List of GES Courses
Courses offered by the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences (GES) are listed below. For the most current course descriptions and information on semesters offered, please consult the Appalachian State University undergraduate bulletin for the GES Department. This flow chart of course prerequisities is very useful for planning your course progression.
| Course | When offered | ||
| GES 1010. Introduction to Environmental Sciences (3) An introduction to the interdisciplinary field of environmental science through case studies that emphasize the application of the scientific method toward understanding human and natural systems, analyzing the human-nature interface, and developing sustainable solutions. Topics include information literacy; environmental economics, policy, and planning; ecology and complex systems; natural resources management; energy; and sustainability. | Fall | ||
| GES 1050. Conservation of Natural Resources in a Changing Climate (3) This course explores the intersection between climate change and the management and conservation of natural resources. Course topics will be based on case studies, the latest scientific data and news reports. Course content is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of how to interpret climate change indicators, how to understand the impact of rising global temperatures on the environment, and provide strategies associated with preserving our planet’s vital resources in the face of this anthropogenic crisis. (Climate Studies Course) | Fall | Spring | Summer |
| GES 1101. Introduction to Physical Geology (4) Introduction to the composition, origin, and modification of Earth materials through the study of the Earth’s interacting dynamic systems; study and application of the scientific method with reference to the principles of geology as demonstrated through use of case histories and laboratory material. | Fall | Spring | Summer |
| GES 1102. Introduction to Historical Geology (4) A study of the historical and biological aspects of the science of geology - tectonic models for understanding earth structure and lithospheric history, the physical and paleontological bases for understanding geologic time and dating rocks, biological principles relating to the evolution of organisms revealed in the fossil record, facts and theories of biological evolution, a survey of the evolution of organisms through time, the geologic history of North America, and discussion of the scientific aspects of the scientific-religious controversy of evolution vs. creationism. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 1103. Environmental Change, Hazards, and Resources (4) A survey of the chemical and physical processes that change the Earth’s crust and surface creating geologic hazards and environmental problems for people; human perturbations of the environment that directly and indirectly affect geological change and human life, such as mining, waste disposal, and agricultural practices; and the principles of origin, distribution, availability, environmental Geology consequences of use, and exploration of the Earth’s mineral and water resources. Lecture three hours, laboratory two hours. (Climate Studies Course) | Fall | Spring | Summer |
| GES 1104. Water: Mountains to Sea (4) A study of the interaction between terrestrial water and geological phenomena. The course applies the scientific method to the study of the continental components of the hydrologic cycle. It also focuses on the interaction of water with the rock and plate tectonic cycles. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 1105. Oceanography (4) A study of physical, chemical, biological, and geological oceanography and their interrelationships. | Spring | Summer | |
| GES 1842. Dinosaurs: Then and Now (3) Perhaps no fossil animals are more familiar than the so-called “terrible lizards,” the dinosaurs. Paleontology is, by definition, a blend of geology and biology, and this course will examine dinosaurs through both disciplinary lenses, as well as considering the history of dinosaur science and the prevalence of dinosaurs in popular culture. This class will survey all aspects of dinosaur paleontology, considering them as fossil organisms and examining their geological, temporal, and current and paleogeographic distribution. | Fall | ||
| GES 1958 - Environmental Change Through Time: Knowledge for a Sustainable Future (3) This course provides an introduction to environmental change, starting from the time through Earth’s history to the present day and looking ahead to the future. We will survey the roles that natural climate cycles, ecology, biological evolution, and anthropogenic climate change have played in environmental change at different scales across space and time. Topics also include the more recent effects that humans have had on the environment and climate, from the ice age through the industrial revolution and up to the present day. The course introduces students to objective, scientific knowledge related to environmental change and offers a context for understanding natural and human-induced environmental and climate change and for preparing for humanity’s role, from the personal to the global, in a sustainable future. | Fall | ||
| GES 2250. Evolution of the Earth (4) This course consists of the integrated study of the physicochemical and biological systems of the earth and their evolution over time, including investigation of the persistent linkage of geologic and biologic systems over earth’s history. This course provides a basis for understanding the stratigraphic, geochemical, geophysical, and paleontological data utilized to reconstruct earth history, including a survey of the 4.5 billion years of earth system history, with special emphasis on the tectonic history of North America as observed in the Appalachian Mountains. The course also provides a survey of the evolution of life over earth history, an introduction to the paleontological principles utilized in understanding the fossil record of evolution, and an introduction to advanced methods of rock and mineral identification and classification. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 2301. Energy Extraction in Appalachia: Past, Present, Future (3) (same as AS 2301) This interdisciplinary course covers the environmental, geological, historical, cultural, social, political, and economic aspects of energy extraction and production (coal, natural gas, and emerging energy technologies) in the Appalachians. Major emphasis will be on making connections between these disparate topics, with a focus on how the geologic history of the Appalachians impacts policy, politics, and other current events. | Spring | ||
| GES 2353. Public and K‑12 Outreach in Geological and Environmental Sciences (1) The student will participate in geological and environmental science outreach events, both on campus and off-campus. Responsibilities include involvement in the events (e.g., explaining geoscience and environmental science topics to the public or school audiences), and preparation for the events (e.g., setting up and breaking down demonstrations). | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 2451. Geological Sample Preparation (1) Lab- or seminar-style course focused on teaching common sample preparation techniques for rocks, minerals, and soils, and training students in laboratory safety. Topics will vary but may include thin section preparation, sample polishing for electron microscopy, power X-ray diffraction sample preparation, and hazardous material safety training. | On demand | ||
| GES 2500. Independent Study (1‑4) | On demand | ||
| GES 2750. Preparation for Careers in the Earth and Environmental Sciences (3) This course provides instruction in geological and environmental science research methods, through both oral and written communication. Topics include: quantitative and qualitative analysis, image processing, survey of scientific literature and digital information retrieval services, research design, data management, and research ethics. Student learning is augmented with peer-review of fellow students’ work and participation in review and revision processes. All activities are designed to help prepare students to more effectively conduct projects and communicate with fellow STEM professionals in their future careers. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 2751. Geology Field Methods I (2) This course provides an introduction to various aspects of geologic data collection and interpretation in the field. Topics include: geologic mapping, rock identification, data collection, field note procedures, and field ethics and safety. Laboratories will be held on campus (both indoors and outdoors), while field trips will be held outdoors and off-campus (including overnight trips with camping). Vigorous hiking is required on field trips. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 2752. Environmental Science Field Methods (1) This course provides instruction in various aspects of environmental science data collection and interpretation in the field. Topics include: water, soil, and air sample collection; designing a sampling protocol; surveying using a total station; making a site map in GIS software; estimating stream discharge field note procedures, and field ethics/safety. Laboratories will be held both indoors and outdoors. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 2857. Paleontology Field and Museum Methods (1‑3) (aka “Triassic Trip”) Course combines paleontological field and museum work to investigate topics related to evolution of life through time. The course typically requires multiple nights in the field collecting geological and paleontological data followed by time at a natural history museum preparing fossils and archiving data. Specific techniques covered may include field orientation using GPS and map data, rock identification, stratigraphic description and mapping, paleontological reconnaissance and fossil collection. Physically demanding with exposure to extreme weather events possible. | On demand | ||
| GES 3025. Principles of Paleontology (3) Ancient environments and their change through geologic time are characterized using the fossil remains of organisms. The distribution of organisms through time and space is applied in this course to solve problems in geology, archeology and conservation biology. Biological evolution is studied in the scope of major events in Earth’s history. | Spring | ||
| GES 3110. Environmental Regulation and Enforcement (3) The purpose of this course is to equip students with an understanding of environmental regulation in the U.S., from its origin as environmental policy to its application and enforcement. This course will provide students with an overview of 1) the role and responsibilities of regulators, 2) the various aspects of industry regulation (with special emphasis on the surface mining industry), and 3) aspects of environmental and safety regulation applicable to industry consultants. The course will conclude a survey of the different mechanisms of regulatory enforcement. Throughout the course, students will be asked to consider and evaluate the varying and often competing interests of industry, regulatory agencies, and private citizens who are impacted by environmental regulation (or the lack of it). This course will benefit any student who intends to work in environmental consulting, industry, government, or environmental advocacy. | Fall | ||
| GES 3140. Quantifying Environmental Change (3) Today’s world faces large-scale challenges that often defy simple measurement. Students will use modern geospatial tools to characterize and investigate environmental risks, resources, and change. The course is structured around computer-based laboratories using real world data, with lectures providing required conceptual support. (Climate Studies Course) | Spring | ||
| GES 3150. Principles of Structural Geology and Tectonics (3) The nature, classification, genesis, and quantification of microscopic and mesoscopic geologic structures, plus the history and fundamentals of tectonic theory, are the subjects of this course. | Fall | ||
| GES 3160. Introduction to Geophysics (3) (same as PHY 3160) An introductory survey of whole earth geophysics through theory and practice. The theory portion of the course covers seismology (techniques in reflection and refraction seismology), geothermics, radioactive dating, surface processes, tectonics, orogenics, gravity and gravimetric techniques, electrical and magnetic surveys, and borehole logging. The practical component of the course includes the utilization of several of these methods to study subsurface environments. | Spring | ||
| GES 3170. Critical Zone Science (3) Throughout this course, students will explore the processes, timescales, and biogeochemical cycles that drive the evolution and dynamics within the Critical Zone (CZ). The CZ extends from the groundwater and unweathered bedrock interface to the top of vegetation and evolves on both longer-term geologic and shorter-term human timescales. Skills developed throughout this course will help students understand how physical material and nutrients flow through landscapes. Topics include the interdisciplinary connections between geomorphology, soil science, biogeochemistry, hydrology, and living organisms (including humans); indoor and outdoor laboratories allow students to gain hands-on experience in measuring and interpreting CZ data. | Spring | ||
| GES 3220. Fundamentals of Mineralogy (3) The course focuses on (1) mineral identification and classification, (2) crystal chemistry, (3) X-ray diffraction, (4) analytical electron microscopy (SEM-EDS), and (5) the petrographic microscope. | Fall | ||
| GES 3264. Paleontological Laboratory Techniques and Analytical Methods (1‑3) Lab- or seminar-style course focused on teaching techniques for fossil preparation, replication, imaging, and/or analysis. Topics will vary but may include fossil preparation, specimen imaging, and quantitative analysis of paleontological data. Preparation includes extraction of fossils from rock as well as molding, casting, scanning, and other techniques of fossil replication. Imaging of fossils may include photography and microscopic (optical and scanning) techniques. Analysis includes using mathematical techniques and software used to test paleobiological hypotheses. | On demand | ||
| GES 3310. Global Biogeochemical Cycles (3) (same as CHE 3310) Students will explore the structure and chemical composition of the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere through the lens of fundamental chemical principles. The course will focus on the thermodynamics, kinetics, and redox chemistry that governs the transformation of major elements within environmental compartments and the complex transport processes that link these compartments, Course material will include the environmental impacts of anthropogenic chemicals, and chemical processes used to mitigate environmental impacts. In addition to discussing natural biogeochemical cycles, we will discuss the chemistry underlying environmental issues of both local and global relevance including air quality, pollution of water and soil, and toxic persistent organic pollutants. The laboratory portion of the course will combine laboratory and field measurements with computer modeling exercises to further develop concepts discussed in lecture. | Fall | ||
| GES 3333. Geomorphology (3) This course includes a study of the nature of landforms. Qualitative and quantitative aspects of landform analysis in the field and laboratory using maps and aerial photographs are introduced. | Fall | ||
| GES 3455. Quantitative Data Analysis for Earth and Environmental Scientists (3) This course provides an introduction to processing, visualizing, and interpreting Earth and environmental science data using scientific computing techniques widely used in the related fields. Biweekly lectures introduce the relevant quantitative methods within the context of Earth and environmental science applications. Weekly laboratories emphasize the application of quantitative tools toward analysis of data in support of various modes of dissemination. Earth science applications include but are not limited to scripting and generating reproducible plots for reports, creating longitudinal stream profiles, temporal, spatial, and magnitude filtering of NEIC earthquake data, and contouring a local water table. | Fall | ||
| GES 3500. Independent Study (1‑4) | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 3520. Instructional Assistance (1) A supervised experience in the instructional process on the university level either through direct participation in a classroom situation, participation in class and materials preparation outside of the classroom as outlined through an Instructional Assistantship contract, or a combination of both. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 3521. Secondary Science Field Experience (1) A supervised experience in the instructional process at the secondary school level through direct participation in a classroom situation. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 3530‑3549. Selected Topics (1‑4) | On demand | ||
| GES 3680. Geoarchaeology (3) The course focuses on fundamental concepts in geoarchaeology and covers the application of earth science concepts, techniques and knowledge to the study of artifacts and the processes involved in the formation of the archaeological record. Preservation of paleoclimate signals in the geological record is considered. Case studies will consider specific North American and global examples. | Spring | ||
| GES 3703. Issues in Environmental Geology (3) An in-depth study of critical issues in environmental geology on a regional and global scale. Topics to be covered include: natural hazards, water, mineral and energy resources, and related waste disposal problems under pressures of increasing human population and changing climate. This course will make use of case studies to illustrate specific examples. | Spring | ||
| GES 3715. Petrology and Petrography (3) This course includes a study of the microscopic, mesoscopic, and macroscopic features; the mineralogy, and the chemistry of rocks; and the study of petrogenetic theory. | Spring | ||
| GES 3751. Geology Field Methods II (3) An intensive three to four week practicum in geologic mapping, data collection, and other field techniques at the intermediate level. Most (or all) of the course will be held outdoors and off-campus (including overnight trips with camping). Vigorous hiking is required. | Summer | ||
| GES 3800. Sedimentology and Stratigraphy (3) Sediments and sedimentary rocks make up the majority of materials found at the Earth’s surface and can provide clues to ancient environments and paleoclimates, as well as provide reservoirs for fossil fuels and groundwater. The first part of this class explores the basic principles of sedimentation, particle transport mechanisms, depositional environments, diagenesis, and lithification of particles, and students learn to classify sedimentary rocks. The second half of the semester involves learning basic stratigraphic principles and the correlation of rock units across landscapes both at the Earth’s surface and beneath the surface (including seismic reflection, biostratigraphy, chemostratigraphy, and borehole logging). | Spring | ||
| GES 3810. The Reef Environment and Geology of Modern Carbonate Systems (3) This field-based course provides students with an opportunity to study a modern reef environment in an active carbonate depositional system to be used as an analogue for ancient reefs. Locations for the course may include Bermuda, the Florida Keys, and the Bahamas. Course will emphasize species-level identification of major coral and carbonate-producing organisms, processes involved in the construction and destruction of reef systems, biologic and geologic processes that cause alteration of carbonate rocks, and reef responses to environmental changes with sea level rise and fall. Students will use a fieldbook to record field- and lab-based identifications of carbonate rocks and sediment grains, record and describe sample collection techniques, and practice observational skills in the field by making sketches of geologic relationships exposed in outcrop. Course will include pre-trip meetings, which may include lectures, lab-based specimen identifications, and a field-trip to ancient reef systems in nearby exposures. Students must be able to swim in the open ocean, use snorkeling gear (e.g., mask, snorkel, fins), and be comfortable accessing reefs by beach or boat. | Summer | ||
| GES 3857 - Field Course in Geology and Environmental Science (1-3) This field-based course takes students to different sites to explore geological and environmental science in person, on location. Locations for the course may include US National Parks (e.g., Big Bend, Death Valley, Glacier, Yellowstone) or national forests/state parks (e.g., the Black Hills, west Texas reef complex). This course emphasizes field-based fundamentals and creating detailed field notes, via honing observational skills, transcribing and interpreting observations, and making field sketches and specimen descriptions. The course involves physical, sometimes strenuous, outdoor activity that includes hikes with moderate-intense elevation changes on unmaintained trails or through landscapes with no blazed trails, while potentially exposed to inclement weather (e.g., intense sun, heat, cold, wind, rain, and/or snow). Overnight camping and preparation of group meals may be required, depending on the trip destination and accommodations. This course will have pre-trip meetings the semester the course is offered, and depending on instructor preference, may require the preparation of a poster or presentation on an assigned topic for students to present while in the field. Special course fees will be required to cover transportation, meals, lodging, and other costs (not including tuition). May be repeated for credit when content does not duplicate. | On demand | ||
| GES 4025. Introduction to Multivariate Data (3) [Dual‑listed with GES 5025] This course provides an introduction to reading, understanding and critiquing results from published case studies that contain multivariate data from broad fields of geology and environmental science. The course provides an introduction to experimental design, data management, multivariate data collection and numerical methods in commonly available software applications. Principles, concepts and assumptions of multivariate data analysis are introduced. Methods introduced include: cluster analysis, principal component analysis, discriminant analysis, correspondence analysis, nonmetric multidimensional scaling, time series, and geometric landmark analysis as applied to geoscience topics. A significant portion of the course is based on independent analysis of geoscience and environmental science data sets. | Fall | ||
| GES 4209. Analysis and Implications of Environmental Issues (1) [Gen Ed: Capstone Experience] This course will cover technical writing in the environmental sciences, writing for a public audience, professionalism in the field, core competencies for environmental scientists, career preparation, and current topics in environmental science. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 4210. Geology Seminar (1) [Gen Ed: Capstone Experience] This capstone course will cover technical writing in the geosciences, core competencies for geologists, requirements for professional geologist (PG) licensure, career preparation, and current topics in the geosciences. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 4500. Independent Study (1-4) | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 4501. Senior Honors Research (1‑3) Initiation of a laboratory or field research project under supervision of a Geological and Environmental Sciences faculty member. At least one semester prior to the start of the research project, the student must formally confer with a thesis advisor, submit and have approved a formal research proposal. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 4510. Senior Honors Thesis (3) This course is designed to be a continuation of a project begun in GES 4501 - Senior Honors Research, under the supervision of a faculty member in Geological and Environmental Sciences (GES). The second reader may be in GES or outside of the department. This course requires a minimum of five hours laboratory or field work per week. An oral report on the project is required and will be presented in a fall or spring GES seminar, and a written thesis will be presented to the department. | Fall | Spring | |
| GES 4530-4549. Selected Topics (1-4) An opportunity to study a special topic or combination of topics not otherwise provided for in the geology and/or environmental science curriculum. | On demand | ||
| GES 4630. Hydrogeology (3) [Dual‑listed with GES 5630] The occurrence of groundwater resources, factors governing groundwater movement through aquifers, and an analysis of techniques for measuring a water resource are the focus of this course. Groundwater contamination and remediation methods will be introduced. | Fall | ||
| GES 4705. Engineering Geology (3) [Dual‑listed with GES 5705] Field and laboratory analysis of problems arising from interactions between humans and Earth and application of geologic knowledge to the mitigation of these problems. | Spring | ||
| GES 4751. Geology Field Methods III (3) An intensive three to four week practicum in geologic mapping and other field techniques at the advanced level. Most (or all) of the course will be held outdoors and off-campus (including overnight trips with camping). Vigorous hiking is required. | Summer | ||
| GES 4835. Summer Field Geology (6) [Dual‑listed with GES 5835] — may also be replaced with GES 3751 & GES 4751 (Geology Field Methods II and III) An intensive five to six week practicum in making geologic maps, measuring sections, and using other field techniques. | Summer | ||
| GES 4900. Internship in Environmental Science (1‑12) Independent, supervised work in Environmental Science at a company, government agency, or non-profit organization. Only three total hours may count toward major requirements. May be taken for a maximum of 12 semester hours. | Fall | ||