College of Science, Engineering and Technology
Department Chemistry & Geology
242 Trafton Science Center N
Phone: 507-389-1963
Chair: Brian L. Groh
Monica Clement, Bryce Hoppie
Geology is the study of the earth. It concerns itself with the materials that constitute the earth, their disposition and structure, the processes at work on and within the earth, and both the physical and biological history of the earth.
Choose a minimum of 6 credits from the following:
GEOL 202 GEOL 270 GEOL 350 GEOL 370 GEOL 450 GEOL 401 GEOL 499
GEOL 100 (3) Our Geologic Environment
Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and flooding are three examples of naturally recurring events on the Earth that ultimately influence all of our lives. This course introduces the physical features and processes of the Earth that control these events. The course has a laboratory component and is designed for students not majoring in the natural sciences.
F, S
GE-3, 10
GEOL 121 (4) Physical Geology
Physical geology is the study of how the earth works. From mountain building to soil erosion, this course provides an introduction to all the main areas of geologic study. Lecture discussions and laboratory exercises are designed for students seeking a major or minor in one of the natural sciences.
F
GE-3, 10
GEOL 122 (4) Earth History
An examination of the development and evolution of life on earth. In addition to reviewing the range of life form and global climates existing on earth during various times in its geologic past, we will also look at how global industrialization could lead to the earth's next period of mass extinction. Weekly laboratory assignments help illustrate principles discussed in lectures.
S
GE-3
GEOL 201 (4) Elements of Mineralogy
Examination of the elemental composition and crystal structure of various common minerals. Laboratory time is spent practicing techniques of identifying crystals and minerals. The importance and occurrence of many economic minerals is also covered thoroughly in this course.
Pre: GEOL 100 or 121 F
GEOL 202 (3) Lithology
Similar in scope to GEOL 201; however, this course reviews the identification, classification, occurrence, and uses of the earth's rocks. Laboratory assignments will focus on the recognition of globally significant rock groups and those of particular significance to the upper Midwest.
Pre: GEOL 201 Variable
GEOL 270 (4) Structural Geology
Study of faults, folds, and fractures in the earth's crust, and the forces and movements which cause their formation.
Pre: GEOL 121
GEOL 305 (2) Earth Science for Elementary Educators
An integrated, multi-disciplinary study of the Earth and the solar system. The course establishes basic concepts of astronomy, physical geography, and geology to give students a thorough understanding of the Earth and its place in the solar system. Learning outcomes partially fulfill licensure requirements for elementary educators. This course is focused on content.
Pre: BIOL 100, PHYS 101 F, S
GEOL 310 (3) Earth and Space Systems
An integrated, multi-disciplinary study of the Earth and the solar system. The course builds on basic concepts of astronomy, chemistry and geology to give students an enhanced understanding of the nature and relationship among the forces that control the Earth's evolution. Learning outcomes partially fulfill licensure requirements for secondary science educators.
Pre: AST 101, CHEM 201, GEOL 121 F
GEOL 350 (4) Environmental Geology
The application of geologic data and principles to problems created by human occupancy and use of the physical environment. Lecture and laboratory topics include soil classification and conservation, hazardous waste site evaluation and remediation, and living with geologic hazards.
Pre: GEOL 121 ALT-S
GEOL 351 (2) Engineering Geology
This course focuses on the application of geologic data and principles created by human occupancy and use of the physical environment. This course meets concurrently with GEOL 350 Environmental Geology, through the last eight weeks of the semester. It is intended for civil engineering students that previously completed Geotechnical Engineering, CIVE 360.
Pre: GEOL 121, CIVE 360, or instructor permission ALT-S
GEOL 370 (2) Geotectonics
Expanded discussions of several topics introduced in Physical Geology and Structural Geology. Topics include plate tectonics, deep earth structure, seismicity,fountain building, and continental growth.
Pre: GEOL 121 and 270 Variable
GEOL 401 (1-3) Field Studies
This course is devoted to the study and practice of geological field investigations. Students will first learn basic field investigative methods. Students will then be appropriately versed in the geological history and importance of a region selected for in-depth study. Finally, students will participate in a field trip to a regional site of geologic importance over an extended weekend (4-6 days). Potential study sites may include Minnesota's North Shore and Iron Range, the Badlands and Black Hills of South Dakota, the Ozarks, or the Rocky Mountains.
Pre: GEOL 100 or 121 and 122 Variable
GEOL 450 (3) Hydrogeology
This course introduces physical and chemical studies of hydrogeology. The main areas of discussion will include the physical and chemical attributes of aquifers, movement of ground-water and solute through soils and rocks, and reactions between earth materials and pollutants in ground-water systems. The class includes extensive use of MODFLOW and MT3D, the two most commonly used groundwater modeling programs currently available.
PRE: CHEM 201, GEOL 121 ALT-S
GEOL 479 (4) Teaching Earth Sciences
Material and methods of earth science study directed toward future teachers of students in junior high and high schools.
Pre: GEOL 121, GEOG 217 Variable
GEOL 490 (1-4) Workshop
GEOL 499 (1-5) Individual Study
