Geology

Professors: Raymond Coish (on leave academic year), Patricia Manley; Associate Professors: Peter Ryan, David West (chair); Assistant Professor: Jeffrey Munroe; Visiting Assistant Professor: Thomas Manley; Department Coordinator: Eileen Fahey

The Department of Geology provides students with an opportunity to experience the methods of science, using geologic examples. In addition, we endeavor to provide students who wish to pursue the field of geology with the opportunity to acquire basic knowledge and principles, which will equip them for further professional training. With the Green Mountains to the east and the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain to the west, the environs of Middlebury College afford an excellent setting for study and research in geological, limnological/oceanographic, and environmental science. The curriculum takes advantage of this setting by stressing field-oriented and laboratory-supported inquiry into problems in all facets of earth science, especially environmental geology, geomorphology, marine geology, oceanography/limnology, petrology, structural geology, and tectonics. Students are encouraged to develop skills for obtaining and interpreting observational data. Since Vermont is a classic area for the study of mountain system evolution, one general theme of the program is to relate geological process to the origin and evolution of global tectonic patterns, integrating data from the world's oceans and continental areas. Geology majors have used their Middlebury degree as a stepping-stone to graduate school in the geosciences; to industry; to teaching careers; and to careers in environmental science, business, law, and architecture.
     The department's introductory courses include: Earthquakes and Volcanoes (GEOL 0104), Environmental Geology (GEOL 0112), The Ocean Floor (GEOL 0142), Elements of Oceanography (GEOL 0161), and The Dynamic Earth (GEOL 0170). These courses introduce students to active research in geology and oceanography and are vehicles for acquiring the basic understanding of processes that have shaped the earth. Students can enter the geology program through any of these courses and may then concentrate in these or other areas, depending on where their interests develop.
     Students are expected to have completed at least one introductory-level course before proceeding to more advanced work. Beyond the introductory level, work at the intermediate level takes the form of more advanced 0200- and 0300-level courses. These courses cover techniques, methods, and processes in both field and laboratory aspects of the various subfields of geology.    

New Requirements for the Major in Geology: Please note: These new requirements supersede earlier major requirements for students in the classes of 2008-2010. Students in these classes should consult with your department advisor or the department chair for modifications to their plan of study.

        Required for the Major: The program for a geology major consists of 11 courses within the department and two additional cognate courses. These courses must include:

(1) One 0100-level course (we strongly recommend Environmental Geology (GEOL 0112), Elements of Oceanography (GEOL 0161) or Dynamic Earth (GEOL 0170)).

(2) Four core courses: Bedrock Geology of Vermont (GEOL 0201), Mineralogy (GEOL 0211), and Structural Geology (GEOL 0281) are required, plus either Geomorphic Processes (GEOL 0251) or Surface Ground Water (GEOL 0255).

3) Four elective courses (0200-level or higher) chosen from the Middlebury geology curriculum, at least two of which must be at the 0300-level. Geographic Information Systems (GEOG 0320) and one additional off-campus geology course can be substituted for electives.

(4) Two cognate courses (any Biology, Chemistry, or Physics laboratory course, or Math 0116 or higher).

(5) Two Credits of Senior Work (GEOL 0400 and GEOL 0700)

The two course senior sequence (GEOL 0400 and 0700) is the culmination of the geology major and consists of original research based on field and/or laboratory investigations by the student. The requirements for the major listed above are considered to be minimal. We suggest students planning a career in geology or the earth sciences take additional courses in other sciences and mathematics, as well as additional geology courses. The requirements for the major allow for considerable flexibility and thus students should consult regularly with their geology department advisors for the selection of specific courses.
                Geology Minor: A total of five courses is required. The minor shall consist of one introductory course (either GEOL 0112 or GEOL 0161 or GEOL 0170), plus four higher-level courses, which must include GEOL 0201 or GEOL 0211, and at least one 0300-level course. After completing an introductory geology course, students who intend to minor in geology should arrange specific 0200- and 0300-level courses with the geology chair or designate.
                Departmental Honors in geology are based primarily on outstanding work in original research (GEOL 0700), and are related to course grades only in the context of guidelines in the College Handbook.

GEOL 0104 Earthquakes and Volcanoes (Spring)
Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, despite being labeled as "natural disasters," are normal, natural geologic processes that have been occurring for billions of years on this planet.  Unfortunately, these processes claim tens of thousands of lives and billions of dollars in property damage annually (on average).  This course will focus on the fundamental causes of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and the wide range of secondary effects (e.g., landslides, tsunami, etc.) that accompany these natural disasters.  (Students who have completed GEOL 0170 are not permitted to register for GEOL 0104)  3 hrs. lect., 1 hr. disc. SCI (Staff)

GEOL 0112 Environmental Geology (Spring)
Geological processes form the physical framework on which ecosystems operate. We require an understanding of the geological environment in order to minimize disruption of natural systems by human development and to avoid hazards such as floods and landslides. This course is an overview of basic tectonic, volcanic, and landscape-forming processes and systems, including earthquakes, rivers, soils, and groundwater. Environmental effects of energy, mineral, and water resource use, and waste disposal are also examined. Weekly field labs after spring break. Registration priority for first and second-year students. 3 hrs. lect./disc., 3 hrs. lab/field trips SCI (J. Munroe.)

GEOL 0142 The Ocean Floor (Spring)
Have you wanted to view the ocean floor from a submersible? It is a dark but dynamic place. The constant interchange between water and sediments has created sedimentary drifts and mudwaves over 500 feet high! Earthquakes cause underwater mud avalanches that travel over 60 m.p.h. Hydrothermal vents along the ocean ridges host a variety of unusual plant and animal life. This course will explore the ocean depths via the classroom and will introduce the development of ocean basins, their evolution, and processes occurring within them (Students who have completed GEOL 0170 are not permitted to register for GEOL 0142.) 3 hrs. lect., 1 hr. disc. SCI (P. Manley.)

GEOL 0161 Elements of Oceanography (Fall)
Oceanographic exploration is introduced through study of ocean basins and continental margins. The multidisciplinary nature of oceanography is emphasized by using principles of marine geology, geophysics, geochemistry, and biology to address contemporary problems. Techniques of data collection and analysis are taught aboard the College's research vessel, R/V Baldwin, located on Lake Champlain. 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab/field trips SCI DED (T. Manley)

GEOL 0170 The Dynamic Earth (Fall)
Sea-floor spreading and continental drift, earthquakes and volcanoes, origin and evolution of mountain systems, and concepts of plate tectonics are viewed in light of the geology of ocean basins and continents. Modern processes such as river, coastal, wind, and glaciers will be studied and their effect on shaping the geologic landscape. Laboratory: field problems in Vermont geology; interpretation of geologic maps, regional tectonic synthesis. 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab/field trips SCI (D.West)

GEOL 0201 Bedrock Geology of Vermont (Not offered 2008-09)
This course explores the fascinating geology of Vermont. Students learn the geology through six field problems, involving extended trips around western Vermont. Lectures on the meaning of rocks support the fieldwork. The last few indoor labs are devoted to understanding the geologic map of Vermont. Emphasis is on descriptive writing and on use of data to interpret origin of rocks. Culminates in a written report on the geologic and plate tectonic evolution of Vermont. (One geology course) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab/field trips SCI  

GEOL 0205 Mineral and Energy Resources (Spring)
The global economy, world politics, and nearly all aspects of human civilization are dependent on the availability of geologic materials taken directly from the Earth.  Nearly all of these mineral and energy resources are in finite supply and our extraction and use of these materials continue to lead to significant shortages and pollution.  This course will focus on the geological factors responsible for the generation of these materials, but will also discuss the economic and environmental implications of their use.  3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab/field trips SCI (Staff)

GEOL 0211 Mineralogy (Spring)
This course covers the nature, identification, composition, and meaning of minerals and mineral assemblages. Introduction to crystallography, hand-specimen identification, optical mineralogy, x-ray analysis, and electron microbeam analysis. Laboratory: study of minerals in hand-specimen and under the polarizing microscope; use of x-ray diffraction and electron microscopy in mineral analysis. (One geology course) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab SCI (D.West)

GEOL/GEOG 0250 Arctic and Alpine Environments (Fall)
In this course we will focus on the physical processes and environmental issues unique to arctic and alpine environments. Topics will include cold-climate weathering and landforms, ecosystem adaptations to cold environments, and snow and snowpack hydrology. The goal is to provide a strong scientific grounding through which contemporary issues involving arctic and alpine regions can be understood. Laboratory exercises will include field trips to the surrounding mountains, as well as analysis of datasets from other alpine and high latitude environments. (Any 0100-level GEOL or GEOG course, or by waiver) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab SCI DED (J. Munroe)

GEOL/GEOG 0251 Geomorphic Process (Fall)
An investigation of processes that shape the Earth's surface, including weathering, mass movements, and the effects of water, wind, and ice. Students examine how such processes govern the evolution of landforms in differing climatic, tectonic, and lithologic settings. Field and laboratory study focuses on the role of active surficial processes, as well as glaciation and other past events, in development of the landscape of west-central Vermont. Implications for human activities and maintenance of natural systems are also discussed. (GEOL 0170, or GEOL 0112, or GEOL 0161, or by waiver) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab SCI DED (J. Munroe)

GEOL/GEOG 0255 Surface and Ground Water (Spring) 
Fresh water is the most fundamental resource sustaining life on the continents. This course is an introduction to the study of water and its interactions with the geologic environment. Basic hydrological processes such as precipitation, stream flow, and the subsurface flow of ground water are analyzed by quantitative methods. Climatic and human-induced changes in the hydrological cycle are examined, and current issues and policies are discussed in light of the increasing demands and impacts of a technological society on water resources and associated natural systems. 2 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab SCI DED (P.Ryan)

GEOL/GEOG 0257  Soils, Geology, and the Environment (Not Offered 2008-09)
Soils constitute the fundamental link between atmosphere, water, biota, and rock. Knowledge of the physical, chemical, and biological processes operating in soils is essential when assessing natural cycles as well as anthropogenic alterations to those natural cycles. In this course, we will analyze a wide range of issues, including soil formation, soil mineralogy, soil fertility and nutrient cycling, sediment pollution, soil contamination, water pollution, sediment erosion and deposition, and implications for land-use planning. Labs will be project-oriented and will consist of a combination of fieldwork and instrumental analysis. (ENVS 0112, any GEOL course, or waiver)  SCI

GEOL 0281 Structural Geology (CW) (Fall)
Plate tectonics and mountain building processes result in deformation of the Earth's crust. Structural geology is the study of this deformation, and this course will examine the many types of structures found in crustal rocks (folds, faults, etc.) and explore the forces responsible for their formation. Laboratory exercises will emphasize the hands-on description and analysis of structures in the field, as well as the practical aspects of map interpretation and computer analysis of structural data. (A geology course or by waiver) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab/field trips SCI (D. West)

GEOL 0300 Introduction to Petrology (Not Offered 2008-09)
An introduction to processes involved in the formation of igneous and metamorphic rocks. The first half of the course includes inquiry into the classification, plate tectonic setting, and evolution of volcanic and plutonic igneous rocks. The second half includes study of progressive metamorphism, the pressure-temperature- time history of metamorphic rocks, and the relation between metamorphism and plate tectonics. Labs will include thin section studies of igneous and metamorphic rocks, as well as field trips in Vermont and the Adirondacks. (GEOL 0211) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab/field trips SCI 

GEOL 0301 Plate Tectonics and World Geology (Spring)
Tectonics refers to the many processes associated with development of regional-scale geologic features.  These features include the origin and evolution of mountain belts, the growth of continents and ocean basins, and the causes of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The challenge of tectonic analysis lies in the accumulation and synthesis of a wide range of geologic information in an attempt to reconstruct the tectonic history of a particular region. An overnight weekend field trip towards the end of the semester will introduce students firsthand to the tectonic elements of the Appalachians. 3 hrs. lect. SCI (Staff)


GEOL 0303 Geochemical Processes in the Earth (Not offered 2008-09)
This course will investigate high temperature processes within the Earth, with emphasis on the chemical makeup and chemical evolution of mantle and crustal rocks. Topics will include mantle melting, magma storage, magma eruption, mantle convection, hot spots, and mantle and crustal evolution over the last 4 billion years. Students will also learn analytical techniques (ICP, XRD and SEM) through projects on igneous or metamorphic rock suites. 3 hrs lecture/seminar, 3 hrs lab (GEOL 0211) SCI

GEOL 0321 Sedimentary Rocks (Not offered 2008-09)
An overview of the tools used in determining depositional environments and tectonic settings of sedimentary rocks. Lectures cover depositional systems and facies relationships, stratigraphic principles, origin of sedimentary structures and textures. Labs and field trips include methods in sedimentary basin analysis, sedimentary petrology. (GEOL 0201 or GEOL 0211) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab/field trips SCI


GEOL 0323 Environmental Geochemistry (Spring)
This course will address the origin, transport, fate, and analysis of chemicals in the environment. Topics will include aquatic chemistry, rock weathering, elemental cycles, atmospheric processes, and energy resources. Both naturally occurring and anthropogenic compounds/elements will be considered. The course will introduce students to a variety of analytical and instrumental techniques, including ultraviolet-visible-spectrophotometry, atomic absorption spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography. The labs will be project oriented. Major ions, nutrients, trace metals, and organic compounds will be studied in a variety of systems, including natural waters, soils, and air.(FORMERLY GEOL 283) (CHEM 0104 or by waiver) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab SCI (P.Ryan)

GEOL 0342 Marine Geology (Not Offered 2008-09)
The oceans cover over 70 percent of the Earth's surface, but only in the last few decades has extensive investigation of the geology of the Earth beneath the sea been possible. This course will present the results of these continuing investigations. Although the whole field of marine geology will be reviewed, the emphasis will be on marine sediments and sedimentary processes and paleoceangraphy. Laboratory: synthesis of geological and geophysical data concerning a selected region of the ocean, with special emphasis on the results of the Deep Sea Drilling Project. (GEOL 0161 or GEOL 0170) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab SCI

GEOL/GEOG 0352 Glacial and Quaternary Geology (Not offered 2008-09)
The causes and effects of glaciation will be examined, along with the characteristics that make the Quaternary Period unique in geologic time.  Topics will include glaciology, glacial erosion and deposition, glacier reconstruction, and techniques for interpreting and dating the Quaternary stratigraphic and paleoclimatic record from diverse terrestrial, lacustrine, and marine archives.  Consideration also will be given to how severe climatic fluctuations impacted nonglacial environments.  An overnight weekend field trip at the end of the semester will introduce students firsthand to alpine glacial landforms. (GEOL 0112, or GEOL 0161, or GEOL 0170, and GEOL 0251, or consent of instructor) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab SCI

GEOL 0382 Geophysics (Fall)
An introduction to the physical nature of the Earth from two perspectives: 1) Whole-Earth Geophysics: the large-scale properties of the planet, including formation, structure, gravity, orbital properties, and seismology, and 2) Geophysical Exploration: acquisition and interpretation of geophysical data derived from surface and satellite-based observation. 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab SCI (P. Manley)

GEOL 0400 Senior Thesis Research Seminar (Fall)
This seminar will focus on methods and strategies for completing advanced geological research and provides a springboard for senior thesis research. Topics will include field and laboratory techniques, primary literature review, and scientific writing. Students taking this course are expected to be simultaneously working on the early stages of their senior thesis research. During the semester students will present a thesis proposal and the seminar will culminate with each student completing a draft of the first chapter of their senior thesis. GEOL 0400 is required of all geology majors. 3 hrs. disc. or lab (P. Ryan)

GEOL 0500 Readings and Research (Fall, Winter, Spring)
Individual or group independent study, laboratory or field research projects, readings and discussion of timely topics in earth and environmental science. (Approval only)

GEOL 0700 Senior Thesis Research (Spring) 
Upon completion of GEOL 0400, all senior geology majors will continue their independent senior thesis research by taking one unit of GEOL 0700. This research will culminate in a written thesis which must be orally defended. (Approval only)