Topics of study include astronomy, atmosphere and weather, surface and groundwater, and geological processes and agents such as glaciers, wind, volcanoes and landslides. For those who wish to explore an interest in geology, major in geology, or satisfy lab science requirements. Topics include igneous rocks and volcanism, sedimentary rocks and stratigraphy, metamorphic rocks and metamorphism, weathering, mass wasting, streams, deserts and glaciers. Lab studies concentrate on minerals, rocks and topographic maps. Combines a regional and topical approach to continental development, crustal structure, and mountain building.
Regional stratigraphy is integrated with the origin and evolution of plants and animals.
Lab topics include structural geology, geologic maps, fossils, and a mapping project. A two-day field trip to the Baraboo District of Wisconsin is required. Expenses of the field trip are borne by the student. Also active geologic processes today, resource development, land and water use and management. Introduction to crystallography, occurrence and economic uses of minerals and rocks, natural resources.