Examines the dynamics of glacier flow and landforms glaciers produce. Lectures, labs, and field trips emphasize processes in both the modern and ancient glaciers. Introduction to petrogenetic models of the earth's crust and mantle. Examines, using lectures, labs, and field-based independent study research projects, processes which change Earth's surface and the history of landscape development. Considers fundamental geologic constraints on environmental problems.
Lab includes description and classification of sedimentary rocks.
A discussion of fluvial systems including hydrology, sedimentation, geomorphology, water chemistry, and human impacts. Discussion of the geology of a selected region of North America. A four-week summer field trip to the area in question. See Schedule of Courses for specific titles. Students from allied sciences, mathematics, and engineering may elect a research problem that combines their major field of study and geology.