Earth Science (ERTH)

ERTH 111 Introductory Geology 4.0 SH [GESL]

This course studies the internal and external processes that form and shape the Earth and interprets the resulting landforms. Internal processes include tectonic plate movement, volcanoes, earthquakes, and mountain building. External processes include weathering, erosion, streams, wind, ocean currents, and glaciers. Labs cover mineral and rock identification, topographic, and geologic map reading. Field trips reinforce class material.
Class Level Restriction: Freshman and Sophomore only.

ERTH 225 Environmental Geology 3.0 SH [GESN]

Geology from the perspective of the interrelationship of humanity and the Earth and the value of understanding the Earth in land use planning. Topics include geologic hazards, such as earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, water flooding and drought issues, and global climate changes.

ERTH 230 Nonrenewable Resources 3.0 SH [GESN]

Survey of Earth's nonrenewable energy and material, as well as water resources - their occurrence in or on the Earth's crust, how they are extracted, processed, and used, and the impacts of these steps on the environment.

ERTH 242 Historical Geology 4.0 SH [GESL]

The geologic history of the Earth and the evolution of life through the study of fossils. Includes the movement of tectonic plates, shaping of continents, and formation of mountains, all interpreted from the study of rock and fossil records. Labs include rock and fossil identification, physical and biostratigraphic correlation of rock units, and interpretation of local geologic history.