological, oceanographic, and atmospheric, are examined with an emphasis on the broad scales of time and space over which they operate, and drive climatic change. Proxy data records are defined in the context of how they record climatic data, and how we "read" them to learn the climatic history they store.

Integration of basic rock types, geologic structures, geomorphology, and natural resources in the context of geologic history of the major regions of North America. Global plate tectonics as a framework for evolution of the North American continent.

The occurrence, movement, and quality of fresh water in the water cycle, including environmental problems and possible solutions. Case studies are explored through readings, videos, and required field trips.