Courses
Courses offered in the past four years. Courses offered currently are as noted.
ECSC 0105
Upcoming
Energy and Mineral Resources
Course Description
Energy and Mineral Resources
The global economy, world politics, and many aspects of our daily lives are dependent on the extraction and use of materials taken directly from the Earth. Within our lifetimes we will be faced with significant shortages of many of these resources. In this course we will focus on how energy resources (e.g., oil, coal, natural gas), and mineral resources (e.g., aluminum, gold, rare earth elements) are generated by geological processes, how they are extracted and processed, and how these activities impact the environment. Field trips during the laboratory portion of the course will allow us to view first-hand the impacts of resource extraction, processing, and use. (Not open to students who have taken FYSE 1120 or GEOL 0112 or GEOL 0170). 3 hrs lect./disc.; 3 hrs lab
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0111
Current
Natural Hazards
Course Description
Natural Hazards
Despite increasing technological sophistication, modern civilization remains vulnerable to natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, flooding, landslides, extraterrestrial impacts, and other events. In this course we will consider the geologic mechanisms behind these hazards, the societal implications of these hazards, and approaches to reducing risk. Case studies will be combined with exploration of fundamental geologic concepts to provide students a foundation for understanding risk exposure and evaluating approaches to hazard management. (Not open to students who have taken GEOL 0112 or 0170) 3 hrs. lect./1 hr. disc. (formerly GEOL 0111)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0112
Current
Upcoming
Environmental Geology
Course Description
Environmental Geology
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 (formerly GEOL 0112)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0120
Upcoming
How to Build Habitable Planet
Course Description
How to Build a Habitable Planet
In this course we will examine how Earth came to be the planet we know today: a uniquely habitable world, home to a diverse array of organisms and interconnected systems. We will begin our journey through deep time with the Big Bang and the coalescence of the first stardust, and conclude by examining how humans have become integral drivers of planetary evolution, transforming Earth’s surface and atmosphere at largely unprecedented rates. Students will engage with cutting edge scientific research via readings, discussion, and synthesis of the primary and secondary scientific literature. 3 hrs. lect./1hr. disc (formerly GEOL 0120)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0161
Earth's Oceans and Coastlines
Course Description
Earth’s Oceans and Coastlines
In this course we explore our planet’s oceans and coastlines through the interdisciplinary study of marine geology, physics, biology, and chemistry. We use these fields as lenses through which we examine our reliance on the oceans for climate stability, food, economic resources, and waste dispersal, among a host of other ecosystem services. In parallel, we explore how humans are fundamentally altering coastal and marine ecosystems, posing unequally distributed, but increasingly severe threats to ocean and human health. In labs, we learn quantitative data visualization and analysis techniques making use of real-world observations and datasets.3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab/field trips (formerly GEOL 0161)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0201
Current
Geologic Evolution of Vermont
Course Description
Geologic Evolution of Vermont
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 ECSC course) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab/field trips (formerly GEOL 0201)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0202
Upcoming
Climate Dynamics
Course Description
Climate Dynamics
In this course we will explore the interconnected components of Earth’s climate system, the laws governing their dynamics, and their changes over time. We will describe how we gather information about Earth’s climate and how we know it is changing. In a weekly laboratory, we will analyse real data and apply simple numerical models to draw conclusions about phenomena in the atmosphere, ocean, ice sheets, and more. A major goal of this course is for students to gain confidence in quantitative methods for studying the Earth system. (Any 100-level course in ECSC. (ECSC majors or with instructor approval) Lecture/lab. (formerly GEOL 0202)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0301
Act Tectonics-Earthquake Haz
Course Description
Active Tectonics and Earthquake Hazards
In this class we will explore what drives Earth’s system of tectonic plates and why plate motion causes earthquakes. We will learn about modern techniques used to document plate motion and predict the size, style, and timing of earthquakes. Students will also explore the numerous hazards associated with earthquakes and how the threat they pose to humans can be mitigated. Learning goals will focus on reading primary scientific literature, identifying unanswered questions, and developing ideas for original research. (One introductory course in ECSC, or instructor’s permission) 3 hrs. lect. (formerly GEOL 0301)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0302
Climate and Earth's History
Course Description
Climate and Earth’s History
In this course we will discuss how external forces and internal feedbacks within the Earth system govern climate. Specific topics will include orbital variability, changes in ocean circulation, CO2 uptake in terrestrial ecosystems, and molecular vibrational controls on infrared absorption and Earth's heat budget. We will then examine climate change through Earth's history as evidenced by a number of geologic proxies including the sedimentary record, ice cores, isotopic records, glaciers, soils, and tree rings. Ultimately, our improved understanding of past climates will provide a context within which to discuss future changes to come. (one ECSC course, or by waiver) 3 hrs. lect. (Formally GEOL 0302)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0311
Upcoming
Mineralogy
Course Description
Mineralogy (formerly GEOL 0211)
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 ECSC course) 3 hrs. lect./3 hrs. lab (formerly GEOL 0211)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0322
Current
Remote Sensing in Geoscience
Course Description
Remote Sensing in Environmental Science
In this course we will discuss fundamentals of air- and space-based remote sensing applied to geological and environmental problems. The core goal is to understand how different wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation interact with Earth's surface, and how images collected in these different wavelengths can be used to address questions in the Earth sciences. Lectures will present theory and basics of data collection as well as applications in hydrology, vegetation analysis, glaciology, tectonics, meteorology, oceanography, planetary exploration, and resource exploration. Labs will focus on commonly-used imagery and software to learn techniques for digital image processing, analysis and interpretation in Earth science. (one ECSC course, or by waiver) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs lab (formerly GEOL 0322)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0350
The Mountain Critical Zone
Course Description
Past, Present, and Future of the Mountain Critical Zone
The Critical Zone is the name given to the thin slice of the Earth from the treetops to the base of the soil where geology, biology, hydrology and climate all come together. This course will focus on topics germane to the Critical Zone in mountain environments including glaciers and permafrost, cold-climate weathering and landforms, ecosystem adaptations to cold environments, snow and snowpack hydrogeology, responses to contemporary climate change and projections for the future. The goal is to provide a strong scientific grounding through which contemporary issues involving mountain regions can be understood. Laboratory exercises will include analysis of datasets from mountain environments. (any 0100-level ECSC course, or by waiver) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab (formerly GEOL 0350)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0352
Upcoming
Quaternary Geology
Course Description
Glacial and Quaternary Geology
In this course we will examine the causes and effects of glaciation 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. (Any 0100-level geology or geography course, or by waiver) (formerly GEOL 0352) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0353
Current
Hydroclimate and Wildfire
Course Description
Hydroclimate and Wildfire in the Western US
Rainfall extremes and wildfire impacts in the western US are becoming increasingly prevalent in popular discourse. In this course we will draw on a variety of resources, including scientific papers, paleoclimate proxy data, long-form journalism, and indigenous knowledge to explore the climate history of the western US, with a focus on variability in the hydrologic cycle and wildfire patterns over the last ~20,000 years. We will discuss how climate change and other anthropogenic factors like water infrastructure and land management practices, interface with these natural systems and will situate the current hydroclimate/wildfire paradigm of the western US in the broader geologic context of the late Pleistocene and Holocene.
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0355
Upcoming
Water Resources & Hydrogeology
Course Description
Water Resources and Hydrogeology
Fresh water is the most fundamental resource sustaining life on the planet. In this course we examine all elements of the hydrologic cycle, focusing first on precipitation and surface water flow and then on subsurface flow. We study examples from across the globe to understand factors influencing water quality and availability, and apply mathematical approaches to quantify constraints on sustainable use. The consequences of climate change and other anthropogenic impacts to the hydrological cycle are examined, and current issues and policies are discussed in light of increasing demands on water resources and associated natural systems. (ENVS 0112 or any 0100-level ECSC course) 3 hrs. lect./3 hrs. lab (formerly GEOL 0355)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0357
Soils and the Environment
Course Description
Soils and the Environment
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, climate, 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 instrument analysis. (any ECSC 0100 or ENVS 112, or by waiver) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab (formerly GEOL 0357)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0362
Glaciology
Course Description
Glaciology
In this course we will detail the fundamental role of ice in Earth's climate system, integrating insights from observation, theory, and computer modelling to form a cohesive understanding of glaciers and ice sheets. We will study the unique physics that allow glaciers to flow and break, the power of ice in shaping the landscape, and the flow of water from atmosphere to glacier to ocean and back again. Discussions will treat recent developments in glaciology, as well as the role of glaciology in society. A final project will invite students to develop expertise on a glaciological question of their choosing. (MATH 0122 and two 200-level courses in ECSC/GEOL, or by instructor approval; MATH 0223 is recommended) (formerly GEOL 0362)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0375
Current
Physical Volcanology
Course Description
Physical Volcanology
In this course, we will detail one of the fundamental geologic processes acting across the Solar System – volcanism. We will study the fundamental principles that underlie volcanism, the different expressions observed at the surface, and predict what types of volcanism are expected under various conditions. We will integrate insights from observations, theory, and modelling to form a cohesive understanding of volcanic principles. This will entail why and how volcanism occurs, the formation of igneous rock, and the incorporation of volcanic deposits into the rock record. Likewise, we will use our terrestrial understanding as a jump off point to explore volcanic processes on other planets. A final project will invite students to apply the fundamental principles of volcanology learned during the semester to critically examine an active area of volcanology, develop the skills to critically analyze scientific data and literature, and effectively communicate their findings. (ECSC 0201 or permission of instructor. Recommended ECSC 0311 or GEOL 0311 or ECSC 0322 or GEOL 0322)
Terms Taught
ECSC 0392
Current
Modern Climate Seminar
Course Description
Modern Climate Seminar
An advanced seminar for students with prior work in physical science of Earth's climate. We will survey current climate change research by reading, discussing, and writing about scientific literature. Assessment reports such as the US National Climate Assessment will form the foundation of our discussions. At the conclusion of this course, students should be able to (1) read scientific papers, (2) identify key open questions in climate science research, and (3) relate scientific findings to common societal questions about climate action. 3hr seminar. (GEOL 0202, ECSC 0202, GEOL 0302 or ECSC 0302).
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 0400
Senior Thesis Research Seminar
Course Description
Senior Thesis Research Seminar
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. ECSC 0400 is required of all geology majors. 3 hrs. disc. or lab (formerly GEOL 0400)
Terms Taught
ECSC 0500
Current
Upcoming
Readings & Research
Course Description
Readings and Research
Individual or group independent study, laboratory or field research projects, readings and discussion of timely topics in earth and environmental science. (Approval only) (formerly GEOL 0500)
Terms Taught
ECSC 0700
Current
Upcoming
Senior Thesis Research
Course Description
Senior Thesis Research
Upon completion of ECSC 0400, all senior ECSC/GEOL majors will continue their independent senior thesis research by taking one unit of ECSC 0700. This research will culminate in a written thesis which must be orally defended. (Approval only) (formerly GEOL 0700)
Terms Taught
ECSC 0701
Current
Upcoming
Senior Thesis Research
Course Description
Senior Thesis Research
Optional second semester or Senior Work for students undertaking a full-year thesis project. (Approval only)
Terms Taught
ECSC 0705
Upcoming
Coll Capstone Research Seminar
Course Description
Collaborative Capstone Research Seminar
This course features group research on community-connected projects that capitalize on student skills and knowledge developed through previous coursework and related experiences to meet objectives that are important to the community partners. Projects are guided by a faculty member with a high level of independent group work by the students. The course contains elements of readings and discussion, analysis and interpretation, collaboration with project partners, and development of written group thesis projects, culminating with a public presentation and dissemination of the written document. (ECSC 0400, or currently enrolled in ECSC 0400) 3 hrs. sem., 3 hrs. lab.
Terms Taught
ECSC 1005
Upcoming
Geology of Rocky Planets
Course Description
Geology of Rocky Planets
In this course, we will explore four rocky planets of the inner solar system (Mercury, Venus, the Moon, and Mars) and the fundamental geologic processes acting on their surfaces (volcanism, tectonism, impact cratering, and erosion/degradation). We will study how these processes have interacted to form the surfaces we see today and what those processes mean for the interior evolution of rocky bodies. Furthermore, we will use the 2023-2032 Decadal Survey as a guiding document to identify existing knowledge gaps and explore priority targets for future space missions. Naturally, the processes and landforms we investigate will link back to first principles and fundamental concepts developed on Earth Given the condensed time frame of the January term, we will have smaller daily assignments (e.g., reading annotations), GIS activities using planetary data, and weekly assessments. A final project will invite students to select the mission that is most appealing to their group, with emphasis on the instrumentation necessary to address their knowledge gaps of interest. Students will apply the fundamental principles of earth and climate science learned in other courses, including but not limited to developing skills to critically analyze scientific data and literature, data analysis via geographic information systems, and effectively communicate their findings.(ECSC 0100 or PHYS 0100 or instructor approval)
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 1010
Upcoming
Telling Time w/Geochronology
Course Description
Telling Time with Geochronology
In this course we will explore the field of geochronology: the methods by which the age of rocks and landforms are determined to illuminate the mysteries of ancient earth. Content will include understanding how rocks and landscapes form, as well as aspects of physical chemistry such as radioactive decay and mass spectrometry. Learning will occur through seminar-style discussions and hands-on lab work centered around a 4-week project using U-Pb dating to test hypotheses about the geologic history of Vermont. Students working in small groups will learn how to use instruments such as the scanning electron microscope and laser-ablation mass spectrometry. This course is nominally restricted to geology majors although other interested students are encouraged to contact the professor.
Terms Taught
Requirements
ECSC 1055
Geohazards of Central America
Course Description
Geohazards of the Central American Volcanic Arc
In this course, students will examine case studies related to natural hazards, water resources and climate in Central America, including a week-long excursion to Costa Rica. Through seminars and case studies, students will learn geology, geography, hydrology and climate of this region, including tectonic environment, volcanism and earthquake risk, water resource challenges, and climate change impacts. For the field portion of the course, we will be joined by local scientists and students will do fieldwork for case studies. Upon return to Middlebury, students will conduct analyses related to fieldwork carried out in Costa Rica, culminating with conference-style poster/oral session.
Terms Taught
Requirements