The Earth Science Department offers a variety of courses including Physical Geology, Environmental Geology, Stellar Astronomy, Solar System Astronomy and Earth Systems Science (for non-majors). All Earth Science courses include both lecture and lab experience for the best hands-on training. A list of courses with catalog descriptions follows.
The instructors in the Earth Science Department are enthusiastic and ready to teach the students principles and procedures using state-of-the-art equipment and technology. They share how the students' education will be necessary as they move into the workforce. A very useful tool available to the department is the observatory located behind the campus. The students get hands-on exerience using a Newtonian telescope which reinforces the classroom information.
Earth Science Course Offerings
ESCI
1004 Earthquakes and Volcanoes
This course examines the causes and effects of earthquakes and
volcanic activity. It also covers the impacts of earthquakes and
volcanic eruptions, including secondary effects such as landslides,
mudflows, and tsunamis; climatic effects; energy/mineral resources;
and social disruption. Additionally, the mitigation of effects
of natural disasters will be included. Two lectures and one laboratory
per week. (Prerequisites: None; 12th grade reading and writing
skills recommended). (MNTC: Goal 2/CT, Goal 3/NS, Goal 10/PN.
ESCI 1101
Earth Systems Science
A first course for students interested in Planet Earth. Earth
Systems Science is a study of the whole Earth as a system of many
interactive parts and focuses on the changes within and between
the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and the solid earth. This
course is interdisciplinary and draws on geology, astronomy, meteorology,
and oceanography. (Prerequisites: None). (3
C/2 lect, 2 lab). MNTC: 2/CT,3/ NS, 10/PN.
ESCI
1114 Physical Geology
This is an introduction to the fundamental processes that
shape planet earth. Emphasis is placed on plate tectonics as a
framework for understanding these processes. Major content areas
include the rock cycle (minerals, rocks, volcanoes, weathering),
and natural resources (energy and mineral). This course also includes
laboratory study of rocks, minerals, and maps. Field trips to
significant geological localities are an important part of the
course. (Prerequisites: None). (4 C/3 lect,
2 lab). MNTC: Goal 2/CT,3/ NS, 10/PN.
ESCI 1124 Solar
System Astronomy
A survey of the solar system, including the earth-moon system,
the planets and their satellites, asteroids, meteors, comets,
and the nearest star, our sun. Study includes the history of astronomy
leading up to our modern view of the sun and planets as provided
by optical and radio telescopes, spectrographic study and manned
and robotic spaceflight. Topics include light and telescopes,
planetary surfaces and atmospheres, the origin of planetary systems
and the search for extraterrestrial life. Lab work is supplemented
by field trips and observations using the unaided eye and telescopes.
(Prerequisites: None). (4 C/3 lect, 2 lab).
MNTC: Goal 2/CT,3/NS.
ESCI 1134 Stellar
Astronomy
This course is a non-mathematical introduction of stellar
astronomy for the non-science major. The course covers topics
that include light spectra, the sun, stars and galaxies. In the
laboratory, we will use computer simulation to study the night
sky and the topics covered in class. (Prerequisites: None).
(3 C/2 lect, 2 lab). MNTC: Goal 2/CT, Goal 3/NS.
ESCI 1144 Environmental
Geology
This course examines the relationship between geology and
short-term human concerns (periods of no more than a few hundred
years). Topics include earthquake hazards, volcanoes, flooding,
mass wasting, groundwater and surface water problems, radioactive
waste disposal, energy and mineral resources, and radon. Laboratory
and field experiences are an integral part of the course. (Prerequisites:
None). (4 C/3 lect, 2 lab). MNTC: Goal 2/CT,
Goal 3/NS, Goal 10/PN.
ESCI
1154 Introduction to Meteorology
This course will introduce students to our atmosphere and how
variables in the atmosphere affect our daily and seasonal weather
patterns. Topics covered will include fronts, weather systems,
cloud patterns, climate and climate change. This course includes
a labratory study of meteorology instruments and wather map reading.
(Prerequisites: None; 12th grade reading and writing skills recommended).
(3 C/2 lect, 2 lab). MNTC: Goal 2/CT, Goal 3/NS.
ESCI 1160
Regional Natural History
This course is an opportunity to learn about natural history through
direct field study in a specific area or region. The student would
be expected to do assigned readings in preparation for the trip
and to attend lecture sessions prior to their participation in
the trip. At the end of the feild study, the student will prepare
and submit a field trip report. Students will be expected to bear
certain costs for travel and lodging. Each field study will have
a specific title and description, depending on the area or region
to be studied. (Prerequisites: None) (1-4C/1-2 lect, 1-4lab).
MNTC: Goal 2/CT, Goal 3/NS, Goal 10/PN.
Earth Science Instructor
For instructor's credentials, class schedules and class syllabi, please click the instructor's name.