This course covers the application of geology to all interactions between humans and the earth. It is intended as an introductory Geology course specifically designed for Environmental Studies majors, majors in the Environmental Geology track, and all students who would like to be introduced to the basics of geology in the context of real environmental issue.

The objectives of this introductory course are to expose students to the fundamentals of geology. These include plate tectonics, geologic materials (e.g., rocks, minerals and soil), and the processes that operate on the surface of the earth. These fundamentals will be examined through a systematic examination of geologic hazards, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, landslides, coastal erosion, and tropical storms. Human activities that impact the earth will also be examined and theses include population growth, Greenhouse gas emissions, groundwater contamination, and acid rain. The laboratory component provides students with a chance to use some of the tools that geologists use in the field and in the lab to address significant environmental questions.

Who should take this course? This course is an important course for the major in the Geosciences and Environmental Science and Policy. This is an excellent introduction to the Environmental Sciences.

This course satisfies GEN ED (SCLB) and, like all Introductory courses in the Geosciences, it has no prerequisites.

Offered: Every year Fall or Spring Term