Please visit the catalog archive for details about 2022-23 degrees and programs.

 
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Course Descriptions

 

View real-time listing of classes and sections offered.

NOTE: Individual course fees are subject to change. See your account summary in myUVU for accurate charges.

GEO-Geology
GEO 1010PP
Introduction to Geology
3 Credit Hours

Studies planet earth: its materials, structure, dynamics, and surface features. Taken alone it is designed for non-science students who want a broad introduction to earth science and a greater appreciation of their physical surroundings. Taken in conjunction with laboratory exercises in GEO 1015, the class is sufficiently rigorous to articulate as an introductory geology class.

GEO 1015
Introduction to Geology Laboratory
1 Credit Hours

Designed to be taken in conjunction with GEO 1010. Includes the identification of rocks, minerals, basic land forms and structures. Studies geologic processes occurring in desert, glacial, mountainous and other environments. Taken with GEO 1010, the class will articulate as an introductory earth science class. Course Lab fee of $10 for transportation, lab applies.

GEO 101HPP
Introduction to Geology
3 Credit Hours

Studies the structural and dynamic systems of the earth that create our environment. Stresses geology and related topics chosen for astronomy and meteorology.

GEO 1020 (Cross-listed with: BIOL 1200)PP
Prehistoric Life
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 1010 or GEO 1010 recommended

Studies prehistoric life. Uses the concepts of biology and physical science. Studies major groups of ancient animals and plants as found in the rock record. Includes aspects and fundamental concepts of biology, ecology, and geology.

GEO 1030PP
Natural Disasters and the Environment
3 Credit Hours

Provides a broad introduction to Geology and the Earth Sciences through the lens of natural disasters and environmental interactions. Prepares students to think critically about what constitutes scientific knowledge and how such knowledge is produced and used. Studies the structure, composition, and dynamics of the Earth and how it changes through time. Examines how geologic processes, operating on many temporal scales, can impact humans and ecosystems through disasters related to tectonics (e.g., volcanism and earthquakes), surface processes (e.g., landslides, floods, sinkholes, permafrost melt) and environmental change (e.g., global warming and sea level rise). Builds foundation of knowledge about geology and pairs that with basic analytical skills to evaluate critical issues related to the environment and society.

GEO 1040PP
The Dinosaurian World
3 Credit Hours

Provides a broad introduction to Geology and the Earth Sciences through the lens of dinosaurs and other life during the Mesozoic Period of Earth's history. Prepares students to think critically about what constitutes scientific knowledge and how such knowledge is produced and used, especially when applied to organisms and ecosystems that no longer exist. Examines how plate tectonic processes and mass extinctions shaped dinosaurian evolution and how knowledge of rocks, minerals, and fossilization allows us to reconstruct ancient ecosystems. Encourages students to work collaboratively in evaluating paleontological data, thinking critically about unknown issues related to dinosaurian evolution, and to devise testable hypotheses to answer complex research questions.

GEO 1050PP
Geology of National Parks
3 Credit Hours

Teaches the fundamentals of physical geology through the lens of the Unites States National Parks with a special focus on Arches, Zion, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Bryce Canyon National Parks of Utah.

GEO 1080PP
Introduction to Oceanography
3 Credit Hours

Introduces the origin and development of the oceans, marine geology and its effect on life in the seas. Discusses waves, tides, currents, and their impact on shorelines, the ocean floor, and basins. Examines physical processes as they relate to oceanographic concepts. Includes media as an alternative to the actual oceanic experience. Completers should have a basic knowledge and appreciation of the ocean's impact to the world's ecology.

GEO 1085
Introduction to Oceanography Laboratory
1 Credit Hours

A basic laboratory experience in the physical aspects of Oceanography. Introduces applied skills in Oceanography such as Marine Geology and Oceanographic Chemistry. Studies the physical parameters that allow marine life to flourish. Uses maps to study the structure of the sea floor and its relationship to plate tectonics. Provides hands-on experiences with salinity and marine chemistry. Course lab fee of $10 applies.

GEO 1220PP
Historical Geology
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010

Examines the physical and biological evolution of the Earth from its origins 4.6 billion years ago up to present day. Reviews fundamental processes and principles of geology and biology. Develops tools for interpreting rocks and the fossil record. Explores important changes through geologic time, including plate tectonics, paleogeography, mountain building, geochemical cycles, climate, sea level, and the origin and evolution of the great diversity of life on Earth.

GEO 1225
Historical Geology Laboratory
1 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010
Prerequisite(s) or Corequisite(s): GEO 1220

Is designed to be taken in conjunction with GEO 1220. Reviews fundamental processes and principles of geology and biology. Develops skills for identifying main types of minerals, rocks, and fossils. Develops tools for interpreting Earth history through analysis of rocks, fossils, and paleoclimate data. Develops skills for correlating strata and reading geologic maps. Includes field trips to study local outcrops. Course lab fee of $10 applies.

GEO 202R (Cross-listed with: BIOL 202R)
Science Excursion
1 Credit Hours

For students interested in the natural world. Explores a wide variety of topics in science, including geology, botany, astronomy, zoology, ecology, and archeology. Consists of a minimum of a four-day field trip. Participants should gain an increased understanding of several fields of scientific study. May be repeated as many times as desired for interest, however a maximum of 3 credits may count toward graduation.

GEO 204R (Cross-listed with: BIOL 204R)PP
Natural History Excursion
3 Credit Hours

For students interested in the natural world. Promotes an in-depth look at a wide variety of topics in science, including geology, botany, astronomy, zoology, ecology, and archeology. Consists of 15 hours of lecture plus an appropriate field trip. Participants should gain an interdisciplinary understanding of science and nature. May be repeated for up to six credits toward graduation.

GEO 2070 (Cross-listed with: BIOL 2070)
Desert Natural History
3 Credit Hours

Integrates the teaching of geological and biological systems of the southwestern deserts. Discusses the ecology and geology of unique desert ecosystems; the rocks and strata providing the foundation of the landscape; the evolutionary and geological processes that mold the landscape and the species within it over time; and, the relationships between the physical and biological aspects of the ecosystem, including humans. Provides an intense, hands-on field course where faculty and students participate together in daily activities in a natural setting. Is held for part of the time on the UVU main campus and part of the time at the Capitol Reef Field Station. Requires students to live and learn at the field station for approximately 1/3 of the course.

GEO 2500
Introduction to Field Geology
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1015, GEO 1225

Introduces students to qualitative and quantitative methods used for field geology building upon introductory courses in physical geology and historical geology. Provides students an opportunity to learn and apply field geology skills at a lower-division level, and prepares students for upper-division classes, such as Earth Materials, Sedimentary Geology, Structure and Tectonics, Geomorphology, Paleontology, and Field Experience. Includes a weekly lecture, introducing students to geologic mapping concepts, and several practical field-based experiences occurring outside of normal class schedules.

GEO 3000
Environmental Geochemistry
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010, (MATH 1050 or MATH 1055), CHEM 1210, University Advanced Standing

Introduces low temperature, environmental geochemistry with a focus on the use of quantitative measures to understand surficial geologic processes. Includes equilibrium thermodynamics and kinetics of chemical reactions, aqueous solutions, sorption and complexation, oxidation-reduction reactions, and the chemistry of the continental, marine, and atmospheric environments. Incorporates numerous examples to demonstrate how the conceptual framework can be applied in solving practical problems.

GEO 3070 (Cross-listed with: BIOL 3070)
Advanced Desert Natural History
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): University Advanced Standing

Integrates the geological and biological systems of the southwestern deserts. Includes discussion of the ecology and geology of unique desert ecosystems; the rocks and strata providing the foundation of the landscape; the evolutionary and geological processes that mold the landscape and the species within it over time; and, the relationships between the physical and biological aspects of the ecosystem, including humans. Provides an intense, hands-on field course where faculty and students participate together in daily activities and experimental design in a natural setting. Is held part of the time on the UVU main campus and part of the time at the Capitol Reef Field Station. Requires students to live and learn at the field station for approximately 1/3 of the course.

GEO 3080
Earth Materials WE
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010, GEO 1015, and University Advanced Standing; CHEM 1210 or other chemistry course recommended
Corequisite(s): GEO 3085

Investigates the physical characteristics, chemical properties, formation, and distribution of geologically significant igneous and metamorphic rocks and minerals. Develops ability to examine rocks and minerals, and analyze their chemical properties to understand geologic processes. Involves field trips, including the possibility of weekend trips. Course lab fee of $22 for transportation, lab applies.

GEO 3085
Earth Materials Laboratory
1 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010, GEO 1015, and University Advanced Standing; CHEM 1210 or other chemistry course recommended
Corequisite(s): GEO 3080

Focuses on identification and classification of common rocks and minerals in hand sample and introduces optical mineralogy and petrography. Investigates the occurrence and formation of common rocks and minerals through direct observation of their properties and occurrence. Involves field trips, including the possibility of weekend trips.

GEO 3100
Isotope Geochemistry
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010, (MATH 1050 or MATH 1055), CHEM 1210 and University Advanced Standing

Provides an introduction to the principles and applications of isotope geochemistry, which plays an important role in a wide variety of geological, biological, and environmental investigations, and summarizes the analytical techniques used in the field. Examines the theory of radiometric dating and provides an overview of the most commonly used geochronometers. Focuses on stable isotopes with emphasis on oxygen, hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur and with applications in paleoclimatology, ecology and paleoecology, archeology, and hydrology.

GEO 3105
Isotope Geochemistry Laboratory
1 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010, (MATH 1050 or MATH 1055), CHEM 1210 and University Advanced Standing

Explores the analysis and interpretation of real isotope data and provides hands-on experience in their use to solve problems and answer questions in geochronology, paleoclimatology, hydrology, and archaeology. Requires data analysis utilizing Microsoft Excel.

GEO 3200
Geologic Hazards
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010, GEO 1015, and University Advanced Standing
Corequisite(s): GEO 3205

Examines the ways in which geologic hazards (including earthquakes, landslides, volcanoes, problem soils, ground subsidence and earth fissures) impact civilization. Studies the processes responsible for these hazards, how to geologically assess whether each of these hazards is a concern at a particular site, how each type of hazard can be planned for, and what laws and regulations need to be considered during site investigations. Facilitates discussion of hazards, vulnerability, risk and societal planning/mitigation. Course Lab fee of $21 for transportation, lab applies.

GEO 3205
Geologic Hazards Laboratory
1 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010, GEO 1015, and University Advanced Standing
Corequisite(s): GEO 3200

Investigates geologic hazards through field observation, mapping, geospatial analyses, quantitative analyses, and report writing. Applies geologic hazards science to associated laws and regulations. Facilitates discussion of hazards, vulnerability, risk and societal planning/mitigation.

GEO 3500 (Cross-listed with: GEOG 3500)
Geomorphology WE
4 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010 or GEOG 1000; University Advanced Standing

Examines the geologic processes operating at the Earth's surface to understand the origin of our planet's varied landscapes. Explores how landforms respond to climate change, tectonic forcing, and changes in land use. Addresses common geomorphic processes including weathering, soils, hill slope processes, fluvial processes and landforms, aeolian transport, glacial and periglacial environments, karst, and coastal processes. Course lab fee of $21 applies.

GEO 3700
Structure and Tectonics
4 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1220, GEO 3080, (PHYS 2010 or PHYS 2210), and University Advanced Standing

Investigates the fundamentals of global plate tectonics and rock deformation. Includes applications to petroleum geology, environmental geology, and engineering geology. Explores geometric techniques of structural analysis in the laboratory. Involves field trips, possibly including weekend trips. Course lab fee of $21 for transportation, lab applies.

GEO 4080
Petrology
3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 3080, CHEM 1220, and University Advanced Standing
Corequisite(s): GEO 4085

Examines the Earth’s rock factories, specifically igneous and metamorphic processes and how they are related to plate tectonics. Delves into geochemistry, applied thermodynamics, and kinetics in igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks as it pertains to the genesis of these rocks. Further explores the techniques of petrographic microscopy and introduces other analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, electron probe microanalysis, and mass spectrometry. Requires students to collect, analyze, and interpret petrologic data to gain insight into a petrogenetic process. Course lab fee of $21 applies.

GEO 4085
Petrology Laboratory
1 Credit Hours
Corequisite(s): GEO 4080

Takes a hands-on approach to petrology. Provides opportunities for the student to collect and work with data to illuminate a variety of petrologic processes. Implements rock and mineral sample reference collections, field trip(s), petrographic microscopes, sample preparation labs, analytical instrumentation to investigate petrogenetic processes.

GEO 4500
Sedimentary Geology
4 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1220, GEO 1225, GEO 3080, and University Advanced Standing; CHEM 1210 or other chemistry recommended

Explores the origin, classification, and spatiotemporal distribution of sedimentary rocks. Examines the fundamental principles of sedimentology, petrology, and stratigraphy. Reviews weathering processes and soil formation. Develops analytical skills regarding particle erosion, transportation, and deposition. Develops skills for identifying and classifying sedimentary rocks. Develops tools for describing stratigraphic sections and interpreting the rock record. Develops skills for correlating strata and reading geologic maps. Develops critical thinking and writing skills. Includes field trips to study various outcrops in the state of Utah. Lab access fee of $21 applies.

GEO 4510
Paleontology
4 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1220, GEO 1225, GEO 3080, (BIOL 1010 or BIOL 1610), and University Advanced Standing; GEO 4500 recommended

Exposes students to a wide variety of topics encompassed within the field of paleontology. Offers substantial knowledge of the major groups of life represented in the fossil record. Discusses the most fundamental concepts in paleontology, such as key principles of evolution and paleoecology. Offers an understanding of what paleontologists do, why the field is so crucial, and why all earth scientists should have at least a basic understanding of paleontology. Requires two weekend field trips (dates will be discussed in class). Course lab fee of $21 for transportation, lab applies.

GEO 4600
Field Experience
6 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 3080, GEO 3700, GEO 4500, and University Advanced Standing

Is an intensive field course giving students hands-on experience with several aspects of Earth Science field work. Involves 8 to 10 hours of field work per day, for three to five days per week, for four to six weeks. Is the required capstone experience for Geology majors. Course lab fee of $650 for practical experience applies.

GEO 4790
Hydrogeology
4 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): MATH 1050 or MATH 1080, GEO 1010, and University Advanced Standing (MATH 1210, PHYS 2210 OR PHYS 2010, and GEOG 3600 or GIS 3600 Recommended)

Reviews concepts related to the occurrence and flow of groundwater and the management of these resources. Examines the governing equations, analyses of aquifer properties, well tests and construction, regional groundwater flow, field methods, groundwater modeling, and groundwater contamination. Provides opportunities for students to investigate a specific problem, field site, and/or service learning project related to hydrogeology. Course fee of $21 applies.

GEO 480R
Earth Science Seminar
.5 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): University Advanced Standing

Exposes students to current research topics in Earth Science and related fields. Provides an opportunity for students to attend bi-weekly lectures presented by department faculty and invited speakers. Incorporates lectures that are usually a summary of the speaker's recent research results, or investigative projects in an earth science industry. May be repeated for a maximum of 1 credits toward graduation.

GEO 482R (Cross-listed with: ENVT 482R)
Geologic Environmental Internship
1 to 3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010 or ENVT 1110; 12 credit hours of any GEO, GEOG, or ENVT courses; declared major in any Earth Science program and University Advanced Standing

Engages students in supervised geologic or environmental work in a professional setting. Requires approval by the Chair of the Department of Earth Science. Includes maintaining a journal of student experiences and preparing a paper summarizing their experience. A maximum of 3 credit hours may be counted toward graduation. May be graded Credit/No Credit.

GEO 489R
Student Research
1 to 4 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1015, Junior or Senior standing, instructor approval, and University Advanced Standing

Provides students the opportunity to conduct research under the mentorship of an Earth Science department faculty member. Includes any combination of literature reviews, original research, and/or participation in ongoing departmental projects. Involves students in the methodology of original geologic research. Requires preparation and presentation of oral and/or written reports, typically presented in a public forum. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits total toward graduation.

GEO 490R
Special Topics in Geology
1 to 4 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010, GEO 1015, Junior or Senior standing, instructor approval, and University Advanced Standing

Explores or examines special topics in geology. Topics vary depending on student demand and current topics of significance in geology. May be repeated for a maximum of 8 credits toward graduation.

GEO 495R
Independent Study
1 to 4 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): GEO 1010, GEO 1015, and University Advanced Standing

Requires an independent study program to be developed with one or more Earth Science faculty member and approved by a committee of Earth Science faculty. Includes some combination of literature review, field work, numerical analysis, and/or laboratory analysis. Involves the preparation of a written report. An oral presentation may also be required. May be repeated for up to 4 credits.

GEO 525R
Advanced Topics for Geology Teachers
1 to 5 Credit Hours
Prerequisite(s): Departmental Approval

For licensed teachers or teachers seeking to recertify their earth science or integrated science endorsements from the Utah State Office of Education. Teaches principles of geology and pedagogy of teaching geology for teachers in public or private schools. Emphasis will be placed on correlation with the Utah Core Curriculum, the National Science Education Standards, and the Benchmarks of Project 2061. Topics will vary.