Degree and Course Information > Geology > Courses

A study of minerals, rocks, and dynamic processes that shape the Earth's surface over time, such as tectonics, volcanism, earthquakes, landslides, streams, and coasts. Appropriate for non-science and science majors. Field trip required. Lab included.

A study of the development and interactions of the Earth's crust, life, oceans, and atmosphere through geologic time, in order to provide a perspective on present-day global environmental concerns. Includes studies of the formation and break-up of supercontinent; global climate change; fossil, dinosaur and other mass extinctions; and meteor impact effects. Appropriate for non-science and science majors. Field trip required. Lab included.

An introductory Earth Science course that covers essential topics in geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. The focus is on the system connections and interrelationships between the four Earth Science disciplines. Special emphasis will be placed on examples from the Pacific Northwest. Appropriate for non-science and science majors, and elementary education majors. May require field trip or project. Lab included.

A study of the interaction of humans and the Earth, with emphasis on geologic hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, landslides, and flooding; resources such as energy, water, and minerals; disposal of wastes and pollution. Appropriate for non-science and science majors. Field trip required. Labs included.

Introduces the student to basic geologic processes and history, using the variety of features preserved in our National Park and Monument system. Appropriate for non-science and science majors. Field trips required. Lab included.

A study of volcanoes, volcanic processes and volcanic hazards. Appropriate for non-science and science majors. Field trips required. Lab included.

A study of the development of the Pacific Northwest, including pertinent rock formations, structures, mineral resources, environmental issues, and fossils. Appropriate for non-science and science majors. Field trips required. Labs included.

Study of the geologic formations, structures, and geologic history that create the landscapes of a selected region. Appropriate for non-science and science majors.

A study of the causes, impacts, and mitigation of natural disasters. Topics may include earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanism, floods, landslides, subsidence and expansive soils, coastal hazards, tornadoes and other severe weather, hurricanes and extratropical cyclones, wildfires, global climate change, and meteor impacts and space weather. Appropriate for non-science and science majors. May include optional field trip.