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Earth Sciences (ESCI) Courses

Academic Unit: Earth Sciences, Dept of

ESCI 1001 - Earth and Its Environments [ENV PHYS]
(4 cr; Student Option; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 1001 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 1101 (starting 02-SEP-08, was GEO 1101 until 06-SEP-11), ESCI 1105 (starting 06-SEP-11, ending 16-JAN-07, was GEO 1105 until 06-SEP-11), ESCI 1005 (starting 20-JAN-15, ending 17-JAN-06, starting 07-SEP-04, was GEO 1005 until 06-SEP-11)
Physical processes that shape the Earth: volcanoes, earthquakes, plate tectonics, glaciers, rivers. Current environmental issues/global change. Lecture/lab. Optional field experience.
ESCI 1003 - Dinosaurs and Our World [ENV BIOL]
(4 cr; Student Option; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 1003 until 06-SEP-11
Dinosaur evolution, ecology, and extinction. Evolution of modern ecosystems from the Mesozoic Era to the Anthropocene (and dinosaurs roles in that evolution). Human interactions with our environment and our roles as historic agents. Structure and function of biological forms, interpreting past life, and the social history of scientific inquiry.
ESCI 1004 - Music of the Earth [MATH]
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Every Spring)
The purpose of this class is to introduce some core mathematical concepts to students that may not be mathematically inclined. To do so, we will begin by exploring the mathematical expression of familiar concepts in sound and music. Examples include relating the pitch and volume of a pure tone to the frequency and amplitude of a sinusoidal function. We will build on the complexity of the concepts to include Fourier spectra and how they relate, for example, to the timbre of an instrument. The other key component of the class is exploring how these same concepts are used in understanding our planet, from its internal structure to variations in its climate.
ESCI 1005 - Geology and Cinema [ENV PHYS]
(4 cr; Student Option; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 1005 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 1101 (starting 02-SEP-08, was GEO 1101 until 06-SEP-11), ESCI 1105 (starting 06-SEP-11, ending 16-JAN-07, was GEO 1105 until 06-SEP-11), ESCI 1001 (starting 23-MAY-05, was GEO 1001 until 06-SEP-11)
Physical processes shaping the Earth, materials it comprises, its nearly five billion year history as told spectacularly, but often wrongly, by Hollywood movies.
ESCI 1006 - Oceanography [ENV PHYS]
(4 cr; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 1006 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 1106, GEO 5006 (inactive)
How various processes in the ocean interact. Marine biology, waves, tides, chemical oceanography, marine geology, and human interaction with the sea. Labs include study of live marine invertebrates, manipulation of oceanographic data, and discussion using videos showing unique aspects of ocean research.
ESCI 1007 - From Microbes to Mammoths: History of Life on Earth [BIOL]
(4 cr; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 1007 until 06-SEP-11
Scientific evidence from biology, paleontology, and geology for origin/evolution of life over 4.5 billion years of Earth's history. Biochemical basis of life, biogeochemical cycles, natural selection, origin of species, genetics, phylogeny reconstruction, timescales for evolution.
ESCI 1012 - Natural Disasters [TS]
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Every Fall & Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 1012 until 06-SEP-11
Geological processes that give rise to natural hazards and the emerging technologies that allow societies to mitigate their effects.
ESCI 1101 - Introduction to Geology (lecture only) [ENV]
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 1101 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 1105 (starting 06-SEP-11, ending 16-JAN-07, was GEO 1105 until 06-SEP-11), ESCI 1005 (starting 20-JAN-15, ending 17-JAN-06, starting 07-SEP-04, was GEO 1005 until 06-SEP-11), ESCI 1001 (starting 23-MAY-05, was GEO 1001 until 06-SEP-11)
Physical processes that shape the Earth: volcanoes, earthquakes, plate tectonics, glaciers, rivers. Current environmental issues and global change. Lecture.
ESCI 1105 - Geology and Cinema (lecture only) [ENV]
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 1105 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 1101 (starting 02-SEP-08, was GEO 1101 until 06-SEP-11), ESCI 1005 (starting 20-JAN-15, ending 17-JAN-06, starting 07-SEP-04, was GEO 1005 until 06-SEP-11), ESCI 1001 (starting 23-MAY-05, was GEO 1001 until 06-SEP-11)
Physical processes shaping the Earth, materials it comprises, its nearly five billion year history as told spectacularly, but often wrongly, by Hollywood movies.
ESCI 1106 - Oceanography [ENV]
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 1106 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 1006, GEO 5006 (inactive)
How various processes in the ocean interact. Marine biology, waves, tides, chemical oceanography, marine geology, human interaction with sea.
ESCI 2001 - Intro to Problems in Earth System Sci -with lab [ENV PHYS]
(4 cr; A-F or Audit; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: ESCI 2101
In this course, we study Earth as an integrated system of many interacting components. Examples of these components include the atmosphere, the ocean, continents, rivers and lakes, plants and animals, and humans. Changes within and among these components are shaping our planet and environment. Many grand challenges facing our society today, ranging from climate change to natural hazards, cannot be fully understood without a better understanding of these interactions. This course introduces some key concepts and principles of Earth System Science through a collection of recent scientific discoveries and outstanding problems in the field. The class touches on a wide range of fascinating topics related to the Earth?s deep interior, surface environments, life, and its 4.5 billion-year history, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of the subject. Meanwhile, all the topics are centered around introducing basic physical and chemical processes that regulate the operation of the Earth as a system. This course gives students an excellent opportunity to explore a broad spectrum of active research in the Earth and Environmental Sciences, state-of-the-art research techniques, and potential career options in this field. Students are expected to develop quantitative skills in addressing questions in Earth System Science through lectures, in-class discussions, and assignments.
ESCI 2101 - Intro to Problems in Earth System Science - lecutre only [ENV]
(3 cr; A-F or Audit; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: ESCI 2001 (starting 19-JAN-21)
In this course, we study Earth as an integrated system of many interacting components. Examples of these components include the atmosphere, the ocean, continents, rivers and lakes, plants and animals, and humans. Changes within and among these components are shaping our planet and environment. Many grand challenges facing our society today, ranging from climate change to natural hazards, cannot be fully understood without a better understanding of these interactions. This course introduces some key concepts and principles of Earth System Science through a collection of recent scientific discoveries and outstanding problems in the field. The class touches on a wide range of fascinating topics related to the Earth?s deep interior, surface environments, life, and its 4.5 billion-year history, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of the subject. Meanwhile, all the topics are centered around introducing basic physical and chemical processes that regulate the operation of the Earth as a system. This course gives students an excellent opportunity to explore a broad spectrum of active research in the Earth and Environmental Sciences, state-of-the-art research techniques, and potential career options in this field. Students are expected to develop quantitative skills in addressing questions in Earth System Science through lectures, in-class discussions, and assignments.
ESCI 2201 - Solid Earth Dynamics
(4 cr; Prereq-concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in PHYS 1301 or instr consent; A-F or Audit; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 2201 until 06-SEP-11
Dynamics of solid Earth, particularly tectonic system. Seismology, internal structure of Earth. Earth's gravity, magnetic fields. Paleomagnetism, global plate tectonics, tectonic systems. Field trip.
ESCI 2202 - Earth History
(4 cr; Prereq-[2201, 2301] or instr consent; A-F or Audit; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 2202 until 06-SEP-11
Big Bang cosmology, plate tectonics, evolution. Formation of Earth. Chemical evolution of Earth, atmosphere, and ocean. Origin/tectonic evolution of continents. Origin of life, its patterns/processes. Long-term interactions between geosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere.
ESCI 2203 - Earth Surface Dynamics
(4 cr; A-F or Audit; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 2203 until 06-SEP-11
Earth's surface processes, drivers, and implications. Interactions between atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere.
ESCI 2301 - Mineralogy
(3 cr; Prereq-[concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in CHEM 1061, concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in CHEM 1065, concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in MATH 1271] or instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 2301 until 06-SEP-11
Crystallography, crystal chemistry, physics. Physical/chemical properties, crystal structures, chemical equilibria of major mineral groups. Lab includes crystallographic, polarizing microscope, X-ray powder diffraction exercises, hand-specimen mineral identification.
ESCI 2302 - Petrology
(3 cr; Prereq-2301 or instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 2302 until 06-SEP-11
Magmatic and metamorphic processes, with an emphasis on plate tectonic interpretation of rock sequences.
ESCI 3002 - Climate Change and Human History [ENV]
(3 cr; A-F or Audit; offered Spring Even Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 3002 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 5102
Causes of long-/short-term climate change. Frequency/magnitude of past climate changes; their geologic records. Relationship of past climate changes to development of agrarian societies and to shifts in power among kingdoms/city-states. Emphasizes last 10,000 years.
ESCI 3004 - Water and Society [ENV]
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Periodic Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 3004 until 06-SEP-11
For non-science majors. Study of (1) the role of humans as agents influencing the composition (quality) of water resources through domestic, agricultural, industrial, and other land-use practices; (2) the role of water in various ecosystem services which may be at odds with the anthropocentric view of water as a resource; (3) how population increase and climate change, coupled with human actions, is affecting the quality and quantity of available water, leading to lack of access to clean water and decent sanitation, and to severe water shortages (e.g., for irrigation) in some areas, especially in developing nations and politically unstable regions; and (4) how the availability of water shapes a society?s view of water as a resource and its view of the non-human demands for water (which is not uniform across the globe).
ESCI 3005 - Earth Resources
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Fall Odd Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 3005 until 06-SEP-11
Geologic aspects of energy/material resources. Resource size/life-times. Environmental consequences of resource use. Issues of international/public ethics associated with resource production, distribution, and use.
ESCI 3006 - Rocks and Stars: Introduction to Planetary Science
(3 cr; Prereq-An interest in the solar system and planets.; Student Option; offered Spring Even Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 3006 until 06-SEP-11
ESCI 3006 is designed for students without strong backgrounds in math or physical sciences that are interested in an introductory level survey of planetary science. Students with stronger backgrounds in earth or other physical sciences may also find much of interest, although the approach will be largely non-quantitative. The course will introduce undergraduate students to the dazzling variety of worlds in our solar system and illustrate how many of the planetary scale systems of the Earth compare and contrast to those of other planets. The course will also consider the dynamical and chemical processes that lead to the origin of our solar system and Earth. Additionally, we will also survey recent exciting observations and discoveries of exoplanets, including consideration of how the diversity of other solar systems aids understanding of our own. The physical and chemical principles underlying planetary processes will be a unifying theme of the course. The course will take advantage of the many resources made available by planetary exploration missions, including those producing the most recent new observations. Owing to the fast-moving pace of discovery in planetary science the curricular content will be and updated each time the course is taught.
ESCI 3093 - Directed Studies in Earth & Environmental Sciences: Junior
(1 cr [max 4]; Prereq-instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer; may be repeated for 6 credits; may be repeated 6 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 3093 until 06-SEP-11
Directed studies in earth & environmental sciences under the direction of a faculty member.
ESCI 3105 - Environmental Justice in the 21st Century
(3 cr; A-F or Audit; offered Every Spring)
This course explores the concept of Environmental Justice as both a topic that is rooted in scientific study and as a social movement in the United States. Following an introduction to the development of environmentaljustice as a concept in the US since the reconstruction following the Civil War, we will consider specific case studies during the 20th and 21st centuries that align with topics in the Earth and Environmental Sciences, including petroleum extraction and hydrofracturing, mapping and resource extraction, native American environmental justice, hazardous waste disposal, and climate justice, as framed by Robert Bullard?s 6 Pillars of the Environmental Justice Movement. We will conclude by exploring similarities and differences in how Environmental Justice is addressed in the US compared to other countries globally. The overall course goal is for students to gain an understanding of the pervasiveness of environmental justice issues and of social and scientific approaches to evaluating issues in the broad field of environmental justice.
ESCI 3190 - Curricular Practical Training
(1 cr; S-N only; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer; may be repeated for 2 credits; may be repeated 2 times)
Work assignments involving advanced earth science training. Reviewed by the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
ESCI 3202 - Fluid Earth Dynamics
(4 cr; Prereq-concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in 2201; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 3202 until 06-SEP-11
Dynamics of fluid Earth, mainly surface processes and convection.
ESCI 3303W - Geochemical Principles [WI]
(4 cr; Prereq-[concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in CHEM 1061, concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in CHEM 1065] or instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 3303W until 06-SEP-11, was GEO 2303W until 07-SEP-10, was GEO 2303 until 05-SEP-00
Origin of elements (nucleosynthesis, elemental abundances). Geochemical classifications. Isotopes (radioactive, stable). Phase equilibria. Models of Earth's geochemical evolution. Basic geochemical processes that produced Earth's lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere.
ESCI 3402 - Science and Politics of Global Warming [ENV]
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Spring Odd Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 3402 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 5402
Detection/attribution of global warming using concepts of radiation, climate system, and carbon cycle. Effects on society/biodiversity. National/global efforts/controversy over responses/consequences.
ESCI 3403 - Computer Applications in Earth & Environmental Sciences
(3 cr; Prereq-upper division or instructor consent.; Student Option No Audit; offered Every Spring)
This class is meant to provide students with skills in scientific computer programming, specifically with a special focus on the Earth & environmental sciences and other disciplines where spatial data are important. The course assumes no previous knowledge of computer programming. Although the class will use MATLAB, topics covered in the course include concepts common to all programming languages including functions, logic, branching, loops, data types, binary code, data formatting for input/output, among others. Additionally, students will develop problem-solving skills in learning how to design algorithms to achieve a task and in learning how to troubleshoot and debug their code. Students taking the class at the 5xxx level will be required to complete a programming project related to their own research. This course will be different from other introductory-level programming courses in that it will have a spatial emphasis and focus on examples and datasets related to the Earth and environmental sciences. Students will learn how to access a variety of Earth and environmental science data repositories and work with data in standard formats (i.e. NetCDF). Working with geographically referenced data in different projections will be explored using different toolboxes available for that purpose. Plotting of data will also be extensively covered including the production of publication-quality figures and animations.
ESCI 3890 - Field Workshop (Topics course)
(1 cr; Student Option; offered Every Fall & Spring; may be repeated for 2 credits; may be repeated 2 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 3890 until 06-SEP-11
Earth sciences field workshop where students learn about the geological aspects of specific area(s) and culminates in a field trip to that area(s) to see the geology first-hand.
ESCI 3891 - Field Methods
(2 cr; A-F only; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 3891 until 06-SEP-11
Methods in geologic field mapping.
ESCI 3896 - Internship in Earth and Environmental Sciences
(1 cr [max 4]; Student Option No Audit; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer; may be repeated for 4 credits)
This course is meant for students who are in the process of doing an internship related earth and environmental sciences at a firm, nonprofit organization, or public agency (at the federal, state, county, or municipal level) that is off-site from the University. The course is designed to help you analyze, reflect on, and construct meaning from your internship experience through the following: 1) self-assessment of personal and career needs and goals, 2) examination of what it means to be a "professional" and operate within professional environments, 3) evaluation of performance & accomplishments, 4) articulation of knowledge and skills via effective resume writing and/or interviewing. You will accomplish this through processing/discussing your internship experience through academic assignments and interaction with fellow classmates and departmental staff. It's important to work with your internship supervisor to create a learning contract that outlines what you plan to learn and accomplish during your internship and how you plan to contribute and add value to the organization. You will complete various additional assignments including blogs, readings, and a resume that will allow you to gain knowledge and insight from your experience. What you gain from this class will be the direct result of the effort you put into it!
ESCI 3911 - Introductory Field Geology
(4 cr; Prereq-ESci 3891 or instr consent; A-F or Audit; offered Every Summer)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 3911 until 06-SEP-11
Geologic mapping on topographic maps and aerial photos. Field identification of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. Measurement of stratigraphic sections. Structural/geomorphic features.
ESCI 3980 - Seminar: Current Topics in Earth & Environmental Sciences (Topics course)
(1 cr [max 4]; S-N or Audit; offered Periodic Fall & Spring; may be repeated for 12 credits; may be repeated 3 times)
Topics in Earth sciences investigated in a seminar format, for undergraduate students.
ESCI 4010 - Undergraduate Seminar: Current Topics in Earth & Environmental Sciences (Topics course)
(1 cr [max 4]; Prereq-instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Fall & Spring; may be repeated for 12 credits; may be repeated 12 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4010 until 06-SEP-11
Topics in earth sciences investigated in a seminar format.
ESCI 4093 - Directed Studies in Earth & Environmental Sciences: Senior
(1 cr [max 4]; Prereq-instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer; may be repeated for 6 credits; may be repeated 6 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4093 until 06-SEP-11
Directed studies in earth & environmental sciences under the direction of a faculty member.
ESCI 4094 - Senior Thesis
(2 cr; Prereq-Sr, Geo or ESci major, instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer; may be repeated for 4 credits; may be repeated 2 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4094 until 06-SEP-11
Senior-level majors engage in independent research under faculty supervision. Select problems according to individual interests and in consultation with faculty committee. Thesis and oral defense.
ESCI 4102W - Vertebrate Paleontology: Evolutionary History and Fossil Records of Vertebrates [WI]
(3 cr; Prereq-1001 or 1002 or Biol 1001 or Biol 1002 or Biol 1009 or instr consent; A-F or Audit; offered Spring Even Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4102W until 06-SEP-11
Vertebrate evolution (exclusive of mammals) in phylogenetic, temporal, functional, and paleoecological contexts. Vertebrate anatomy. Methods in reconstructing phylogenetic relationships and origin/history of major vertebrate groups, from Cambrian Explosion to modern diversity of vertebrate animals.
ESCI 4103W - Fossil Record of Mammals [WI]
(3 cr; A-F or Audit; offered Spring Odd Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4103W until 06-SEP-11
Evolutionary history of mammals and their extinct relatives. Methods in reconstructing phylogeny. Place of mammals in evolutionary history of vertebrate animals. Major morphological/ecological transitions. Origins of modern groups of mammals. Continuing controversies in studying fossil mammals.
ESCI 4104 - Evolution and Paleobiology of Fossil Reptiles
(3 cr; A-F or Audit; offered Spring Odd Year)
Reptiles first appear in the fossil record about 315 million years ago as small lizard-like carnivores and diversified greatly into a wide range of ecological roles during the Mesozoic. This radiation includes multiple invasions of the aquatic realm by groups as diverse as turtles, ichthyosaurs, plesiosaurs, and mosasaurs, and also encompasses two of the three groups of vertebrates to evolve active flight, namely birds and pterosaurs. Dinosaurs, most famous among the reptilian clades, dominated terrestrial ecosystems for over 100 million years and evolved large body sizes unsurpassed by any other terrestrial group. This course will cover the fossil record, evolution and paleobiology of reptiles (including birds) from the Carboniferous to the Present. Using both literature and demonstrations on skeletons/casts, students will learn the basics of reptilian anatomy and biology, and how those are used to infer evolutionary relationships and ecology of the diverse extinct reptilian clades listed above. Methods for inferring phylogenetic relationships, measuring biodiversity in the fossil record, and reconstructing the physiology and life history strategies of extinct reptiles will also be covered. The relationship between major geological events, such as changing climate and continental drift, and the origination, diversification, and extinction of reptilian groups through more than 300 million years of in Earth history will be explored. Prerequisites: ESci 1001 or ESci 1002 or Biol 1001 or Biol 1002 or Biol 1009 or instructor consent.
ESCI 4203 - Environmental Geophysics
(3 cr; Prereq-Phys 1301; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4203 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 8203
Seismic exploration (reflection and refraction); potential techniques (gravity and magnetics) and electrical techniques of geophysical exploration.
ESCI 4204 - Geomagnetism and Paleomagnetism
(3 cr; Prereq-2201, Phys 1302, Math 1272 or instr consent; Student Option; offered Periodic Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4204 until 06-SEP-11
Present geomagnetic field at the Earth's surface, secular variation, geomagnetic field reversals. Physical and chemical basis of paleomagnetism: origin of natural remanent magnetization, mineralogy of magnetic minerals, magnetic polarity stratigraphy, apparent polar wander, and environmental magnetism.
ESCI 4212 - Geodynamics
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Spring Odd Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4212 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 8212
This course focuses on the dynamics of the solid Earth, particularly that of the lithosphere and the asthenosphere, probing further into the geodynamic problems that are introduced in ESCI 2201 through applications of continuum mechanics. Key continuum mechanics concepts to be examined include constitutive relations for different rheological classes (elastic, plastic, viscous, visco-elastic, visco-elasto-plastic), conservation laws (conservation of mass, momentum, and energy; continuity, force balance, and heat transfer), and simplifications and assumptions involved in their applications. Geodynamic problems to be discussed include plate cooling, lithospheric deformation, mantle convection, shear (viscous and frictional) heating, subduction, faulting, and their effects on the Earth?s thermochemical structures, geoid and topography, and the distributions of earthquakes and volcanism. Analytical solutions and numerical models of simple geodynamic problems are introduced, and recent applications of complex geodynamic models to explain geological, geophysical, and geochemical observations are discussed based on selected scientific journal articles. Graduate students are expected to present and lead paper discussions, and their performance will be graded and counted towards their participation. Instructor?s consent will be required if the following prerequisites are not met: ESCI 2201, MATH 1371 and 1372 (or equivalent), and PHYS 1301 and 1302 (or equivalent).
ESCI 4401 - Aqueous Environmental Geochemistry
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Periodic Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4401 until 06-SEP-11, was GEO 5301 until 20-JAN-04, ESCI 8401
General principles of solution chemistry applied to geology. Solution-mineral equilibria. Redox processes in natural waters. Geochemistry of hydrothermal fluids. Environmental geochemistry.
ESCI 4402 - Biogeochemical Cycles in the Ocean
(3 cr; Prereq-[CHEM 1021, CHEM 1022] or instr consent; Student Option; offered Spring Even Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4402 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 8402, ESCI 5412 (inactive)
Marine biogeochemistry and chemical oceanography. Processes controlling chemical composition of oceans past/present. Cycles of major/minor constituents, including carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, silicon, and oxygen and their isotopes. Role of these cycles in climate system.
ESCI 4404 - Analytical geochemistry for aqueous solutions and geological materials
(3 cr; A-F only; offered Every Fall)
Chemical analysis of natural samples is essential not only in geochemical research but nearly all other subfields of Earth and Environmental Science research today. Some analytical capability routine to geochemists, such as high precision isotope analysis, has also found potential applications in many other disciplines. Outside academia, chemical analysis is fundamental to many activities directly relevant to our everyday life, ranging from pollution monitoring to soil testing. With the explosion of analytical capability and increasing applications of geochemical analysis, there is greater need for students in Earth and Environmental Sciences to get familiarized with some common analytical instruments and to grasp some fundamental principles of analytical chemistry. This course will introduce several modern analytical equipment with a particular focus on plasma source mass spectrometers, as well as important techniques developed for precise and accurate analysis of geological and environmental samples. During this course, students will have access to some of the most advanced analytical equipment in geochemical research and gain hands-on experience during in-class lab practice. The lab practice is primarily designed to illustrate some key concepts covered in lectures, rather than a comprehensive training on instrument operation. At the end of this course, students are expected to be capable of critically evaluating geochemical data and master a set of analytical skills that can serve their future careers in research or other chemical analysis related professions. This course is designed to be accessible to students with limited prior analytical experiences. Prerequisites recommended to attend this course are PHYS 1301 (or equivalency) and CHEM 1061 (or equivalency).
ESCI 4501 - Structural Geology
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4501 until 06-SEP-11
Fundamental concepts related to deformation of Earth's crust. Processes associated with deformation, faulting, folding, fabric development. Lab/recitation include solving problems, conducting physical/numerical experiments. Field trips.
ESCI 4502 - Tectonic Styles
(3 cr; Prereq-4501 or instr consent; Student Option; offered Periodic Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4502 until 06-SEP-11
Origin and nature of major types of tectonic disturbances affecting the crust and lithosphere, including analysis of the form and development of individual structural components and relationship to plate tectonics. Changes over geologic time in the nature of orogenic processes.
ESCI 4602 - Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
(3 cr; Prereq-ESci 2301 or instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4602 until 06-SEP-11
Interpretation of origin of sedimentary rocks through application of basic physical/chemical principles. Modern depositional environments, petrographic microscopy, basin dynamics, stratigraphy.
ESCI 4701 - Geomorphology
(4 cr; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4701 until 06-SEP-11
Origin, development, and continuing evolution of landforms in various environments. Environmental implications. Weathering, slope and shore processes, fluvial erosion and deposition, arid region processes, glacial processes. This course includes lecture and laboratory components, including field trips. Prereqs: MATH 1271 (Calculus I) or equivalent; PHYS 1301 (Physics I: Classical Mechanics) or equivalent. Instructor consent is required to take this course without the prerequisite courses or their equivalents, and it is recommended to take these classes at least concurrently (as co-requisites) with geomorphology. No help will be given on material covered in prerequisite courses.
ESCI 4702 - General Hydrogeology
(4 cr; Prereq-[concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in CHEM 1062, concurrent registration is required (or allowed) in CHEM 1066, MATH 1271, PHYS 1201] or instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4702 until 06-SEP-11
Theory of groundwater geology, hydrologic cycle, watershed hydrology, Darcy's law, governing equations of groundwater motion, flow net analysis, analog models, groundwater resource evaluation/development. Applied analysis of steady and transient equations of groundwater motion and chemical transport. Chemistry of natural waters.
ESCI 4703 - Glacial Geology
(4 cr; Prereq-1001 or instr consent; Student Option; offered Fall Even Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4703 until 06-SEP-11
Formation and characteristics of modern glaciers; erosional and depositional features of Pleistocene glaciers; history of quaternary environmental changes in glaciated and non-glaciated areas. Field trips and labs.
ESCI 4801 - Geomicrobiology
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4801 until 06-SEP-11
Geosphere/biosphere interactions over temporal/spatial scales. Global biogeochemical cycling, microbe-metal interactions, microbial paleobiology, environmental geomicrobiology, life detection, habitability of planets.
ESCI 4911 - Advanced Field Geology
(4 cr; Prereq-3911, instr consent; A-F or Audit; offered Every Summer)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4911 until 06-SEP-11
Geologic mapping; study of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks; structures and surficial features; problem solving. Paper required.
ESCI 4971W - Field Hydrogeology [WI]
(4 cr; Prereq-instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Summer)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 4971W until 06-SEP-11, was GEO 4971 until 21-MAY-07
Aquifer, vadoze zone, and surface water hydrology field techniques. Shallow soil boring, sampling. Well installation. Single/multiple well aquifer testing. Ground water sampling for chemical analysis. Weather data collection, hydrogeologic mapping, water balance calculation.
ESCI 5102 - Climate Change and Human History
(3 cr; Prereq-1001 or equiv or instr consent; Student Option; offered Spring Even Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 5102 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 3002 (starting 07-SEP-04, was GEO 3002 until 06-SEP-11)
Causes of long-/short-term climate change. Frequency/magnitude of past climate changes, their geologic records. Relationship of past climate changes to development of agrarian societies and to shifts in power among kingdoms/city-states. Emphasizes last 10,000 years.
ESCI 5105 - Environmental Justice in the 21st Century
(3 cr; A-F or Audit; offered Every Spring)
This course explores the concept of Environmental Justice as both a topic that is rooted in scientific study and as a social movement in the United States. Following an introduction to the development of environmental justice as a concept in the US since reconstruction following the Civil War, we will consider specific case studies during the 20th and 21st centuries including petroleum extraction and hydrofracturing, food deserts and insecurity, native American environmental justice, and climate justice. Further, we will explore the similarities and differences in how Environmental Justice is addressed in the US as compared to other countries globally.
ESCI 5201 - Time-Series Analysis of Geological Phenomena
(3 cr; Prereq-Math 2263 or instr consent; A-F or Audit; offered Periodic Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 5201 until 06-SEP-11
Time-series analysis of linear and nonlinear geological and geophysical phenomena. Examples drawn from ice age cycles, earthquakes, climatic fluctuations, volcanic eruptions, atmospheric phenomena, thermal convection and other time-dependent natural phenomena. Modern concepts of nonlinear dynamics and complexity theory applied to geological phenomena.
ESCI 5203 - Mineral and Rock Physics
(3 cr; Prereq-2201, Phys 1302; Student Option; offered Periodic Spring)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 5203 until 06-SEP-11
Physical properties of minerals and rocks as related to the composition and dynamics of the Earth's crust, mantle, and core.
ESCI 5204 - Geostatistics and Inverse Theory
(3 cr; Prereq-Stat 3011 or instr consent; Student Option; offered Fall Odd Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 5204 until 06-SEP-11
Statistical treatment of geological and geophysical data. Statistical estimation. Stochastic processes/fields. Non-linear/non-assumptive error analysis. Cluster analysis. Eigenvalue-eigenvector methods. Regional variables. Correlograms and kriging. Theoretical framework of linear geostatistics and geophysical inverse theory.
ESCI 5302 - Isotope Geology
(3 cr; Prereq-3303W or instr consent; A-F or Audit; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 5302 until 06-SEP-11
Theory and uses of radioactive, radiogenic, and stable isotopes in geology. Radioactive dating, geothermometry, and tracer techniques in geologic processes.
ESCI 5331 - Hydrologic Modeling
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Spring Even Year)
Models are indispensable tools in hydrology that come in many shapes, forms, and sizes. The hydrological knowledge and computational skills needed for each can thus greatly vary. Students will be introduced to different hydrologic modeling approaches through hands-on examples (running simulations) and through ?looking under the hood? (exposure to numerical methods and coding techniques). The goal is not to become an expert in every type of hydrological model, but it is to gain familiarity with the range of models in the hydrologic toolkit and how they work; be equipped to choose, implement, and interpret models effectively; and know how to critically assess model assumptions, sensitivities, and limitations. Students will learn common techniques for generating and calibrating model inputs, compiling and/or executing models, and plotting results. Prerequisites: Introductory level hydrology / hydrogeology, Calculus, Some previous exposure to Matlab or Python (or another programming language). Students without these prerequisites may contact the instructor to seek consent to register.
ESCI 5341 - Numerical Geodynamic Modeling
(3 cr; Prereq-Instructor?s consent is required if the following prerequisites are not met: Introductory/first-year Calculus (MATH 1371 and 1372 or equivalent), Linear Algebra and Differential Equations (MATH 2373 or equivalent), Multivariable Calculus and Vector Analysis (MATH 2374 or equivalent), and Introductory/first-year physics (PHYS 1301 and 1302 or equivalent).; Student Option; offered Spring Even Year)
The objective of this course is for students to gain a basic understanding of numerical geodynamic modeling. The course consists of a lecture component and in-class modeling exercise component. The lecture component will cover general concepts of continuum mechanics/fluid dynamics, classical geodynamic problems, such as heat transfer and mantle flow, and numerical approaches to solving these problems using the finite difference and finite element methods. Through the in-class modeling exercises and homework assignments, students will learn to write numerical codes to solve simple problems, such as 2-D heat conduction and Stokes flow.
ESCI 5353 - Electron Microprobe Theory and Practice
(3 cr; Prereq-[One yr chem, one yr physics] or instr consent; Student Option; offered Periodic Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 5353 until 06-SEP-11, MATS 5353 (inactive)
Characterizing solid materials with electron beam instrumentation, including reduction of X-ray data to chemical compositions.
ESCI 5402 - Science and Politics of Global Warming
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Spring Odd Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 5402 until 06-SEP-11, ESCI 3402
Detection/attribution of global warming using radiation, climate system, and carbon cycle. Effects on society/biodiversity. National/global efforts. Controversy over responses/consequences.
ESCI 5403 - Computer Applications in Earth & Environmental Sciences
(3 cr; Student Option No Audit; offered Every Spring)
This class is meant to provide students with skills in scientific computer programming, with a special focus on the Earth & environmental sciences and other disciplines where spatial data are important. The course assumes no previous knowledge of computer programming. Although the class will use MATLAB, topics covered in the course include concepts common to all programming languages including functions, logic, branching, loops, data types, binary code, data formatting for input/output, among others. Additionally, students will develop problem-solving skills in learning how to design algorithms to achieve a task and in learning how to troubleshoot and debug their code. Students taking the class at the 5xxx level will be required to complete a programming project related to their own research. This course will be different from other introductory-level programming courses in that it will have a spatial emphasis and focus on examples and datasets related to the Earth and environmental sciences. Students will learn how to access a variety of Earth and environmental science data repositories and work with data in standard formats (i.e. NetCDF). Working with geographically referenced data in different projections will be explored using different toolboxes available for that purpose. Plotting of data will also be extensively covered including the production of publication-quality figures and animations.
ESCI 5503 - Advanced Petrology
(3 cr; Prereq-2302, CHEM 1061, CHEM 1065, [MATH 1372 or MATH 1272 or MATH 1572]; Student Option; offered Fall Odd Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 5503 until 06-SEP-11
Quantitative approach to modern igneous/metamorphic petrology. Emphasizes thermodynamics of minerals/melts and with applications to phase diagrams, thermobarometry, melting relationships, and energetics of petrologic mass transfer.
ESCI 5504 - Advanced Geobiology and Astrobiology
(3 cr; Prereq-At least one semester of college-level biology is required, and one semester of microbiology is preferred.; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
This course examines interactions between the biosphere and geosphere with the goal of understanding their role in shaping evolution and environment. Topics include geosphere/biosphere interactions over various temporal/spatial scales, global biogeochemical cycling, microbe-metal interactions, microbial paleobiology, environmental geomicrobiology, and astrobiology.
ESCI 5705 - Limnogeology and Paleoenvironment
(3 cr; Prereq-instr consent; Student Option; offered Periodic Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 5705 until 06-SEP-11
Within-lake, hydrogeologic, and landscape (geological/biological) processes that lead to formation of various proxy records of paleoenvironment. Systems approach to physical, geochemical, biogeochemical, and biotic proxies. Basic principles, case studies. Emphasizes how proxy records relate to paleoclimate.
ESCI 5805 - Standards and Practices for Professional Geoscienists
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Every Spring)
This course is meant to provide students with a clear understanding of the standards and practices regularly used by Geoscience professionals in industry and agency. The course builds on the foundational knowledge offered through the core curriculum of the Earth Sciences undergraduate major, and fills a critical gap in showing how this knowledge is translated into common standards and practices, regulations, funding mechanisms, and even professional expectations within a variety of geoscience disciplines. In short, this course aims to smooth a student?s transition from University to an entry-level position from which they can build a successful and sustainable career. This course is targeted for both upper level undergraduates and graduate students. Aspects of the course include: -Detailed discussion of regional stratigraphy, bedrock and glacial geology and how they relate to various industrial applications and environmental issues. -Examination of state and federal environmental regulations, as well as the phases of environmental impact statements. -Survey of fundamental investigation techniques (GeoProbe drilling, hollow-stem auger drilling, well installation, analytical testing ? soil, groundwater, air). -Introduction to environmental clean-up grants and their management. -Assessment of topics covered in the National Association of State Boards of Geology (ASBOG) Fundamentals of Geology (FG) exam. This exam is a required step on the way to becoming a registered geologist. The exam is offered in mid-March, and the expectation is that students participating in the class will take it. -Coordination and completion of the 40 hour HAZWOPER training through UMN. -Invited lectures from select representatives of various subfields and professional organizations (groundwater & contaminant hydrogeology, mining & geophysical exploration, environmental engineering, petroleum) to give students a jumpstart in their professional networking.
ESCI 5971 - Field Hydrogeology
(2 cr; Prereq-instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Summer)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 5971 until 06-SEP-11
Aquifer, vadoze zone, and surface water hydrology field techniques. Shallow soil boring and sampling. Well installation. Single/multiple well aquifer testing. Ground water sampling for chemical analysis. Weather data collection, hydrogeologic mapping, water balance calculation.
ESCI 5980 - Seminar: Current Topics in Earth Sciences (Topics course)
(1 cr [max 4]; S-N or Audit; offered Periodic Fall & Spring; may be repeated for 12 credits; may be repeated 3 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 5980 until 06-SEP-11
Topics in earth sciences investigated in a seminar format.
ESCI 8001 - Introductory Graduate Seminar
(2 cr; Prereq-Grad student status in earth sci; S-N or Audit; offered Every Fall)
Graduate level survey of important research, concepts, and methods in the earth sciences; familiarization with program faculty/facilities and basics of science writing and proposal craft.
ESCI 8203 - Environmental Geophysics
(3 cr; Prereq-Phys 1301 or equivalent; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: ESCI 4203 (starting 20-JAN-15, was GEO 4203 until 06-SEP-11)
Seismic exploration (reflection/refraction). Potential techniques (gravity/magnetics), electrical techniques of geophysical exploration.
ESCI 8204 - Geomagnetism and Paleomagnetism
(3 cr; Prereq-2201, Phys 1302, [Math 1272 or instr consent]; Student Option; offered Spring Even Year)
Present geomagnetic field at Earth's surface, secular variation, geomagnetic field reversals. Physical/chemical basis of paleomagnetism. Origin of natural remanent magnetization, mineralogy of magnetic minerals, magnetic polarity stratigraphy, apparent polar wander, environmental magnetism.
ESCI 8212 - Geodynamics
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Spring Odd Year)
Equivalent courses: ESCI 4212 (starting 20-JAN-15, was GEO 4212 until 06-SEP-11)
This course focuses on the dynamics of the solid Earth, particularly that of the lithosphere and the asthenosphere, probing further into the geodynamic problems that are introduced in ESCI 2201 through applications of continuum mechanics. Key continuum mechanics concepts to be examined include constitutive relations for different rheological classes (elastic, plastic, viscous, viscoelastic, viscoelastoplastic), conservation laws (conservation of mass, momentum, and energy; continuity, force balance, and heat transfer), and simplifications and assumptions involved in their applications. Geodynamic problems to be discussed include plate cooling, lithospheric deformation, mantle convection, shear (viscous and frictional) heating, subduction, faulting, and their effects on the Earth?s thermochemical structures, geoid and topography, and the distributions of earthquakes and volcanism. Analytical solutions and numerical models of simple geodynamic problems are introduced, and recent applications of complex geodynamic models to explain geological, geophysical, and geochemical observations are discussed based on selected scientific journal articles.
ESCI 8243 - Principles of Rock Magnetism
(1 cr [max 3]; Prereq-4204 or instr consent; Student Option; offered Periodic Fall; may be repeated for 3 credits)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8243 until 06-SEP-11
Remanent magnetizations, their classification and origins. Fundamentals of fine particle magnetism; magnetic minerals; separation of multicomponent magnetizations; effects of chemical change on magnetization; magnetic proxies of climatic and environmental change; biomagnetism.
ESCI 8333 - FTE: Master's
(1 cr; Prereq-Master's student, adviser and DGS consent; No Grade Associated; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer; 6 academic progress units; 6 financial aid progress units)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8333 until 06-SEP-11
(No description)
ESCI 8353 - Phase Equilibrium in Mineral Systems
(3 cr; Prereq-4301, Chem 3501, Math 2243; Student Option; offered Periodic Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8353 until 06-SEP-11
Principles of homogeneous and heterogeneous equilibria and their application to problems in petrology. Emphasis on derivations from first principles and formulation of algebraic and graphical methods essential to multicomponent systems.
ESCI 8354 - Igneous Petrology
(3 cr; Prereq-4301 or instr consent; Student Option; offered Periodic Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8354 until 06-SEP-11
Igneous rocks and processes, emphasizing geochemistry of melts and minerals. Content varies with instructor and student interest.
ESCI 8355 - Metamorphic Petrology
(3 cr; Prereq-8353; Student Option; offered Periodic Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8355 until 06-SEP-11
Metamorphic processes; relation of theory and observation to current problems. Relation of fundamental concepts and techniques to progressive development of mineral assemblages. Term paper required.
ESCI 8401 - Aqueous Environmental Geochemistry
(3 cr; Student Option; offered Every Spring)
Equivalent courses: ESCI 4401 (starting 06-SEP-11, was GEO 4401 until 06-SEP-11, was GEO 5301 until 20-JAN-04)
General principles of solution chemistry applied to geology. Solution-mineral equilibria. Redox processes in natural waters. Geochemistry of hydrothermal fluids. Environmental geochemistry.
ESCI 8402 - Biogeochemical Cycles in the Ocean
(3 cr; Prereq-[Chem 1021, Chem 1022] or instr consent; Student Option; offered Spring Even Year)
Equivalent courses: ESCI 4402 (starting 06-SEP-11, was GEO 4402 until 06-SEP-11), ESCI 5412 (inactive)
Marine biogeochemistry/chemical oceanography. Processes controlling chemical composition of oceans past/present. Cycles of major/minor constituents, including carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, silicon, oxygen/their isotopes. Role of cycles in climate system.
ESCI 8404 - Analytical geochemistry for aqueous solutions and geological materials
(3 cr; A-F only; offered Every Fall)
Chemical analysis of natural samples is essential not only in geochemical research but nearly all other subfields of Earth and Environmental Science research today. Some analytical capability routine to geochemists, such as high precision isotope analysis, has also found potential applications in many other disciplines. Outside academia, chemical analysis is fundamental to many activities directly relevant to our everyday life, ranging from pollution monitoring to soil testing. With the explosion of analytical capability and increasing applications of geochemical analysis, there is greater need for students in Earth and Environmental Sciences to get familiarized with some common analytical instruments and to grasp some fundamental principles of analytical chemistry. This course will introduce several modern analytical equipment with a particular focus on plasma source mass spectrometers, as well as important techniques developed for precise and accurate analysis of geological and environmental samples. During this course, students will have access to some of the most advanced analytical equipment in geochemical research and gain hands-on experience during in-class lab practice. The lab practice is primarily designed to illustrate some key concepts covered in lectures, rather than a comprehensive training on instrument operation. At the end of this course, students are expected to be capable of critically evaluating geochemical data and master a set of analytical skills that can serve their future careers in research or other chemical analysis related professions. This course is designed to be accessible to students with limited prior analytical experiences. Prerequisites recommended to attend this course are PHYS 1301 (or equivalency) and CHEM 1061 (or equivalency).
ESCI 8444 - FTE: Doctoral
(1 cr; Prereq-Doctoral student, adviser and DGS consent; No Grade Associated; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer; 6 academic progress units; 6 financial aid progress units)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8444 until 06-SEP-11
(no description)
ESCI 8501 - Structural Geology
(4 cr; Prereq-2301 or instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Fundamental concepts related to deformation of Earth's crust. Processes associated with deformation, faulting, folding, fabric development. Lab/recitation include solving problems, conducting physical/numerical experiments. Term Paper. Field trips.
ESCI 8502 - Tectonic Styles
(3 cr; Prereq-4501 or 8501 or instr consent; Student Option; offered Spring Odd Year)
Origin/nature of major types of tectonic disturbances affecting crust/lithosphere, including analysis of form/development of individual structural components/relationship to plate tectonics. Changes over geologic time in nature of orogenic processes.
ESCI 8511 - Mechanics of Sediment Transport
(3 cr; A-F or Audit; offered Spring Even Year)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8511 until 06-SEP-11, CEGE 8511 (starting 02-SEP-08, was CE 8511 until 08-SEP-15)
Particle motion in fluids. Criteria for incipient motion. Formulations for bedload and suspended load. Bedform mechanics, hydraulic resistance relations. Channel stability, aggradation/degradation, alluvial stream morphology.
ESCI 8601 - Introduction to Stream Restoration
(3 cr; Prereq-Grad student in CE or ESCI or EEB or WRS or FW or BAE or FR or HORT or ENR or LA or SRSE or instr consent; A-F or Audit; offered Every Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8601 until 06-SEP-11, CEGE 8601 (starting 08-SEP-15, was CE 8601 until 08-SEP-15), EEB 8601
Background material essential for participating in a stream restoration project. How to assimilate geologic, hydrologic, and ecological data at the watershed and reach scales to plan a restoration project and evaluate/critique existing stream restoration projects.
ESCI 8602 - Stream Restoration Practice
(2 cr; Prereq-8601 or CE 8601; S-N only; offered Every Summer)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8602 until 06-SEP-11, CEGE 8602, EEB 8602
Field experience, group design project. Students provide a stream restoration context for each other?s elective coursework, complete critical assessments of stream restoration projects, and design a stream restoration site.
ESCI 8666 - Doctoral Pre-Thesis Credits
(1 cr [max 6]; Prereq-Doctoral student who has not passed prelim oral; no required consent for 1st/2nd registrations, up to 12 combined cr; dept consent for 3rd/4th registrations, up to 24 combined cr; doctoral student admitted before summer 2007 may register up to four times, up to 60 combined cr; No Grade Associated; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer; may be repeated for 12 credits; may be repeated 2 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8666 until 06-SEP-11
Doctoral pre-thesis credits.
ESCI 8701 - Geomorphology
(4 cr; Student Option; offered Every Fall)
Landscapes and the processes that shape them, encompassing fluvial, hill-slope, glacial, aeolian, and coastal environments. Mechanics of solids and fluids at Earth's surface. Erosion, deposition, and sediment transport. Prereqs: MATH 1271 (Calculus I) or equivalent; PHYS 1301 (Physics I: Classical Mechanics) or equivalent; or instructor consent.
ESCI 8712 - Transport Phenomena and Analytical Geohydrology
(3 cr [max 4]; Prereq-5701 or CE 3502 or instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Fall; may be repeated for 4 credits)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8712 until 06-SEP-11
Microscopic flow parameters, momentum, mass and energy transport through porous media. Geologic factors in aquifer performance, equations for groundwater flow, and analysis of pump tests.
ESCI 8718 - Numerical Methods in Hydrogeology
(4 cr; Prereq-5701, CSci 1107 or instr consent; A-F or Audit; offered Periodic Fall)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8718 until 06-SEP-11
Introduction to finite difference and finite element methods in hydrogeology. Students develop one- and two-dimensional models of diffusion and advection-dispersion equations.
ESCI 8777 - Thesis Credits: Master's
(1 cr [max 18]; Prereq-Max 18 cr per semester or summer; 10 cr total required [Plan A only]; No Grade Associated; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer; may be repeated for 50 credits; may be repeated 10 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8777 until 06-SEP-11
(no description)
ESCI 8888 - Thesis Credit: Doctoral
(1 cr [max 24]; Prereq-Max 18 cr per semester or summer; 24 cr required; No Grade Associated; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer; may be repeated for 100 credits; may be repeated 10 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8888 until 06-SEP-11
(no description)
ESCI 8970 - Seminar: Current Topics in Earth Sciences (Topics course)
(1 cr [max 4]; Prereq-instr consent; Student Option; offered Periodic Fall & Spring; may be repeated for 32 credits; may be repeated 8 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8970 until 06-SEP-11
Seminar course. Individual topics will be determined and added per semester.
ESCI 8980 - Seminar: Current Topics in Earth & Environmental Sciences (Topics course)
(1 cr [max 4]; Prereq-instr consent; S-N or Audit; offered Every Fall & Spring; may be repeated for 30 credits; may be repeated 30 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8980 until 06-SEP-11
Selected seminar topics in Earth & Environmental Sciences.
ESCI 8994 - Research in Earth Sciences
(1 cr [max 4]; Prereq-instr consent; Student Option; offered Every Fall, Spring & Summer; may be repeated for 30 credits; may be repeated 30 times)
Equivalent courses: was GEO 8994 until 06-SEP-11
Independent research under faculty supervision.

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