Please note: Some GEL courses will become either ENV or GIS effective Spring 2003. These courses are already listed under their new prefix (ENV or GIS) in this Catalog. GEL will be used for all geology courses in the class schedule and for registration for Summer 2002 and Fall 2002.
Changes effective Spring, 2003:
GEG 1200=ENV 1200; GEG 1400=ENV 1400; GEG 2250=GIS 2250; GEG 3210=GIS 3210; GEG 3220=GIS 3220; GEG 3250=GIS 3250; GEG 3400=ENV 3400; GEG 3620=ENV 3620; GEG 4200=ENV 4200; GEG 4410=ENV 4410; GEG 4420=ENV 4420; GEG 4430=ENV 4430; GEG 4840=GIS 4840; GEG 4850=GIS 4850; GEG 4860=GIS 4860; GEG 4870=GIS 4870; GEG 4890=GIS 4890; GEG 4960=ENV 4960; GEL 1540=ENV 1540; GEL 1710=GIS 1710; GEL 3540=ENV 3540; GEL 4000=ENV 4000; GEL 4010=ENV 4010; GEL 4960=ENV 4970

GEL 1010-4 General Geology (3 + 2)

Prerequisite: minimum performance standard scores on reading, writing, and mathematics preassessment placement tests

This course introduces the basic theories, concepts, and assumptions used in geology, utilizing both lecture and laboratory components. It includes internal and external processes, their products, and their effects on the environment. Students will learn to identify common rocks and minerals. A field trip is required. (General Studies-Level II, Natural Science)

GEL 1020-3 Geology of Colorado (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: minimum performance-standard scores on reading, writing, and mathematics preassessment placement tests

This course introduces the basic theories, concepts, and assumptions used in geology, focusing on the state of Colorado. The major geological provinces; mineral resources; common rock-forming minerals; and sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks of Colorado are covered. One field trip required. (General Studies-Level II, Natural Science)

GEL 1030-4 Historical Geology (3 + 2)

Prerequisite: GEL 1010 or permission of instructor

This course presents the origin and history of the Earth as well as the evolution of its life, based on the rock and fossil record. The course also reviews the changing geography of the Earth through geologic time, emphasizing the theory of plate tectonics. A field trip is required. (General Studies-Level II, Natural Science)

GEL 1150-3 Oceanography (3 + 0)

Prerequisite: minimum performance-standard scores on reading, writing, and mathematics preassessment placement tests

This introductory course studies the world's oceans, including historical explorations, physical and biological processes, energy sources, ocean resources, marine provinces, and geology of ocean basins. The course emphasizes global distribution, use, and control of ocean resources, and ocean pollution. (General Studies-Level II, Natural Science)

GEL 1200-2 Gem and Mineral Collecting in Colorado (1 + 2)

Corequisite: Physical ability to endure strenuous hiking at high elevations is necessary

This course focuses on the origin, geography and areas of occurrence of gemstones, as well as the physical mineral properties of gemstones.

GEL 1500-1-3 Current Topics in Geology: Variable Topics (1-3 + 0)

These courses cover topics of current geologic interest. The course content will vary and the course may be repeated for credit as the course topic changes.

GEL 1510-1 Geology of Red Rocks Park and Vicinity (1 + 0)

Prerequisite: GEL 1010 recommended

This course examines the geology of Red Rocks Park and vicinity, including rocks formed over a period of approximately two billion years. The geologic history includes Colorado's famous "disappearing" mountain range (the Ancestral Rocky Mountains), evidence of ancient oceans and deserts, dinosaur bones and tracks and the uplift of the modern-day Rocky Mountains. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1510 and GEL 3510 for credit. (General Studies-Level II, Natural Science)

GEL 1520-2 Garden of the Gods-Front Range Geology (2 + 0)

Prerequisite: GEL 1010 recommended

This course examines the geology along the Front Range from Boulder to Colorado Springs through rock exposures covering a span of approximately two billion years. Along with basic concepts of geology, the formations exposed along the Front Range, including their ages, rock types, origins and economic products, are examined within a context of geologic history. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1520 and GEL 3520 for credit. (General Studies-Level II, Natural Science)

GEL 1530-2 Geology of the Colorado Plateau (2 + 0)

Prerequisites: None; GEL 1010, GEL 1510, GEL 1520 and/or GEL 1560 are recommended

This course examines the geology of the eastern Colorado Plateau, including the geology of the Colorado National Monument, Arches National Park and northern and southern Canyonlands National Parks. Along with basic concepts of geology, the formations exposed in the eastern Colorado Plateau, including their ages, rock types and origins, are examined. Historical geology and geomorphology come to life in this beautiful, desolate, arid country. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1530 and GEL 3530 for credit.

GEL 1550-2 Geology of the Great Sand Dunes National Monument (2 + 0)

Prerequisite: GEL 1010 recommended

This course emphasizes the processes and landforms associated with the eolian (wind) and desert environments at the Great Sand Dunes National Monument, located in the San Luis Valley between the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Investigations of the dune fields allow students to identify various types of dunes, as well as damage related to desertification. The relationships of sand source areas, cross-bedding and transport directions are investigated. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1550 and GEL 3550 for credit.

GEL 1560-2 Canoeing the Canyon Country (2 + 0)

Prerequisites: GEL 1010, GEL 1510, GEL 1520 and/or GEL 1530 recommended

This course examines the spectacular geology along a 32-mile stretch of the Colorado River between Fruita, Colorado and Westwater, Utah. Along with basic concepts of geology, the formations exposed in this portion of the eastern Colorado Plateau, including their ages, rock types and origins, are discussed. Historical geology and geomorphology come to life in this geologic wonderland. Note: Students cannot take GEL 1560 and GEL 3560 for credit.

GEL 1570-2 Geology of the Flattops Volcanic Wilderness Area (2 + 0)

Prerequisite: GEL 1010 recommended

This course emphasizes the igneous processes and products of the Flattops Wilderness Area of northwestern Colorado. Students study the lava flows exposed in the area and determine their source area. The problems of mid-continent magma genesis and its relationship to plate tectonics are also explored. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1570 and GEL 3570 for credit.

GEL 1580-2 Geology of the Wheeler Geologic Area (2 + 0)

Prerequisite: GEL 1010 recommended

This course emphasizes the igneous processes and products of the Wheeler Geologic Area of southwestern Colorado. Students study the pyroclastic deposits exposed in the area and determine the sequence of events. The problems of mid-continent magma genesis and its relationship to plate tectonics are also explored. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1580 and GEL 3580 for credit.

GEL 1590-1 Geology of Caves (1 + 0)

Prerequisite: GEL 1010 recommended

This course examines the origins of caves, including relationships to rock types, fracture systems, and groundwater chemistry, as well as the origin of and types of speleothems (cave formations). The course exposes students to the adventures of spelunking (caving). Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1590 and GEL 3590 for credit.

GEL 3050-4 Mineralogy and Petrology (3 + 2)

Prerequisite: GEL 1010

This course examines minerals and rocks that make up the Earth's crust, including their origin, occurrence and identification. In addition to the recognition of hand specimens, this course utilizes the petrographic microscope and X-ray crystallography to identify minerals and rocks.

GEL 3060-4 Stratigraphy and Structure (3 + 2)

Prerequisite: GEL 1010; GEL 3050 recommended

This course analyzes vertical and horizontal stratigraphic and structural relationships within the Earth's crust. The stratigraphic portion of the course emphasizes transgressive and regressive sequences and unconformity boundaries (sequence stratigraphy) while the structural portion emphasizes three-dimensional relationships found in folded and faulted rocks. Field trips are required.

GEL 3120-4 Advanced Geomorphology (3 + 2)

Prerequisite: GEL 3060 or permission of instructor

This course is detailed analysis of the Earth's landforms, including their origins and sequential changes due to internal and surficial processes. Maps and aerial photographs are extensively used for geomorphic interpretations. Field trips are required.

GEL 3150-3 Hydrogeology (2 + 2)

Prerequisites: GEL 1010, MTH 1110 and MTH 1210 recommended

This course is a practical approach to the study of groundwater flow, with emphasis given to its chemistry, mode of migration, pollution, and relationship to the geologic environment. The course includes methods of exploration, well-log analysis, numerous laboratory exercises and field sampling. A field trip is required.

GEL 3420-4 Soil Resources (3 + 2)

Prerequisites: GEL 3050 and GEL 3120 or GEG 1240, or permission of instructor

This course analyzes the materials and processes that combine to produce various soil types. Soil types are examined in relationship to climate, landforms, vegetation, and geology, as well as in relationship to land-use patterns. Required field trips investigate soil mapping techniques.

GEL 3440-4 Energy and Mineral Resources (3 + 2)

Prerequisites: ENV 1400 and GEL 3050, or permission of instructor

This course investigates mineral resources and reserves that serve our industrial society. It includes a detailed examination of the origin, physical characteristics, and distribution of mineral resources, including metals and nonmetals, and energy resources, including fossil fuels and alternative energy resources. Field trips are required.

GEL 3510-1 Advanced Geology of Red Rocks Park and Vicinity (1 + 0)

Prerequisite: nine hours of geography or geology or permission of instructor

This course requires an analytical approach to the geology of Red Rocks Park and vicinity, including rocks formed over a period of approximately two billion years. The geologic history includes Colorado's famous "disappearing" mountain range (the Ancestral Rocky Mountains), evidence of ancient oceans and deserts, dinosaur bones and tracks and the uplift of the modern-day Rocky Mountains. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1510 and GEL 3510 for credit. (General Studies-Level II, Natural Sciences)

GEL 3520-2 Advanced Garden of the Gods-Front Range Geology (2 + 0)

Prerequisite: nine hours of geography or geology or permission of instructor

This course requires an analytical approach to the geology along the Front Range from Boulder to Colorado Springs through rock exposures covering a span of approximately two billion years. Along with basic concepts of geology, the formations exposed along the Front Range, including their age, rock types, origins and economic products, are analyzed within a context of geologic history. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1520 and GEL 3520 for credit. (General Studies-Level II, Natural Science)

GEL 3530-2 Advanced Geology of the Colorado Plateau (2 + 0)

Prerequisites: nine hours of geography or geology or permission of instructor; GEL 3510, GEL 3520 and/or GEL 3560 recommended

This course requires an analytical approach to the geology of the eastern Colorado Plateau, including the geology of the Colorado National Monument, Arches National Park, and northern and southern Canyonlands National Parks. Along with basic concepts of geology, the formations exposed in the eastern Colorado Plateau, including their ages, rock types and origins, are analyzed. Historical geology and geomorphology come to life in this beautiful, desolate, arid country. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1530 and GEL 3530 for credit.

GEL 3550-2 Advanced Geology of the Great Sand Dunes National Monument (2 + 0)

Prerequisite: nine hours of geography or geology or permission of instructor

This course analyzes the processes and landforms associated with the eolian (wind) and desert environments at the Great Sand Dunes National Monument, located in the San Luis Valley between the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Analysis of the dune fields allows students to identify various type of dunes, as well as damage related to desertification. The relationships of sand source areas, cross-bedding and transport directions are analyzed. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1550 and GEL 3550 for credit.

GEL 3560-2 Advanced Canoeing the Canyon Country (2 + 0)

Prerequisite: nine hours of geography or geology or permission of instructor; GEL 3510, GEL 3520 and/or GEL 3530 recommended

This course requires an analytical approach to the spectacular geology along a 32-mile stretch of the Colorado River between Fruita, Colorado and Westwater, Utah. Along with basic concepts of geology, the formations exposed in this portion of the eastern Colorado Plateau, including their ages, rock types and origins, are analyzed. Historical geology and geomorphology come to life in this geologic wonderland. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1560 and GEL 3560 for credit.

GEL 3570-2 Advanced Geology of the Flattops Volcanic Wilderness Area (2 + 0)

Prerequisite: nine hours of geography or geology or permission of instructor; GEL 3050 recommended

This course requires an analytical approach to the igneous processes and products of the Flattops Wilderness Area of northwestern Colorado. Students analyze the lava flows exposed in the area to determine their source area. The problems of mid-continent magma genesis and its relationship to plate tectonics are also explored. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1570 and GEL 3570 for credit.

GEL 3580-2 Advanced Geology of the Wheeler Geologic Area (2 + 0)

Prerequisite: nine hours of geography or geology or permission of instructor; GEL 3050 recommended

This course requires an analytical approach to the igneous processes and products of the Wheeler Geologic Area of southwestern Colorado. Students analyze the pyroclastic deposits exposed in the area and determine the sequence of events. The problems of mid-continent magma genesis and its relationship to plate tectonics are also explored. Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1580 and GEL 3580 for credit.

GEL 3590-1 Advanced Geology of Caves (1 + 0)

Prerequisite: nine hours of geography or geology or permission of instructor

This course requires an analytical approach to the origins of caves, including relationships to rock types, fracture systems, and groundwater chemistry, as well as the origin of and types of speleothems (cave formations). The course exposes students to the adventures of spelunking (caving). Note: Students cannot take both GEL 1590 and GEL 3590 for credit.

GEL 3920-2-6 Directed Study in Geology (0 + 4-12)

Prerequisites: 15 hours in geology; approval of instructor and department chair

This course provides an opportunity for upper-division students with a strong background in geology to pursue study in a specific topic of interest and value. The course requires permission of the instructor and chair of the Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Department and frequent meetings between student and instructor.

GEL 4150-3 Hydrology (2 + 2)

Prerequisite: GEL 3150

This course examines surface and subsurface waters with respect to water flow, drainage systems, storage, pollution and environmental relationships. The hydrologic cycle is studied with respect to surface water distribution. This course uses knowledge gained from GEL 3150 (Hydrogeology) in practical applications.

GEL 4950-2-15 Internship in Geology (0 + 6-45)

Prerequisites: land use major with geology emphasis with upper division standing plus 12 upper-division hours in geology, permission of the chair of the earth and atmospheric science department

This course provides an on-the-job internship experience with a geology-related company or agency. The experience must be done under qualified supervision and the auspices of an earth and atmospheric sciences faculty member.