Course Catalog - 2008-2009

     

ESCI 101 - THE EARTH

Long Title: THE EARTH
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Study of the nature of the Earth and its processes.
 

ESCI 102 - EVOLUTION OF THE EARTH

Long Title: EVOLUTION OF THE EARTH
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Study of Earth's systems over the past 4.6 billion years. Topics include evolution of life, continents, ocean basins and climate. Cross-list: ENST 102.
 

ESCI 103 - FIELD TRIPS FOR THE EARTH

Long Title: FIELD TRIPS FOR THE EARTH
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 1
Description: Three evening lectures of two hours each; one weekend long field trip.
 

ESCI 105 - INTRO LAB FOR EARTH SCIENCE

Long Title: INTRODUCTORY LABORATORY FOR EARTH SCIENCE
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 1
Description: Exercises on rocks, minerals, stratigraphy, paleontology, mapping and plate tectonics. This lab is recommended before taking advanced courses in Earth science. Normally taken with ESCI 101, 102, or 108. Recommended co-requisite(s): ESCI 101, 102, 107, 108, 109, 113 or 114.
 

ESCI 107 - OCEANS AND GLOBAL CHANGE

Long Title: OCEANS AND GLOBAL CHANGE
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Overview of the impact of the ocean and ocean evolution on the Earth's climate. Includes geological, physical, chemical, and biological aspects of change.
 

ESCI 108 - CRISES OF THE EARTH

Long Title: CRISES OF THE EARTH
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Geological and environmental crises have affected Earth throughout history. Included are meteorite impacts, global extinctions, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, effect of humans on environment, as well as an overview of historical perspectives, scientific background, and development of these processes, the development of predictive scenarios, and society's adaptations to such hazards.
 

ESCI 109 - OCEANOGRAPHY

Long Title: OCEANOGRAPHY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Introduction to the oceans, with an emphasis on how the physics, chemistry, geology, and biology of the oceans are linked.
 

ESCI 110 - ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT, & SOCIETY

Long Title: ENERGY, THE ENVIRONMENT, AND SOCIETY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Undergraduate seminar on current issues in energy used by industrial society, energy resources and their impact on the environment. Offered on demand.
 

ESCI 113 - ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS SEMINAR

Long Title: ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS SEMINAR
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 1
Description: Discussion of environmental crises. Topics vary annually. Cross-list: BIOS 113, ENST 113. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 114 - NATURAL DISASTER SEMINAR

Long Title: NATURAL DISASTER SEMINAR
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 1
Description: Discussion of natural disasters. Topics vary annually. Cross-list: ENST 114. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 203 - INTRO TO BIOGEOCHEMISTRY

Long Title: INTRODUCTION TO BIOGEOCHEMISTRY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 3
Description: The interaction between (micro) organisms, minerals, rocks, and aqueous solutions is an important new field of research that requires an interdisciplinary approach between (micro) biology, organic chemistry, and geochemistry. The course provides an introduction and insight into this exciting new field and puts an emphasis on quantitative strategies. Offered on demand or every other Spring.
 

ESCI 214 - THE PLANETS

Long Title: THE PLANETS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 3
Description: The physical, chemical, and geological development of the solar system from 4.6 billion years ago until today. All planets, their major satellites, comets, and asteroids will be discussed.
 

ESCI 307 - ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Long Title: ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: This course explores the physical principles of energy use and its impact on Earth's environment and climate. Topics will include energy mechanics, climate change, and the environmental impacts and future prospects of various fossil fuel and alternative energy sources. Cross-list: CEVE 307, ENST 307. Recommended prerequisite(s): MATH 101, PHYS 101 or 111.
 

ESCI 321 - EARTH SYSTEM EVOLUTION/CYCLES

Long Title: EARTH SYSTEM EVOLUTION AND CYCLES
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 4
Description: This course introduces the systems and processes that shape Earth's surface including weathering, sediment transport, ocean and atmosphere circulation, accumulation of sedimentary material and organisms, including man. A particular emphasis is placed on how biogeochemical cycles and key interactions link and change systems and processes over space and time. Recommended Prerequisite(s): MATH 101, 102, PHYS 101 or 111, CHEM 121 or 151.
 

ESCI 322 - EARTH CHEMISTRY & MATERIALS

Long Title: EARTH CHEMISTRY AND MATERIALS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 4
Description: This course introduces rock-forming processes related to the chemical and physical differentiation of the solid Earth into its main reservoirs: continental crust, oceanic crust, mantle, and core. Beginning with the bulk Earth and an overview of the chemical and petrologic properties of the rocks that make up each of these reservoirs. The basic principles of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary petrology will be presented in the context of the rock cycle, plate tectonics, as well as the origin of economically and societally important ore deposits. A laboratory and field trip, where students will see petrologic principles applied, will be required. Recommended Prerequisite(s): MATH 101 and 102, CHEM 121 or 151.
 

ESCI 323 - EARTH STRUCTURE & DEFORMATION

Long Title: EARTH STRUCTURE AND DEFORMATION
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisite(s): MATH 101 AND PHYS 101
Description: Introduction to the mechanics and deformation of the Earth's crust and lithosphere, emphasizing rock strength and rheology, earthquakes and faulting, brittle and ductile deformation mechanisms and processes, and an introduction to tectonic systems. Lab will develop skills for recognition, interpretation, and analysis of deformation structures and processes on maps, cross-sections and seismograms. Credit may not be received for both ESCI 323 and ESCI 333. Equivalency: ESCI 333.
 

ESCI 324 - EARTH'S INTERIOR

Long Title: EARTH'S INTERIOR
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 4
Description: Formation of Earth and solar system, Earth differentiation and geochronology. Structural seismology and the composition of Earth's interior. Density, Earth's gravity, and the geoid. Heat flow and Earth energetics. Earth's core and magnetic field. Mantle convection and plate tectonics. Oceanic and continental crust. Recommended Prerequisites: MATH 101 and MATH 212 and (PHYS 101 or PHYS 111 or PHYS 125 or PHYS 141) or (PHYS 102 or PHYS 112 or PHYS 126 or PHYS 142)
 

ESCI 333 - EARTH STRUCT& DEFORM W/OUT LAB

Long Title: EARTH STRUCTURE AND DEFORMATION WITHOUT LAB
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 3
Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s):
Earth Science
Prerequisite(s): MATH 101 AND (PHYS 101 OR PHYS 111)
Description: Same as ESCI 323 without a lab. Credit may not be received for both ESCI 323 and ESCI 333. Equivalency: ESCI 323.
 

ESCI 334 - GEOL&GEOPHYSICAL TECHNIQUES

Long Title: GEOLOGICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL TECHNIQUES
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: An introduction to basic methods of description, recording, and interpretation of geologic and geophysical features in the field, including rock and outcrop description, map and cross-section construction, and data acquisition and analysis. A required seven day field excursion will take place during Spring Break. Recommended prerequisite(s): ESCI 322 and 323.
 

ESCI 340 - GLOBAL BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES

Long Title: GLOBAL BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Distribution Group: Distribution Group III
Credit Hours: 3
Description: This course introduces students to the coupled nature of the biosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere using as focal points elemental cycles such as those of carbon and nitrogen. Cross-list: BIOS 340, ENST 340.
 

ESCI 390 - GEOLOGY FIELD CAMP

Long Title: GEOLOGY FIELD CAMP
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Independent Study
Credit Hours: 3 TO 6
Description: Field course typically involving geologic mapping in one or more of sedimentary, metamorphic, igneous rocks and structures. Not offered by Rice University. Students must take an approved field camp from another university and transfer credit to Rice University. Recommended Prerequisite(s): ESCI 334.
 

ESCI 391 - EARTH SCIENCE FIELD EXPERIENCE

Long Title: EARTH SCIENCE FIELD EXPERIENCE
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
Course Type: Independent Study
Credit Hours: 3 TO 6
Description: Comprises participating in an earth science expedition or research experience, follow-up analysis of some aspect of the data acquired, and a written report. Must be approved in advance by one of the department undergraduate advisors.
 

ESCI 403 - SEMINAR: DEPARTMENT RESEARCH

Long Title: SEMINAR: DEPARTMENT RESEARCH
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 1
Description: Seminar: Introduction to current research in Earth science. Each member of the department participates by describing his or her research and some of the techniques involved. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 404 - SEM: DEPARTMENT RESEARCH

Long Title: SEMINAR: DEPARTMENT RESEARCH
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 1
Description: Seminar: Introduction to current research in Earth science. Each member of the department participates by describing his or her research and some of the techniques involved. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 405 - SEM:CURR RESRCH EARTH SCIENCE

Long Title: SEMINAR: CURRENT RESEARCH IN EARTH SCIENCE
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 1
Description: A series of lectures on current research in various areas of Earth science. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 406 - SEM:CURR RESRCH EARTH SCIENCE

Long Title: SEMINAR: CURRENT RESEARCH IN EARTH SCIENCE
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 1
Description: A series of lectures on current research in various areas of Earth science. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 412 - ADVANCED PETROLOGY

Long Title: ADVANCED PETROLOGY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Evaluation of the evolution of igneous rocks in the Earth's crust and mantle. Topics will include phase equilibria, experimental studies, and geochemistry. Labs will stress thin section petrography. Recommended Prerequisite: ESCI 322. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 414 - PHYS & CHEM OF THE ATMOSPHERE

Long Title: PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY OF THE ATMOSPHERE
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): CHEM 121 OR PHYS 101
Description: The fundamental physics and chemistry of the atmosphere will be covered. Interactions between the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and the earth's interior will also be discussed. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 415 - ECONOMIC GEOLOGY-PETROLEUM

Long Title: ECONOMIC GEOLOGY-PETROLEUM
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: A study of the geology of petroleum: origin, migration, and accumulation will be studied. Government regulation and industry economics will be examined.
 

ESCI 416 - ECON GEOL MINERAL DEPOSITS

Long Title: ECONOMIC GEOLOGY MINERAL DEPOSITS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: An overview of metallic and nonmetallic mineral deposits, theories of their origin, and classification. The impact of government regulation, economics, production practices, and exploration will be considered.
 

ESCI 417 - PETROLEUM IND ECONOMICS MGMT

Long Title: PETROLEUM INDUSTRY ECONOMICS AND MANAGEMENT
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Topics covered include resource size determination; geologic risk analysis; establishing minimum economic thresholds; economic chance factors; the concepts of present worth, investment efficiency, rates of return. Price forecasting, cost inflation are discussed. Recommended Prerequisite(s): ESCI 415.
 

ESCI 418 - QUANTITATIVE HYDROGEOLOGY

Long Title: QUANTITATIVE HYDROGEOLOGY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Advanced course that will provide a quantitative overview of groundwater hydrology. Emphasis will be placed on mastering concepts in fluid mechanics and applying these concepts to water supply, environmental, and geological problems. Cross-list: CEVE 418.
 

ESCI 420 - MODERN EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY

Long Title: MODERN EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Modern petroleum exploration techniques using geology, geophysics, and information technology methods. As new techniques emerge, the course will change to insure that the course material mirrors the exploration industry. Recommended Corequisite(s): ESCI 444 Recommended Prerequisite(s): ESCI 442 or GEOL 442.
 

ESCI 421 - PALEOCEANOGRAPHY

Long Title: PALEOCEANOGRAPHY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): ESCI 321
Description: The evolution of the ocean, climate and the global carbon cycle over the last 100 million years as recorded by the biology, chemistry and composition of deep-sea sediment. Recommended Prerequisite(s): ESCI 109.
 

ESCI 423 - ANTARCTIC MARINE GEOLOGY

Long Title: ANTARCTIC MARINE GEOLOGY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: The study of marine geologic principles and processes using examples from the Southern Oceans. Recommended prerequisite(s): ESCI 321.
 

ESCI 424 - EARTH SCIENCE AND THE ENVIRON

Long Title: EARTH SCIENCE AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Interrelations between humans and the geologic environment. This course explores theories and problems of chemical hazards in the environment; topics, e.g., groundwater pollution, soils, CO2 - sequestration, waste deposits.
 

ESCI 425 - ORGANIC GEOCHEMISTRY

Long Title: ORGANIC GEOCHEMISTRY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: This course covers the organic geochemistry of the natural environment. Topics include: production, transport, decomposition, and storage of organic matter in the marine and terrestrial environments, use of isotopes to track biogeochemical processes and natural and perturbed carbon cycle issues, including past and recent climate shifts. Cross-list: CHEM 425, ENST 425.
 

ESCI 427 - SEQUENCE STRATIGRAPHY

Long Title: SEQUENCE STRATIGRAPHY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: This course will introduce students to the concepts of sequence stratigraphy and the power behind this correlation technique. The course is divided between classic sequence stratigraphy using cores, well-logs, and outcrop examples and seismic sequence stratigraphy.
 

ESCI 428 - GEOL INTERP OF SEISMIC DATA

Long Title: GEOLOGIC INTERPRETATION OF REFLECTION SEISMIC DATA
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 4
Description: Practical application of the reflection seismic method used in the tectonic analysis of deformed belts and sedimentary basins. The course material includes case studies from around the world, with emphasis on the integration of seismic reflection data with other surface and subsurface geological/geophysical information in a regional context.
 

ESCI 430 - TRACE-ELEMENT& ISOTOPE GEOCHEM

Long Title: TRACE-ELEMENT AND ISOTOPE GEOCHEMISTRY FOR EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 4
Description: Introduction to the principles of trace-element and isotope geochemistry and their applications to high and low temperature processes in the earth. Topics to be covered are trace-element partitioning, basic quantum physics, radiogenic isotopic systems and stable isotope fractionation. Recommended Prerequisite(s): ESCI 322.
 

ESCI 432 - MARINE GEOLOGY SYSTEMS

Long Title: MARINE GEOLOGY SYSTEMS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: This course examines areas of the seafloor recently targeted by large-scale science projects, such as the ocean drilling program. The purpose is to understand current ocean geoscience problems, the research being conducted to address these problems, and preliminary results.
 

ESCI 440 - GEOPHYSICAL DATA ANALYSIS

Long Title: GEOPHYSICAL DATA ANALYSIS: DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): MATH 101 AND MATH 102
Description: Data sampling, aliasing, discrete Fourier transform, digital filter design techniques, z-transform, and discrete Hilbert transform are introduced. Deconvolution, velocity filters, polarization filter, stacking, beam forming and migration techniques will be taught together with their application in geophysical studies.
Course URL: http://terra.rice.edu/department/faculty/niu/ESCI440
 

ESCI 441 - GEOPHYSICAL DATA ANALYSIS

Long Title: GEOPHYSICAL DATA ANALYSIS: INVERSE METHODS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Review of linear algebra and probability. Data fitting, model parameter estimation, inverse theory, linear and nonlinear methods, and global optimization. Recommended Prerequisite: MATH 211.
 

ESCI 442 - EXPLORATION GEOPHYSICS I

Long Title: EXPLORATION GEOPHYSICS I
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory
Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisite(s): MATH 101 AND (PHYS 101 OR PHYS 102)
Description: Study of the principles and procedures involved in geophysical exploration. Includes acquisition, processing, and interpretation of seismic ground-penetrating radar, gravity, magnetic, and electrical data.
 

ESCI 444 - EXPLORATION GEOPHYSICS II

Long Title: EXPLORATION GEOPHYSICS II
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): ESCI 442
Description: Experience with processing reflection seismic data. Includes seismic data organization, velocity analysis, stacking, filtering, deconvolution, migration, and display, using the Center for Computational Geophysics facility's ProMax seismic processing system. Recommended Prerequisite: ESCI 442 or GEOL 442.
 

ESCI 450 - REMOTE SENSING

Long Title: REMOTE SENSING
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Introduction to electromagnetic remote sensing of the earth and other planets using passive and active methods. The course includes a computer lab component involving processing and interpretation of remote sensing imagery, and an individual project. Cross-list: CEVE 450.
 

ESCI 451 - ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL DATA

Long Title: ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL DATA
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Introduction to data display, statistical methods, system simulation, and geostatistics for environmental scientists. The course will emphasize the application of these techniques to real and simulated environmental problems. The lab will involve extensive computer use and the completion of a major individual project on a topic selected by the student. Cross-list: CEVE 451.
 

ESCI 454 - GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE

Long Title: GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SCIENCE
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, mapping sciences, and spatial analysis. The course will include extensive computer use and the completion of a major individual project on a topic selected by the student. Cross-list: CEVE 453.
 

ESCI 458 - THERMO/KINETICS EARTHSCIENTIST

Long Title: THERMODYNAMICS/KINETICS FOR EARTH SCIENTISTS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Thermodynamics and kinetics for the special needs of Earth scientists covering the basic concepts with respect to geochemical applications, e.g., equilibrium - nonequilibrium concepts, steady state, delta G dependence of reactions, rate models, etc. Cross-list: CHEM 458.
 

ESCI 460 - GEOL & GEOPHYS FLUID DYNAMICS

Long Title: GEOLOGICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL FLUID DYNAMICS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): MATH 211 AND MATH 212
Description: Advanced course in the foundations of fluid mechanics and its application to Earth science. Aspects of continuum mechanics, heat and mass transfer, and the rheologic behavior of materials will be covered in developing the fundamental laws that describe fluid motion. Applications include atmospheric dynamics, mantle and lithospheric dynamics, and hydrogeology.
 

ESCI 461 - SEISMOLOGY I

Long Title: SEISMOLOGY I
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): ESCI 442
Description: Principles of elastic wave propagation, the determination of Earth structure, and the understanding of earthquake physics.
 

ESCI 462 - TECTONOPHYSICS

Long Title: TECTONOPHYSICS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): MATH 102 OR PHYS 102
Description: Applications of continuum physics to the deformation, flexure, heat transfer, and gravity field of the lithosphere. Recommended Prerequisite(s): MATH 212.
 

ESCI 463 - ADVANCED STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY I

Long Title: ADVANCED STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY I
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisite(s): ESCI 323
Description: Mechanics and deformation of rocks in the brittle regime, i.e., within Earth's shallow crust, with emphasis on large and small scale deformation structures, their origins, and their tectonic settings.
 

ESCI 464 - GLOBAL TECTONICS

Long Title: GLOBAL TECTONICS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Geometrical aspects of plate tectonics, the 3 traditional types of plate boundaries, instantaneous plate motions, earthquakes and faulting, space geodesy, geomagnetic reversals, paleomagnetic poles, hotspots, "absolute" plate motion, true polar wander, driving forces, diffuse plate boundaries, plate nonrigidity, and rheology of the lithosphere.
 

ESCI 466 - ADVANCED STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY II

Long Title: ADVANCED STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY II
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisite(s): ESCI 323
Description: Mechanics and deformation of rocks in the ductile regime, i.e., within Earth's deep crust, and upper mantle.
 

ESCI 467 - GEOMECHANICS

Long Title: GEOMECHANICS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: An examination of deformation and failure processes within the Earth's shallow crust, with a focus on rock and sediment mechanics, and associated fluid processes. Emphasis will be on geologic applications, including sediment consolidation, slope stability, fault mechanics, and earthquake nucleation and rupture.
 

ESCI 481 - UNDERGR RESEARCH EARTH SCIENCE

Long Title: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH IN EARTH SCIENCE
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Research
Credit Hours: 1 TO 6
Description: Advanced work adapted to the needs of the individual undergraduate student reading. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 491 - SPECIAL STUDY FOR UNDERGRADS

Long Title: SPECIAL STUDIES FOR UNDERGRADUATES
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Independent Study
Credit Hours: 1 TO 6
Description: Work in Earth Science adapted to the needs of individual undergraduate research. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 501 - SPECIAL STUDIES GRAD STUDENTS

Long Title: SPECIAL STUDIES FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
Course Type: Independent Study
Credit Hours: 1 TO 15
Description: Advanced work in Earth science adapted to the needs of individual graduate students. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 504 - SILICICLASTIC DEPOSITION SYST

Long Title: SILICICLASTIC DEPOSITIONAL SYSTEMS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): ESCI 321
Description: Study of modern and ancient sedimentary environments with emphasis on field work. Depositional models examined in relation to climatic, oceanographic, and tectonic influences.
 

ESCI 505 - APPLIED SEDIMENTOLOGY I

Long Title: APPLIED SEDIMENTOLOGY I
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): ESCI 504
Description: Field investigation of sedimentary deposits of northwestern New Mexico to provide students in sedimentology with training in field methods, interpretation of sedimentary deposits, and facies mapping. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 506 - CARBONATE DEPOSITIONAL SYSTEMS

Long Title: CARBONATE DEPOSITIONAL SYSTEMS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): ESCI 321
Description: Characterization of modern and ancient, shallow and deep sedimentary environments and facies. Includes examination of different depositional models in relation both to climate and to hydrographic and geographic settings, as well as three field trips.
 

ESCI 507 - APPLIED SEDIMENTOLOGY II

Long Title: APPLIED SEDIMENTOLOGY II
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisite(s): ESCI 505
Description: Advanced field studies in sedimentary geology. This course is intended to provide graduate students with experience working in sedimentary rocks by working on projects of their own design.
 

ESCI 508 - SEM:GLOBAL SEISMOLOGY

Long Title: SEMINAR: GLOBAL SEISMOLOGY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 509 - SEM:DEPT-LOCALE-FIELD TRIPS

Long Title: SEMINAR: DEPARTMENT TYPE-LOCALE FIELD TRIPS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 510 - SEM: ADVANCED SEISMOLOGY

Long Title: SEMINAR: ADVANCED SEISMOLOGY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 511 - SEM: EARTH SCIENCE INTO ACTION

Long Title: PUTTING EARTH SCIENCE INTO ACTION
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 512 - SEM: CARIBBEAN

Long Title: SEMINAR: CARIBBEAN
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 1
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 515 - GEOPHYS FLD WK FOR EDUCATORS

Long Title: GEOPHYSICAL FIELD WORK FOR EDUCATORS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: This course consists of 2 weeks of geophysical field work and is designated for in-service K-12 teachers. Instructor Permission Required. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 516 - SEM: TOPICS ON CARBONATES

Long Title: SEMINAR: TOPICS ON CARBONATES
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Independent Study
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 517 - SEM:SPEC TOPICS HIGH TEMP

Long Title: SEMINAR: SPECIAL TOPICS IN HIGH TEMPERATURE GEOCHEMISTRY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 518 - DIMEN ANALYSIS EARTH SCIENCE

Long Title: DIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS IN EARTH SCIENCE
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 1
Description: Seminar: Dimensional Analysis in Earth Science The basics of dimensional analysis and scaling analysis will be covered. The seminar will mainly apply these analysis tools to a range of Earth science problems. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 519 - SEM: SEISMOLOGY

Long Title: SEMINAR: SEISMOLOGY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 520 - SEM: SEISMOLOGY

Long Title: SEMINAR: SEISMOLOGY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 521 - SEM:TECTONICS-CONTINEN-MARGINS

Long Title: SEMINAR: TECTONICS OF CONTINENTAL MARGINS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 522 - SEM:GEOFLUIDS/THERMICS, PLANET

Long Title: SEMINAR: ADVANCED TOPICS IN GEOFLUIDS, GEOTHERMICS, AND PLANETARY EVOLUTION
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary.
 

ESCI 523 - SEM:SEISMICMODEL&INVERSEMETHOD

Long Title: SEMINAR: SEISMIC MODELING AND INVERSE METHODS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 524 - SEM:ADV TOPICS EARTH STRUCTURE

Long Title: SEMINAR: ADVANCED TOPICS IN EARTH STRUCTURE AND DEFORMATION
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 525 - SEM: VOLCATECTONICS

Long Title: SEMINAR: VOLCANOTECTONICS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 526 - SEM:DEVELOPSTRUCTURALGEOLOGY

Long Title: SEMINAR: DEVELOPMENTS IN STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 2
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 527 - SEM:PRIN&PRAC PETROL GEOCHEM

Long Title: PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES OF PETROLEUM GEOCHEMISTRY IN EXPLORATION AND EXPLOITATION
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Course taught at the University of Houston. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 528 - SEM:ADV TOPICS HYDROGEOLOGY

Long Title: SEMINAR: ADVANCED TOPICS IN HYDROGEOLOGY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 530 - SEM: CO2 EXCHANGE ATMOS/WATER

Long Title: Texas Prairies Land Use & Soil Biogeochemistry
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 1
Description: Topics will vary from year to year. Fall 2007: CO2 EXCHANGE BETWEEN THE ATOMOSPHERE AND WATER BODIES. Different Topics may be repeated for credit. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 531 - ADV GLOBAL TECTONICS

Long Title: SEMINAR: ADVANCED GLOBAL TECTONICS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 532 - SEM:TOPICS-SEDIMENTOLOGY

Long Title: SEMINAR: TOPICS IN SEDIMENTOLOGY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 533 - SEM:GLOBAL BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCL

Long Title: SEMINAR: GLOBAL BIOGEOCHEMICAL CYCLES
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 535 - ADVANCED TOPICS IN GEOCHEM

Long Title: ADVANCED TOPICS IN GEOCHEMISTRY
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Cross-list: CHEM 535.
 

ESCI 536 - SEM: DEPARTMENT FIELD TRIP

Long Title: SEMINAR: DEPARTMENT FIELD TRIP
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 1 TO 4
Description: Seminar topics vary depending on location of field trip. tHI
 

ESCI 537 - ADV TOPICS - SOLID EARTH I

Long Title: ADVANCED TOPICS IN THE SOLID EARTH I
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 2
Description: Seminar topics may vary.
 

ESCI 538 - ADV TOPICS - SOLID EARTH II

Long Title: ADVANCED TOPICS IN THE SOLID EARTH II
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Seminar
Credit Hours: 2
Description: Seminar topics may vary.
 

ESCI 542 - SEISMOLOGY II

Long Title: SEISMOLOGY II
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Review of elastodynamics. Calculation of synthetic seismograms using asymptotic and finite-difference methods, wave propagation in layered and random media. Seismic migration and inversion using finite-difference. Kirchoff, and frequency-wave number methods.
 

ESCI 562 - ADV TOPICS IN GEOPHYSICS

Long Title: ADVANCED TOPICS IN GEOPHYSICS
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Standard Letter
Course Type: Lecture
Credit Hours: 3
Description: Seminar topics may vary. Repeatable for Credit.
 

ESCI 800 - THESIS RESEARCH

Long Title: THESIS RESEARCH
Department: *Earth Science*
Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
Course Type: Research
Credit Hours: 1 TO 15
Description: Recommended Prerequisite(s): Students must pass the preliminary exam before taking this course. Repeatable for Credit.