GEOL 150 Physical Geology

Physical Geology, which fulfills the physical science general education requirement, is the study of the materials that our beautiful Earth is made out of, as well as the processes and systems operating within the planet and on its surface. Earthquakes, volcanoes, oil, beaches, tsunamis, rocks, rivers, glaciers, plate tectonics, minerals, continent and mountain building are among the many diverse topics that will be explored. The direct effect of geology on society and our history, as well as the impact humans are having on our earth system will also be examined.

GEOL 151 Physical Geology Laboratory

Physical Geology Laboratory engages students with a “hands-on” review of the topics presented in Geology 150 and an examination of their relevance to everyday life. Laboratory exercises will include (but are not limited to) earthquake hazards, earthquake risk and analysis, the physical properties and identification of minerals, igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks, as well as topographic and geologic map reading. Glacial, coastal, dry land, groundwater, and fluvial, processes and landforms are scrutinized. Several geologic investigations of the hills and the river plain surrounding the campus will also be completed.