Geology: Environmental Geology (A)

About GEOL 1400 A

Introduction to geologic processes and materials pertinent to environmental problems: ground water movement, supply, and contamination, waste disposal, flooding, subsidence, and landslides. Local field trips. Designed for intended Natural Science majors.

Notes

Must register for a lab GEOL 1400 A01 - A09; Lab/Field trip fee $55; PACE students with permission and override

Section Description

This course explores the geologic processes that shape our environment and affect society, including natural hazards, water resources and contamination, soil processes, and climate change. Through lectures, discussions, exercises, and indoor and outdoor laboratory activities, you will develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand interactions between human activities and Earth systems.
Course Goals and Objectives
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
• Observe and describe geologic processes that affect the environment and society.
• Interpret geologic data within the framework of established scientific theories and models.
• Critically evaluate human impacts on the environment and predict potential environmental change.
• Apply a field-based, hypothesis-driven approach to environmental geology.
• Use scientific reasoning and critical thinking to analyze environmental problems and evaluate possible solutions.

Section Expectation

The course combines lectures that introduce fundamental concepts in environmental geology with weekly laboratory sessions that provide hands-on experience investigating real-world environmental problems. While laboratory topics may complement lecture material, they are designed as independent opportunities to develop skills in observation, data collection, analysis, environmental assessment, and scientific reasoning. Laboratory activities will take place indoors or outdoors and include field observations, data collection, environmental assessment, and local field trips.

You should be prepared to participate in outdoor activities under a variety of weather conditions and should be capable of moderate physical activity, including walking on uneven terrain. Appropriate field clothing, such as sturdy footwear, a warm jacket, hat, and gloves, is required.

Evaluation

Grades will be based on frequent reading quizzes, weekly laboratory reports, two midterm exams, and a final exam. Class attendance is required.

Important Dates

Note: These dates may change before registration begins.

Courses may be cancelled due to low enrollment. Show your interest by enrolling.

Resources

• Parking
• PACE Course Pricing
• Textbooks

Taken With This Course