Oberlin College Course Catalog

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 broad 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. GEOL 120 (Earth's Environments) has no prerequisite, provides an overview of the whole of earth science that includes field trips to local sites, and is a good first course for students who see geology as a potential major. This course, offered in both the spring and fall semesters, is also suitable for students who are interested in related fields such as environmental studies, oceanography, and evolutionary biology and are seeking hands-on experience with maps and earth materials. The department also offers a variety of topical introductory courses with no prerequisites intended for non-specialists and non-scientists. In 2004-2005, 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 in the Pacific Northwest) and FYSP 169 (Coasts in Crisis). 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 GEOL 120 (whether entitled Introduction to Earth Science or Earth's Environments), or if they have already taken 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. 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).

Major. The requirements for a geology major are:

1. One introductory laboratory course in geology; this can be EITHER GEOL 120, GEOL 160, OR GEOL 162 and should be taken in a student's first or second year.

2. Five upper-level geology courses as follows:
   a. Mineralogy (GEOL 201)
   b. Evolution of the Earth (GEOL 204)
   c. EITHER Earth Surface Processes (GEOL 212) OR Groundwater Hydrogeology (GEOL 242)
   d. EITHER Paleontology (GEOL 320) OR Sedimentary Geology (GEOL 330)
   e. EITHER Structural Geology (GEOL 340) OR Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology (GEOL 361)

3. Two elective geology courses selected from:
   (i) any 200- or 300-level geology course not already taken, and
   (ii) EITHER Marine Science (GEOL 161) OR Modern Mapping and Analysis (GEOL 190), but not both.

4. The following additional courses in cognate Natural Sciences and Mathematics:
   (i) introductory Chemistry, either CHEM 101 and CHEM 102 or the equivalent (e.g. CHEM 103), and
   (ii) eight additional hours at the introductory and/or advanced level(s) selected from courses that count toward the Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, and/or Physics majors, and/or PHYS 103 and 104.

Prospective geology majors should discuss their major program with a member of the Geology Department as early as possible in order to identify the courses that best serve their needs. Advanced electives (400-level courses) and independent research in geology are also available, but such courses neither are required nor count towards the geology major. After taking an introductory laboratory course, a student can complete a geology major in four semesters, although a less compact schedule is preferable.

Students pursuing a professional career in earth science usually take more than the minimum number of courses required for the geology major. 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 an introductory laboratory course (GEOL 120, GEOL 160 or GEOL 162) and a minimum of three courses at the 200 and 300 levels. Students interested in minoring should consult with the chair of Geology as departmental approval is required to minor in geology.

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 the Dean of Studies. 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 National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) programs for geology credit.

Winter Term. The Geology faculty who are tentatively available to sponsor individual Winter Term projects in 2005 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. Ms. Moore: coastal processes and geology; geomorphology; geologic and environmental applications of geographic information systems Mr. Simonson: water, mineral, and energy resources; earth history; meteorite impacts; geology of Australia, Canada, Latin America, South Africa, and the rest of the solar system.

In this Department

Courses of General Interest

Courses of General Interest (for non-majors)

111. Glaciology, Ice Ages, and Climate Change
3 hours 3NS, QPh
Next offered in 2005-2006.

115. Coral Reefs: Biology, Geology and Politics
3 hours 3NS
Second Semester.
Coral reefs are dynamic physical and biotic systems. This course will consider the development of modern coral reefs over timeframes of minutes to lifetimes, as compared to a geologic view of reefs formed over millions to hundreds of millions of years. We will also examine recent changes in modern reefs using the backdrop of natural processes to help understand potential anthropogenic stresses and to discuss ways we might possibly mitigate those impacts. Enrollment Limit: 25 per section.
Mr. Hubbard

117. Meteorite Impacts in Space and Time
1 hour 1NS
Second Semester. Second Module.
This course examines where and why impacts take place and what happens when they do. Enormous amounts of energy are released when meteorites, asteroids, comets, and planets collide at "cosmic velocities." Serious collisions create impact craters, which occur in abundance throughout the solar system. Topics will include: Did an asteroid kill all the dinosaurs? Do meteorites from Mars contain evidence of extraterrestrial life? Could a large impact end human civilization? Identical to ASTR 117. Enrollment Limit: 60.
Mr. Simonson

119. Volcanoes and Earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest
3 hours 3NS
First Semester.
The Pacific Northwest straddles the boundary of the North American and Juan de Fuca plates. Plate boundary processes have led to Cascade volcanism and numerous earthquakes. This class will examine the processes that lead to rock failure in earthquakes and account for the magma that forms volcanoes. We will use geologic principles and historic accounts to assess the likelihood of future earthquakes and volcanism and to learn fundamental science and an appreciation for this unique natural system. Enrollment Limit: 50.
Mr. Castro

121. Geology in Our National Parks
1 hour 1NS
Second Semester. Second Module.
In this study of fundamental geologic concepts, you will develop observational and interpretative skills that will allow you to see rocks in National Parks as products of geologic processes and to read in park landscapes the sequences of constructive and destructive forces that have shaped them. In short, you will gain greater insight into the interplay of processes that produce the surface features of the Earth, and you will form a closer bond with the natural world. Enrollment Limit: 50.
Mr. Castro

128. Headlines from the History of Life
1 hour 1NS
Next offered in 2005-2006.

FYSP 169. Coasts in Crisis
3 hours 3NS, WRi
First Semester.
For description, please see "First-Year Seminar Program" in this catalog. Enrollment Limit: 14.
Ms. Moore

199. Independent Study in Geology
1-2 hours 1-2NS
First and Second Semester.
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. Moore, and Mr. Wojtal.

In this Department

Courses of General Interest

Introductory Courses

Introductory Courses (for non-majors and prospective majors)

120. Earth's Environments
4 hours 4NS
First and Second Semester.
A survey of internal and surficial features of the Earth emphasizing the unifying theory of plate tectonics and the study of geologic hazards and Earth resources. Earth materials and processes are studied firsthand in lab and on local field trips. Course is intended for both non-majors and prospective geology majors. Students must enroll in lecture section plus one lab section in the same semester. No prerequisites, but high-school chemistry recommended. Note: Course may not be taken for credit in addition to either GEOL 160 or GEOL 162. Enrollment Limit: 48 per semester (24 per lab section).
Mr. Castro, Ms. Moore, Mr. Simonson, Mr. Wojtal

150. Introduction to Oceanography
2 hours 2NS
First Semester. Second Module.
An introduction to the physical, chemical and biological processes operating in the oceans. We will examine how geologic processes control ocean bathymetry and how atmospheric and geologic processes control sea water chemistry, ocean circulation, waves, and tides. We will briefly survey of the distribution and character of life in the oceans, and will conclude by examining human interactions with the world's oceans. Enrollment Limit: 60.
Mr. Wojtal

161. Marine Science
3 hours 3NS
Next offered in 2005-2006.

208. Applications of GIS in Environmental Geoscience
2 hours 2NS
Second Semester. First Module.
An examination of recent advancements in techniques for mapping and analyzing Earth's surface with an emphasis on applications of geographic information systems (GIS). Recent advances in technologies that provide data for GIS analysis, such as global positioning systems (GPS), aerial cameras and satellite imaging systems, will also be investigated. Case studies and lab exercises will demonstrate, and give hands on experience in, the application of GIS and related technologies to issues in environmental geoscience. Prerequisite: GEOL 120, 160, or 162, or consent of instructor. Enrollment Limit: 15.
Ms. Moore

In this Department

Courses of General Interest

Intermediate & Advanced Courses

Intermediate and Advanced Courses

201. Mineralogy and Optical Crystallography
4 hours 4NS, QPf
First Semester.
Lectures cover the 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 specimens, 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 120, 160 or 162 and CHEM 101 or CHEM 103, or consent of instructor.
Mr. Castro

204. Evolution of the Earth
4 hours 4NS
First Semester.
An examination of large-scale geologic processes like the formation of continents and ocean basins, mountain building, terrane accretion, sea level change, and climatic change in a plate tectonic context. Lectures consider major events in Earth history and the evolution of life from the perspective of how paleogeographic, paleoclimatologic, and paleoecologic factors interacted to create unique conditions at different times in Earth history. Labs emphasize techniques used to reconstruct Earth history. Two field trips required. Prerequisite: GEOL 120, 160 or 162 or consent of instructor. Enrollment Limit: 28.
Mr. Wojtal

212. Earth Surface Processes
4 hours 4NS
First Semester.
An examination of the evolution of Earth's surface with a focus on the geomorphic processes that shape the landscape we see today. We will investigate the erosional, climatic and tectonic forces that give rise to mountains, plains, river valleys, and coastlines as well as the surficial processes that continue to shape these landscapes including weathering, mass wasting, sediment transport, glaciation, and sea level rise. Lectures, laboratories and field trips will emphasize an integration of the descriptive, quantitative, experimental and interpretive aspects of geomorphology. Prerequisite: GEOL 120, 160 or 162 or consent of the instructor. Enrollment Limit: 20.
Ms. Moore

242. Groundwater Hydrogeology
4 hours 4NS
Second Semester.
An introduction to groundwater movement and quality emphasizing its use and abuse by humans. Topics covered include predicting groundwater flow patterns, interactions with surface water, well drilling and pumping, groundwater contamination and remediation, and variations in groundwater resources from region to region throughout the United States. Lab activities include a pump test on water wells at the Jones farm and a weekend field trip to Niagara Falls. Prerequisites: Knowledge of algebra and either GEOL 120, 160, or 162, or consent of instructor. Note: Intro CHEM recommended. Enrollment Limit: 24.
Mr. Simonson

250. Beaches and Coasts
4 hours 4NS
Second Semester.
Today's coastlines provide a dramatic physical and biotic transition from land to sea. This course offers an overview of coastal processes and their control over modern and ancient coastal systems. We also discuss the effects of growing population and human exploitation. The course uses basic and advanced geologic principles to understand how coastal systems are assembled and preserved. Lectures are complemented by lab exercises and field trips to view modern and ancient coastal deposits. Prerequisite: GEOL 120, 160, or 162. Enrollment Limit: 14.
Mr. Hubbard

320. Paleontology
4 hours 4NS
Next offered in 2005-2006.

330. Sedimentary Geology
4 hours 4NS
First Semester.
A survey of the sedimentary deposits that provide most of the energy, water, and mineral resources used by humans. Topics covered include patterns of sediment accumulation in modern environments from desert dunes to the deep seafloor and how loose dirt becomes rock solid. Sedimentary materials are studied firsthand in hand samples, with microscopes, and via a series of local field trips plus a weekend trip to the Appalachians. Prerequisite: Any 200-level geology course or consent of instructor. Enrollment Limit: 14.
Mr. Simonson

340. Structural Geology
4 hours 4NS, QPf
Next offered in 2005-2006.

361. Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
4 hours 4NS
Second Semester.
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. Prerequisite: GEOL 201.
Mr. Castro

In this Department

Courses of General Interest