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Geology
The
Geology Department offers a broad selection of courses aimed
at both majors and non-majors. These courses reflect the diversity
of modern earth science, covering subjects that range from
the nature of environments at the dawn of earth's history
to human effects on today's earth, from tiny crystals to gigantic
tectonic plates, and from the deepest parts of the oceans
to asteroids in outer space. We offer a major program that
prepares students for graduate school or a career in earth
sciences, but is also intended for students who seek a broader
understanding of earth systems through scientific study en
route to careers in teaching, environmental fields, or other
areas. Many students incorporate geology into a double major
following procedures outlined elsewhere in this catalog.
Advanced
Placement. Students may count advanced placement credit
earned in sciences such as AP biology, calculus, chemistry,
or physics toward a geology major. Students seeking advanced
placement for secondary-school courses in geology need to
pass a placement examination administered by the department.
Course
Sequence Suggestions. The Department offers a variety
of introductory courses in the earth sciences. Either GEOL
160 (Physical Geology) or GEOL 162 (Environmental Geology)
provides an introduction to earth science as a whole and is
a good first course for students who see geology as a potential
major. Neither course has any prerequisite, and both are also
suitable for students who are interested in related fields
such as environmental studies, oceanography, and evolutionary
biology. The Department also offers a variety of topical introductory
courses with no prerequisites intended for non-specialists
and non-scientists. In 2001-2002, these are scheduled to include
GEOL 115 (Coral Reefs: Biology, Geology and Politics), GEOL
117 (Meteorite Impacts in Space and Time), GEOL 119 (Volcanoes
and Earthquakes), GEOL 121 (Geology in Our National Parks),
and GEOL 128 (Headlines from the History of Life). These courses
require no training in science or mathematics beyond the high-school
level.
A
substantial number of non-majors also enroll in upper-level
geology courses. Students can enroll in any of the 200 level
classes after taking either GEOL 160 (Physical Geology) or
GEOL 162 (Environmental Geology). In order to enroll in 300
level geology courses, students must complete at least one
of the 200 level courses. Note that GEOL 361 (Igneous and
Metamorphic Petrology) has a specific prerequisite of GEOL
201 (Mineralogy and Optical Crystallography), but students
can progress from any of the 200 level courses directly into
any of the other 300 level courses.
Major.
An introductory lab course in geology, six (6) upper-level
geology courses, and several additional courses in allied
science and/or mathematics are required for a geology major.
EITHER GEOL 160 (Physical Geology) OR GEOL 162 (Environmental
Geology) is required both for the geology major and for all
upper-level geology courses. Students considering a major
in geology should take one of these two courses in their first
or second years. Geology majors must also complete six of
the seven geology courses currently offered at the 200 and
300 levels. As explained above, students can progress from
any of the 200 level courses into any of the 300 level courses
with the exception of GEOL 361 (Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology)
which has the specific prerequisite of GEOL 201 (Mineralogy
and Optical Crystallography). Advanced electives (400-level
courses) and independent research in geology are available,
but not required for the geology major.
Coursework
in allied sciences is also required for the geology major,
specifically Chemistry 101 and 102 (or the equivalent) and
a minimum of eight (8) hours of additional coursework in Biology,
Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, and/or Physics.
In order to count towards the geology major, each of these
courses must count towards the major in its respective department
or program. Students should select these additional courses
with their geology advisor.
Advanced
course work in geology can be completed in four semesters,
but a less compact schedule is preferable. We also advise
students to take courses in collateral sciences as early as
possible. Prospective geology majors should discuss their
major program with a member of the geology department as early
as possible.
Students
planning a professional career in earth science will want
to take more than the minimum number of required 200- and
300-level geology courses, and will need more extra-departmental
courses than the required minimum. In particular, most geology
graduate programs require at least two semesters of college-level
mathematics, many graduate programs require introductory Physics,
and employers find computer skills attractive. We also urge
majors to take a summer course in field geology. Students
with interests in environmental policy and/or resource development
who are considering geology as part of a pre-law program should
consult with both the Geology Department chair and with a
member of the Pre-law Advisory Committee.
Minor.
Students may obtain a minor in geology by completing at least
15 hours of course work that includes EITHER GEOL 160 (Physical
Geology) OR GEOL 162 (Environmental Geology) and a minimum
of three courses at the 200 and 300 levels. Students interested
in minoring should consult with the chair of the Department
and submit a proposed program of study to the Department based
on this consultation. Prior Departmental approval of the program
is required.
Honors.
Outstanding students may participate in the honors program
in Geology. Honors students carry out a program of independent
geological research under the supervision of an individual
faculty member during their senior year. Any student interested
in doing honors research should discuss this with a member
of the Department in her or his junior year. In order to be
accepted into the honors program, a student must submit a
written proposal to the Department. Other guidelines for the
honors program are set forth elsewhere in the catalog. The
Geology Department also offers other avenues for independent
research in addition to honors.
Related
Programs. The Department of Geology encourages students
who are interested in fields not covered in depth in Oberlin
courses to attend off-campus programs. We especially recommend
participation in programs where students get the opportunity
to study different types of geological processes in the field.
Many excellent institutions offer semester and summer programs
in geology; a list is available in the Department office or
in the Office of Student Academic Affairs. Integrating a semester
of off-campus study into a geology major requires advanced
planning, so students considering this possibility should
consult with a Department member as early as possible.
Transfer
of Credit. The Department grants major credit for students
who do off-campus course work that is comparable to Oberlin's
offerings, but students must consult with and receive prior
approval from the Geology chair in order to guarantee earning
credit. The Department generally does NOT approve work done
as part of NOLS programs for geology credit.
Winter
Term. The Department offers one group project each Winter
Term centered on an extended geologic field trip. In recent
years faculty and students have traveled to the Virgin Islands,
southern California, and the island of Java in Indonesia.
Although most participants in these projects are geology majors,
non-majors also participate on a space-available basis. The
Geology faculty who are available to sponsor individual Winter
Term projects in 2002 and their primary areas of expertise
are as follows: Mr. Castro: Igneous Petrology
and Volcanology; Structural Geology; Rheology. Mr. Hubbard:
Environmental Science ; Geomorphology and Surface Processes;
Clastic and carbonate sedimentology; Marine Geology; Physical
Oceanography; Mapping and field methods. Mr. Simonson:
sedimentary and Precambrian geology; hydrogeology; environmental
science; meteorite impacts; regional geology (especially Australia,
Canada, Central America, and South Africa).
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Courses
of General Interest (for non-majors)
111. Glaciology,
Ice Ages, and Climate Change 3 hours
3NS,
QPh
Next
offered 2002-2003.
115. Coral
Reefs: Biology, Geology and Politics 3 hours
3NS
The
course provides a broad overview of both modern and fossil
reefs. It starts with modern coral reefs, focusing on how
they form, how they function as part of a larger system and
what controls their present distribution. The early emphasis
is more biological in nature. It examines processes on spatial
scales of millimeters to hundreds of kilometers - over timeframes
ranging from minutes to lifetimes. The second part shifts
to viewing reefs over a longer temporal scale (i.e., millions
to hundreds of millions of years), using modern models to
understand how ancient reefs formed and changed naturally
through geological time. Finally, we will examine recent changes
in modern reefs, using the backdrop of natural processes to
understand how growing human population and increased exploitation
of natural resources have changed the environment in which
today's coral reefs struggle to survive. To a limited extent,
we will discuss where science fits into societal perceptions
and the policy-making apparatus. However, the larger goal
is to begin to understand the most diverse marine system on
the planet, how we depend on it, how we are impacting it and
what we might do to become better global citizens. Enrollment
Limit: 50.
Sem
1 GEOL-115-01 TuTh 1:30-2:45 Mr. Hubbard
117. Meteorite
Impacts in Space and Time 1 hour
1NS
This
course is an exploration of where and why impacts take place
and what happens in the aftermath. As Comet Shoemaker-Levy
9 demonstrated in 1994, enormous amounts of energy are released
when meteorites, asteroids, comets, and planets collide. Such
collisions are commonplace on a geological time scale; impact
craters are ubiquitous throughout the solar system. Questions
addressed will include: Was the moon created when a Mars-size
body struck the Earth? Do meteorites from Mars contain evidence
of extraterrestrial life? Did a giant rock from space kill
off the dinosaurs? Could a large impact end human civilization?
Enrollment Limit: 50.
Sem
1 GEOL-117-01 TuTh 9:00-9:50 Mr. Simonson MODULE
I
119.
Volcanoes and Earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest 1
hour
1NS
The
Pacific Northwest lies in an area of active tectonics. It
is located at the boundary of two plates, the North American
plate and the Juan de Fuca plate. This plate boundary, or
subduction zone, is responsible for creation of the Cascade
volcanoes and, indirectly, for earthquakes such as the 1993
Woodburn and Klamath Falls, OR, events. In this class we will
learn why the movement of tectonic plates gives rise to particular
types of earthquakes and volcanoes. We'll study the processes
that lead to the rock failure that generates earthquakes,
and to the upward migration of magma that forms volcanoes.
We'll read about historic earthquakes and volcanic eruptions,
and learn to apply observations on past events to develop
models for future activity. And finally, I hope that through
this process you'll discover something about how science is
done, and how scientific knowledge can help you to better
appreciate the world around you. Enrollment Limit:
60.
Sem
2 GEOL-119-01 MW 2:30-3:20 Mr. Castro MODULE
I
121.
Geology in Our National Parks 3 hours
3NS
This
course introduces the principles of physical and historical
geology necessary to an understanding of the processes that
formed the rocks and landforms found in some of our more spectacular
National Parks, including Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Mt. Rainier,
and several more. A primary objective of the course is to
develop skills in interpreting landscapes in terms of geological
processes and sequences of events. The processes include those
associated with volcanoes, glaciers, rivers, deserts, shorelines
and tectonics. Lectures will be illustrated with color slides
and maps to aid in the development of observational and interpretative
skills. Notes: The course may not be taken by those who have
received credit for GEOL 160 or GEOL 162. Enrollment Limit:
50.
Sem
2 GEOL-121-01 MWF 3:30-4:20 Mr. Skinner
128. Headlines
from the History of Life 1 hour
1NS
The
history of life is punctuated by major changes and governed
by diverse processes, and these are reflected in the fossil
record. Topics include: the origin of life, the life and demise
of the dinosaurs, evolutionary patterns in the fossil record,
causes and consequences of mass extinction, and the evolution
of mammals, including humans. Did asteroids wipe out the dinosaurs?
How do major adaptations such as flight evolve? Why do human
beings have big brains? Enrollment Limit: 60.
Sem
2 GEOL-128-01 TuTh 9:00-9:50 Ms. Parsons-Hubbard MODULE
I
161. Marine
Science 3 hours
3NS
Next
offered 2002-2003.
199. Independent
Study in Geology 1-2 hours
1-2NS
An
opportunity for interested students to pursue a geological
interest not covered by formal courses. Students must consult
with a member of the Department before registering. Consent
of instructor required. Sponsored by Mr. Castro, Mr. Hubbard,
Ms. Parsons-Hubbard, and Mr. Simonson
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Introductory
Courses (for Nonmajors and Prospective Majors)
160. Physical
Geology 3 hours
3NS
A
survey of the internal and external features of the solid
earth and the processes that created them, emphasizing the
unifying theory of plate tectonics. Labs are devoted to
studying earth materials and landforms and include two local
field trips. This course is intended for both non-majors
and prospective geology majors. High-school chemistry recommended.
All students must enroll in the lecture section (01) plus
one lab section (02 or 03). Notes: May not be taken
for credit in addition to GEOL 162.
Sem
1 GEOL-160-01 TuTh 10:00-10:50 Mr. Castro Limit:
56
Laboratories
GEOL-160-02
Tu 1:30-4:30 Mr. Castro Limit: 28
GEOL-160-03
W 1:30-4:30 Mr. Skinner Limit: 28
162. Environmental
Geology 4 hours
4NS
The
course provides an overview of geologic processes similar
to GEOL 160. In addition, it applies those principles to
current environmental problems and addresses the role of
science in making social and political decisions based on
sound scientific principles. Topics covered include general
geological processes, geologic hazards, the formation and
utilization of Earth's natural resources (including renewable
and non-renewable energy), waste management and pollution.
Laboratories provide hands-on experience with earth materials
and resource management. Field trips (e.g., Oberlin water-treatment
plant, Lake Erie coast, trips to examine the rocks that
record Ohio's geologic history) provide local examples for
comparison with national and global examples discussed in
class. All students must enroll in the lecture section (01)
plus one lab section (02 or 03). Note: This course
may not be taken for credit in addition to GEOL 160.
Sem
2 GEOL-162-01 TuTh 9:30-10:50 Mr. Hubbard Limit:
56
Laboratories
| GEOL-162-02
|
Tu
1:30-4:30 |
Mr.
Hubbard |
Limit:
28 |
| GEOL-162-03
|
W
1:30-4:30 |
Ms.
Parsons-Hubbard |
Limit:
28 |
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Core
Courses (First level)
201. Mineralogy
and Optical Crystallography 4 hours
4NS,
QPf
Lectures cover the basic principles of crystallography,
crystal chemistry and crystal physics, the composition and
structure of rock forming minerals, and the mode of occurrence
and associations of minerals. Laboratories include identification
of minerals in hand specimen, theory and use of the petrographic
microscope for the identification of minerals, and theory
and use of x-ray diffraction for the identification of minerals.
Prerequisites: GEOL 160 or GEOL 162 and CHEM 101
or CHEM 103, or consent of instructor.
Sem
1 GEOL-201-01 MWF 11:00-11:50 Mr. Castro
Th
1:30-4:30
204. Evolution
of the Earth 4 hours
4NS
This
course examines the major events and processes of earth
history, such as the growth of continents, mountain belts
and ocean basins, accretion of terranes, sea level changes,
and climatic changes in the context of plate tectonics.
We explore the evolution of life in the perspective of the
dramatic paleogeographic and paleoclimatologic changes that
have taken place on the earth through its history. Lectures
and labs emphasize principles and techniques used to reconstruct
earth history. At least two field trips required. Prerequisites:
GEOL 160 or GEOL 162, or consent of instructor. Enrollment
Limit: 28.
Sem
1 GEOL-204-01 TuTh 11:00-12:15 Staff
M
1:30-4:30
242. Groundwater
Hydrogeology 4 hours
4NS
An
introduction to the principles controlling the flow of groundwater
and the geologic controls on both its quantity and quality.
Topics covered will include groundwater flow dynamics, related
aspects of surface water hydrology, well drilling and hydraulics,
contaminant transport and remediation, and how groundwater
varies from region to region throughout the United States.
Student activities will include problem sets, physical and
numerical modeling, field tests conducted on nearby water
wells, and a weekend field trip to Niagara Falls. Prerequisites:
Knowledge of algebra, CHEM 101, and either GEOL 160 or GEOL
162, or consent of instructor. Enrollment Limit:
28.
Sem
2 GEOL-242-01 TuTh 11:00-12:15 Mr. Simonson
F
1:30-4:30
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Core
Courses (Second level)
320. Paleontology 4
hours
4NS
A
comprehensive examination of the history of life, presented
within the context of evolutionary theory and with an emphasis
on invertebrate organisms. Topics include taphonomy, phylogenetic
inference, functional morphology, paleoecology, biostratigraphy,
biogeography, evolutionary patterns and processes, and extinction.
Laboratory exercises will explore the morphology and systematics
of the major invertebrate fossil groups, the use of paleontological
data in solving paleoecologic and geologic problems, and
will emphasize discussion of scientific literature. Field
trip and term paper required. Prerequisites: Any
200-level geology course or consent of instructor. Enrollment
Limit: 28.
Sem
2 GEOL-320-01 MWF 11:00-11:50 Ms. Parsons-Hubbard
M
1:30-4:30
330. Sedimentary
Geology 4 hours
4NS
Sedimentary
deposits provide vast quantities of the energy, water, and
mineral resources required by modern human societies. We
will study the processes of sediment formation in modern
environments ranging from desert dunes to the deep sea,
as well as how loose sediments are converted to solid rocks.
Emphasis will be placed on how prehistoric environmental
conditions can be deduced from sedimentary strata. Labs
focus on the first-hand study of sedimentary materials and
include a series of field trips to local sites and a weekend
field trip to the Appalachians. Prerequisites: Any
200-level geology course or consent of instructor. Enrollment
Limit: 28.
Sem
1 GEOL-330-01 MWF 12:00-12:50 Mr. Simonson
T
1:30-4:30
340. Structural
Geology 4 hours
4NS,
QPf
The measurable deformation that occurs within the earth's
crust produces a variety of rock structures. Lectures examine
rock structures, analyze the factors that control how rocks
deform, and discuss the global setting and importance of
rock deformation. Labs emphasize the observation and interpretation
of hand samples of rock structures and map patterns of deformed
rocks. Prerequisites: Any 200-level geology course
or consent of instructor.
Sem
2 GEOL-340-01 MWF 9:00-9:50 Staff
M
1:30-4:30
361. Igneous
and Metamorphic Petrology 4 hours
4NS
This
course will emphasize the concepts and methods of igneous
and metamorphic petrology, including the use of the petrographic
microscope for the determination of minerals and the interpretation
of rock textures. Topics to be covered include: interpretation
of phase diagrams; classification of igneous and metamorphic
rocks; origins and differentiation of magmas; rock associations
in the geotectonic cycle, especially the spatial and temporal
development of igneous and metamorphic terrains. Prerequisites:
GEOL 201.
Sem
2 GEOL-361-01 TuTh 10:00-10:50 Mr. Castro
TuTh
1:30-4:30
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Other
Advanced Courses
426. Research
Colloquium 1 hour
1NS
Students and faculty will meet every other week to hear
and discuss presentations by faculty, students, and invited
speakers. This course may be repeated for credit in successive
semesters. Prerequisites: one 200-level course in
Geology.
Sem
1 GEOL-426-01 W 7:30-9:00 p.m. Mr. Skinner
Sem
2 GEOL-426-01 W 7:30-9:00 p.m. Mr. Skinner
440. Advanced
Structural Geology 3 hours
3NS
Next
offered 2002-2003.
501. Research
in Geology 2-3 hours
2-3NS
Independent
or faculty-sponsored research. Students should select a
topic and make other necessary arrangements in consultation
with an individual faculty member. Consent of instructor
required. Sponsored by Mr. Castro, Mr. Hubbard, Ms.
Parsons-Hubbard, and Mr. Simonson.
503. Honors 2-5
hours
2-5NS
Consent
of instructor required. Sponsored by Mr. Castro, Mr.
Hubbard, Ms. Parsons-Hubbard, and Mr. Simonson.
995. Private
Reading 1-3 hours
1-3NS
Consent
of instructor required. Sponsored by Mr. Castro, Mr.
Hubbard, Ms. Parsons-Hubbard, and Mr. Simonson
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