Course Schedule and Catalog

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. Recommended co-requisite(s): ESCI 105.

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: History of the Earth. Earth's systems over the past 4.6 billion years. Topics include evolution of life, continents continents, ocean basins and climate. Cross-list: ENST 102. Recommended co-requisite(s): ESCI 105.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Long Title: ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS SEMINAR

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Seminar

Distribution Group: Distribution Group III

Credit Hours: 1

Description: Seminar topics may vary. Cross-list: ENST 113.

Long Title: NATURAL DISASTER SEMINAR

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Seminar

Distribution Group: Distribution Group III

Credit Hours: 1

Description: Seminar topics may vary. Cross-list: ENST 114.

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.

Long Title: PAST AND FUTURE EARTH'S CLIMATE VARIATIONS

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Our understanding of past Earth's climate variations at time scales ranging from millions of years to decades helps climate predictions for the next decades and centuries. The course is designed for undergraduate students with broad interests in learning about the Earth's modern and past climate, and the impact of mankind on future climate changes.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 MATH 102 AND (PHYS 101 OR PHYS 111)

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.

Long Title: EARTH'S INTERIOR

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Distribution Group: Distribution Group III

Credit Hours: 4

Prerequisite(s): MATH 101 AND MATH 102 AND (PHYS 101 OR PHYS 111) AND (PHYS 102 OR PHYS 112)

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Long Title: ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Theories and problems of chemical hazards in the environment due to natural processes, with emphasis on low-temperature aqueous systems. Cross-list: CHEM 325.

Long Title: GEOLOGY FIELD CAMP

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Independent Study

Credit Hours: 4 TO 6

Prerequisite(s): ESCI 334

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.

Long Title: EARTH SCIENCE FIELD EXPERIENCE

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Independent Study

Credit Hours: 4 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.

Long Title: SEMINAR: FACULTY RESEARCH

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

Course Type: Seminar

Credit Hours: 1

Description: Introduction to current research in Earth science. Each faculty member in the department participates by describing his or her research and some of the techniques involved. Repeatable for Credit.

Long Title: SEMINAR: GRADUATE RESEARCH

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 1

Description: Seminar: Graduate students present thesis research. Repeatable for Credit.

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.

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.

Long Title: ADVANCED PETROLOGY

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): ESCI 322

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. Repeatable for Credit.

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.

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.

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.

Long Title: QUANTITATIVE HYDROGEOLOGY

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MATH 211 AND MATH 212

Description: Advanced course that will provide a quantative 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.

Long Title: MODERN EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): ESCI 442

Description: Modern exploration techniques using geology, geophysics, and information technology methods comprise this dynamic course. As new techniques emerge, the course will change to insure that the course material mirrors the exploration industry.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 clastic sequence stratigraphy using cores, well-logs, and outcrop examples and seismic sequence stratigraphy.

Long Title: GEOLOGIC INTERPRETATION OF REFLECTION PROFILES

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.

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.

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.

Long Title: PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES OF INDUCTIVELY-COUPLED PLASMA MASS SPECTROMETRY

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Laboratory, Lecture

Credit Hours: 2 TO 4

Description: This course is designed to introduce students to the principles and practices of inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Emphasis will be placed on geologic applications. Basic concepts of mass spectometry, data reduction, data analysis, sample preparation, and data presentation will be discussed. Students taking the course for full credit (4) will be expected to develop a small experiment. Recommended prerequisite(s): ESCI 322, ESCI 430.

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.

Long Title: GEOPHYSICAL DATA ANALYSIS: INVERSE THEORY

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): MATH 211

Description: Review of linear algebra and probability. Data fitting, model parameter estimation, inverse theory, linear and nonlinear methods, and global optimization.

Long Title: EXPLORATION GEOPHYSICS I

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 4

Prerequisite(s): MATH 101 AND MATH 102 AND (PHYS 101 OR PHYS 111) AND (PHYS 102 OR PHYS 112)

Description: Study of the principles and procedures involved in geophysical exploration. Includes acquisition, processing, and interpretation of gravity, magnetic, and seismic data.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. Cross-list: CAAM 441.

Long Title: TECTONOPHYSICS

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): (MATH 102 OR MATH 112) AND (PHYS 102 AND PHYS 112 OR PHYS 126)

Description: Applications of continuum physics to the deformation, flexure, heat transfer, and gravity field of the lithosphere. Recommended Prerequisite(s): MATH 212.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Long Title: CLIMATE CHANGE AND HUMAN CIVILIZATION

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: The course examines Holocene paleo climatic records and their impact on past and present society. It explores the concept of social memory on how information about climate change influences long-term adaptive strategies of societies. Cross-list: ANTH 468.

Long Title: EARTH SYSTEMS MODELING 1

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisite(s): ESCI 322

Description: An introduction to the principles, interpretation and techniques of radiogenic isotope systems. The course will focus on geochronologic applications as well as the use of isotopes in the study of petrogenesis of igneous rocks.

Long Title: PLIO-PLEISTOCENE CLIMATE CHANGE AND HOMINID ADAPTATION

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Lecture

Credit Hours: 3

Description: Junctures in the evolution of the hominids appear to coincide with shifts in the Earth's climate record. We will explore the current status of our knowledge of global climate in the Plio-Pleistocene and of the hominid record from the end of the Miocene to the appearance of H. sapiens. Cross-list: ANTH 475.

Long Title: UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH IN EARTH SCIENCE

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory

Course Type: Research

Credit Hours: 1 TO 6

Description: Advanced work adapted to the needs of the individual undergraduate student reading. Repeatable for Credit.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 toos to a range of earth science problems. Repeatable for Credit.

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Seminar

Credit Hours: 3

Description: SEMINAR: SEISMOLOGY ***** No description ***** Instructor(s): Levander Repeatable for Credit.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Long Title: Texas Prairies Land Use & Soil Biogeochemistry

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Seminar

Credit Hours: 1

Description: This class will focus how land use changes on Texas prairie land affects regional carbon, nitrogen, and water cycling. This class will meet once per week and will include at least 2 field trips to the Katy Prairie Conservancy. Repeatable for Credit.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Long Title: SEMINAR: THE GEOLOGY OF NORTH AMERICA

Department: *Earth Science*

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Course Type: Seminar

Credit Hours: 2

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. Graduate/Undergraduate Equivalency: CAAM 442.

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.

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.