Geoscience Courses
Geology and EES Majors:
Please take either GEOL 220: Mineralogy (Geology Majors) or GEOL 215/220 (Earth and Environmental Science Majors) as soon as possible.
These courses are prerequisites for almost all the upper level GEOL courses. Taking either one of these courses in the beginning of your undergraduate career will allow you to take more upper division classes sooner, along with a faster course to graduation.
To confirm which courses are being taught each semester, students can also refer to the current UNLV catalog
General Education Courses (100-level)
Undergraduate Level Courses (Geology)
Undergraduate Level Courses (Geography)
Graduate Level Courses
Infrequently Offered Courses
100-Level General Education
Looking to satisfy your Science Distribution Requirements?
The General Education Distribution Requirement at UNLV includes two science courses, one of which must include a laboratory. Typically, students meet this requirement by taking one lecture class (3 credits) and either one combined lecture/lab class (4 credits) or a lecture class that coordinates with a separate lab class (3 + 1 credits).
The UNLV Geoscience Department offers a number of courses that will meet part, or all, of the Science Distribution Requirements.
In addition to traditional on campus classes, we also offer many general education courses, including laboratories, in online format.
100-level Geoscience courses that meet the General Education Distribution Requirement are listed below:
| Course Name/Number | Course Description |
|---|---|
| GEOL 100: Natural Disasters (3 credits) | Causes of natural disasters and their impact on people and property. Focuses on geological hazards, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides and floods. Lecture-based offered on campus and online. Satisfies the University Science Requirement. |
| GEOL 101: Exploring Planet Earth (4 credits) | Basics of geology, including the birth and evolution of planet Earth, geologic time, plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, natural resources, and surface processes. Understanding how geology is important to your life. Lecture-based with lab offered on campus and online. Satisfies the University Laboratory Science Requirement. |
| GEOL 102: Earth and Life Through Time (4 credits) | Prerequisite: Minimum of C in one of GEOL 100, GEOL 101, or GEOG 103 Systematic review of the history of the earth and the methods by which the details of earth history are unraveled. Field trips required. Lecture-based with lab. Satisfies the University Laboratory Science Requirement. |
| GEOL 110: Global Warming (3 credits) | Learn the science of global warming, including natural climate variability versus human-caused climate change, and its impact on glaciers, water supplies, oceans, and species. Understand what climate models tell us about the future and impact of carbon footprints on sustainability. Lecture-based. Satisfies the University Science Requirement. |
| ** GEOL 141: The Moon and Mars (3 credits) | Geologic principles of terrestrial planets, icy satellites, comets, and asteroids. Introduction for non-science majors to remote sensing, robotic spacecraft exploration, and manned missions to the Moon and Mars. Lecture-based. Satisfies the University Science Requirement. |
| GEOG 103: Physical Geography of Earth’s Environment (3 credits) | Introduction to the processes that influence weather, rivers, oceans, climate, deserts, glaciers, and their associated ecosystems. Emphasizes the relationships between humans and our environment. Lecture-based offered on campus and online. Satisfies the University Science Requirement. Note: May be combined with GEOG 104 to satisfy the Laboratory Requirement. |
| GEOG 104: Physical Geography Laboratory (1 credit) | Provides an opportunity to apply concepts in physical geography, including map interpretation, computer GIS, meteorological processes, development of landforms, and an understanding of the dynamics of the earth. Laboratory-based offered on campus and online. Satisfies the University Laboratory Science Requirement. Note: Corequisite: GEOG 103 |
Undergraduate Level Courses (Geology – GEOL)
| Course Name/Number | Course Description |
|---|---|
| GEOL 100: Natural Disasters (3 credits) | Causes of natural disasters and their impact on people and property. Focuses on geological hazards, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides and floods. Lecture-based offered on campus and online. Satisfies the University Science Requirement. |
| GEOL 101: Exploring Planet Earth (4 credits) | Basics of geology, including the birth and evolution of planet Earth, geologic time, plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, natural resources, and surface processes. Understanding how geology is important to your life. Lecture-based with lab offered on campus and online. Satisfies the University Laboratory Science Requirement |
| GEOL 102: Earth and Life Through Time (4 credits) | Systematic review of the history of the earth and the methods by which the details of earth history are unraveled. Field trips required. Lecture-based with lab. Satisfies the University Laboratory Science Requirement. Prerequisite: Minimum of C in one of GEOL 100, GEOL 101, or GEOG 103 |
| GEOL 110: Global Warming (3 credits) | Learn the science of global warming, including natural climate variability versus human-caused climate change, and its impact on glaciers, water supplies, oceans, and species. Understand what climate models tell us about the future and impact of carbon footprints on sustainability. Lecture-based. Satisfies the University Science Requirement |
| ** GEOL 135: Earth Resources and Society (3 credits) | Geological availability, exploitation, and use of nonrenewable resources including metallic minerals, nonmetallic minerals, and energy resources. Lecture-based. |
| ** GEOL 141: The Moon and Mars (3 credits) | Geologic principles of terrestrial planets, icy satellites, comets, and asteroids. Introduction for non-science majors to remote sensing, robotic spacecraft exploration, and manned missions to the Moon and Mars. Lecture-based. Satisfies the University Science Requirement. |
| GEOL 215: Earth Surface Materials: Minerals, Rocks and Soils (4 credits) | Physical properties and genesis of solid materials found at Earth’s surface; i.e., minerals, rocks, and soils. Identification and classification of these materials through observation and measurement of physical properties. Linkages between the formative processes and spatial variation of earth materials. Lecture-based with lab. Prerequisites: CHEM 121A and CHEM 121L and MATH 127 or higher. No duplicate credit for GEOL 215 and GEOL 220 without department permission. |
| GEOL 220: Mineralogy (4 credits) | Study of classification, chemistry, physical properties, and crystallography of minerals forming rocks, ore deposits, and soils. Identification of hand samples. Study of associations of minerals in a geologic environment. Lecture-based with lab. Prerequisites: CHEM 121A and CHEM 121L, and MATH 127 or MATH 128; or higher No duplicate credit for GEOL 215 and GEOL 220 without department permission. |
| ** GEOL 221: Introduction to Optical Mineralogy and Petrography (3 credits) | Optical properties of minerals in thin section. Laboratory identification of minerals based on optical properties. Study of associations of minerals in thin sections of rocks. Introduction to petrography. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in GEOL 220 |
| GEOL 301: Fossil Record (3 credits) | History and evolution of life as recorded in the fossil record. Lecture-based offered on campus. Prerequisites: GEOL 102, or BIOL 189A and BIOL189L or BIOL 191A and BIOL 191L |
| ** GEOL 302: Paleontology Lab (1 credit) | Identification of the major fossil forming groups and analysis of paleontological data, with emphasis on invertebrates. Laboratory. Field trips required. Corequisite: GEOL 301 |
| ** GEOL 303: Global Environmental Change (3 credits) | Interdisciplinary introduction to the dynamics of the interactions among the lithosphere, biosphere, and atmosphere and their effects on the environment throughout geologic time. Emphasizes dimensions and consequences of both natural and human induced climate change. Lecture-based. Prerequisite: Junior standing |
| GEOL 304: Intermediate Geology of National Parks (3 credits) | Examines the features, processes, and geologic history of North America’s National Parks, as well as the future of the parks. Lecture-based. Prerequisite: Minimum C grade in GEOL 101 |
| GEOL 327: Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology (4 credits) | Description, classification, and interpretation of igneous and metamorphic rocks in hand specimens and thin sections. Lecture-based with Lab. Prerequisite: Minimum C grade in GEOL 220 |
| GEOL 330: Introduction to Geochemistry | Fundamental geochemical processes operating within the earth’s lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. Topics include chemical differentiation of the earth, crystal chemistry, mineral stability and phase diagrams, aqueous geochemistry, isotope geochemistry, and organic chemistry. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: MATH 127 or MATH 128, or higher and minimum of C grade in GEOL 215 or GEOL 220 |
| GEOL 333: Principles of Geomorphology (4 credits) | Description and classification of landforms; evaluation of erosional and depositional processes with respect to earth materials, structure, and geologic history. Emphasis on fluvial, marine, eolian, and glacial origins of landforms. Lecture-based with Lab. Field trips are required. Prerequisite: Minimum of C grade in one of GEOL 100 or GEOL 101, or GEOG 103 |
| GEOL 334: Environmental Geology (3 credits) | Control and use of the geological environment in modern society. Includes surface and sub-surface processes, mineral resources, and rock properties. Lecture-based. Prerequisite: GEOL 333 |
| GEOL 335: Earth Resources and the Environment (3 credits) | Same as GEOG 335 Geological availability, exploitation, and use of nonrenewable natural resources including metallic minerals, nonmetallic, energy resources. Lecture-based. Component of the Environmental Studies Program. Duplicate credit not allowed in GEOL 135 or GEOL 335/GEOG 335 |
| GEOL 340: Field Methods in Environmental Geology (4 credits) | An introduction to environmental field and analytical techniques for geologists including field sampling protocols, Phase I and II environmental site assessments, contaminant fate and transport evaluation, site remediation, and regulatory compliance. Includes the design and assessment of local environmental geology problems. Requires travel to local field sites and working outdoors. Lecture-based with Lab. Prerequisites: Minimum C grade in GEOL 333 |
| **GEOL 352: Field Trip (1-3 credits) | Field trip to selected areas of geologic significance. Repeatable: May be repeated once for credit. Please verify that all credits will apply towards your degree. Prerequisites: GEOL 101 or equivalent and consent of instructor |
| GEOL 362: Principles of Stratigraphy and Sedimentation (4 credits) | Analysis and application of stratigraphic concepts, and the genesis and classification of sediments. Study of regional stratigraphic patterns and their related sedimentary environments. Lecture-based with Lab. Prerequisites: Minimum grade C in both GEOL 102 and GEOL 220 or GEOL 215 ** CHEM 121A, MATH181 and minimum grade of C in GEOL 102 and GEOL 220 |
| **GEOL 410: Soil Classification and Resource Management (4 credits) | Morphology and classification of soils based on their physical, chemical and mineralogical composition. Introduction to soil genesis, soil mapping, and the relationship of soils to the limitations and potentials of land use. Lecture-based with Lab. Prerequisite: Junior Standing; GEOG 103 or GEOL 101, or consent of instructor |
| ** GEOL 419: Medical Geology (3 credits) | Medical Geology is the science surrounding the relationships among geological factors and health in humans, animals, and plants. This class focuses on the relationships between geology and human health. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: CHEM 121A, CHEM 121L and minimum grade C in GEOL 220 or GEOL 301 |
| ** GEOL 420: Introduction to X-Ray Diffraction and X-Ray Spectrometry Methods (4 credits) | Introduction to the principles and methods of x-ray analysis as applied to the study of minerals. Powder camera, diffractometry and spectrometry methods covered. Lecture-based with Lab. Corequisite: GEOL 330 Prerequisite: GEOL 220 |
| ** GEOL 425: Principles of Geochemistry (3 credits) | Fundamental geochemical processes operating within the earth’s lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere. Topics include chemical differentiation of the earth, crystal chemistry, mineral stability and phase diagrams, aqueous geochemistry, isotope geochemistry, organic chemistry. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: CHEM 122A and CHEM 122L or minimum grade of C or better in GEOL 330 |
| GEOL 429: Geochemical Thermodynamics and Kinetics (3 credits) | Survey of the basic principles of thermodynamics and kinetics and their application to geological processes; applications to include igneous, metamorphic, hydrothermal, diagenetic, weathering, and aqueous systems. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in GEOL 330 |
| ** GEOL 433: Glacial and Periglacial Geology (3 credits) | Origin and regimen of glaciers. Geomorphology and stratigraphic analysis of glacial and associated non-glacial deposits and environments. Lecture-based. Prerequisite: GEOL 333 |
| **GEOL 434: Quaternary Geology (3 credits) | Survey of global paleoenvironments, including geologic, climatic, and biotic changes during the Quaternary. Examination of the geological record of marine and terrestrial glaciated and non-glaciated environments. Lecture-based. Prerequisite: GEOL 433 |
| GEOL 436: Quaternary Paleoecology (3 cr) | Examination of the fossil record of the Quaternary including vertebrate, invertebrate, and floral assemblages. Emphasis on paleoenvironmental and palaeoclimatological reconstructions. Lecture-based. Field trips required. Prerequisite: GEOL 333 |
| GEOL 437: Paleoclimatology (3 credits) | Paleoclimatic history of the Earth, with emphasis on the Neogene and Quaternary Periods. Survey of marine and terrestrial geological records of paleoclimate, including physical sedimentology, geochemistry, and pollen profiles of ice and sediment cores and speleothems. Prerequisites: GEOL 333 |
| ** GEOL 438: Marine Geology (3 credits) | An introduction to the formation and evolution of Earth’s ocean basins. This includes the basics of plate tectonics; geomorphology of basins; the formation and evolution of oceanic crust; sedimentation processes from near-shore to abyssal plains; the role oceans play in global processes and cycles. Prerequisites: Minimum C grade in GEOL 215 or GEOL 220 |
| ** GEOL 440: Volcanology (3 credits) | Description and classification of volcanoes, volcanic eruptions, and volcanic deposits. Emphasis on the dynamics of volcanic eruptions, pyroclastic rocks, lava flows, and volcanic hazard assessment. Prerequisites: GEOL 327 |
| GEOL 442: Structural Geology (4 credits) | Study of structural features of the earth’s crust and their development. Laboratory work involves study and preparation of geologic maps and cross sections as well as structural analysis techniques. Lecture-based with Lab. Corequisites: PHYS 151A or PHYS 180 and PHYS 180L Prerequisites: MATH 127 or MATH 128, or higher and minimum grade of C in GEOL 220 |
| GEOL 443: Plate Tectonics (3 credits) | Study of the earth’s origin, age, thermal and magnetic history; the dynamics and internal structure of lithospheric plates; the mechanisms and geometric constraints of plate motion; and a review of the motions of plates in the past. Prerequisites: GEOL 442 |
| GEOL 444: Tectonics of Orogenic Belts (3 credits) | Study of crustal deformation and the creation of mountain belts around the world. Emphasis on the comparative structural development of different regions around the globe within the context of plate tectonics. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in both GEOL 220 and GEOL 442 |
| ** GEOL 445/445L Geophysical Methods (4 credits) | Introduction to geophysical methods, including measurement techniques, rock properties, and interpretation methods using seismology, gravity, magnetics, ground penetrating radar, resistivity and well logs. Lecture-based with Lab. Prerequisites: GEOL 101, MATH 182, and PHYS 152 or 182 |
| ** GEOL 446: Geologic Application in Remote Sensing (3 credits) | Introduction in the acquisition, processing, and interpretation of remote sensing data. Topics covered include basic mapping concepts, the structure of remote sensing data and analysis, thermal and radar techniques, and classification schemes. Lecture and Computer-Based Lab. Corequisite: PHYS 152 or PHYS 182 and 182L Prerequisite: GEOL 101 |
| GEOL 448: Field Geology I (3 credits) | Basic tools and techniques of geologic mapping, map preparation, and report writing. Requires 9 hours in the field. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in both GEOL 362 and GEOL 333 |
| GEOL 449: Geochronology (3 credits) | Theoretical foundations and modern analytical techniques used in isotopic dating of rocks. Discussion of applications to specific geologic problems and the thermal significance of isotopic dates. Survey of new dating techniques. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: CHEM 122A and 122L or minimum grade of C in GEOL 330 |
| GEOL 452: Geophysics (3 credits) | Fundamental geophysical concepts and traditional geophysical techniques for the evaluation of the subsurface including gravity, magnetics, and seismic refraction. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: GEOL 100 or GEOL 101 or GEOG 103 and MATH 127 or MATH 128 or higher. All prerequisite courses completed with a minimum grade of C-. |
| ** GEOL 470: Planetary Geology (3 credits) | This course introduces geologic processes throughout our solar system. We will compare geologic processes on extraterrestrial bodies to those that occur on Earth. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in GEOL 220 and GEOL 327 |
| ** GEOL 471: Petroleum Geology (4 credits) | Origin, migration, accumulation, and geologic distribution of petroleum. Surface, sub-surface and geophysical methods of exploration. Lecture-based with Lab. Prerequisites: GEOL 362 and GEOL 442 |
| GEOL 472: Advanced Field Geology (3 credits) | Advanced field techniques including analysis of geologically complex areas; independent and collaborative field projects, and preparation of professional maps and reports. Oral presentation of projects. Requires three-week commitment after spring semester. Corequisites: GEOL 327 Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in both GEOL 442 and GEOL 442 |
| GEOL 474: Hydrogeology (3 credits) | Factors controlling the occurrence and distribution of water resource, its quality and quantity, methods of exploration and development. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: MATH 127, PHYS 151A and PHYS 151L |
| GEOL 475: Contaminant Hydrogeology – Hazardous Site Assessment and Remediation | Theory and practical application of characterization and cleanup techniques for contaminated sites will be covered, including: understanding different pollutants, environmental law and agency guidance, hydrology and contaminant transport processes, non-invasive techniques, typical and innovative monitoring, sampling procedures, natural and enhanced degradation, and effective and emerging cleanup approaches. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: GEOL 474 |
| GEOL 476: Climate Ventures (3 credits) | Focuses on the development of innovative climate change and environmental solutions to move us closer to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals for a thriving Southern Nevada. Includes the development, piloting, and scaling of transformational climate ventures that will contribute to environmental and climate justice in the community. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: SCI 201, GEOL 303, GEOL 340 or GEOL 437 |
| GEOL 477: Geology of Metallic Ore Deposits (4 credits) | Geology of metallic ore deposits, origin, occurrence, and alteration. Application of ore deposit characteristics to exploration. Lecture-based with Lab. Field trips are required. Prerequisites: CHEM 121A and CHEM 121L and minimum C grade in GEOL 215 or GEOL 220 |
| GEOL 478: Hydrogeochemistry (3 credits) | Principles of aquatic geochemistry such as chemical thermodynamics, tableaux, and oxidation reduction and environmental organic geochemistry such as physicochemical properties of organic compounds and air/water/soil exchange of organic compounds for environmental studies. Concepts for practical environmental problems, geochemical modeling, and contaminant transport. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: CHEM 122A and CHEM 122L or minimum C grade in GEOL 330 |
| ** GEOL 485: Engineering Geology (3 credits) | Application of physical geology to the construction industry. Consideration given to landslide problems, sites for dams, bridges, tunnels and canals; and possible control of erosion and sedimentation by rivers and oceans. Lecture-based. Prerequisite: GEOL 333 |
| ** GEOL 488: Microtechniques in Geoscience (3 credits) | Microanalytical techniques including transmitted and reflected light petrology and petrography, micro-imaging scanning electron microscope (SEM) and electron microprobe (EMP), chemical microanalyses (EMP), fluid inclusion microthermometry, and melt inclusion petrography. Project tailored to the student’s interest required. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in GEOL 220 |
| GEOL 491: Seminar (1 credit) | Weekly lecture in selected fields of geoscience; topics vary by semester. Repeatable: May be repeated to a maximum of three credits. Please verify that all credits will apply toward your degree. Prerequisite: Consent of Instructor |
| GEOL 495: Independent Study and Research (1-3 credits) | Independent study and research projects in some field of geology. Open only to upper-division students. Proposed project for study and/or research must be submitted in writing to the department chair for approval and credit evaluation prior to registration. Repeatable: May be repeated to a maximum of six credits. Please verify that all credits will apply towards your degree. Prerequisites: Upper-division student and consent of instructor. |
| GEOL 496: Advanced Topics in Geoscience (1-3 credits) | Variety of advanced studies of current and/or topical interest in specialized areas of geoscience. Repeatable: May be repeated to a maximum of six credits. Please verify that all credits will apply towards your degree. Prerequisites: Varies depending upon the specific topic. |
| GEOL 497: Senior Thesis (3-6 credits) | Independent original research in geoscience. Requires a written thesis and an oral exam. Proposed project of study must be submitted in writing to the department chair and undergraduate coordinator at least two weeks prior to registration. |
Undergraduate Level Courses (Geography- GEOG)
| Course Name/Number | Course Description |
|---|---|
| GEOG 103: Physical Geography of Earth’s Environment (3 credits) | Introduction to the processes that influence weather, rivers, oceans, climate, deserts, glaciers, and their associated ecosystems. Emphasizes the relationships between humans and our environment. Lecture-based offered on campus and online. Satisfies the University Science Requirement. Note: May be combined with GEOG 104 to satisfy the Laboratory Requirement. |
| GEOG 104: Physical Geography Laboratory (1 credit) | Provides an opportunity to apply concepts in physical geography, including map interpretation, computer GIS, meteorological processes, development of landforms and an understanding of the dynamics of the earth. Laboratory-based offered on campus and online. Corequisites: GEOG 103. Satisfies the UNLV Laboratory Requirement |
| GEOG 116: Introduction to Oceanography (3 credits) | Fundamentals of oceanography will be covered, including a brief history followed by the spatial aspects of geological, physical, chemical, and biological oceanography. An emphasis will be placed on the role of oceans on climate change in the past, present, and future, including global warming. Lecture-based. |
| GEOG 140: Conversations with Earth (3 credits) | Discussion of current topics on Earth’s origin, evolution, and habitability. Topics include: radioactive waste storage, catastrophic floods, evolution and extinction on life, climate change, global warming, volcanism, mountain building, ice ages, Nevada geology, ore deposits, and groundwater, among others. |
| GEOG 312: Cartography (3 credits) | Explores science and art of cartography for analysis and communication of geospatial data. Provides technical background on geographical information including geodesy, coordinate systems, scale, and map projections. Geospatial data analysis and classification are covered alongside an extended introduction to the full range of quantitative thematic mapping techniques. Prerequisites: GEOG 103 and GEOG 104 or GEOL 101 |
| GEOG 335: Earth Resources and the Environment (3 credits) | Geological availability, exploitation, and use of nonrenewable natural resources including metallic minerals, nonmetallic, and energy resources. Lecture-based. Component of the Environmental Studies Program. Note: Duplicate credit not allowed in GEOG/GEOL 335 |
| ** GEOG 390: Meteorology and Climatology (3 credits) | Study of the atmosphere and its effect on our daily weather. Horizontal and vertical currents in the atmosphere and the distribution of solar energy, moisture, and storms. Lecture-based. Prerequisite: GEOG 103, MATH 128. |
| GEOG 421: Climatology | Physical characteristics of the atmosphere. World climatic classification. Local atmospheric field study. Lectured-based. Perquisite: GEOG 103 |
| GEOG 430: Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Theory and Applications (4 credits) | Survey of computer-based techniques in the storage, retrieval, analysis, and representation of spatially referenced data. Emphasis on the application of GIS technology to geologic problems such as natural hazard mapping, surface runoff and erosion, and environmental impact assessment. Prerequisites: MATH 127 or MATH 128 |
| ** GEOG 495: Internship (1-6 credits) | Facilitates arrangement of internships toward the degree program for qualifying internships/job experiences in Geoscience. The experience must strengthen future employment and or research opportunities. Credits will be negotiated between the student and faculty advisor prior to enrollment, with 50-60 hours of work experience completed for each credit. Repeatable: May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Please verify that all credits will apply towards your degree. Prerequisites: GEOL 215 or GEOL 220 |
Graduate Level Courses
All graduate courses have a prerequisite of graduate standing.
Some courses are cross-listed with 400-level courses, however, these courses will require additional work done at the 600-level.
| Course Name/Number | Course Description |
|---|---|
| ** GEOL 608: Geostatistics (3 credits) | Analysis of the spatial and temporal variations in geologic, hydrologic, and geochemical data: derived distributions, probability, regression, cluster analysis, correlation and autocorrelation, spectral analysis, point pattern analysis, spatial regression, and interpolation/kriging (primary foci on time series and spatial analysis). |
| ** GEOL 610: Soil Classification and Resource Management (4 credits) | Morphology and classification of soils based on their physical, chemical and mineralogical composition. Introduction to soil genesis, soil mapping, and the relationship of soils to the limitations and potentials of land use. Lecture-based with lab. |
| ** GEOL 619: Medical Geology (3 credits) | Medical Geology is the science surrounding the relationship between geological factors and health in humans, animals, and plants. This class focuses on the relationships between geology and human health. |
| GEOL 625: Principles of Geochemistry (3 credits) | Fundamental geochemical processes operating within the earth’s lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere. Topics include chemical differentiation of the earth, crystal chemistry, mineral stability and phase diagrams, aqueous geochemistry, isotope geochemistry, organic chemistry. Lecture-based. Prerequisite: College level chemistry or geochemistry |
| GEOL 629: Geochemical Thermodynamics and Kinetics (3 credits) | Survey of the basic principles of thermodynamics and kinetics and their application to geological processes; applications to include igneous, metamorphic, hydrothermal, diagenetic, weathering, and aqueous systems. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 630: Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Theory and Application (4 credits) | Survey of computer-based techniques in the storage, retrieval, analysis, and representation of spatially referenced data. Emphasis on the application of GIS technology to geologic problems such as natural hazard mapping, surface runoff and erosion, and environmental impact assessment. Lecture-based with lab. |
| ** GEOL 633: Glacial and Periglacial Geology (3 credits) | Origin and regimen of glaciers. Geomorphology and stratigraphic analysis of glacial and associated non-glacial deposits and environments. Lecture-based. |
| ** GEOL 633: Quaternary Geology (3 credits) | Survey of global paleoenvironments, including geologic, climatic, and biotic changes during the Quaternary. Examination of the geological record of marine and terrestrial glaciated and non-glaciated environments. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 636: Quaternary Paleoecology (3 credits) | Examination of the fossil record of the Quaternary including vertebrate, invertebrate, and floral assemblages. Emphasis on paleoenvironmental and palaeoclimatological reconstructions. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 637: Paleoclimatology (3 credits) | Paleoclimatic history of the Earth, with emphasis on the Neogene and Quaternary Periods. Survey of marine and terrestrial geological records of paleoclimate, including physical sedimentology, geochemistry, and pollen profiles of ice and sediment cores and speleothems. Lecture-based. |
| ** GEOL 638: Marine Geology (3 credits) | Foundations to the formation and evolution of Earth’s ocean basins: basics of plate tectonics; geomorphology of basins; the formation and evolution of oceanic crust; sedimentation processes from near-shore to abyssal plains; the role oceans play in global processes and cycles. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 640: Volcanology (3 credits) | Description and classification of volcanoes, volcanic eruptions, and volcanic deposits. Emphasis on the dynamics of volcanic eruptions, pyroclastic rocks, lava flows, and volcanic hazard assessment. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 643: Plate Tectonics (3 credits) | Study of the earth’s origin, age, thermal and magnetic history; the dynamics and internal structure of lithospheric plates; the mechanisms and geometric constraints of plate motion; and a review of the motions of plates in the past. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 644: Tectonics of Orogenic Belts (3 credits) | Study of crustal deformation and the creation of mountain belts around the world. Emphasis on the comparative structural development of different regions around the globe within the context of plate tectonics. Lecture-based. |
| ** GEOL 645/645L: Geophysical Methods (4 credits) | Introduction to geophysical methods, including measurement techniques, rock properties, and interpretation methods using seismology, gravity, magnetics, ground penetrating radar, resistivity and well logs. Lecture-based with Lab. |
| GEOL 646: Geologic Applications in Remote Sensing (3 credits) | Introduction in the acquisition, processing, and interpretation of remote sensing data. Topics covered include basic mapping concepts, the structure of remote sensing data and analysis, thermal and radar techniques, and classification schemes. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 649: Geochronology (3 credits) | Theoretical foundations and modern analytical techniques used in isotopic dating of rocks. Discussion of applications to specific geologic problems and the thermal significance of isotopic dates. Survey of new dating techniques. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 652: Geophysics (3 credits) | Fundamental geophysical concepts and traditional geophysical techniques for the evaluation of the subsurface including gravity, magnetics, and seismic refraction. Lecture-based. |
| ** GEOL 667X: Geomicrobiology (?) | Study of how prokaryotic organisms (microorganisms) affect geological processes: aspects of microbial metabolism, microbial life in extreme environments, biomineralization processes, the origin of life, and some topics in biogeochemistry and astrobiology. Introduction to methods for the study of organic-inorganic interfaces (microscopy, spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction). Prerequisites: Graduate standing; BIOL 660 (grade of C or better) or GEOL 625 (grade of C or better) or permission of instructor. |
| ** GEOL 670: Planetary Geology (3 credits) | Examines geologic processes throughout our solar system. Compares geologic processes on extraterrestrial bodies to those that occur on Earth. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 671: Petroleum Geology (4 credits) | Origin, migration, accumulation, and geologic distribution of petroleum. Surface, sub-surface and geophysical methods of exploration. Lecture-based with Lab. |
| GEOL 674: Hydrogeology (3 credits) | Factors controlling the occurrence and distribution of water resource, its quality and quantity, methods of exploration and development. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 675: Contaminant Hydrogeology – Hazardous Site Assessment and Remediation (3 credits) | Theory and practical application of characterization and cleanup techniques for contaminated sites will be covered, including: understanding different pollutants, environmental law and agency guidance, hydrology and contaminant transport processes, non-invasive techniques, typical and innovative monitoring, sampling procedures, natural and enhanced degradation, and effective and emerging cleanup approaches. Lecture-based. Prerequisites: GEOL 674 |
| GEOL 677: Geology of Metallic Ore Deposits (4 credits) | Geology of metallic ore deposits, origin, occurrence, and alteration. Application of ore deposit characteristics to exploration. Lecture-based with Lab. |
| GEOL 678: Hydrogeochemistry (3 credits) | Principles of aquatic geochemistry such as chemical thermodynamics, tableaux, and oxidation reduction and environmental organic geochemistry such as physicochemical properties of organic compounds and air/water/soil exchange of organic compounds for environmental studies. Concepts for practical environmental problems, geochemical modeling, and contaminant transport. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 685: Engineering Geology (3 credits) | Application of physical geology to the construction industry. Consideration given to landslide problems, sites for dams, bridges, tunnels and canals; and possible control of erosion and sedimentation by rivers and oceans. Lecture-based. |
| ** GEOL 688: Microtechniques in Geoscience (3 credits) | Microanalytical techniques including transmitted and reflected light petrology and petrography, micro-imaging scanning electron microscope (SEM) and electron microprobe (EMP), chemical microanalyses (EMP), fluid inclusion microthermometry, and melt inclusion petrography. Project tailored to the student’s interest required. |
| ** GEOL 699X: ICP-MS Techniques in Geoscience | Introduces state-of-the-art geochemical measurements using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Includes theory (lecture) and application (lab) as well as field work in Southern Nevada. Laboratory-based. |
| GEOL 701: Research Methods in Geoscience (3 credits) | Discussion of the processes of scientific research and research design as applied to modern geoscience. Includes scientific approaches to field and laboratory research, research and professional ethics, writing, and public presentation. Model thesis prospectus and grant proposals prepared. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 703: Topics in Advanced Geochemistry (3 credits) | This course will cover topics in advanced geochemistry, such as thermodynamics, kinetics, oxidation-reduction, acids and bases, weathering, and other topics of interest. Lecture-based. |
| GEOL 707: Stable Isotope Geochemistry (3 credits) | Investigates stable isotopes in the hydrologic and geologic cycles, and their use as tracers in paleoclimatology, hydrogeology, and oceanography. Theory and research applications of stable isotopes in geologic, biologic, water, and atmospheric samples, including carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, strontium, and sulfur isotopes. |
| GEOL 708: Radiogenic Isotope Geochemistry (3 credits) | Principles of radiogenic isotope geochemistry as a monitor of geochemical processes in the mantle, lithosphere and hydrosphere; applications to petrology, tectonics, economic geology, marine geology and paleoclimatology. Prerequisites: GEOL 330, GEOL 426, MATH 181, or equivalent, or consent of instructor. |
| ** GEOL 709: Field Methods in Hydrogeology (3 credits) | A survey of techniques used to investigate field problems in hydrogeology. Data collection, analysis, and professional presentation of results are emphasized. Topics may include: water balance measures, water table mapping, estimation of hydraulic parameters, and ground-water monitoring. Additional topics suggested by students may also be explored. |
| GEOL 710: Igneous Petrology (3 credits) | Origin of igneous rocks, relation of magma types to tectonic settings, physical properties of magmas, application of trace elements and isotopes to petrogenesis, modeling of crystal fractionation and partial melting, phase diagrams. |
| ** GEOL 711: Principles of Hydrology and Hydraulics (3 credits) | Consideration of modern concepts of hydrology and hydraulics. Includes coverage of statistical methods of analysis, unsteady flow, channel design, modeling and simulation, urban hydrology, and design of hydraulic structures. |
| ** GEOL 712: Watershed Hydrology (3 credits) | Concepts and processes controlling water movement and distribution within the watershed; analysis techniques for understanding watershed dynamics; numerical simulation of various watershed-scale hydrologic processes. |
| ** GEOL 713: Flow and Transport in Unsaturated Fractured Media (3 credits) | Explores the current state of understanding regarding fluid flow and contaminant transport in unsaturated fractured geologic media (e.g., rock, soil) through review of recent literature. Competing conceptual models are contrasted in light of existing capabilities for numerical simulation at the scale of pertinent applied problems. |
| GEOL 715: Advanced Hydrogeology (4 credits) | Advanced concepts used in ground water investigations, including flow system analysis, resource evaluation, exploration, development, and monitoring. Prerequisites: GEOL 674 |
| GEOL 719: Vadose Zone Hydrology (3 credits) | Basic physical properties of soils and water and the physical principles governing the soil-water system. Modeling the transport of moisture and chemicals in unsaturated soil with applications to practical field problems. Prerequisites: GEOL 674 |
| GEOL 725: Seminar in Petrology (3 credits) | Analysis of current problems, concepts, and research in petrology and closely related fields Prerequisites: Consent of instructor |
| GEOL 727: Metamorphic Petrology (4 credits) | Application of field studies, petrography, mineralogy, phase equilibria, and isotopic methods to the study of metamorphic rocks and crustal evolution; explores relationships among metamorphism, tectonics and thermal evolution of the crust. Prerequisites: GEOL 429/629 or equivalent, or consent of instructor |
| GEOL 730: Seminar in Quaternary Studies (3 credits) | Evaluation of current methodology focused on solving problems of Quaternary chronology, geomorphic processes, and environmental reconstruction. Emphasis on pluvial and post-pluvial environments of the western United States, the evolution of landforms and the development of stratigraphic units and surficial geology originating during the past three million years. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor |
| GEOL 735: Seminar in Environmental Geology (3 credits) | Application of basic geologic concepts to environmental problems: emphasis on geologic hazards, waste disposal, urban planning, resource policy issues, and environmental programs. Prerequisites: GEOL 672 or equivalent, or consent of instructor |
| GEOL 737: Advanced Paleoclimatology (3 credits) | Advanced study in paleoclimatology. Includes orbital (Milankovitch) forcing; origin of millennial-scale climate variability; ice sheet history; records of paleoceanography; tropical monsoon variations, and key records of global and hemispherical paleoclimate, including Antarctica and Greenland ice core records, long speleothem chronologies, and key terrestrial archives of late Quaternary paleoclimate. |
| GEOL 742: Seminar in Volcanology (3 credits) | Analysis of current problems, concepts, and research in volcanology and closely related fields. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor |
| ** GEOL 743: Seminar in Planetary Geology (3 credits) | Analysis of current problems, concepts, and research in planetary geology with emphasis on newly available data. Prerequisite: consent of instructor |
| GEOL 744: Tectonics and Structures (3 credits) | Analysis of upper crustal deformation with emphasis on faulting, neotectonics and seismic interpretation; includes a group research project with field and literature data collection, analysis and results suitable for presentation at a professional conference. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor |
| ** GEOL 745: Advanced Structural Geology (3 credits) | Analysis of deformation of the earth’s crust with emphasis on deformation mechanisms operative in rocks at different crustal levels; the geometry, kinematics, and dynamics of common geological structural associations, and mechanism and styles of deformation in orogenic belts. Prerequisites: GEOL 349, GEOL442 |
| GEOL 746: Strain and Microstructural Analysis (4 credits) | Examination of the principles and techniques of finite and incremental strain analysis and their application to naturally deformed rocks. Investigation of plastic deformation processes and deformation mechanisms, and recognition and interpretation of microstructures developed during deformation. Prerequisites: GEOL 341 or consent of instructor |
| GEOL 474: Geological Evolution of Western North America (3 credits) | Study of the geological evolution of western North America. Emphasis on the stratigraphic, structural, and tectonic development of the continent within the framework of plate tectonics. Prerequisites: GEOL 223, 341, 462 |
| GEOL 749: Advanced Geochronology and Thermochronology (3 credits) | Detailed discussion of isotopic dating of rocks with application to geologic problems. Diffusion theory and reconstruction of thermal histories of rocks. Includes surface exposure dating using cosmogenic isotopes, study of uranium series disequilibrium, luminescence, electron spin resonance, and 14c dating. Prerequisites: GEOL 426 |
| ** GEOL 750: Seminar in Paleobiology (3 credits) | Fossil record as a tool for understanding evolutionary processes, early history of life, eruptive radiation, mass extinction, macroevolution, and origin of higher taxa. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in Geology or Biology, or consent of instructor |
| GEOL 755: Seminar in Paleontology (3 credits) | Special topics of current interest in paleontology, with emphasis on Great Basin fossil faunas. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in Geology or Biology, or consent of instructor |
| ** GEOL 760: Advanced Spatial Modeling with GIS (4 credits) | Advanced study in computer-based techniques for storage, retrieval, analysis, and representation of spatially referenced data. Emphasis on development of spatially distributed models in the geosciences using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. Students required to develop system models in their chosen thesis area; Lab required. Prerequisite: GEOL 630 |
| GEOL 762: Geological Applications of Computers (3 credits) | Use of computer algorithms to solve geological problems, geostatistics, modeling of geological processes. Prerequisites: CS 116 and 169 |
| ** GEOL 765: Seminar in Stratigraphy (3 credits) | Special topics in stratigraphy with emphasis on southern Nevada and adjacent regions. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor |
| ** GEOL 766: Earth Systems Change | Investigate long-term and short-term global climate changes, ocean redox evolution, and their impacts on biospheric innovations. Explore interactions between Earth’s sub spheres (lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere) during times of extreme environmental changes in Earth history and testing methods and techniques for such interactions. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor |
| GEOL 767: Virtual Hydrologic University: Recent Advances in Hydrology | Online courses offered through the Consortium of Universities for the Advancement of Hydrologic Science, Inc. (CUAHSI), with modules on urban hydrology, snow hydrology, ecohydrology, agricultural water usage, hydrologic modeling and remote sensing of hydrology. Recommend an undergraduate degree in earth science or related field. Repeating this course requires instructor consent. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor |
| GEOL 770: Sedimentary Basins (3 credits) | Analysis of current ideas concerning the plate tectonic setting and evolution of sedimentary basins. Emphasis on characteristic styles of basin sedimentation and resulting stratigraphic framework, provenance of basin fill, chronologic relationship of tectonic events and sedimentation, and methods of basin analysis. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor |
| GEOL 772 & 772L: Reflection Seismic Data Interpretation Laboratory (4 credits) | Fundamentals of geologic interpretation using seismic reflection data. Introduction to seismic data acquisition and processing. Interpretation techniques include well log to seismicities, contour maps and time-to depth conversion. Interpretation of data from different structural settings, seismic stratigraphy, and 3-D seismic interpretation. Lab required. Prerequisite: consent of instructor |
| **GEOL 773: Seminar in Geophysics (1-3 credits) | Specialized topics in geophysics with an emphasis on current analysis techniques and problems. Prerequisites: consent of instructor |
| GEOL 775: Seminar in Economic Geology (3 credits) | Analysis of current problems, concepts and research in economic geology and closely related fields. Prerequisites: GEOL 677 or equivalent, or consent of instructor |
| ** GEOL 776: Paleosols Records of Past Landscapes (3 credits) | Recognition and analysis of soil horizons preserved in the rock record. Use of paleosols for reconstructing paleoclimates, tectonics, depositional environments, and other aspects of geologic history. Prerequisites: GEOL 462 (or equivalent) or consent of instructor |
| GEOL 777: Instrumental Techniques in Geology (3 credits) | Use of modern instrumentation to acquire geological and geochemical data. Includes, but not limited to, the practical application of x-ray diffraction and fluorescence and atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor |
| **GEOL 779: Theory of Ore Deposition (3 credits) | Study of physical and chemical processes which contribute to metal solubility, transport, and precipitation. Includes fundamental geochemical and thermodynamic concepts as they apply to ore and gangue mineral stability under various geologic conditions. Prerequisites: GEOL 426, 477 |
| **GEOL 780: Terrigenous Depositional Systems (3 credits) | Examination of modern nonmarine and marine depositional environments dominated by terrigenous sediments, processes that operate in these settings, and responses of sediment to processes. Establish criteria for recognizing these environments and processes in ancient terrigenous sequences. Prerequisites: GEOL 462 (or equivalent) or consent of instructor |
| GEOL 781: Carbonate Depositional Systems (3 credits) | Examination of modern non-marine and marine depositional environments dominated by carbonate sediments, organisms that produce sediments, processes that operate in these settings, and responses of sediment to the processes. Establish criteria for recognizing these environments and processes in ancient carbonate sequences. Prerequisites: GEOL 462 or consent of instructor |
| **GEOL 782: Sandstone Petrology (4 credits) | Description, classification, and interpretation of terrigenous sedimentary rocks. Emphasis on petrographic methods applied to sandstones and interpretation of provenance of sedimentary sequences. Corequisite: GEOL 780, or consent of instructor |
| **GEOL 783: Carbonate Petrology (4 credits) | Study of the physical and chemical factors important in the genesis and diagenesis of carbonate sediments and rocks. Various analytical techniques covered, with emphasis on thin section petrography for deciphering rock components and diagenesis. Corequisite: GEOL 781, or consent of instructor |
| GEOL 785: Seminar in Sedimentology (1-4 credits) | Analysis of current problems, concepts, and research in sedimentary geology and related fields. Emphasis may be upon the genesis and diagenesis of specific sedimentary sequences or upon particular depositional or diagenetic environments. Prerequisites: Either GEOL 780 or GEOL 781, or consent of instructor |
| GEOL 786: Soils Applications: Paleoclimate, Neotectonics, Archeology (3 credits) | Special topics of current interest in soil science with emphasis on the use of soils for applications in geomorphology, paleoclimate, neotectonics, and/or archeology. Prerequisites: Graduate standing in geology, biology, anthropology, or consent of instructor. |
| GEOL 787: Thesis Research (1-6 credits) | Supervised research prior to approval of master’s program prospectus. Prerequisites: Enrollment in the M.S. Program |
| GEOL 789: Dissertation Research (1-6 credits) | Supervised research prior to advancement to candidacy in the doctoral program. Prerequisites: Enrollment in the doctoral program |
| GEOL 792: Seminar in Hydroscience (1-3 credits) | Specialized topics in Hydroscience. |
| GEOL 793: Independent Study and Research (1-3 credits) | Independent study and research projects in some field of geology. Proposed project for study must be submitted in writing to the graduate program coordinator and the department chair for approval and credit evaluation at least two weeks prior to registration. May be repeated for credit, but only three credits are permitted per instructor, unless special permission is received. Prerequisite: consent of instructor |
| GEOL 794: Directed Readings (1-3 credits) | Supervised readings on special topics in consultation with a geoscience graduate faculty member. S/F grading only. May be repeated for a maximum of six credits. Requires consent of student’s academic advisor. Prerequisites: Admission to Geoscience Ph.D program, consent of instructor |
| GEOL 795: Poster Presentation and Time Management (1 credit) | Presentation of geological information in poster format and time management skills. Poster presentation includes layout and design, focus, data versus interpretation, computer graphics, verbal presentation and referencing. Time management issues include scheduling, planning, organization, and productivity. Prerequisites: Graduate standing in Geoscience |
| GEOL 796: Advanced Topics in Geoscience (1-3 credits) | Variety of advanced studies of current and/or topical interest in specialized areas of geoscience. |
| GEOL 797: Thesis (1-6 credits) | Research, analysis, and writing towards completion of thesis and subsequent defense. Thesis and defense preparation. S/F grading only. May be repeated, but only six credits applied to student’s program. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor |
| GEOL 799: Dissertation (3-6 credits) | Research analysis and writing toward completion of dissertation and subsequent defense. S/F grading only. May be repeated, but only six credits applied to student’s program. Prerequisite: Successful completion of qualifying examination and department approval |