Course descriptions for Geology

Focuses on earth science content and scientific investigation and experimentation abilities required for the multiple-subject teaching credential. Topics include Earth's atmosphere and water, structure and composition of the solid Earth, processes that change the Earth (with emphasis on plate tectonics and California geology), Earth's resources, and Earth's place in the solar system and universe. (Offered fall and spring semesters.)

Introduces geology and hydrology. Includes the rock cycle, weathering and erosion, soil formation, mass wasting (landslides), the hydrologic cycle, and plate tectonics. (Offered fall and spring semesters.)

Focuses on earth science content and scientific investigation and experimentation abilities required for the multiple-subject teaching credential. Topics include Earth's atmosphere and water, structure and composition of the solid Earth, processes that change the Earth (with emphasis on plate tectonics and California geology), Earth's resources, and Earth's place in the solar system and universe. (Offered when sufficient demand warrants.)

Required lab course for GEOL 304. Emphasizes inquiry-driven earth science investigations. Teaching science in a local school or afterschool program may be required. Lab course fee may be charged. (Offered fall and spring semesters.)

Examines past and current geologic processes as reflected in the shape of landforms. Focuses on theory and application of landform equilibrium and evolution, weathering, erosion, hillslope processes, river processes, active tectonics, coastal processes, landslides, and how landforms reflect change in climate. May include one or more weekend field trips. (Offered fall semester.)

Applied topics in watershed, stream, and hillslope hydrology within the context of river management. Covers physical river assessment and monitoring, and the physical equations and field measurement of surface and subsurface flow, hydraulics, flood frequency, landscape erosion, and sediment transport. (Offered spring semester.)