GEO - Geology

GEO 103CS Intro to Envrmntl Geology: 4 Credits (3 Lec, 2 Lab)

Application of geologic principles to topical problems in environmental and resource geology. Topics include analysis of environmental issues such as earthquake disaster preparedness, landslides, land use, floods and human occupation, ground water withdrawal and contamination issues, volcanic and coastal hazards, and the response of landscapes and people to resource development (minerals/air/water/energy). Laboratories will be used to analyze and debate data relevant to environmental problems from a geologic perspective.

GEO 105IN Oceanography: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

Introduction to the formation, distribution, history, and resources of the oceans of the world. Emphasis is on the geologic, physical, chemical and biological processes operating in the ocean system, distribution of life in marine ecosystems, effects of human activity on ocean resources and the interdisciplinary perspective necessary to understand ocean dynamics.

GEO 111IN Dinosaurs: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

() Offered on demand. This course provides an introduction to dinosaur paleontology. Students will learn how hypotheses about extinct animals are formulated and tested, with comparisons to modern sedimentary environments and living animals. Recitation sections allow discussion of current research and hands-on experience with sedimentary rocks and fossils. Field trips provide additional education opportunities.

View Course Outcomes:

Summarize dinosaur biology (origins, biogeography, life history, and extinction)
Articulate current debates in evolutionary biology and dinosaur paleontology
Describe Mesozoic ecosystems and environments
Evaluate the role that fossils and dinosaurs play in understanding evolution and the diversity of life
Demarcate science from pseudoscience; appreciate how evidence reason drive scientific inquiry

GEO 140IN Planetary Geoscience: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

() Offered on demand. Introduction to the formation, geochemical development, interior and surficial processes, and exobiology of the planets, moons, and other objects of our solar system, as well as known exoplanets. Observations and data relative to planetary interiors, surfaces, and atmospheres, using principles derived from integration of chemical, physical, geologic, biologic, and engineering sciences are addressed.

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Explain the history of planetary exploration
Describe the sources of information available for studying planetary geology including Earth- and space-based telescopes, remotely-sensed data from planetary orbiters, unmanned and manned landers, and meteorites
Recognize and describe types of evidence of surficial processes on Earth and other terrestrial bodies including eolian, glacial, volcanic, fluvial, and erosional landforms, and impact craters
Contrast physical, chemical, and environmental features of the surfaces of terrestrial versus gaseous planets
Reconstruct geologic processes and histories of planetary surfaces using spatial relations of differing surface features
Make predictions concerning the potential habitability of planets and their satellites
Articulate orally and verbally the scientific value in investigating the origin of and geologic processes acting to shape the surfaces and interiors of planets and their satellites

GEO 211 Earth History and Evolution: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: ERTH 101IN or ERTH 201IN. (Sp) Evolution of the earth and its life from origin to present configuration. Role of plate tectonic processes in the geologic development of the continents and ocean basins. Major evolutionary developments and crises in the history of life

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Demonstrate thorough understanding of the co-evolution of Earth and life over the past 4.5 Ga (i.e., Earth’s system history)
Describes the geologic time scale and be able to identify events that define the time scale through Earth history
Demonstrate an understanding of relative and absolute dating techniques
Demonstrate an understanding of Earth’s major geochemical cycles and how they involve the biosphere/lithosphere/atmosphere/hydrosphere

GEO 290R Undergraduate Research: 1-6 Credits (1-6 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Consent of instructor. Directed undergraduate research which may culminate in a written work or other creative project. Course will address responsible conduct of research. May be repeated
Repeatable up to 99 credits.

GEO 291 Special Topics: 1-4 Credits (1-4 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: None required but some may be determined necessary by each offering department. Courses not required in any curriculum for which there is a particular one-time need, or given on a trial basis to determine acceptability and demand before requesting a regular course number
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

GEO 302 Mineralogy and Optical Mineral: 4 Credits (2 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: ERTH 101IN or ERTH 201IN
COREQUISITE: CHMY 143. (F) Identification, properties, occurrence, and associations of the rock-forming minerals; introduction to crystallography (crystal classes, lattice types, and external morphology) and crystal chemistry (bonding and crystal structure types); analytical techniques including mineral optics, x-ray, and SEM analysis. Laboratory fee included
.

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Students taking this course will learn about the physical properties used in mineral identification and the geologic locations where these minerals form;
A goal of this class is to impart a working knowledge of optical mineralogy techniques to apply to thin section analyses of unknown samples using a petrographic microscope.
Students will learn the basic properties of crystal lattices, the main mineral families, and how chemistry relates to these properties.

GEO 305 Igneous & Metamorphic Petrology: 4 Credits (2 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 302. (Sp) Introduction to the principles of metamorphic petrology; metamorphic facies, reactions, phase equilibria, processes, petrographic analysis, deformation, and interpretation of metamorphism in the context of global tectonics. Introduction to the distribution, mineral associations, and chemical compositions of igneous rocks in the earth's crust and upper mantle. Emphasis is on the use of petrographic features and chemistry to identify igneous rocks and interpret rock-forming processes

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Students will understand the processes that are responsible for forming igneous and metamorphic rocks and the tectonic settings where they occur
Students will understand how the composition, structure, and textures of igneous and metamorphic rocks can be used to interpret past geologic processes and the geologic history of an area.
Students will be able to describe and identify igneous and metamorphic rocks in both hand sample and using the petrographic microscope
Students will learn how to obtain, use, and interpret geochemical data using web databases, computer programs, and spreadsheets

GEO 309 Sedimentation and Stratigraphy: 4 Credits (3 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 211 and M 161Q or M 171Q. (F) Physical, chemical, and biological processes and their effects on sediment dispersal, deposition, and diagenesis. Geometry and lateral and vertical relationships between sedimentary rock bodies. Labs emphasize the description and analysis of sedimentary rock bodies. -

View Course Outcomes:

Recognize sedimentary rocks and interpret physical processes and depositional environments based on the nature of sedimentary rocks and their structures
Demonstrate basic skills in measuring stratigraphic sections, provenance analysis and facies analysis
Demonstrate basic knowledge of the relative control of sea-level and tectonics on sedimentation through sequence stratigraphy and basin analysis

GEO 310 Invertebrate Paleontology: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 211. () Offered Spring, even years. Investigation of invertebrate organisms and their evolution through time as preserved in the sedimentary rock record. Emphasis is on the morphology, paleoecology, evolution, and stratigraphic and environmental significance of important fossil groups. Labs stress fossil recognition

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Students will be familiar with the taxonomy, anatomy, paleoecology, and phylogenetic relationships of the major groups of fossil invertebrates
Students will understand the overall pattern of invertebrate evolution sufficiently to be able to generate macroevolutionary questions
Students will develop observational skills such as note taking and illustration for the examination of vertebrate remains
Students will expand and improve identification skills of fossil invertebrate remains

GEO 312 Dinosaur Paleontology: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 211 and BIOB 170IN. Dinosaur Paleontology covers the origin, evolution and extinction of dinosaurs. Topics of special emphasis include phylogeny, the origin of birds, and functional adaptations. Labs examine dinosaur skeletons, their novel adaptations and role in developing evolutionary trees

GEO 314 Petrology: 4 Credits (2 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 302 and GEO 309. (Sp) Majors only. This course explores the classification, formation, and interpretation of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, providing insight into Earth's dynamic processes. Students will develop skills in rock identification using both hand samples and petrographic microscopes, with an emphasis on textural and mineralogical analysis. Through lectures, lab exercises, and a field trip, students will gain hands-on experience in petrologic methods and data interpretation

GEO 315 Structural Geology: 4 Credits (3 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 211. (Sp) Geometry, kinematics, and dynamics of natural rock deformation. Laboratory will focus on analytical and graphical techniques of modern structural analysis. Field trip fee required

View Course Outcomes:

Develop skills in visualizing geologic structures in 3 dimensions.
Develop skills in interpreting the geology of the subsurface.
Develop comfort with interpreting structures on a geologic map.
Develop ability to construct a cross-section.
Develop understanding of types of folds and faults and associated terminology.
Develop understanding of geologic and tectonic settings of different structure types around the world.
Develop understanding of structures from the micro to the macro scale.
Develop understanding of relationships between stress, strain, and structural development.
Gain experience in library research and written and oral presentation.
Develop comfort with use of stereonets and stereographic projection.

GEO 330 Paleontology Lab Techniques: 2 Credits (1 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 211. () Offered Fall, odd years. Provides laboratory and research experience in vertebrate paleontology, including: training in fossil preparation, identification of osteological specimens, documentation (photographic and scientific illustration), molding and casting, specimen curation, and other skills necessary for professional presentation of research

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Students will gain skills with paleontological preparation techniques;
Students will practice proper data collection, paleontological curation methods, fossil imaging methods, and scientific presentation skills;
Students will learn to improve writing abilities for use in scientific writing and presentation.

GEO 401 Phylogenetics: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: BIOB 375 or BIOB 420 or BIOO 310 or GEO 211. (Sp) Theory and practice of inferring evolutionary trees (phylogenies) and using them to statistically model evolution and adaptation (phylogenetic comparative methods). We will explore molecular, morphological, cultural, and fossil data using maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches

View Course Outcomes:

Conceptual Understanding: Students will be able to explain the fundamental principles and theories of phylogenetics, including the different methodological approaches used in phylogenetic analysis.
Analytical Skills: Students will be able to apply maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods to solve complex phylogenetic problems. They should be able to critically evaluate different phylogenetic methods and choose the appropriate approach for different research questions.
Technical Proficiency: Students should become proficient in the use of key phylogenetic software packages and tools (e.g., IQ-Tree, RevBayes, and BayesTraits). They should also be comfortable using remote high-performance computing resources to conduct phylogenetic analyses.
Research Skills: By the end of the course, students should be capable of designing, executing, and interpreting their own phylogenetic studies. This includes the ability to collect, manage, and analyze phylogenetic data, and to integrate their findings into the broader context of evolutionary biology.
Communication Skills: Students should be able to effectively communicate complex phylogenetic concepts and research findings, both in written form (e.g., research papers, lab reports) and orally (e.g., class presentations, discussions). This includes the ability to critically evaluate and discuss scientific literature in phylogenetics.

GEO 402 Molecular Paleontology: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: BIOB 375 or BIOB 420 or GEO 211. (F) This course examines the intersection of molecular biology and paleontology to explore evolutionary processes, analyze fossil biomolecules, and reconstruct ancient genomes. Students will gain knowledge of computational techniques, molecular analysis, and ethical considerations shaping molecular research on extinct species

View Course Outcomes:

Explain the limits and scope of molecular biology as they apply to fossils.
Summarize molecular techniques used in paleontological research.
Interpret molecular data to infer phylogenetic relationships.
Critique the ethical implications of molecular paleontological research.
Describe the evolutionary and biological impacts of molecular biology research.

GEO 411 Vertebrate Paleontology: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 211, and BIOB 170IN. () Offered on demand. This course traces the history of vertebrates from the earliest chordates to synapsids, dinosaurs, and hominids. Lectures and labs emphasize phylogeny, anatomy, novel adaptations, and major evolutionary events such as the conquest of land, flight, and mass extinctions

View Course Outcomes:

Learning the taxonomy, anatomy, paleoecology, and phylogenetic relationships of the\\nmajor groups of fossil vertebrates.
Understanding the overall pattern of vertebrate evolution sufficiently to be able to\\ngenerate macroevolutionary questions.
Developing observational skills such as note taking and illustration for the examination of\\nvertebrate remains.
Improving identification skills of fossil vertebrate remains.

GEO 413 Macroevolution/Fossil Record: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 310 or GEO 312 or BIOB 375. Macroevolution explores major trends in evolution through geologic time. The course examines such topics as whether communities evolve, cladogenesis, mass extinctions, rates of speciation and extinction, controls of biodiversity, and the role of sex and body size in evolution

GEO 417 Taphonomy: Fossil Preservation: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 309 and GEO 211. () Offered Fall, even years. Scattered dinosaur bones lie entombed in a rock; what do they mean? Taphonomy examines the processes that act on an organism from the time of its death until its discovery and how these processes bias or help in fossil interpretation. Co-convened with GEO 517

View Course Outcomes:

Students will gain a thorough understanding of taphonomic principles and techniques.
Students will be able to make accurate observations of taphonomically modified bones and other fossils
Students will be able to gather taphonomic data and formulate an interpretation and taphonmic history based on this information
Students will develop a proficiency in reading scientific literature and in particular be able to discern evidence from interpretation

GEO 419 Field Paleontology: 2 Credits (2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 302. () Offered Summer, even years. This two-week class provides field experience in vertebrate paleontology, including sedimentology, facies analysis, measuring stratigraphic sections, microsite screening, field identification of vertebrate and invertebrate fossils, excavation of fossil specimens, and taphonomic data collecting

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Develop the necessary skills for conducting paleontology research in the field
Be able to gather of sedimentologic, taphonomic and paleontologic data
Be capable of measuring and drafting a stratigraphic section
Have improved ability to make and document detailed observations in the field
Gain an appreciation of understanding the geologic and biologic context of fossils in the field.

GEO 420 Hydrogeology: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: Junior standing, M 161Q or M 172Q; CHMY 143, PHSX 205 or PHSX 220, ERTH 101IN. The relationship between ground-water and other parts of the hydrologic cycle: ground-water availability, movement, chemistry, exploration, geology, and aquifer tests. The ground-water resource in terms of regional supply and human use and intervention

GEO 428 Field Methods: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 211 and GPHY 284; Student must have received a minimum grade of "C-" in these courses. (Sp) Extensive hiking and outdoor physical challenges require that students be physically fit, responsible, and concerned for their own safety and the safety of others around them. A fee for supplies, transportation, and other logistical expenses may be required. The goal of this course is to introduce the techniques that will allow you to develop basic field geology skills, and provide a foundation for future fieldwork in other Earth Sciences classes, graduate school, and/or careers in the geosciences. In particular, this course will serve as preparation for Geology Field Camp, a capstone course for Earth Science students pursuing the Geology and Paleontology options. The course will involve a mixture of background information delivered through lectures, in-class activities to cement key concepts and train specific techniques, and on- and off-campus field trips

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The particular activities involved in fieldwork vary greatly between subdisciplines in Earth Sciences; however, there are some key skills and concepts that comprise the core of all Earth Science field work. This course will focus on teaching these skills and concepts, including be able to draft geologic maps, cross-sections, and measured stratigraphic sections by hand based on field observations.
demonstrate safe and efficient field work methodologies.
Students will be able to use a field notebook to collect geologic data.
Students will be proficient at creating publication-quality maps and figures using ESRI and ArcGIS and graphic editing programs.
Student will be able to use handheld computers to collect geologic data.
Student will demonstrate the ability to synthesize structural geology, sedimentology, surface processes, and paleontology principles to solve geologic problems.

GEO 429R Field Geology: 3 Credits (3 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 302, GEO 309, GEO 315, and GEO 428. (Su) A capstone course for the geology and paleontology options. Summer field course with application of field procedures and mapping techniques to a variety of geologic problems and exercises. Students will study a range of rock types, sedimentary depositional environments, and structural deformation styles in order to learn the geological and tectonic history of the western North America Cordillera. Extensive hiking and outdoor physical challenges require that students be physically fit. A fee for supplies, transportation, and other logistical expenses is required

View Course Outcomes:

draft geologic maps, cross sections, and stratigraphic columns by hand in the field at a professional level with detailed observations to make interpretations regarding past geological events.
use a brunton compass for structural measurements and navigating, a Jacob staff for measuring stratigraphic section, and a hand lens for mineral identification in settings of metamorphic, sedimentary, and igneous rocks.
synthesize different types of geologic data (e.g., structural and stratigraphic) to solve complex geologic problems.
map independently, but also demonstrate the ability to work in pairs or teams.
explain the logistics required for conducting field research across a variety of landscapes and land ownership situations.
demonstrate safe field practices following industry standards under all field conditions and settings.
synthesize geologic observations from Utah, Wyoming and Montana to reconstruct and articulate the geologic history of the North America Cordillera. ;
pursue professional employment as a field geologist.
demonstrate the ability to use modern ;digital techniques of gathering and recording field-based ;geological data, including (but not restricted to) ;the gathering of structural data using iPad software such as FieldMove

GEO 433 Tectonics: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 315. (F) History of tectonic theory; modern view of plate tectonic processes; Precambrian tectonics; case studies of Phanerozoic orogenic belts; neotectonics; geophysics. Co-convened with GEO 533

View Course Outcomes:

Historical development of tectonics as a sub-discipline of the geosciences
Geophysics of the Earth’ interior and composition of the Earth
Plate tectonics
Precambrian tectonics – how the Earth has evolved over 4.5 billion years
In-depth tectonic analysis of selected modern and ancient orogenic systems
Planetary tectonics – the wide spectrum in our own solar system
Associated topics in geophysics (seismology, gravity, magnetism, heat flow, rotational and orbital dynamics) – presented in-context with the above topics ;

GEO 439 Geophysics: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 211, GEO 302, M 171Q, PHSX 207. (on demand / when expert faculty is available) Seismology, gravity, isostasy, magnetism and paleomagnetism, electrical methods, radioactivity, geothermics, applied geophysics

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Demonstrate an understanding of how data is collected and processes
Demonstrate an understanding and utilization of geophysical concepts, such as: Global seismology, seismic waves, earthquakes and seismotectonics, reflection and refraction seismology, gravity, isostasy, paleomagnetism, mineral ;magnetism, magnetic surveying, electrical methods (resistivity, induced polarization and self-potential, electromagnetic methods), radioactivity and radiometric dating, geothermics
Be able to apply concepts of geophysics to hydrocarbon and mineral exploration

GEO 440 Volcanology: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 302 and GEO 305. () Offered Fall, odd years. Overview of current ideas concerning volcanic eruptions and their resulting deposits, concentrating on examination of processes as elucidated from the study of modern volcanic environments. Required weekend field trip and field trip fee

View Course Outcomes:

Demonstrate understanding of how volcanologists predict the timing and magnitude of volcanic eruptions, or the extent to which this is presently possible
Differentiate between different types of volcanic deposits and their emplacement mechanisms
Identify how textural features are developed in a range of volcanic products
Articulate the societal impacts of volcanic eruptions

GEO 443 Principles of Sedimentary Petrology: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 302 and GEO 309. (Sp) Detailed analysis and interpretation of the mineralogy, fabric, and genesis of terrigenous clastic and carbonate sedimentary rocks. Use of thin-section microscopy, the scanning electron microscope, and x-ray diffraction techniques are emphasized in the laboratory. Co-convened with GEO 543

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After completing this course, students will:\\nBe familiar with the classification of sedimentary rocks\\n
Be familiar with the textural aspects of sedimentary rocks including particle size, shape, and roundness, and deposit fabric and structure
Understand the composition and diagenesis of siliciclastic sedimentary rocks
Understand the composition and diagenesis of carbonate sedimentary rocks
Be able to describe and name sedimentary rocks in hand sample
Be able to analyze sedimentary rocks at the micro-scale using the binocular and petrographic microscopes
Be able to describe and classify sedimentary rocks in the field
Have the ability to write descriptions and analytical interpretations of suites of genetically-related sedimentary rocks

GEO 445 Glacial Geology: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: ERTH 307. (F) In-depth study of the processes of glaciation and the resulting land forms. Includes class and library readings, and field examination of features of mountain glaciations

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After completing the course, students should be able to:\\nDescribe the processes that govern the flow of ice masses\\n
Identify glacial landforms and explain the processes of erosion/deposition that led to their formation
Synthesize information on glaciology/glacial geology from scientific journals for oral presentation

GEO 471 Geochronology and Thermochronology: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 309, GEO 302, GEO 315, GPHY 284; students must have received a minimum grade of “C-“ in these courses. () Offered Spring, odd years. This course will familiarize students with principles of geochronology and thermochronology and applications in Earth and planetary sciences. Topics will include radioactive decay and growth, long- and short-lived radioisotope systems, analytical methods, determining dates and rates of a wide variety processes, and the use of radiogenic isotopes as tracers in Earth and planetary processes. Emphasis will be on fundamentals and systematics of different systems, historical perspectives, analytical methods, data acquisition and applications from recent literature. This course is co-convened with GEO 571

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Demonstrate an understanding of the foundations of radioisotopic dating used in Earth and planetary science, archeology, marine science and ecology.
Demonstrate an understanding of the analytical methods used in radioisotopic dating
Describe introductory quantitative analyses and modeling techniques used in radioisotopic dating.
Determine the appropriate geo- or thermo-chronologic system to address geologic questions
Demonstrate the ability to synthesize geo- and thermo-chronologic data to solve geologic problems.

GEO 490R Undergraduate Research: 1-6 Credits (1 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Consent of instructor. (F, Sp, Su) Directed undergraduate research which may culminate in a research paper, journal article, or undergraduate thesis. Course will address responsible conduct of research. May be repeated
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

GEO 491 Special Topics: 1-4 Credits (1-4 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: Course prerequisites as determined for each offering. Offered on demand. Courses not required in any curriculum for which there is a particular one-time need, or given on a trial basis to determine acceptability and demand. Co-convened with GEO 591
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

GEO 492 Independent Study: 1-3 Credits (1 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Junior standing, consent of instructor, and approval of department head. (F, Sp, Su) Directed research and study on an individual basis
Repeatable up to 6 credits.

GEO 494 Senior Geology Seminar: 1 Credits (1 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Junior standing and as determined for each offering. Topics at the upper division level not covered in regular courses. Students participate in preparing and presenting discussion material
Repeatable up to 4 credits.

GEO 497 Geology Instruction: 1-2 Credits (2-4 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: Junior or senior standing in geology and consent of instructor and Department Head. (F, Sp) Student works as a tutor and undergraduate teaching assistant in a teaching laboratory under close academic supervision. Weekly meeting focuses on geology, teaching, organization of class materials, and student supervision. Weekly lab emphasis on applying active learning concepts in a geologic laboratory context
Repeatable up to 3 credits.

GEO 498 Internship: 2-12 Credits (2 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Junior standing, consent of instructor, and approval of department head. (F, Sp, Su) An individualized assignment arranged with an agency, business or other organization to provide guided experience in the field
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

GEO 499 Senior Thesis/Capstone: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: Senior standing; minimum 3.0 cum gpa; faculty recommendation. (F, Sp) Senior thesis provides an opportunity to conduct research under the supervision of a faculty member leading to the production of a research paper ("mini-thesis") and an oral presentation to the department or at a professional meeting. Excellent preparation for graduate school and professional work

GEO 501 Phylogenetics: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

(Sp) Theory and practice of inferring evolutionary trees (phylogenies) and using them to statistically model evolution and adaptation (phylogenetic comparative methods). We will explore molecular, morphological, cultural, and fossil data using maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches.

View Course Outcomes:

1. Conceptual Understanding: Students will be able to explain the fundamental principles and theories of phylogenetics, including the different methodological approaches used in phylogenetic analysis.
Analytical Skills: Students will be able to apply maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods to solve complex phylogenetic problems. They should be able to critically evaluate different phylogenetic methods and choose the appropriate approach for different research questions.
Technical Proficiency: Students should become proficient in the use of key phylogenetic software packages and tools (e.g., IQ-Tree, RevBayes, and BayesTraits). They should also be comfortable using remote high-performance computing resources to conduct phylogenetic analyses.
Research Skills: By the end of the course, students should be capable of designing, executing, and interpreting their own phylogenetic studies. This includes the ability to collect, manage, and analyze phylogenetic data, and to integrate their findings into the broader context of evolutionary biology.
Communication Skills: Students should be able to effectively communicate complex phylogenetic concepts and research findings, both in written form (e.g., research papers, lab reports) and orally (e.g., class presentations, discussions). This includes the ability to critically evaluate and discuss scientific literature in phylogenetics.

GEO 502 Molecular Paleontology: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

(F) This course examines the intersection of molecular biology and paleontology to explore evolutionary processes, analyze fossil biomolecules, and reconstruct ancient genomes. Students will gain knowledge of computational techniques, molecular analysis, and ethical considerations shaping molecular research on extinct species.

View Course Outcomes:

Explain the limits and scope of molecular biology as they apply to fossils.
Summarize molecular techniques used in paleontological research.
Interpret molecular data to infer phylogenetic relationships.
Critique the ethical implications of molecular paleontological research.
Describe the evolutionary and biological impacts of molecular biology research.
Critically evaluate and synthesize primary literature to identify key advancements, challenges, and debates in molecular paleontology.

GEO 508 Depositional Systems: 3 Credits (3 Other)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 309. () Offered on demand. Facies models for terrestrial and marine depositional environments and their application to interpreting the stratigraphic record

View Course Outcomes:

Students will demonstrate familiarity of the attributes and distinguishing characteristics of modern depositional environments
Students will recognize the criteria used to distinguish ancient depositional environments derived from the sedimentary rock record
Students will demonstrate knowledge of the methods of outcrop, subsurface, and modeling approaches to interpreting ancient depositional systems
Students will be able to discuss and critically analyze literature on both modern depositional environments and their interpretation in the sedimentary rock record
Students will be able to evaluate a collection of data from outcrops in the field for interpretation of depositional environment
Students will be able to compose an analysis of subsurface data for interpretation of depositional environment

GEO 509 Montana Geology: 2 Credits (1 Lec, 1 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Graduate Standing. () Offered on demand. This course is designed to be rigorous overview of Montana's geologic history form the oldest rocks (Archean in the Beartooth Mountains) to the most recent seismic events. As such, it will also serve as a thorough review of many aspects of undergraduate geology, thus helping to prepare new graduate students for their oral comprehensive exams. Readings will be based on the technical literature, such as articles from refereed journals, advanced topical books and special publications of the Geological Society of America, etc

GEO 515 Structural Geology: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 315 or equivalent. (F) Advanced topics in structural geology and structural analysis; topics may vary with each offering; class research project is required. Field trip fee required

GEO 517 Taphonomy: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 1 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Graduate standing and GEO 448 or GEO 309 and GEO 310 or GEO 312 or GEO 411 or their equivalents. () Offered Fall, even years. Before one can ask questions about a fossil organism's anatomy, paleoecology or evolution, one must clearly understand its geologic context. Taphonomy investigates the death to discovery history of fossils and the biases created by post-mortem processes to the fossil record. Co-convened with GEO 417

GEO 521 Dinosaur Paleontology: 2 Credits (1 Lec, 1 Lab)

(Su) This course is designed as an introduction to the geology and dinosaur paleontology of the Hell Creek Formation of eastern Montana. The Hell Creek Formation has long been known for its diverse dinosaur taxa, including Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops, as well as exposures of the iridium layer associated with dinosaur extinction 65 million years ago. The combination of slide presentations, labs, and daily hiking in Makoshika State Park will provide both background information and “hands-on” learning experience. Techniques covered during the class include interpretation of sedimentary environments, taphonomy, and fossil collection and preparation. This course will integrate many aspects of biology, physical geology, paleogeography, and tectonics.

View Course Outcomes:

define dinosaur paleontology of the Hell Creek Formation of eastern Montana\\n
Interpret sedimentary environments and describe how these environments give rise to fossilization.
Demonstrate field techniques for fossil collection and preparation.
Understand the principles of taphonomy and how this data is used to \\ninterpret the history of fossil specimens.
Define the processes of field-based paleontology and how the sciences of \\nbiology, physical geology, paleogeography, and tectonics are related.
Synthesize learning in a notebook of course content which include illustrations, drawings, and narrative

GEO 522 Dino Paleontology II: 2 Credits (1 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 521. (Summer (even years)) Offered Summer of even years. The goal and purpose of this course is to provide an in-depth course for grade 7-12 teachers in geology and paleontology that builds on previous experience and field techniques acquired from GEOL 521 Dinosaur Paleontology of the Hell Creek Formation. In addition to providing basic information on geology and paleontology, this field course includes information on how paleontologists use rocks, fossils and extant animals and modern environments to formulate interpretations about the past. By the end of this course, students will be able to identify sedimentary rocks in which fossils are found, use sedimentary structures for interpretation of depositional environments, and have a better understanding of Montana's geologic past

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Define dinosaur paleontology of the Two Medicine Formation of western Montana.
Interpret sedimentary environments and describe how these \\nenvironments give rise to fossilization.
Demonstrate field techniques for fossil collection and preparation.
Understand the principles of taphonomy and how this data is use to \\ninterpret the history of fossil specimens
Understand how paleontologists interpret the biology, behavior, and \\npaleoecology of extinct organisms.
Synthesize learning in a notebook of course content which include illustrations, drawings, and narrative.\\n

GEO 530 Tectonics of Sedimentary Basin: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: Graduate Standing. () Offered Spring of even years. This course examines the plate tectonic setting and controls on development of modern and ancient sedimentary basins. Includes investigation of sediment provenance, facies patterns, methods of basin analysis, and subsidence history

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Students will be able to explain how sedimentary basins form and evolve within a plate tectonic framework.
Students will be able to reconstruct tectonic processes and evolution of different types of sedimentary basins.
Students will be able to characterize stratigraphic successions within the context of basin type.
Students will be able to integrate basin analysis techniques including flexural modeling, petrography, geo/thermochronology of detrital minerals, and thermal history.
Students will be familiar with a broad and global spectrum of ancient and modern sedimentary basins.

GEO 533 Graduate Tectonics: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 315. (F) History of tectonic theory; modern view of plate tectonics processes; Precambrian tectonics; case studies of Phanerozoic orogenic belts; neotectonic; geophysics. Graduate students will be required to write an in-depth research paper on a topic chosen in consultation with the instructor. Co-convened with GEO 433

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Historical development of tectonics as a sub-discipline of the geosciences
Geophysics of the Earth’ interior and composition of the Earth
Plate tectonics
Precambrian tectonics – how the Earth has evolved over 4.5 billion years
In-depth tectonic analysis of selected modern and ancient orogenic systems
Planetary tectonics – the wide spectrum in our own solar system
Associated topics in geophysics (seismology, gravity, magnetism, heat flow, rotational and orbital dynamics) – presented in-context with the above topics ;
Read a substantial number of journal articles from the primary literature to advance their understanding of the class topics
Write an in-depth term paper on a "tectonics topic" related to their thesis research
Provide leadership in class discussions
Serve as scholarly role-models to their undergraduate classmates

GEO 540 Volcanology: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 208IN, GEO 302, and GEO 450. () Offered Fall, odd years. Understand processes by which magma and associated gases rise into the crust and are extruded onto the Earth's surface and atmosphere, interpret the forms of volcanoes and their magmatic products, and provide the necessary background to perform research in volcanology

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Students will learn the most common types of eruptions, the physical structures produced, and the eruptive ;products of volcanism.
Students will learn about the generation and storage of magmas (e.g. where is magma formed and located in the crust), and how we determine these properties.
Students will learn about the impact of volcanic eruptions on humans, and about the methods and challenges of monitoring and forecasting volcanic events. ;
Students will utilize case studies and open source software to gain a deeper understanding of overarching controls on volcanic evolution and processes

GEO 543 Graduate Sedimentary Petrology: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 1 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 302. (Sp) Detailed analysis and interpretation of the mineralogy, fabric, and genesis of terrigenous clastic and carbonate sedimentary rocks. Use of thin-section microscopy, the scanning electron microscope, and x-ray diffraction techniques are emphasized in the laboratory. Co-convened with GEO 448

GEO 550 Graduate Igneous Petrology: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: GEO 302, GEO 305. () Offered Fall, even years. Deepening understanding on the application and formation of igneous minerals, including mineral stability, chemical construction, and common ways these minerals are used to interpret igneous processes. Emphasis on the distribution, mineral associations, and chemical compositions of igneous minerals

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Students will master the processes that are responsible for forming igneous rocks.
Students will be exposed to crucial igneous petrology minerals, where and how they form, and how they are used in Earth Science research.
Students will learn how to obtain, use, and interpret geochemical data using web databases, computer programs, and spreadsheets.
Students will demonstrate research planning, design, analytical skills, and the expertise to use advanced instruments.

GEO 571 Geochronology and Thermochronology: 3 Credits (3 Lec)

PREREQUISITE: Graduate Standing, Consent of Instructor
COREQUISITE: GEO 315. () Offered Spring, odd years. This course will familiarize students with principles of geochronology and thermochronology and applications in Earth and planetary sciences. Topics will include radioactive decay and growth, long- and short-lived radioisotope systems, analytical methods, determining dates and rates of a wide variety processes, and the use of radiogenic isotopes as tracers in Earth and planetary processes. Emphasis will be on fundamentals and systematics of different systems, historical perspectives, analytical methods, data acquisition and applications from recent literature. Co-convened with GEO 471
.

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Demonstrate an understanding of the foundations of radioisotopic dating used in Earth and planetary science, archeology, marine science and ecology.
Demonstrate an understanding of the analytical methods used in radioisotopic dating
Describe introductory quantitative analyses and modeling techniques used in radioisotopic dating.
Determine the appropriate geo- or thermo-chronologic system to address geologic questions
Demonstrate the ability to synthesize geo- and thermo-chronologic data to solve geologic problems.

GEO 575 Professional Paper: 1-6 Credits (1 Other)

PREREQUISITES: Consent of Instructor
A research or professional paper or project dealing with a topic in the field. The topic must have been mutually agreed upon by the student and his or her major advisor and graduate committee.
Dept of Earth Sciences.
Repeatable up to 6 credits.

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Ability to draw on published literature in order to synthesize previous research on a selected topic.

GEO 583 Applied Geological Hydrology: 3 Credits (2 Lec, 2 Lab)

PREREQUISITE: Graduate standing or GEO 420. Application of ground-water principles to ground-water resource, contamination and remediation problems

GEO 585 Mineralogy for Science Teachers: 1 Credits (1 Other)

(Su) This course covers fundamental chemical concepts used in mineralogy, including (but not limited to): a) Crystallography and crystal chemistry b) Physical properties of minerals as related to their crystal structures and chemistry c) Anion classification and naming of minerals d) Gemstones versus everyday minerals (i.e., what makes a gemstone special?) e) Identification of minerals in hand specimen (lab work) f) Identification of minerals in rocks (lab work) g) Brief introduction to thin-section analysis and various analytical techniques of mineral analysis. Offered Summer.

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Explain the broader importance of minerals to society, both historically and in the present day
Describe the basic concepts of mineral chemistry (structure of atoms, elements, ions and ionic sizes, atomic bonding, anion groups, silica-oxygen tetrahedra linking, isotopes, etc.)
Identify 10 common, rock-forming minerals based on physical properties such as color, streak, luster, hardness, crystal habit, fracture and cleavage, reaction to acid, etc.
Identify the common copper ore minerals of the Butte Mining District
Report on either their birth mineral or state mineral from home

GEO 591 Special Topics: 1-4 Credits (1-4 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Upper division courses and others as determined for each offering. Offered on demand. Courses not required in any curriculum for which there is a particular one time need, or given on a trial basis to determine acceptability and demand before requesting a regular course number. Co-convened with GEO 491
Repeatable up to 12 credits.

GEO 592 Independent Study: 1-4 Credits (1-4 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Graduate standing, consent of instructor, approval of Department Head and Dean of Graduate Studies. (F, Sp, Su) Directed research and study on an individual basis
Repeatable up to 6 credits.

GEO 594 Seminar: 1 Credits (1 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Graduate standing or seniors by petition. (F, Sp) Course prerequisites as determined for each offering. Topics offered at the graduate level which are not covered in regular courses. Students participate in preparing and presenting discussion material
Repeatable up to 4 credits.

GEO 598 Internship: 2-12 Credits (2 Other)

PREREQUISITE: Graduate standing, consent of instructor and approval of department head. (F, Sp, Su) An individualized assignment arranged with an agency, business or other organization to provide guided experience in the field
Repeatable up to 12 credits.