Please see the section on Course Description Symbols and Terms in the University Catalog for an explanation of course description terminology and symbols, the course numbering system, and course credit units. All courses are lecture and discussion and employ letter grading unless otherwise stated. Some prerequisites may be waived with faculty permission. Many syllabi are available on the Chico Web.

Geological and Environmental Sciences Course Offerings

SUBJ NUM	Title	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
GEOS 101	Our Changing Planet	3.0	FS	GE
Earth materials, processes, and history, and their significance to humans in California and societies around the world. No college credit for students who have passed GEOS 102. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. This is an approved General Education course. (004067)
GEOS 102	Physical Geology	3.0	FS	GE
Prerequisites: High school chemistry or physics is recommended; students with no previous science courses are advised to enroll in GEOS 101. No college credit for those who have passed GEOS 101. Physical and chemical processes in the earth, including origin and identification of rocks and minerals; earth's interior; movements and major features of the earth's crust; erosion and sedimentation; geological structures; topographic maps; mineral resources. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. This is an approved General Education course. (004069)
GEOS 104	Inquiry into the Science of Climate Change	3.0	FS	GE
An experiential course that develops skills in critical thinking through inquiry into and analysis of arguments about climate change science (e.g. greenhouse effect, fossil fuels, evidence for human-caused global warming, predictions of our climate future, climate change solutions, etc.). 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (021130)
GEOS 110	Oceanography	3.0	FS	GE
Introduction to the ocean environment with a special emphasis on exploring the interactions between the geological, physical, chemical and biological processes. Topics include how ocean basins developed and changed over geological time scales and how the properties of seawater are linked and provide the foundation for marine life, motion, and climate. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. This is an approved General Education course. (021716)
GEOS 130	Introduction to Environmental Science	3.0	FS	GE
An introduction to human impact upon planet Earth. Scientific principles applied to air pollution, water pollution, and solid and radioactive waste problems. Population dynamics, world hunger, and environmental issue analysis are also covered. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. This is an approved General Education course. (004131)
GEOS 165	Principles of Environmental Science	2.0	FA
An introduction to environmental science as an integrative field of study and its parent disciplines. Field and laboratory techniques are introduced through examination of case studies. Students learn about the various professions engaged in environmental and resource management. 1 hour lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (020687)
GEOS 170	Atmospheric Science	3.0	SP
A descriptive study of weather processes; winds, circulations and storms; and weather impacts on life, property, crops, water availability, and air quality. Current weather briefings and California weather topics are emphasized. 3 hours lecture. (004130)
GEOS 198	Special Topics	1.0 -3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Department permission. This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 3 hours discussion. (004136)
GEOS 199	Special Problems	1.0 -3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Faculty permission. This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (020352)
GEOS 203	Principles of Historical Geology	3.0	FA
Prerequisites: GEOS 101 or GEOS 102. Principles of historical geology as they relate to rock sequences and geologic maps. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (004070)
GEOS 265	Soils and Surficial Processes	3.0	FA
Prerequisites: GEOS 165 or SCED 343 (may be taken concurrently); CHEM 111 (may be taken concurrently). In-depth survey of the hydrologic cycle, and soil systems. Interactions between these systems are examined through case studies. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (020723)
GEOS 289	Geoscience Internship	1.0 -3.0	FS
This course is an internship offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. (021015)
GEOS 299	Special Problems	1.0 -3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Faculty permission. This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (020353)
GEOS 300W	Earth System Science (W)	3.0	FS	GW W
Prerequisites: GE Written Communication (A2) requirement; CHEM 107 or CHEM 111; PHYS 202A or PHYS 204A or PHYS 341. An intermediate treatment of astronomy, meteorology, and oceanography, with emphasis on climate change and its impacts. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or higher certifies writing proficiency for majors. This is an approved Writing Course. (004137)
GEOS 303	Invertebrate Paleontology	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: GEOS 102 or course in Biology. Study of main groups of invertebrate fossils and their uses in biostratigraphy, paleobiogeography, and paleoecology. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (004138)
GEOS 306	Mineralogy and Lithology	4.0	FA
Prerequisites: GEOS 101 or GEOS 102; CHEM 107 or CHEM 111 or equivalent; or faculty permission. Identification and origins of the more common minerals and rocks. 2 hours lecture, 6 hours laboratory. (004080)
GEOS 307	Stratigraphy	3.0	FA
Prerequisites: GEOS 203 and GEOS 306 (both may be taken concurrently), or faculty permission. Basic concepts of stratigraphy. Methods of strata description, correlation, mapping, and interpretation. Sedimentary tectonics and lithic associations. Graphic representation of data. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (004081)
GEOS 310	Geological Field Reconnaissance	2.0	SP
Prerequisites: GEOS 101 or GEOS 102. Faculty permission required to take the course a second time for credit. Generalized field study of geologically noteworthy areas. (Minimum of eight consecutive days in the field during January intersession or spring vacation; and additional work or classroom meetings.) 6 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 4.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (004083)
GEOS 315	Pollution Science	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: CHEM 107 or CHEM 111; GEOS 265. Principles and applications of major natural and anthropogenic pollution processes which include origins, transport, and sinks of contaminants in the environment. Topics include acid rain, mine waste and drainage, and agricultural pesticides. Environmental impacts, remediation and control of pollution are discussed. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (020373)
GEOS 321	Introduction to Meteorology	3.0	FA
Prerequisite: GEOS 170. Survey of physical and dynamic meteorology. Topics covered include thermodynamics, radiation, clouds and precipitation formation, tropical and extratropical weather systems, forecasting, and climate change. 3 hours lecture. (004140)
GEOS 322	Mineral Resources	3.0	FS
Prerequisite: GEOS 102 or equivalent. Where do the 82 elements in our cell phones come from? Why do we see the scars of historical mining across the landscape of northern California? What is acid mine drainage and how can we prevent or treat it? These questions and more are addressed in this course, which explores the mineral resources available on Earth, and the environmental impacts associated with their extraction and use. There are positive and negative aspects to the extraction and use of each resource, and we strive to consider the economic, societal, and political aspects of these topics in addition to the environmental aspects in order to gain a more rounded perspective. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (022042)
GEOS 325	Geology of California	3.0	S2
Prerequisite: GEOS 101 or GEOS 102. Geologic setting of California and historical development of its geologic provinces. The impact of earthquakes, volcanic activity, coastal erosion, and earth resources on California. Field trip required. 3 hours discussion. (004085)
GEOS 330	Environmental Science	3.0	SMF	GE
Prerequisites: One course from GE Pathway Foundation Physical Sciences and one course from GE Pathway Foundation Life Sciences. Human impact on life-support systems; use of physical and ecological principles in environmental management and protection; discussion of land use and its environmental impact; and an evaluation of human influence on natural cycles. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (004141)
GEOS 330W	Environmental Science (W)	3.0	FS	GE W
Prerequisites: One course from GE Pathway Foundation Physical Sciences and one course from GE Pathway Foundation Life Sciences. Human impact on life-support systems; use of physical and ecological principles in environmental management and protection; discussion of land use and its environmental impact; and an evaluation of human influence on natural cycles. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Writing Course. This is an approved General Education course. (021331)
GEOS 341	Teaching Practicum in Geological and Environmental Sciences	3.0	INQ
Prerequisite: GEOS 102 or SCED 342. This course provides students with classroom experience that utilizes a variety of interactive, engaging teaching styles that develop and reinforce skills and concepts through open-ended activities such as direct instruction, discourse, demonstrations, individual and cooperative learning explorations, peer instruction, and student-centered discussion. 9 hours supervision. (020329)
GEOS 342	Concepts in Earth and Space Science	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: SCED 141, SCED 142, GE Physical Sciences (B1), or GE Life Sciences (B2). Open to Liberal Studies online students only. This course is for future elementary/middle school teachers and designed to meet the Elementary Subject Matter Standards required by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. The overall goal is to provide a learning environment that fosters content knowledge and interest in teaching earth and space science and appreciation for the role that science plays in our everyday lives. 3 hours lecture. (022004)
GEOS 352	Recovery of Altered Ecosystems	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: BIOL 350W (may be taken concurrently), GEOS 265 and GEOS 315 (may be taken concurrently). This course provides students with an understanding of the role of stresses and disturbances in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems and natural processes of recovery. Students are introduced to the practices used to modify, restore, and remediate ecosystems altered by human activities and develop a restoration program for a nearby, altered ecosystem that contains both land and water components. In addition, we discuss policy and regulations as they relate to specific projects. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (021925)
GEOS 353	Environmental Fluid Mechanics	3.0	F1
Prerequisites: MATH 109 or MATH 120; PHYS 202A or PHYS 204A. Fluids (gases and liquids) are ubiquitous and play central roles in shaping the environment and transporting heat, momentum, pollutants, and constituents that support life and control climate. This course provides students with an introduction to fundamental concepts in fluid mechanics and an illumination of the vital and fascinating, and often non-intuitive, world of fluid phenomena. 3 hours lecture. (022002)
GEOS 355	Natural Disasters	3.0	FS	GE
Prerequisites: GE Physical Sciences (B1), GE Life Sciences (B2). The purpose of this course is to provide students with the material and opportunity to learn the science behind geological and natural disasters and gain an appreciation of how these events shape both our lives and the development of societies with specific reference to California. The course focuses on, but not be limited to, a discussion of how much of a disaster is a natural phenomenon and how much a tragedy is imposed by the designs of populations. Along the way, we develop the methodology of science and build writing and quantitative skills. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (004148)
GEOS 360	Field Methods	2.0	SP
Prerequisites: GEOS 306, GEOS 307 with a grade of C- or higher. Elementary geologic field methods, descriptive geometry, photogeology, and geologic mapping. Ten days in the field during January intersession. 6 hours laboratory. (004074)
GEOS 361W	Preparation of the Geological Report (W)	1.0	SP	GW W
Prerequisites: GE Written Communication (A2) requirement. {Corequisite: GEOS 360.] This course is a continuation of the writing experience that is initiated in GEOS 360. It deconstructs scientific writing through a re-writing of the GEOS 360 field report and analysis of other examples of geologic articles. 1 hour lecture. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or higher certifies writing proficiency for majors. This is an approved Writing Course. (004075)
GEOS 370W	Energy in the Human Environment (W)	3.0	SP	GW W
Prerequisites: GE Written Communication (A2) requirement; GEOS 170 (may be taken concurrently); and PHYS 202A or PHYS 204A (may be taken concurrently). Analysis of present and long-term global energy crises; coverage of scientific concepts needed to understand energy and its environmental interactions; in-depth examination of alternative energy sources and their environmental impact. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or higher certifies writing proficiency for majors. This is an approved Writing Course. (004149)
GEOS 375	Geology of Food and Health	3.0	FS	GE
Focuses on the relation between natural geological factors, food production, and health problems in humans and animals on a global scale, and explores the impacts of diverse proposed solutions on population health and public policy. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (021128)
GEOS 380	Hydrology	3.0	FA
Prerequisites: PHYS 202A or PHYS 204A (may be taken concurrently). A survey of the mass transfer processes and storage elements within the hydrologic cycle: precipitation, interception, surface runoff, infiltration, evapo-transpiration, soil water and groundwater. Quantitative methods for estimating flow and storage, use of probability concepts to predict extreme hydrologic events in a time series. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (004150)
GEOS 382	Hydrologic Field Methods	3.0	SP
Prerequisite: GEOS 380 (may be taken concurrently) or faculty permission. Develops field and related laboratory skills in performing common measurements in surface water and soil water components of the hydrologic cycle. Students learn to critically evaluate the theoretical basis for field methods and hydrologic characterization approaches. 3 hours lecture. (020641)
GEOS 398	Special Topics	1.0 -4.0	FS
Prerequisites: Department permission. This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 3 hours discussion. (004092)
GEOS 399	Special Problems	1.0 -3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Faculty permission. This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (004154)
GEOS 402	Optical Mineralogy	1.0	SP
Prerequisites: GEOS 306 with grade of C- or higher. Corequisites: GEOS 403. Theory and practice of identification of minerals with the petrographic microscope. Emphasis on the common rock-forming silicates. 3 hours laboratory. (004096)
GEOS 403	Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology	4.0	SP
Prerequisites: GEOS 306 with grade of C- or higher. Corequisite: GEOS 402. Physical-chemical development and geotectonic settings of igneous and metamorphic rocks. Analysis of rock thin sections. Field trip required. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (004097)
GEOS 404	Modeling Global Climate Change	3.0	F2
Prerequisites: GEOS 170; PHYS 202A or PHYS 204A; MATH 109 or MATH 120. This course focuses on physical processes and energy imbalances in the atmosphere, ocean, and cryosphere that result in global climate change. It also introduces students to climate system dynamics and climate modeling. Topics include atmospheric radiative transfer; the effect of aerosol particles and greenhouse gases; the thermodynamics of moist air, clouds, and convection; the energy balance at the surface; the hydrologic cycle with emphasis on precipitation and the cryosphere, general atmospheric and oceanic circulation; the global energy balance; and natural and anthropogenically forced climate change. 3 hours lecture. (022010)
GEOS 408	Structural Geology	4.0	FA
Prerequisites: High school or college trigonometry; GEOS 203; GEOS 307 with grade of C- or higher. Behavior of geologic materials. Folds, faults, small-scale structures in sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks. Graphic methods. 2 hours lecture, 4 hours activity. (004082)
GEOS 410	Introduction to Watershed Hydrology	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: GEOS 380 or prior hydrology course work and consent of instructor. A survey of the hydrologic processes governing the movement and storage of water at the watershed scale. Emphasis is on computer-based methods for characterizing the physical framework and quantifying the resultant hydrology in terms of its temporal and spatial variability. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (004161)
GEOS 415	Hydrogeology	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: CHEM 111, GEOS 306, GEOS 380, MATH 120; PHYS 202A or PHYS 204A. Recommended: GEOS 307. Theory and analysis of groundwater flow, including fluid physics, aquifer properties, soil water, groundwater recharge, hydrogeologic environments, aquifer mechanics, and water quality degradation. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (004102)
GEOS 420	Earth Systems Modeling	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: BIOL 350W; CHEM 107 or CHEM 111; GEOS 102, GEOS 170, GEOS 265; PHYS 202A, PHYS 204A, or PHYS 341. This course will seek to understand fundamental earth system processes and interactions on a global scale. Particular emphasis is placed on climate change and its impacts. 3 hours lecture. (021924)
GEOS 425	Surficial Processes	3.0	F1
Prerequisites: GEOS 101 or GEOS 102; MATH 120; PHYS 202A or PHYS 204A. A survey of the processes governing uplift and denudation of landscapes, including isostasy, chemical and physical weathering, mass movements, surface water erosion, formation of channels, and flow and sediment transport. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (004152)
GEOS 430	Wetland Ecology and Management	3.0	F2
Prerequisites: Upper division standing in BS Environmental Science, BA Biological Sciences, BS Biological Sciences, BS Microbiology, BA Geography, or BS Agriculture. Highly recommended: BIOL 161 and/or BIOL 350. This course examines the ecology, management, and restoration of wetland ecosystems, including biotic and abiotic processes, functions, wildlife and policy discussions. We place emphasis on biological, physical, chemical, and ecological aspects of major wetland ecosystems found in North America. We also discuss ecosystem services, wetland classification/delineation, legal protection of wetlands, and the relationship between wetlands and climate change. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (022003)
GEOS 435	Boundary Layer Meteorology	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: MATH 109 or MATH 120; PHYS 202A or PHYS 204A. The atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) is the lowest part of the Earth's atmosphere that is in constant contact with the surface of the Earth and responds quickly to the thermal and mechanical forcings. The ABL has a very strong role in the vertical fluxes of heat, momentum, and trace gases. Turbulence is the main physical process by which those fluxes occur and hence statistical descriptions are the norm. Therefore, this course focuses on small scale meteorology (also know as micrometeorology), turbulence, and the behavior of the atmosphere near the surface. 3 hours lecture. (022043)
GEOS 436	Volcanology	3.0	S1
Prerequisites: GEOS 101 or GEOS 102, GEOS 306, or faculty permission. An introduction to physical processes associated with terrestrial and extraterrestrial volcanoes and their products. Specific topics include volcano monitoring, rheologic properties of magma and volcanic flows, experimental volcanology, theoretical and analog flow modeling, as well as in-depth examination of local volcanoes and various eruptions (past, present, and future). This course includes an extended (4-5 days) field trip, required for all students. Students participate in the field by collecting data for future course projects, presenting prepared information at various field trip stops, or both. Students also complete research projects throughout the semester. 3 hours lecture. (020293)
GEOS 440	Environmental Sensing	3.0	FA
Prerequisite: PHYS 202B, PHYS 204B, or PHYS 204C (may be taken concurrently). Instruments are critical to making quantitative observations, and observations are critical to the scientific method. The subject of environmental instrumentation is vast and constantly changing as new technologies emerge. Through a combination of lectures and hands-on projects, students are (1) introduced to the process of assembling and characterizing an electronic instrument of their own, (2) forming a hypothesis and testing it by collecting data, and (3) writing reports and giving presentations on their results. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (020639)
GEOS 450	Tectonics	3.0	S1
Prerequisites: GEOS 306, GEOS 307. Evolution of the larger features of the earth; continents, oceans, mountain ranges, and lithospheric plates. Methods of tectonic analysis, including interpretation. Geologic development of the western United States. 3 hours discussion. (004110)
GEOS 455	Sedimentary Basin Analysis	3.0	FA
Prerequisites: GEOS 307, GEOS 403 both with a grade of C- or higher. Study of the paleographic evolution of sedimentary basins. Includes stratigraphic and paleontologic correlation, facies analysis, sedimentary petrology, depositional systems, and the tectonic framework of sedimentary basins. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (004114)
GEOS 460	Water Resources Management	3.0	S2
Prerequisite: GEOS 380 (may be taken concurrently). Water-resources, management plans of world; emphasis on California and Israeli plans. Water plans in primitive, agrarian, and industrial societies. Data gathering and interpretation, regulation of water resources, and control of water pollution. 3 hours lecture. (004168)
GEOS 470	Renewable Energy	3.0	F1
Prerequisite: GEOS 370. Teach students about the wide range of renewable energy technologies that are available, how they harvest energy from the environment, how they impact the environment, and their varying degrees of competitiveness with fossil fuels. Major forms of renewable energy covered include solar thermal, solar photovoltaics, bioenergy, hydroelectricity, tidal power, wind energy, wave energy, and geothermal energy. Students also gain experience reading, researching, and presenting findings. 3 hours lecture. (021766)
GEOS 471	Field Geology	2.0	SP
Prerequisites: GEOS 360, GEOS 361W, GEOS 402, GEOS 403, GEOS 408 all with grade of C- or higher. Mapping, recording, and interpreting data in the field; use of Brunton compass and topographic maps emphasized. Reports required. Field work during January Intersession totaling at least 10 days. 6 hours laboratory. (004105)
GEOS 475	Senior Seminar	3.0	SP
Prerequisite: Senior standing in Environmental Science. This seminar provides a culminating experience for students to draw on their accumulated content knowledge and skills to address one or more environmental problems. Select problems addressed by students working in interdisciplinary teams. Project plans and timelines described in individually-prepared proposals. Relevant policies and regulations indentified, and this guidance informs student projects. Existing comparative data employed and analyzed to develop project plans and reports. Computer skills employed, possibly including spreadsheets, statistical software, and GIS. 3 hours discussion. (004169)
GEOS 480	Seminar in the Geological and Environmental Sciences	1.0	FS
Prerequisite: Geological and Environmental Sciences (GEOS) majors only. The seminar series engages students in recent research and developments in the Geological and Environmental Sciences, and develops skills in scientific literature retrieval. 1 hour seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 8.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (021562)
GEOS 489	Geoscience Internship	1.0 -3.0	FS
This course is an internship offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. (021016)
GEOS 489T	Internship in Geoscience Teaching	3.0	FS
Prerequisites: GEOS 101 or GEOS 102, GEOS 203. This is a supervised internship in geoscience teaching which takes place in a local junior high or high school geoscience classroom, supervised by the classroom teacher and by a faculty member of the CSUC Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences. 9 hours supervision. Credit/no credit grading. (020620)
GEOS 490	Seminar in the Geosciences	1.0 -3.0	FS
Readings, reports, and discussion of topics in the current literature or of special studies in any area of the physical sciences. May include research project; see instructor. 1 hour seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 9.0 units. (004171)
GEOS 498	Special Topics	1.0 -3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Department permission. This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 3 hours discussion. (004172)
GEOS 499	Special Problems	1.0 -3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Faculty permission. This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (004175)
GEOS 499H	Honors Research in the Geosciences	3.0	FS
Prerequisite: First semester: 9 upper-division units in major, B average, faculty permission. Second semester: B or higher in first semester, faculty permission. An intensive two-semester course in research within a subdiscipline of the physical sciences. Students enroll for 3 units each semester. Open only to students with at least a 3.0 GPA in the major. The course consists of a research project done under the supervision of a faculty member, a formal written paper, and a public presentation. This course may be used to fulfill a maximum of 3 units of the upper-division requirement for the major. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (004176)
GEOS 536	Applied Ecology	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: BIOL 350W, MATH 315. Examination of the mechanisms, directions, and magnitude of an organism's or ecosystem's response to human perturbation. 3 hours discussion. (004166)
GEOS 537	Ecohydrology	3.0	S1
Prerequisites: BIOL 350W, GEOS 380, or instructor consent. The study of linkages between hydrologic processes and ecosystem functions; field methods for data gathering; hydrologic transport of nutrients and pollutants through ecosystems; case studies of problems in ecohydrology. 3 hours lecture. (020330)
GEOS 565	Geochemistry	3.0	F2
Prerequisites: CHEM 111, GEOS 102. Recommended: GEOS 306. Investigation of the chemistry of minerals, rocks, and natural waters. Provides students with interests in geology, hydrology, environmental science, and other disciplines a background on the chemical compositions of rocks, minerals, and natural waters; chemical processes in the formation of rocks and waters; principles of reaction chemistry, thermodynamics, and kinetics applied to geochemical systems; and migration of chemical contaminants in the environment. 3 hours lecture. (004115)
GEOS 572W	Advanced Field Geology (W)	2.0	SP	W
Prerequisite: GEOS 403 with a grade of C- or higher. Corequisite: GEOS 471 (winter field - grade of C- or higher). Independent geologic mapping of a difficult area. Report required. Field work on weekends or during spring recess, totaling at least 10 days. 6 hours laboratory. This is an approved Writing Course. (004107)
GEOS 580	Geological Evolution of North America	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: GEOS 408, GEOS 455 (with grade of C- or higher for both). Group study of topics related to the geological evolution of North America. Student presentations and group discussion will focus on common themes or geologic regions. 3 hours lecture. (004170)
GEOS 598	Special Topics	1.0 -4.0	FS
Prerequisites: Department permission. This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 3 hours discussion. (020063)
GEOS 599	Special Problems	1.0 -3.0	FS
Prerequisites: Faculty permission. This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (021283)
GEOS 600	Geosciences Seminar I	1.0	FA
Presentation and discussion of reports on current literature and special studies in geosciences. 1 hour seminar. (004177)
GEOS 601	Geosciences Seminar II	1.0	SP
Presentation and discussion of reports on current literature and special studies in geosciences. 1 hour seminar. (004178)
GEOS 602	Geosciences Seminar III	3.0	FA
Prerequisites: GEOS 600, GEOS 601. This course is the third of a series of writing courses specifically for students in the M.S. Geosciences or Environmental Science programs. The goal of the course is to build on the previous courses while focusing on the thesis or project itself. This class provides a forum for intensive analysis of the principles of excellent academic writing for scientists while also utilizing peer support to improve communication. 3 hours lecture. (022020)
GEOS 606	Teaching Assistant Preparation	2.0	FA
Prerequisite: Graduate status. This is a seminar course for teaching assistants focusing on the theory and practice of active learning in science laboratory settings. The overall goals of the course; 1) To increase participants understanding of strategies to engage students in active learning, 2) to provide opportunities for modeling best practices in science teaching and 3) confidence in his/her ability as effective science lab instructors. 2 hours seminar. (021000)
GEOS 616	Natural Water Systems	3.0	F1
Prerequisites: CHEM 111, GEOS 315. Recommended: CHEM 112. Fundamentals of processes in environmental aquatic systems emphasizing acid-base and pE-pH relationships, solubility of carbon species in natural waters, and interactions at the solid-liquid interface. Students in this course interpret these processes in light of new ideas, problems, and materials. 3 hours lecture. (020287)
GEOS 617	Advanced Topics in Geology	3.0	FS
You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Discussions and library research into selected topics; may include some lab or field work. Different topics presented each semester. May be repeated for credit, with permission of instructor. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 9.0 units. (004180)
GEOS 619	Advanced Topics in Meteorology	3.0	FS
You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Discussions and library research into selected topics; may include some lab work. Different topics presented each semester. May be repeated for credit, with permission of instructor. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 9.0 units. (004181)
GEOS 621	Advanced Topics in Hydrology	3.0	FS
You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Discussions and library research into selected topics; may include some lab work. Different topics presented each semester. May be repeated for credit, with permission of instructor. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 9.0 units. (004182)
GEOS 625	Advanced Topics in Environmental Science	3.0	FS
You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Discussions and library research into selected topics; may include some lab work. Different topics presented each semester. May be repeated for credit, with permission of instructor. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 9.0 units. (004184)
GEOS 630	Geotectonic Development of California	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: Graduate standing or consent of instructor. Geological and geophysical characteristics of the geomorphic provinces of California. Formation of surficial features, such as mountain ranges, drainage networks, and valleys as a response to active tectonic processes. Detailed geologic and physiographic framework of Northern California as a setting for field-based studies in the geosciences. 3 hours lecture. (004185)
GEOS 640	Hydrogeochemistry	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: CHEM 111, CHEM 112. Recommended: GEOS 516 or GEOS 565. Origins and sources of chemical constituents of natural waters, including water-rock interactions, equilibrium aqueous speciation, reaction-path modeling, oxidation-reduction reactions, mineral solubility relations, geochemical transport, reaction kinetics, and aqueous isotopic systems. 3 hours seminar. (004186)
GEOS 643	Applied Paleontology	3.0	F2
Prerequisites: GEOS 303, GEOS 307. This course trains students in fundamentals of paleontological resource management. As an applied course, students integrate governmental regulations with the scientific method and client budgetary demands. A significant objective is to provide students with the practical experience to be able to apply for work as a "Paleontological Monitor" during environmental impact studies. This course makes extensive use of bibliographic and other resource materials. 3 hours lecture. (021565)
GEOS 645	Applied Geophysics	3.0	S2
Prerequisites: One year of physics, GEOS 102, or faculty permission. Introduction to solid-earth geophysical exploration techniques and data analysis. Includes electrical, electromagnetic, gravimetric, and seismic surveying, and wireline well logging. Concentration on problems in environmental science, hydrology, mineral prospecting, and oil exploration. Students apply these techniques to solve real-world problems. 3 hours discussion. (004112)
GEOS 649	Economic Geology	3.0	F2
Prerequisites: GEOS 306, GEOS 307, GEOS 402, GEOS 403; or faculty permission. The integrative course dealing with origins and occurrences of metallic and non-metallic mineral deposits, including factors in their use. This course involves scholarly presentation of independent study research. 3 hours discussion. (004111)
GEOS 650	Environmental Monitoring	2.0	FA
Survey of environmental monitoring for air quality, water quality, pollution, waste disposal, environmental resources, etc., including field and laboratory observations and exercises. An individual term project in environmental monitoring is required and may involve collection of field data, interpretation of field data, development of analytical capabilities, or other subjects pertinent to the student's research interests. 1 hour discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (004187)
GEOS 652	Science and Environmental Regulations	3.0	FA
Prerequisites: CHEM 270 or CHEM 320, MATH 120, PHYS 202B. Recommended: BIOL 350 or BIOL 360. Examination of the scientific basis of environmental regulations, case studies. 3 hours lecture. (020466)
GEOS 654	Environmental Risk Assessment	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: CHEM 270 or CHEM 320, MATH 120, PHYS 202B. Recommended: BIOL 350 or BIOL 360. The scientific basis of risk assessment in various sectors of human activity, with particular emphasis on business, industrial, governmental agency, and planning concerns. 3 hours lecture. (020467)
GEOS 655	Fossil Fuels	3.0	F2
Prerequisite: GEOS 307 or faculty permission. Geological principles and environmental impacts of exploring for and exploiting resources of petroleum, natural gas, oil shales, oil sands, coal, and coalbed-methane. Applications using geological data, potential sites for CO2 sequestration and environmental impact assessments are emphasized. This course involves the application of theory to new ideas, problems, and materials. 3 hours lecture. (020574)
GEOS 656	Environmental Sciences Capstone	3.0	SP
Prerequisites: Completion of three semesters of coursework in either the Environmental Sciences MS program or the proposed PSM option of the Environmental Sciences MS program. Overview of environmental science issues, including biological, chemical, and engineering examples. Particular focus is on future issues and approaches. Social and ethical issues are also examined. 9 hours supervision. (020465)
GEOS 660	Numerical Analysis	3.0	FA
Prerequisites: MATH 120. Survey and implementation of common numerical techniques in use in geoscientific data analysis, including multivariate data analysis, geostatistics, finite difference and finite element analyses, time-series analysis, and fractal geometry. 3 hours lecture. (004188)
GEOS 670	Environmental and Engineering Geology	3.0	F1
Prerequisites: GEOS 102, GEOS 203, GEOS 306. For majors in related sciences and technical fields, GEOS 102 only. Practical application of techniques to solve geological engineering and environmental problems. Techniques of surface investigations and remote sensing; borehole and surface geophysics; soil descriptions and properties; landslide mapping, mechanics and remediation, subsurface investigation of rock masses; mapping of discontinuities, establishing rock quality, tunneling techniques. Seismic studies; surface and trench mapping of faults, seismic risk analysis. Ground water monitoring, site assessment, techniques of hazardous waste cleanup, state and federal regulations on hazardous waste, siting of landfills. Students in this course apply these theories to new ideas. 3 hours lecture. (004116)
GEOS 697	Independent Study	1.0 -4.0	FS
This course is a graduate-level independent study offered for 1.0-4.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (004189)
GEOS 699P	Master's Project	1.0 -6.0	FS
Prerequisite: Instructor permission. This course is a master's project offered for 1.0-6.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (020469)
GEOS 699T	Master's Thesis	1.0 -6.0	FS
This course is a master's thesis offered for 1.0-6.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (004194)