Earth and Planetary Sciences is the study of the Earth and other bodies in the solar system. It involves the study of the formation, composition and history of rocks; the large- and small-scale processes that modify them after they form (including the effects of water, the atmosphere and human activities); and the useful materials (metals, petroleum, coal, etc.) that may be obtained from them. Earth and Planetary Sciences is a multidisciplinary science that utilizes chemistry, physics, biology, meteorology, oceanography and other disciplines to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of our planet and the solar system and to enhance the stewardship of our planet’s natural resources. Prospective majors are encouraged to begin their lower-division requirements in math, chemistry and physics as early as possible and visit with a Departmental Undergraduate Advisor to assist in curriculum planning. The B.S. degree is the recommended route for preparation for graduate study Geology, Geophysics or Planetary Science. B.S. students do not need to select a minor: completion of degree requirements fulfills requirements for a Distributed Minor. Petitions for course substitutions in the degree programs are welcome and should be made in consultation with a department advisor. All majors are encouraged to pursue an undergraduate thesis (493 and 495) in collaboration with a faculty advisor.
Students are advised to check with the department for information on new or changed requirements.
Courses
EPS 101.
How the Earth Works–An Introduction to Geology.
(3)
A fascinating tour of our active planet. Explore earth materials (rocks and minerals), the continents’ motions and related origins of earthquakes, volcanoes, mountain building, oceans, landscapes, natural energy and economic resources, global warming and other topics. Students are encouraged but not required to enroll concurrently in 105L. Meets New Mexico Lower-Division General Education Common Core Curriculum Area III: Science (NMCCN 1114).
EPS 105L.
Physical Geology Laboratory.
(1)
Minerals, rocks and topographic and geologic maps; field trips. Meets New Mexico Lower-Division General Education Common Core Curriculum Area III: Science (NMCCN 1114).
Pre- or corequisite: 101
{Fall, Spring}
EPS 106.
Evolution and Age of the Earth.
(2)
Sharp
The scientific method applied to determination of the age of the earth, origin of life, evolution of the Earth and of life, extinction, life on other worlds and related topics. Intended for non-science majors.
EPS 110.
Topics in the Earth Sciences.
(1-3 to a maximum of 3 Δ)
Eight- to 16-week courses on selected topics relating directly to the human experience, e.g., Volcanoes, Extinctions, Weather, Earthquakes, New Mexico’s Water, Soils, Nuclear Hazards, Geomagnetism, Albuquerque Field Geology and the Geology of Everyday Life.
{Fall, Spring}
EPS 115.
Geological Disasters.
(3)
Causes and effects of disastrous geological events, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, landslides and floods.
EPS 201L.
Earth History.
(4)
Elrick, Smith
Origin and history of the Earth including age of the planet and dating of rocks, changing configurations of oceans and continents as a result of plate tectonics, records of climate change, history of formation and erosion of mountain chains, origin and evolution of life and causes of extinction. Required field trip and lab exercises permit understanding of how Earth history is interpreted from the geologic rock record. Meets New Mexico Lower-Division General Education Common Core Curriculum Area III: Science.
Prerequisite: 101 or ENVS 101; Pre- or corequisite: 105L or ENVS 102L
{Fall, Spring}
EPS 203.
Earth Resources and Environment.
(3)
Geologic context for the occurrence of metals, industrial minerals, water, and energy resources on Earth. Environmental ramifications of resource exploration, exploitation and use and local, national and global environmental laws and treaties governing those activities.
Prerequisite: 101 or ENVS 101 recommended.
EPS 210.
Life in the Universe.
(3)
Brearley
This course will examine scientifically the plausibility of life occurring elsewhere in the universe including possible environments and conditions for life and the recent debate over the evidence for life in Martian meteorite, ALH 84001.
EPS 211.
Dinosaurs and Their World.
(3)
Survey of the fossil record, evolution, paleobiology and extinction of dinosaurs, and the animals they shared the earth with.
{Spring}
EPS 225.
Oceanography.
(3)
Understanding physical, chemical, and biological processes in the world oceans.
EPS 250.
Geology of New Mexico.
(3)
Kues
Survey of geologic features of New Mexico including structures, land forms, stratigraphy, fossils, geologic history and mineral resources. A course in elementary geology recommended.
EPS 251.
Meteorology.
(3)
Gutzler
(Also offered as GEOG 251)
Description of weather phenomena, principles of atmospheric motion, weather map analysis and weather prediction.
EPS 252.
Volcanoes!.
(3)
Fischer
Types of volcanoes and eruption products, role of volcanism in planetary evolution, volcanoes as sources of geothermal energy and mineral deposits, volcanic hazards and disasters, environmental effects of volcanic eruptions.
Prerequisite: 101 or ENVS 101
EPS **300.
Topics in Geology.
(1-4 may be repeated once Δ)
Summary of specific areas of geology, designed especially for earth science teachers and other nontraditional students. Subjects may vary from year to year; lectures normally supplemented by laboratory exercises.
EPS **301.
Mineralogy/Earth and Planetary Materials.
(3)
Introduction to crystallography, crystal chemistry and their relation to physical and chemical properties of materials. Overview of major structure types and crystal chemistry/occurrence of common rock-forming minerals.
EPS majors must enroll in 301 and 302L in the same semester.
Prerequisite: CHEM 121 and 123L
{Fall}
EPS **302L.
Mineralogy Laboratory.
(2)
Laboratory exercises in crystallography and crystal chemistry. Hand specimen identification of the common rock-forming minerals.
{Fall}
EPS **303L.
Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology.
(4)
Selverstone
Introduction to processes leading to formation of igneous and metamorphic rocks. Emphasis on plate tectonic settings and interactions between physical and chemical processes.
Prerequisite: 301 and 302L
{Spring}
EPS **304L.
Sedimentology and Stratigraphy.
(4)
Elrick
Introduction to origin, petrology and stratigraphic occurrence of sedimentary rocks.
Prerequisite: 201L and CHEM 121 and 123L
{Fall}
EPS **307L.
Structural Geology.
(4)
Geissman, Karlstrom
Nature and origin of rock structures and deformation; map and stereographic projection problems; stress and strain.
Pre- or corequisite: 303L. Prerequisite: 304L, and PHYC 151 or 160
{Spring}
EPS 310L.
New Mexico Field Geology.
(4)
Scientific method based on field observation, analysis of geologic phenomena and geologic history of New Mexico. Written report for each 4-hour field trip to outcrops in the Albuquerque area.
Prerequisite: 101 or ENVS 101, and EPS 105L, or ENVS 102L
EPS **319L.
Introductory Field Geology.
(4)
Geissman
Principles and techniques of basic field mapping, layout, preparation, and presentation of maps and cross-sections; construction of geologic reports.
Offered as a 3-week summer course (20 consecutive days).
Prerequisite: 304L and 307L
EPS **333.
Environmental Geology.
(3)
Smith
Earth processes and anthropogenic environmental factors and their cycles. Physical and chemical aspects of environmental change will be considered.
Prerequisite: (101 or ENVS 101) and MATH 121
EPS 352.
Global Climate Change.
(3)
Gutzler
(Also offered as GEOG 352)
Comparison of natural and anthropogenic causes of large-scale climate change. Factors influencing development of mitigation of adaptation policies.
EPS **365.
Exploring the Solar System.
(3)
Agee
Survey of space exploration past, present, and future. Detailed overview of solar system formation, the Sun, the planets and their moons, asteriods, comets, meteorites and astrobiology.
EPS *400.
Topics in Earth & Planetary Sciences.
(1-4 may be repeated once Δ)
EPS 401 / 501.
Colloquium.
(1 to a maximum of 3 Δ)
Current topics in geology. For graduate students, may be repeated once for credit towards degree. See description for 490.
Restriction: junior or senior standing.
Offered on CR/NC basis only.
EPS 405L / 505L.
Stable Isotope Geochemistry.
(3)
Sharp
Examinations of principles governing the distribution of stable isotopes in geological materials and their applications in understanding geochemical processes.
Prerequisite: CHEM 121 and 123L and MATH 163
EPS 407L / 507L.
Thermodynamics and Physical Foundations of Geochemistry.
(4)
Sharp
Thermodynamics and application to geologic systems, phase equilibria, phase rule, ideal and nonideal solutions.
Prerequisite: 303L and CHEM 121 and 123L and MATH 163
EPS 410 / 510.
Fundamentals of Geochemistry.
(3)
Asmeron
Geochemistry of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. Geochemical methodology.
EPS *411L.
Invertebrate Paleontology.
(4)
Kues
General principles and familiarization with diagnostic features of fossils. Introduction to environmental implications. 8 hours of EPS or BIOL recommended.
Prerequisite: 201L or BIOL 203L
EPS 415 / 515.
Geochemistry of Natural Waters.
(3)
Crossey
Principles of aqueous chemistry and processes controlling the composition of natural waters: streams, lakes, groundwater and the oceans.
Prerequisite: 304L or CHEM 122 and 124L
EPS 420L / 520L.
Advanced Field Geology.
(4)
Karlstrom
Advanced geological field techniques; special field problems concentrating on the tectonic evolution of the Rocky Mountain region. Offered as a 3-week course (20 consecutive days).
Prerequisite: 319L
{Summer}
EPS 421L / 521L.
Metamorphism.
(4)
Selverstone
Metamorphic petrology and its applications to interpretation of tectonics processes. Discussions include thermochemistry, phase equilibria, thermobarometry, P-T paths and behavior of metamorphic fluid phase.
EPS 427 / 527.
Geophysics.
(3)
Geissman, Roy
(Also offered as PHYC 327)
Applications of gravity, magnetics, seismology, heat flow to the structure, constitution and deformation of earth. Related aspects of plate tectonics and resource exploration.
Prerequisite: (101 or ENVS 101) and MATH 163 and PHYC 161
EPS 428 / 528.
Applied Mathematics for Earth and Environmental Sciences.
(3)
Introduction to linear algebra, differential equations, and vector calculus with applications to hydrology, geophysics, and atmospheric sciences.
Prerequisite: MATH 163
EPS 433 / 533.
Statistics and Data Analysis in Earth Science.
(3)
Selected mathematical methods of geological data analysis, including elementary statistics, matrix algebra, multivariate data analysis and Fourier analysis.
Prerequisite: MATH 163
EPS 436 / 536.
Climate Dynamics.
(3)
Gutzler
A quantitative introduction to the Earth’s climate system, emphasizing processes responsible for maintaining the current climate and governing climate change on global and regional scales, including interactions between the atmosphere, ocean and biosphere.
Prerequisite: MATH 162 and PHYC 160
EPS 437 / 537.
Applied Meteorology.
(3)
Analysis and prediction of weather systems; weather observing techniques; application of conceptual and numerical models; simple kinematic and dynamic constraints; applications to prediction of wind, fire, and hydrological processes.
Prerequisite: MATH 163 and PHYC 160
EPS *439.
Paleoclimatology.
(3)
Fawcett
History of the Earth’s climate. Examination of methods in climactic reconstruction and mechanisms of climactic change. Emphasis on Pleistocene and Holocene climactic records.
Prerequisite: 101 or ENVS 101
EPS 443 / 543.
Aquifers and Reservoirs.
(3)
Approaches of describing, evaluating, and modeling aquifer and reservoir character, focusing primarily on sedimentary systems. Techniques include well log analysis, cross-section construction, structure and isopach map contouring, and geostatistical simulation.
Prerequisite: 101 or ENVS 101
EPS 445 / 545.
Topics in Sedimentology and Stratigraphy.
(1-4 may be repeated 5 times Δ)
Variable course content depending on student interest. Topics may include physical sedimentology, sequence stratigraphy, basin analysis, cycle stratigraphy and chemostratigraphy.
EPS 450L / 550L.
Volcanology.
(4)
Fischer
Characteristics and mechanism of volcanic systems, volcanism in various continental and marine tectonic settings. Laboratory to include field and laboratory examination of volcanic rocks and structures and models of volcanic processes.
Prerequisite: 303L
EPS 453L / 553L.
Field Studies in Volcanology.
(4)
Fischer, Goff, Smith
Field interpretations of volcanic and pyroclastic rocks; applications to petrology, economic geology, geothermal energy. Base: Young Ranch, Jemez volcanic field.
Prerequisite: 319L. {Three summer weeks}
EPS 455L / 555L.
Computational and GIS Applications in Geomorphology.
(3)
Scuderi
Techniques in acquisition, processing, analysis and display of digital, aerial photo and remote-sensing data; regional quantitative morphometry; use of topography and geology with GIS in landscape evolution and analysis.
Prerequisite: (101 or ENVS 101) and 433 and 481L
EPS 457L / 557L.
Mathematical Modeling in the Geosciences.
(3)
Fawcett
Introduction to basic numerical modeling techniques with broad application to dynamic systems in the geosciences including sedimentology, geochemistry, hydrology, climatology and paleoclimatology.
Prerequisite: MATH 163 and PHYC 160
EPS 462 / 562.
Hydrogeology.
(3)
Weissmann
Hydrologic and geologic factors controlling groundwater flow, including flow to wells. The hydrologic cycle; interactions between surface and subsurface hydrologic systems; regional flow systems. Groundwater geochemistry and contaminant transport.
Prerequisite: (105L or ENVS 102L) and MATH 162 and CHEM 121 and PHYC 160
EPS 465 / 565.
Mars Evolution.
(3)
Agee
Formation, evolution, and composition of Mars Atmosphere, surface, and interior processes. Martian meteorites. The search for life on Mars. Mars missions past and present and NASA’s plans for future exploration of Mars.
EPS 472 / 572.
Subsurface Fate and Transport Processes.
(3)
Physicochemical, hydrogeological, biological and mathematical aspects of chemical fate and transport in subsurface porous and fractured media. Introduction to multiphase and nonaqueous phase flow.
Prerequisite: (462 or CE 441) and (MATH 163 or 181)
{Spring}
EPS 476 / 576.
Physical Hydrology.
(3)
Quantitative treatment of the hydrologic cycle–precipitation, evapotranspiration, runoff and subsurface flow; global change and hydrology; catchment and hillslope hydrology; hydrologic system–ecosystem interactions; hydrology and water resources management.
Prerequisite: MATH 163 and PHYC 160
Restriction: junior or senior standing
{Fall}
EPS 481L / 581L.
Geomorphology and Surficial Geology.
(4)
Meyer
Origin and development of landforms with emphasis on weathering, soils, hillslope processes, fluvial systems and surficial geology; occasional field trips.
Prerequisite: (101 and 105L) or (ENVS 101 and 102L)
EPS 482L / 582L.
Geoarchaeology.
(3)
(Also offered as ANTH 482L)
Smith
Application of geological concepts to archaeological site formation with emphasis on pre-ceramic prehistory of the southwestern United States. Quaternary dating methods, paleoenvironment, landscape evolution, depositional environments. Quaternary stratigraphy, soil genesis, sourcing of lithic materials, site formation processes. Required field trip.
Prerequisite: EPS 101 and EPS 105L and ANTH 121L and ANTH 220
Restriction: junior or senior standing.
{Alternate Years}
EPS 485L / 585L.
Soil Stratigraphy and Morphology.
(3)
McFadden
Application of soils studies to stratigraphic analysis and mapping of Quaternary deposits and geomorphic surfaces; survey of soil classifications; field description of soil profiles; development of soil chronosequences and catenas.
Prerequisite: 101 or ENVS 101
EPS *488L.
Scanning Electron Microscopy.
(3)
Spilde
Introduction to the theory and operation of the scanning electron microscope. Topics covered: basic electron optics, electron-specimen interaction, image formation and interpretation, digital image analysis, X-ray spectroscopy and introductory energy dispersive analysis.
Prerequisite: PHYC 161
EPS *490.
Geologic Presentation.
(1)
Student review of geologic literature; preparation and critique of oral presentations.
Prerequisite: 301 or ENVS 330. Corequisite: EPS 401
EPS 491-492.
Problems.
(1-3, 1-3)
EPS 493.
Independent Study.
(3)
Independent study for departmental honors.
Prerequisite: 303L or ENVS 330
EPS 495.
Senior Thesis.
(3)
Candidacy for honors in Earth and Planetary Sciences.
Prerequisite: 493
EPS 501 / 401.
Colloquium.
(1 to a maximum of 3 Δ)
Current topics in geology. For graduate students, may be repeated once for credit towards degree. See description for 490.
Offered on CR/NC basis only.
EPS 503.
Organic Geochemistry.
(3)
Crossey
Fundamentals of organic geochemistry; global carbon cycle; formation of hydrocarbons; environmental fate of organic compounds in the surface environment.
EPS 505L / 405L.
Stable Isotope Geochemistry.
(3)
Sharp
Examinations of principles governing the distribution of stable isotopes in geological materials and their applications in understanding geochemical processes.
Prerequisite: CHEM 121 and 123L and MATH 163
EPS 507L / 407L.
Thermodynamics and Physical Foundations of Geochemistry.
(4)
Sharp
Thermodynamics and application to geologic systems, phase equilibria, phase rule, ideal and nonideal solutions.
Prerequisite: 303L and CHEM 121 and 123L and MATH 163
EPS 508L.
Paleomagnetism and Applications to Geological Problems.
(3)
Geissman
Discussion of the source, origin and application of geologically important magnetizations in rocks. Experience in field sampling and data collection and analysis.
Prerequisite: 307L and PHYC 152L
EPS 510 / 410.
Fundamentals of Geochemistry.
(3)
Asmeron
Geochemistry of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. Geochemical methodology.
EPS 511.
Sedimentary Geochemistry.
(3)
Crossey
The application of geochemical principles to surface and subsurface processes in sedimentary systems.
EPS 512L.
High-temperature Geochemistry.
(3)
Applications of thermodynamics to the study of metamorphic and igneous processes and of high-temperature gases.
Pre- or corequisite: 304L, 407L
EPS 513.
Planetary Materials and the Evolution of the Solar System.
(3)
Discussion of the origin and evolution of the planets, including planet Earth, based on study of lunar samples, terrestrial samples and meteorites; theory; earth based observations; and space missions.
EPS 515 / 415.
Geochemistry of Natural Waters.
(3)
Crossey
Principles of aqueous chemistry and processes controlling the composition of natural waters: streams, lakes, groundwater and the oceans.
EPS 516.
Selected Topics in Geomorphology.
(3, may be repeated 5 times Δ)
EPS 518L.
Electron Microprobe Analysis.
(3)
Theory and practice of electron microprobe analysis emphasizing geological materials.
Restriction: permission of instructor and a demonstrated need for the use of instrument.
EPS 519L.
Selected Topics in Geochemistry.
(2-4, may be repeated 5 times Δ)
Restriction: permission of instructor.
{Offered upon demand}
EPS 520L / 420L.
Advanced Field Geology.
(4)
Karlstrom
Advanced geological field techniques; special field problems concentrating on the tectonic evolution of the Rocky Mountain region. Offered as a 3-week course (20 consecutive days).
Prerequisite: 319L
{Summer}
EPS 521L / 421L.
Metamorphism.
(4)
Selverstone
Metamorphic petrology and its applications to interpretation of tectonics processes. Discussions include thermochemistry, phase equilibria, thermobarometry, P-T paths and behavior of metamorphic fluid phase.
EPS 522.
Selected Topics in Geophysics.
(3, may be repeated 5 times Δ)
Geissman, Roy
Restriction: permission of instructor.
EPS 523.
Topics in Tectonics.
(3, may be repeated 5 times Δ)
Restriction: permission of instructor.
EPS 526L.
Advanced Structural Geology.
(4)
Karlstrom
Study of the processes and products of rock deformation at all scales: lithosphere, mountain belts and microstructures.
Prerequisite: 307L
EPS 527 / 427.
Geophysics.
(3)
Geissman, Roy
(Also offered as PHYC 327)
Applications of gravity, magnetics, seismology, heat flow to the structure, constitution and deformation of earth. Related aspects of plate tectonics and resource exploration.
Prerequisite: (101 or ENVS 101) and MATH 163 and PHYC 161
EPS 528 / 428.
Applied Mathematics for Earth and Environmental Sciences.
(3)
Introduction to linear algebra, differential equations, and vector calculus with applications to hydrology, geophysics, and atmospheric sciences.
Prerequisite: MATH 163
EPS 531L.
Igneous Petrology.
(4)
Discussion of the properties, generation, emplacement and differentiation of magma; applications of physical/chemical principles to the study of igneous rocks.
Prerequisite: 303L
EPS 533 / 433.
Statistics and Data Analysis in Earth Science.
(3)
Selected mathematical methods of geological data analysis, including elementary statistics, matrix algebra, multivariate data analysis and Fourier analysis.
Prerequisite: knowledge of a computing language
EPS 534.
Radiogenic Isotope Geochemistry.
(3)
Asmerom
Examination of principles governing the abundance of naturally occurring radiogenic isotopes and their use in the study of global geochemical processes.
EPS 535.
Freshwater Ecosystems.
(3)
(Also offered as BIOL 535)
Integration of physical and chemical components of drainage basins and groundwater systems with biological metabolism, growth and reproduction along functional gradients of stream, wetland, reservoir, lake and groundwater ecosystems.
Prerequisite: (MATH 162 or 180) and CHEM 122 and 124L and BIOL 495
{Spring}
EPS 536 / 436.
Climate Dynamics.
(3)
Gutzler
A quantitative introduction to the Earth’s climate system, emphasizing processes responsible for maintaining the current climate and governing climate change on global and regional scales, including interactions between the atmosphere, ocean and biosphere.
MATH 162 and PHYC 160 recommended.
EPS 537 / 437.
Applied Meteorology.
(3)
Analysis and prediction of weather systems; weather observing techniques; application of conceptual and numerical models; simple kinematic and dynamic constraints; applications to prediction of wind, fire, and hydrological processes.
Prerequisite: MATH 163 and PHYC 160
EPS 538L.
Analytical Electron Microscopy.
(3)
Principles and practical techniques of transmission and analytical electron microscopy for materials characterization. Topics covered include: diffraction and phase contrast image formation, selected area and convergent beam electron diffraction; energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy.
Prerequisite: 587 and 518L
EPS 543 / 443.
Aquifers and Reservoirs.
(3)
Approaches of describing, evaluating, and modeling aquifer and reservoir character, focusing primarily on sedimentary systems. Techniques include well log analysis, cross-section construction, structure and isopach map contouring, and geostatistical simulation.
Prerequisite: 101. Recommended: 304L
EPS 544L.
Sedimentary Petrology.
(4)
Crossey
The mineralogy and chemistry of clastic sedimentary rocks. Examination of provenance and diagenesis through field and laboratory exercises.
Prerequisite: 304L
EPS 545 / 445.
Topics in Sedimentology and Stratigraphy.
(1-4 may be repeated 5 times Δ)
Smith, Elrick
Variable course content depending on student interest. Topics may include physical sedimentology, sequence stratigraphy, basin analysis, cycle stratigraphy and chemostratigraphy.
EPS 547-548.
Seminar.
(2-3, 2-3, may be repeated 5 times Δ)
EPS 550L / 450L.
Volcanology.
(4)
Fischer
Characteristics and mechanism of volcanic systems, volcanism in various continental and marine tectonic settings. Laboratory to include field and laboratory examination of volcanic rocks and structures and models of volcanic processes.
Prerequisite: 303L
EPS 551-552.
Problems.
(1-3, 1-3)
Maximum of three units of problems can count toward M.S. or Ph.D. course requirements.
EPS 553L / 453L.
Field Studies in Volcanology.
(4)
Fischer, Goff, Smith
Field interpretations of volcanic and pyroclastic rocks; applications to petrology, economic geology, geothermal energy. Base: Young Ranch, Jemez volcanic field.
Prerequisite: 319L. {Three summer weeks}
EPS 555L / 455L.
Computational and GIS Applications in Geomorphology.
(3)
Scuderi
Techniques in acquisition, processing, analysis and display of digital, aerial photo and remote-sensing data; regional quantitative morphometry; use of topography and geology with GIS in landscape evolution and analysis.
EPS 101 or ENVS 101 and EPS 433 and 481L recommended.
EPS 557L / 457L.
Mathematical Modeling in the Geosciences.
(3)
Fawcett
Introduction to basic numerical modeling techniques with broad application to dynamic systems in the geosciences including sedimentology, geochemistry, hydrology, climatology and paleoclimatology.
EPS 558.
Geomicrobiology.
(3)
Dahm, Crossey
(Also offered as BIOL 558)
The role of microbes in mineral precipitation, dissolution and diagenesis; interactions between microbes and geochemistry/mineralogy.
EPS 562 / 462.
Hydrogeology.
(3)
Weissmann
Hydrologic and geologic factors controlling groundwater flow, including flow to wells. The hydrologic cycle; interactions between surface and subsurface hydrologic systems; regional flow systems. Groundwater geochemistry and contaminant transport.
Prerequisite: 105L or ENVS 102L, and MATH 162 and CHEM 121 and PHYS 160
EPS 564.
Geological Fluid Mechanics.
(3)
Examination of fluid behavior within a geological context. Dimensional analysis and similitude; mass, momentum and energy conservation; inviscid and viscous flows; turbulence; and thermally-driven flows. Applications to problems in the earth and environmental sciences.
Prerequisite: MATH 264 and PHYC 161
{Spring}
EPS 565 / 465.
Mars Evolution.
(3)
Agee
Formation, evolution, and composition of Mars Atmosphere, surface, and interior processes. Martian meteorites. The search for life on Mars. Mars missions past and present and NASA’s plans for future exploration of Mars.
Recommended: 365
EPS 566.
Selected Topics in Hydrogeology.
(1-3, may be repeated 5 times Δ)
Weissmann
Variable course content depending upon student demand and instructor availability.
Restriction: permission of instructor
EPS 570.
Physical Climatology.
(3)
Gutzler
(Also offered as GEOG 570)
Theory and observation of the Earth’s climate system. Radiative transfer, conservation of heat and momentum, maintenance of circulation systems, mechanisms of climate change.
Prerequisite: (436 or 536 or GEOG 351) and MATH 163 and PHYC 161
EPS 572 / 472.
Subsurface Fate and Transport Processes.
(3)
Physicochemical, hydrogeological, biological and mathematical aspects of chemical fate and transport in subsurface porous and fractured media. Introduction to multiphase and nonaqueous phase flow.
Prerequisite: (462 or CE 441) and (MATH 163 or 181)
{Spring}
EPS 574L.
Hydrogeology Laboratory.
(1)
Weissmann
Laboratory and field exercises in subsurface hydrology: physical properties of porous media, flow net analysis, groundwater basin storage and recharge, pump and piezometer tests, well design, sampling.
Pre- or corequisite: 462 or CE 441
EPS 575.
Advanced Volcanology.
(3)
Dynamics of volcanic eruptions, monitoring of volcanic hazards, geothermal energy, epithermal, numerical and analytical research techniques.
Prerequisite: 450L
EPS 576 / 476.
Physical Hydrology.
(3)
(Also offered as WR 576)
Quantitative treatment of the hydrologic cycle–precipitation, evapotranspiration, runoff and subsurface flow; global change and hydrology; catchment and hillslope hydrology; hydrologic system–ecosystem interactions; hydrology and water resources management.
Prerequisite: upper-division standing, MATH 163 and PHYC 160
{Fall}
EPS 580.
Advanced Hydrogeology.
(3)
Advanced treatment of subsurface fluid flow and other transport phenomena through granular and fractured media.
Prerequisite: (462 or CE 441) and MATH 264
EPS 581L / 481L.
Geomorphology and Surficial Geology.
(4)
Meyer
Origin and development of landforms with emphasis on weathering, soils, hillslope processes, fluvial systems and surficial geology; occasional field trips. Intro to Geology or Environmenal Science recommended.
EPS 582L / 482L.
Geoarchaeology.
(3)
Smith
(Also offered as ANTH 582L)
Application of geological concepts to archaeological site formation with emphasis on pre-ceramic prehistory of the southwestern United States. Quaternary dating methods, paleoenvironment, landscape evolution, depositional environments. Quaternary stratigraphy, soil genesis, sourcing of lithic materials, site formation processes. Required field trip.
Prerequisite: 101, 105L, ANTH 121L, ANTH 220 and at least junior standing in EPS or Anth.
{Alternate Years}
EPS 584.
Soil Genesis.
(3)
McFadden
Processes of physical and chemical weathering; influence of soil parent materials, climate topography and time on soil formation; application of soil studies to geologic problems.
Prerequisite: 101 or ENVS 101, 481L
EPS 585L / 485L.
Soil Stratigraphy and Morphology.
(3)
McFadden
Application of soils studies to stratigraphic analysis and mapping of Quaternary deposits and geomorphic surfaces; survey of soil classifications; field description of soil profiles; development of soil chronosequences and catenas.
Prerequisite: 101 or ENVS 101
EPS 481L recommended
EPS 587.
Advanced Mineralogy.
(3)
Brearley
Crystallographic principles; structure, chemistry, physical properties of rock forming minerals.
Prerequisite: 301, 302L, CHEM 122 and 124L
EPS 599.
Master’s Thesis.
(1-6, no limit Δ)
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
EPS 699.
Dissertation.
(3-12, no limit Δ)
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
ENVS 101.
The Blue Planet.
(3)
To understand global change and environmental concerns, this course weaves together an understanding of Earth’s lithosphere, atmosphere and oceans and how ecosystems are linked to the physical environment. Students are encouraged, but not required, to enroll concurrently in 102L.
ENVS 102L.
The Blue Planet Laboratory.
(1)
Introductory environmental earth science laboratory. Includes minerals, rocks, and rock cycle, topographic maps, local geology and groundwater, weather and climate.
Pre- or corequisite: 101
ENVS 330.
Environmental Systems.
(3)
Study of the human relationship to and impact on the physical environment. Sustainable development and management of resources. Global change and implications for ecosystems. Environmental law, policy, regulations and ethics.
Prerequisite: (101 or EPS 101) and CHEM 121 and CHEM 123L and (MATH 162 or PHYC 160) or (BIOL 123 or BIOL 201)
{Fall}
ENVS 430 / 530.
Advanced Environmental Science.
(3)
Application of basic science to the interdisciplinary study of environmental systems. Causes of and solutions to land, air, water and ecosystem degradation.
Prerequisite: 330 and MATH 163 and PHYC 160 and CHEM 121 and 123L and (BIOL 123 or 201)
{Spring}
ENVS 530 / 430.
Advanced Environmental Science.
(3)
Application of basic science to the interdisciplinary study of environmental systems. Causes of and solutions to land, air, water and ecosystem degradation.
NTSC 261L.
Physical Science.
(4)
For pre-service K-8 teachers only. A broad, interdisciplinary introduction to the science of geology, chemistry, physics and astronomy, with emphasis on the sciences processes, inquiry and the integration of technology. The course is activity-based, utilizing a problems-and-issues based approach; various teaching methods are modeled and practiced by students; some field trips may be required.
NTSC 262L.
Life Science.
(4)
For pre-service K-8 teachers only. An activity-based study of science topics including botany, cell biology, genetics, microbiology and zoology with emphasis on science processes, inquiry and the integration of technology. Various teaching methods are modeled and practiced by students; some field trips may be required.
NTSC 263L.
Environmental Science.
(4)
For pre-service K-8 teachers only. An activity-based interdisciplinary study of major issues in environmental science with emphasis on science process, scientific investigations and field-based activities and the integration of technology. Course topics include current issues on population, healthy ecosystems and natural resources. Various teaching methods are modeled and practiced by students.
NTSC *400.
Science Topics for Educators.
(1-4, may be repeated twice Δ)
Topics in specific science content areas with a focus on scientific process and inquiry. Topics vary; lectures are normally supplemented with laboratory exercises.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
