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.

Modern techniques for displaying and interpreting surface and subsurface data. GIS-based field data collection and geologic mapping. Introduction to Appalachian tectonics. Laboratory, three hours per week. Four days in the field. This course is a Graduation Composition and Communication Requirement (GCCR) course in certain programs, and hence is not likely to be eligible for automatic transfer credit to UK.

Fundamental and current topics in the space exploration of our solar system. Topics and examples of themes include: What is a planet; critical evaluation of the evidence for the heliocentric system; electromagnetic waves; the threat of asteroid impact; critical evaluation of the possibilities of extra-terrestrial life; critical evaluation of the evidence for climate change; and other topical items based on the results of on-going space missions.

The study of mineral structure and composition, and mineral classification through crystallographic and crystal chemical techniques. Laboratory work includes study of minerals via crystallography, X-ray diffraction, mineral chemical analysis, and optical petrographic techniques. Lecture, three hours per week; laboratory, three hours per week.

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.

Individual work on a special problem in geology. Report required. May be repeated to a maximum of six credits.

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.

Basic ecologic and evolutionary framework of common fossil invertebrate taxa. Major principles of paleontology, ecology, systematics, and evolution; and the use of fossils in paleoecology and biostratigraphy. Laboratory work in the classification of common fossils. Lecture, two hours; laboratory, three hours per week.

An introduction to earth structures. Advanced geologic map interpretation. Lecture, three hours; laboratory, two hours.