Applied digital field methods. Students develop research strategies, collect remote field observations, compile unit descriptions, measure stratigraphic sections, evaluate and interpret uncertainty in data, construct geologic maps and cross sections, and interpret natural hazard maps. Uses digital topographic overlays in Google Earth and remote data imported into GIS. Designed to prepare students for successful careers in the geosciences. 3 undergraduate hours. 3 graduate hours. May be repeated up to 6 hours, in separate terms if topics vary. Prerequisite: GEOL 411, GEOL 208 or GEOL 440, and one additional 400-level geology course, or permission of the instructor.
The Applied Digital Geosciences course teaches students applied digital field methods to help a student prepare for successful careers in the geosciences. Students will develop research strategy skills, learn how to collect remote field observations, compile unit descriptions, measure stratigraphic sections, evaluate and interpret uncertainty in data, construct geologic maps and cross sections, and interpret natural hazard maps. The course uses digital topographic overlays in Google Earth and remote data imported into ArcGIS.
Investigating the Earth’s Interior is an overview course that focuses on how geophysical methods such as seismology, magnetics, gravity, geodesy, and surface geology can help us understand the Earth from its surface to its core as well as its temporal evolution. Topics include the internal composition and dynamics of Earth, generation of Earth’s gravitational and geomagnetic fields, driving mechanisms for tectonic plate motion, continental deformation, and surface topography.
This course provides a practical understanding of geophysical methods used to explore the Earth’s subsurface. Topics include seismic, magnetic, and electrical methods, with applications in environmental assessments, resource exploration, and hazard mitigation.
Introduces the fundamentals of python programming as applied to numerical modeling within the earth and environmental sciences. Students will identify key processes and relationships in systems, represent these elements numerically, use models to predict system behavior, and assess the validity of the model predictions. No computing background is required, but a prior course on integral calculus is strongly recommended. (same as ATMS 421)
Designed for students interested in consulting, this course covers the essential skills and knowledge required for environmental consulting practice. Topics include environmental regulations, site assessments, and the preparation of environmental impact statements.
Provides a working knowledge of the key aspects of hydrogeology that are needed for the environmental consulting industry and other careers that focus on contaminated groundwater and soils, water quality, and stewardship of water resources. Major topics include migration of groundwater, its chemistry, the nature of materials through which it moves, and common contaminants.
This course introduces students to the principles and applications of GIS in geology. Students will learn to utilize GIS tools to analyze geological data, create detailed maps, and support decision-making processes in environmental and geological studies. The course emphasizes practical skills in managing and interpreting spatial data.
This course explores the chemical processes affecting water quality, including the role of bioremediation in mitigating contamination. Students will learn about the chemical interactions between water and geological materials, as well as the techniques used to clean up polluted water sources.
Prerequisite: GEOL 470 | Introduction to Hydrogeology
This course combines hydrogeology with computational methods using Python. Students will learn to model groundwater flow and contamination, integrating programming skills with hydrogeological concepts to solve real-world problems.
This advanced course examines the use of isotopes in studying hydrogeological processes. Students will learn how isotopic analysis can provide insights into the age, origin, and movement of groundwater, as well as the identification of contamination sources.
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the fundamental concepts in environmental geology, including the interactions between human activities and the Earth’s systems. Topics include natural hazards, resource management, and environmental impacts, providing a strong foundation for advanced study in environmental sciences.
Focused on the application of geological sciences to engineering practice, this course covers topics such as site investigations, slope stability, and the geological considerations in construction and infrastructure development. It prepares students to address the geotechnical challenges encountered in engineering projects.
This introductory course on geostatistics provides students with the tools to analyze spatial data in environmental contexts. Part 1 covers fundamental concepts and basic methods, such as variogram modeling and kriging, essential for environmental site assessments and resource estimation.
Building on the knowledge from Part 1, this course delves deeper into advanced geostatistical techniques. Students will learn to apply these methods in more complex scenarios, such as contaminated site modeling and resource evaluation, enhancing their analytical capabilities in environmental geology.
This course focuses on the procedures and methodologies used in conducting environmental site assessments (ESAs). Students will learn to identify potential environmental liabilities in property transactions, conduct Phase I and Phase II ESAs, and understand the regulatory framework guiding these assessments.
The Capstone Research Project is a culmination of the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program. Students will undertake an independent research project, applying their expertise to a real-world environmental geology problem. Minimum 4 hrs., but based on project, can be repeated over multiple semesters for a total of 8 maximum credit hrs).
This project provides students with the opportunity to conduct original research in environmental geology. Under the guidance of a faculty advisor, students will identify a research question, collect and analyze data, and present their findings in a formal report. The capstone project demonstrates the student’s ability to apply their knowledge to complex environmental issues.
Build and apply basic-to-intermediate data science tools in Python to weather and climate data, to process, statistically analyze, visualize, and understand patterns, relationships, and changes in the data. (same as ATMS 517)
Apply cyberGIS techniques to analyze and visualize geospatial data in Python, using advanced cyberinfrastructure and high-performance computing. (same as GEOG 407)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
M.S. students will complete required core courses (16 hours), hydrology and water chemistry courses (students will pick 2 for a total of 8 hours), one elective (student will select one - 4 hours) and complete the capstone project (4-8 hours).
Students in the Certificate program will be advised upon admission for course selection. The GEOL 598 Capstone Research Project class is for M.S. students only.
Note that additional courses may be added or be available as options during certain semesters and may be discussed during student advising.