Information For:

Courses for Spring 2020

  • Individual Study of Geologic Problems

    One semester is required for seniors in Sc.B. and honors program. Course work includes preparation of a thesis. Section numbers vary by instructor. Please check Banner for the correct section number and CRN to use when registering for this course. Enrollment is restricted to undergraduates only.
    GEOL 1970 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Clemens
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S02
    Primary Instructor
    Cooper
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S03
    Primary Instructor
    Dalton
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S04
    Primary Instructor
    Fischer
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S05
    Primary Instructor
    Forsyth
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S06
    Primary Instructor
    Gromet
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S07
    Primary Instructor
    Head
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S08
    Primary Instructor
    Herbert
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S09
    Primary Instructor
    Hermance
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S10
    Primary Instructor
    Huang
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S11
    Primary Instructor
    Liang
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S12
    Primary Instructor
    Mustard
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S13
    Primary Instructor
    Parmentier
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S14
    Primary Instructor
    Pieters
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S15
    Primary Instructor
    Prell
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S16
    Primary Instructor
    Russell
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S17
    Primary Instructor
    Saal
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S18
    Primary Instructor
    Smith
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S19
    Primary Instructor
    Tullis
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S20
    Primary Instructor
    Lee
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S21
    Primary Instructor
    Milliken
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S22
    Primary Instructor
    Murray
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S23
    Primary Instructor
    Lynch
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S24
    Primary Instructor
    Huber
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S25
    Primary Instructor
    Hirth
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S26
    Primary Instructor
    Hastings
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S27
    Primary Instructor
    Parman
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S28
    Primary Instructor
    Fox-Kemper
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 1970 S29
    Primary Instructor
    Tsai
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research

  • Research in Geological Sciences

    Section numbers vary by instructor. Please check Banner for the correct section number and CRN to use when registering for this course. Enrollment is restricted to graduate students only.
    GEOL 2980 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Clemens
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S02
    Primary Instructor
    Cooper
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S03
    Primary Instructor
    Lynch
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S04
    Primary Instructor
    Fischer
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S05
    Primary Instructor
    Forsyth
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S06
    Primary Instructor
    Gromet
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S07
    Primary Instructor
    Head
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S08
    Primary Instructor
    Herbert
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S09
    Primary Instructor
    Hermance
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S10
    Primary Instructor
    Huang
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S11
    Primary Instructor
    Liang
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S12
    Primary Instructor
    Mustard
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S13
    Primary Instructor
    Parmentier
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S14
    Primary Instructor
    Pieters
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S15
    Primary Instructor
    Prell
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S16
    Primary Instructor
    Russell
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S17
    Primary Instructor
    Saal
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S18
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S19
    Primary Instructor
    Tullis
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S20
    Primary Instructor
    Dalton
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S21
    Primary Instructor
    Milliken
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S22
    Primary Instructor
    Carlson
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S23
    Primary Instructor
    Huber
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S24
    Primary Instructor
    Lee
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S25
    Primary Instructor
    Hirth
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S26
    Primary Instructor
    Hastings
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S27
    Primary Instructor
    Parman
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S28
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S29
    Primary Instructor
    Fox-Kemper
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S30
    Primary Instructor
    Amaral Zettler
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S31
    Primary Instructor
    Evans
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research
    GEOL 2980 S32
    Primary Instructor
    Smith
    Schedule Code
    I: Independent Study/Research

  • Thesis Preparation

    For graduate students who have met the residency requirement and are continuing research on a full time basis.
    GEOL 2990 S01
    Schedule Code
    E: Grad Enrollment Fee/Dist Prep

  • Planetary Geology

    This introductory level course will examine the evolution of our Solar System and the geology of planetary bodies, including Mercury, Venus, the Moon, Mars, asteroids, and the moons of Jupiter and Saturn. We will discuss the origin of the Solar System from a geological perspective and explore how scientists combine observations from extraterrestrial samples such as meteorites with data returned by satellites and rovers to develop and test hypotheses related to planetary evolution. Emphasis will be on comparing geologic processes on these bodies to well-understood processes on Earth, results from past, current, and upcoming planetary missions, and the future of human and robotic exploration of space.
    GEOL 0810 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Milliken

  • The Sedimentary Rock Cycle of Mars and Earth

    This course consists of a mixture of instructor and student-led discussions on topics related to the sedimentary rock cycle on Mars as viewed through the lens of how we understand such processes on Earth. Topics:sediment transport and deposition, erosion processes and rates, lithification + diagenesis, water-rock interaction, and cyclicity in strata. Major goal: Assess how the sedimentary rock record of Mars can be used to understand changes in depositional processes and environmental conditions through time. Results from Mars satellite and rover data will be discussed, with an emphasis on fundamental processes as understood from detailed studies of Earths sedimentary rock record. Prerequisite: Undergraduate level sedimentology/stratigraphy, or permission of instructor.
    GEOL 2920C S01
    Primary Instructor
    Milliken

  • Global Environmental Remote Sensing

    Introduction to physical principles of remote sensing across electromagnetic spectrum and application to the study of Earth's systems (oceans, atmosphere, and land). Topics: interaction of light with materials, imaging principles and interpretation, methods of data analysis. Laboratory work in digital image analysis, classification, and multi-temporal studies. One field trip to Block Island. Recommended preparation courses: MATH 0090, 0100; PHYS 0060; and background courses in natural sciences.
    GEOL 1330 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Mustard

  • Face of the Earth

    Study of Earth's surface (e.g., mountains, rivers, shorelines) and processes which have created and modify it (e.g., glaciation, floods, volcanism, plate tectonics, earthquakes). The goals are to increase appreciation and enjoyment of our natural surroundings and provide a better understanding of environmental problems, natural resources, land use, and geologic hazards. Four labs, plus a field trip. For nonscience concentrators (science concentrators should take GEOL 0220). Students MUST register for both components of this course (the lecture and one of the labs) during the SAME registration session. Enrollment limited to 100.
    GEOL 0010 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Parman

  • Geochemistry: Earth and Planetary Materials and Processes

    Introduction to the chemical and mineralogical nature of the Earth, Moon, and meteorites, and the role of chemical processes in their evolution. Topics include: composition of rock-forming minerals; origin of crustal and mantle rocks; stable and radiogenic isotopes; models of nucleosynthesis, planet formation and differentiation. Weekly laboratory and two field trips. Intended for science concentrators. Prerequisites: basic chemistry and GEOL 0010 or 0050 or 0220, or instructor permission.

    Labs will meet Tuesdays from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
    GEOL 0230 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Saal

  • Global Tectonics

    Plate tectonic theory and the evolution of continents and the seafloor. Emphasis on the structure and tectonics of western U.S. considering geological, geophysical, and geochemical constraints as well as direct geodetic observations of plate motions from GPS measurements. Prerequisite: GEOL 0220 and 0230. Three or more of GEOL 0220, 0230, 1240, 1410, 1420, 1450 and 1610 are recommended.
    GEOL 1560 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Hirth

  • Petrology

    Introduction to the origin and evolution of igneous rocks. Topics include: physical properties of magma, thermodynamics and phase equilibria, igneous rocks and their classification, magmatic processes, trace elements and isotopes, basalts and layered intrusions, survey of lunar and planetary petrology. Prerequisites: GEOL 1410, or instructor permission.
    GEOL 1420 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Liang

  • Introduction to Oceanography

    Examines the ocean's role in Earth's global environment, emphasizing the dynamical interaction of the ocean with the atmosphere, biosphere, cryosphere, and lithosphere. Focus on physical/chemical/biological systems' interconnections needed to understand natural and anthropogenic variability on various time and space scales, from El Niño to global warming. Three lectures, written exercises on oceanographic problems; two field trips to study estuarine and coastal processes.
    GEOL 0070 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Clemens

  • Introduction to Atmospheric Dynamics

    The objective of GEOL1510 is to understand the fundamental physical principles that govern the motion of the atmosphere. Students will explore the dynamics of the atmosphere and the mathematical laws governing weather and climate. Topics include the fundamental equations of motion in rotating fluids, hydrostatic, geostrophic and thermal wind balance, and vorticity, as applied to phenomena, including sea breezes, planetary waves, midlatitude cyclones, fronts, and the global general circulation. The emphasis will be on physical interpretation of the equations but facility with vector calculus is critical. Enrollment limited to 30.
    GEOL 1510 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Lee

  • Weather and Climate

    Weather phenomena occur on short time scales, and form the basis for understanding climate, the study of changes over longer time scales. This course aims to provide an understanding of the processes that drive weather patterns, the general circulation of the atmosphere, and climate on Earth. Topics include the structure and composition of the atmosphere, sources of energy that drive atmospheric processes, weather forecasting, the hydrological cycle, forces that create severe weather, the influence of humans on the atmosphere, and factors that influence climate, climate variability and climate change. Recommend courses or equivalent: MATH 0090, MATH 0010, PHYS 0050.
    GEOL 0850 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Hastings

  • Geophysical Fluid Dynamics: Rotating, Stratified Turbulence Edition

    Explores theories of the large-scale ocean and atmosphere, including quasigeostrophic, planetary geostrophic, and shallow water equations. Topics will vary to focus on features of the general circulation and climate system (e.g. thermocline, westward intensification, jet stream dynamics, polar vortex, meridional overturning circulations), instabilities and waves (e.g. gravity, Rossby, and Kelvin), or rotating stratified turbulence. May be repeated with permission of instructor. Pre-requisites: Pre-requisite: GEOL 0350 or PHYS 0720 or APMA 0340 and GEOL 1510 or GEOL 1520.
    GEOL 1820 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Fox-Kemper

  • Earth: Evolution of a Habitable Planet

    Introduces Earth's surface environment evolution - climate, chemistry, and physical makeup. Uses Earth's carbon cycle to understand solar, tectonic, and biological cycles' interactions. Examines the origin of the sedimentary record, dating of the geological record, chemistry and life on early Earth, and the nature of feedbacks that maintain the "habitable" range on Earth. Two field trips; five laboratories arranged.
    GEOL 0240 S01
    Recommended courses: GEOL 0070, GEOL 0220, CHEM 0330
    Primary Instructor
    Russell

  • Environmental Stable Isotopes

    Introduction to the concepts, analytical methods, theory and environmental applications of stable H, O, C, N and S isotopes. Emphasis will be placed on theory and applications of light isotopes in paleoclimate studies, environmental hydrogeology and biogeochemistry. Prerequisites: CHEM 0100, GEOL 0220 or 0230 recommended, or instructor permission.
    GEOL 1380 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Huang

  • Continuum Physics of the Solid Earth

    Physics of the Earth with emphasis on fundamental physical principles and mathematical tools. Topics include application of: conductive and convective heat transfer to cooling of the Earth; potential theory to interpretation of gravity anomalies; solid mechanics to deformation of Earth's lithosphere; fluid mechanics to flow in the Earth's interior and in porous media. Recommended courses: GEOL 0220; APMA 0340; PHYS 0470 or ENGN 0510.
    GEOL 1620 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Huber

  • Advanced Seismology

    The theory of modern seismology will be applied to imaging of Earth structure (from local to global scales) and determination of earthquake source models. Topics include elastic wave propagation, representation theorems, seismic tomography, moment tensors, source-time functions, and models of fault rupture. Offered alternate years.
    GEOL 2650 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Dalton

  • Earth Science Curriculum Design and Teaching Practicum for Elementary School

    This course is a practical introduction to Earth Sciences curriculum design and teaching with a strong “learning by teaching” component. Students will learn about the principles and best practices of science education and communication and will teach a theme-driven ten-lesson Earth Science module previously designed by DEEPS students in collaboration with participating teachers from Providence Public Schools in two elementary public schools. After each lesson students will receive feedback and will analyze and discuss their teaching process during class meetings. In the second part of the course students will apply the experience they gained to design a new module outline.
    GEOL 1960G S01
    Office hours Mon 2:30-3:30 or by appointment In school teaching time options: Tue 10:15-11:15 or Wed 12:15-1:15 or Thu 10:15-11:15
    Primary Instructor
    Prilipko Huber

  • Sustainability of Earth Resources

    Fossil fuels are not the only Earth resource we rely on in great quantities. Over 1.5 billion cell phones are made yearly; each using 64 different elements, at least 12 of which are currently irreplaceable. Iron, copper, nickel, rare earth elements, and even sand, are all key components of our modern world that we extract from the Earth. How much are left? How environmentally damaging is it to extract them? Are there alternative extraction methods, or alternative materials? Can they be recycled? What part of your world would you be willing to give up to reduce environmental impacts?
    GEOL 0300 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Krantz

  • Life Beyond Earth

    This course will explore the questions of ​What is Life ​and ​Where does Life Exist? The course will utilize peer-reviewed literature and textbook excerpts to understand the basic, fundamental components of life on Earth to understand the conditions and environments that are conducive to the emergence and persistence of life on other worlds. Course topics that will be examined include: the definition and requirements of life, the emergence, persistence, and consequence of life on Earth, life beyond Earth, astrobiology, and the search for extant extraterrestrial life. Pre Requisites: GEOL 0050 or GEOL 0240; and CHEM 0100 or higher-level chemistry course.
    GEOL 2400 S01
    Primary Instructor
    Evans