Geology Track

The Geology Track combines GEOL 1121k Physical Geology and GEOL 1122k Historical Geology for a total of 8 credit hours. The geology of Wyoming and the surrounding states provides the perfect outdoor classroom for observing the earth's history, physical structure and the processes that act on it.

Physical Geology includes the study of minerals, rocks, plate tectonics, and surface processes such as volcanism, streams, groundwater, glaciation, along with weathering/erosion. The topography of Wyoming, especially the national parks, provides the perfect backdrop to observe these processes along with other components of Physical Geology.

Historical Geology dives into the study of deep time, evolution, stratigraphy, and fossils. As we journey across the state, we will observe all the components of Historical Geology first hand. Our daily outings will provide us the opportunity to not only observe the earth’s history but we will also get our hands dirty as we collect fossils hike through geologic history.

This field-based track will provide students with a hands-on experience in an environment that brings geology to life.

Required text books for the course:
Roadside Geology of Wyoming
David Lageson and Darwin Spearing. ISBN # 0-87842-216-1
Mountain Press Publishing Company; PO Box 2399, Missoula, MT 59806
1-800-234-5308

Geology, A Self-Teaching Guide
Barbara Murck. ISBN #0-471-38590-5
John Wiley and Sons, Inc.

Geology track students will have the option of adding PHED 1130 (Walking/Jogging) for 2 credit hours and/or GHSC 2901 (Dinosaurs) for 2 credit hours to their summer schedule as well.

The GHSC 2901: Dinosaurs special topics course investigates how we approach the study of Dinosaurs and have come to understand their role in ancient ecosystems, and why studying them is important. This course can’t be taken alone, it must be taken along with the Ecology course.

The PHED 1130 course option focuses on improving Fitness Walking/Jogging skills while integrating them into daily work and leisure. This course can’t be taken alone, it must be taken along with the Ecology course.