Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
Minor in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
Students on Summer 2022, Fall 2022, or Spring 2023 requirements EASMIN
The Minor in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences offers students a flexible option to either explore the interacting systems of the solid earth and atmosphere, or focus course work in Earth sciences or Atmospheric Sciences.
Requirements
The minor requires at least 16 credit hours, including the requirements listed below.
- Introductory Course. One (1) course:
- EAS-E 103 Earth Science: Materials and Process
- EAS-E 104 Evolution of the Earth
- EAS-E 105 Earth: Our Habitable Planet
- EAS-E 111 Journey to the Center of the Earth
- EAS-E 112 Historical Geology
- EAS-E 114 Dinosaurs and Their Relatives
- EAS-E 116 Our Planet and Its Future
- EAS-E 118 Sustainability in Water Resources
- EAS-E 121 Origin and Evolution of Mars and Rocky Planetary Bodies
- EAS-E 122 Earth's Dynamic Atmosphere
- EAS-E 129 Introductory Geology in the Rocky Mountains
- EAS-E 131 Oceans and Our Global Environment
- EAS-E 138 Geology of State and National Parks Revealed
- EAS-E 141 Earthquakes and Volcanoes
- EAS-E 144 Extreme Weather and Its Impacts
- EAS-E 161 Earth Resources
- EAS-E 171 Environmental Geology in the Twenty-first Century
- EAS-E 188 Volcanoes of the Sierra Nevada
- EAS-E 190 The Evolving Earth
- EAS-X 150 ASURE Earth & Atmospheric Sciences Research Lab
EAS-E 103 Earth Science: Materials and Process
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduction to origin and classification of minerals and rocks. Relationships among rock types, rock structures, surficial geologic processes of running water, subsurface water, glaciation, wind, waves, tides and landform evolution. Geologic time. Internal process volcanism, plutonism. Plate tectonics.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 103, EAS-E 111, GEOL-G 103, or GEOL-G 111.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 104 Evolution of the Earth
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Earth's history interpreted through 4.5 billion years. Deductive approach to understanding the significance of rocks and fossils and reconstructing the plate-tectonic origin of mountains, continents, and ocean basins. A survey of events in earth's evolution relevant to contemporary environmental concerns. Two lectures and one laboratory each week.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 104 or GEOL-G 104.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 105 Earth: Our Habitable Planet
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduction to planet Earth as a dynamic and complex global system. Course materials will demonstrate physical and chemical linkages between biosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere that directly impact lifestyles of human populations at time scales of years to centuries. Lecture and lab.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 105 or GEOL-G 105.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 111 Journey to the Center of the Earth
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Discover the story hidden within the rocks. Students will explore the forces that shape the Earth, both deep within and here at the surface, and will learn how to interpret Earth's history through the rock record. Two lectures and one laboratory per week.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 103, EAS-E 111, GEOL-G 103, or GEOL-G 111.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 112 Historical Geology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 111 or GEOL-G 111; or consent of instructor
- Description
- Principles of interpreting earth history from geological data. Geologic time, biological evolution, plate tectonics, and ancient environments.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 112 or GEOL-G 112.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 114 Dinosaurs and Their Relatives
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Origin and evolution of vertebrates including dinosaurs and their distant relatives such as fish, amphibians, birds, and mammals. Course will focus on dinosaur evolution, paleobiology, paleoecology, and extinction. The scientific method and quantitative and qualitative methodologies will be presented. Two lectures and one demonstration each week.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 114 or GEOL-G 114.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 116 Our Planet and Its Future
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- The interaction between geologic and environmental processes in the earth. Special emphasis on how these processes affect public policies and laws. Multimedia exercises and videotape presentations (made specifically for this course) are included. Two lectures and one discussion section/laboratory per week.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 116 or GEOL-G 116.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 118 Sustainability in Water Resources
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- We can live without gold or oil but can we live without water? A dependable supply of fresh water is the ultimate limit of sustainability but this resource is increasingly at risk. Explores the Earth's hydrological cycle and the relationships between water and health and water and wars.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 118 or GEOL-G 118.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 121 Origin and Evolution of Mars and Rocky Planetary Bodies
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Our current understanding of Mars is derived from the study of meteorites, lunar samples, geology, space probes, and landed rovers. Geological processes that are operative on Earth are also operative on Mars and similar planetary bodies, but differing boundary conditions have generated distinct outcomes. These differences have implications for the likelihood of finding life on Mars.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 121 or GEOL-G 121.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 122 Earth's Dynamic Atmosphere
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Explore Earth's dynamic weather and climate and the driving forces behind them. Students will gain an understanding of various atmospheric phenomena. Why is it hot one day and cold the next? What causes Earth's climate to change? Two lectures and one laboratory per week.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 122, GEOG-G 109, or GEOL-G 122.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 129 Introductory Geology in the Rocky Mountains
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- One college-level course in chemistry
- Description
- Concepts of geology taught in the field. Formation of minerals and rocks; surficial and subsurface geologic processes responsible for deformation, erosion, deposition, and landscape evolution; plate tectonics; geologic time; biological evolution, and reconstruction of ancient environments. Interpretation of earth processes from geological data with the goal of deciphering earth history.
- Repeatability
- Credit only given for one of EAS-E 129 or GEOL-G 129.
EAS-E 131 Oceans and Our Global Environment
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduction to oceanography, with emphasis on ocean-atmospheric interaction and global climate, plate tectonics and morphology of the ocean basins, marine geology, energy resources, environmental problems due to sea-level rise, coastal erosion, oil spills, and life in the sea. Two lectures and one laboratory each week.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 131 or GEOL-G 131.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 138 Geology of State and National Parks Revealed
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- This course introduces principles of historical, physical, and environmental geology by examining select state and national parklands that showcase the many dynamic Earth processes that help shape the Earth's surface. Additionally, emphasis is placed on the protection and degradation of natural resources within the parks. One required field trip.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 138 or GEOL-G 138.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 141 Earthquakes and Volcanoes
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Examination of the causes and effects of earthquakes and volcanic activity. Impacts of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, including secondary effects such as landslides, mudflows, and tsunamis; climactic effects; energy/mineral resources; and social disruption. Mitigation of effects of natural disasters. Two lectures and one laboratory per week.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 141 or GEOL-G 141.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourseFall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 144 Extreme Weather and Its Impacts
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduces a range of natural disasters and extreme weather phenomena that span regions, seasons, and origins. Emphasizes the ingredients and causes of each phenomenon, as well as their physical and societal impacts. Types of disasters include floods, droughts and wildfires, thunderstorms and tornadoes, and hurricanes.
- Grading
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 144 or GEOL-G 144.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 161 Earth Resources
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- An overview of the location, genesis, extraction, utilization of, and exploration for natural resources, including petroleum, coal, uranium, industrial minerals, gems, and metallic ores. Environmental issues related to resource extraction and processing, and the role of mineral and energy reserves in international economics are examined. Two lectures and one laboratory per week.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 161 and GEOL-G 161.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 171 Environmental Geology in the Twenty-first Century
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Exploration and examination of such natural and human-induced geologic hazards as earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, coastal erosion and subsidence. Study of the management and disposal of solid, chemical waste including acid-mine drainage and its environmental impact on resources in today's world.
- Repeatability
- Credit only given for only one of EAS-E 171 or GEOL-G 171.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 188 Volcanoes of the Sierra Nevada
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- Consent of instructor
- Description
- Introductory-level field course. Introduces students to the natural history of the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains. Focuses on the geological processes, natural hazards, and environmental issues facing a unique and environmentally sensitive area of the western United States.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 188 or GEOL-G 188.
EAS-E 190 The Evolving Earth
- Credits
- 1–3 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Processes that have produced the Earth and are continuing to change it. Topics include origin and evolution of life, dynamic forces within the Earth (earthquakes and volcanism), geological sources of energy, and the effect of humans on the geologic environment. Occasional field trips.
- Grading
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 190 or GEOL-G 190.
EAS-X 150 ASURE Earth & Atmospheric Sciences Research Lab
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- First in a two-lab sequence for students in the Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Research Experience (ASURE) program, exploring how natural disasters and climate change impact Earth systems, using tools and techniques to research changes in the landscape, atmosphere, biosphere, or solid Earth in response to natural disasters and climate change.
- Intermediate Course. One (1) course:
- EAS-E 225 Earth Materials
- EAS-E 226 Earth Processes
- EAS-E 227 Earth Climate and History
EAS-E 225 Earth Materials
- Credits
- 4
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- This course sequentially considers minerals, rocks, sediments, and soils; the materials that comprise the solid earth. The distribution and environmental significance of these materials are studied, as are their chemical and physical interactions with groundwater and plants. Three 50-minute lectures and one 2-hour laboratory per week. Laboratory attendance is required.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 221, EAS-E 225, GEOL-G 221, or GEOL-G 225 .
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 226 Earth Processes
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduction to the processes that shape our planet, the composition and structure of Earth, and the erosion and deposition of sediments at the surface. Study of processes ranging from forces driving plate motion, fluid flow in and on the earth, crustal deformation and mountain building, erosion of source terrain, the transport system, and the depositional record.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 226 or GEOL-G 226.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 227 Earth Climate and History
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Earth's climate is linked to geological processes and life on our planet. Covers climate systems in the context of changes in continents, atmospheric composition, and life on land and in the oceans. Focuses on interactions between humans and climate and how climate and its variability are tied to Earth systems.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 227 or GEOL-G 227.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
- Advanced Courses.
- 300-Level Course. One (1) course:
- EAS-A 315 Climate Engineering
- EAS-A 332 Atmospheric Thermodynamics & Cloud Processes
- EAS-A 339 Weather Analysis and Forecasting
- EAS-A 340 Physical Meteorology and Climatology
- EAS-A 347 Instrumentation for Atmospheric Science
- EAS-A 364 Dynamic Meteorology 1
- EAS-E 302 Development of the Global Environment
- EAS-E 308 Paleontology and Geology of Indiana
- EAS-E 314 Data Analysis for Earth Science
- EAS-E 316 Mineral Fuels and Materials
- EAS-E 322 Introduction to Petrology
- EAS-E 323 Structural Geology
- EAS-E 330 Human Impacts on Earth Systems: Quantifying Impacts, Designing Solutions
- EAS-E 333 Sedimentation and Tectonics
- EAS-E 334 Principles of Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
- EAS-E 341 Natural History of Coral Reefs
- EAS-E 351 Elements of Hydrology
- EAS-E 390 Geoarchaeology
- EAS-E 399 Reading for Honors
- EAS-X 329 Introductory Field Experience in Environmental Science
- EAS-X 371 Teaching Internship in Geological Sciences
- EAS-X 377 Field Geology and Paleoanthropology at Olduvai Gorge
EAS-A 315 Climate Engineering
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduces climate engineering from a physical science perspective, delving into how and why it works. Covers the major climate engineering proposals that have been put forward, such as stratospheric sulfate aerosols and marine cloud brightening. Explores issues of distributional justice, ethics, governance, and geopolitics related to climate engineering.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-A 315 or GEOG-G 329.
EAS-A 332 Atmospheric Thermodynamics & Cloud Processes
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- MATH-M 211 or MATH-S 211; and one of EAS-E 122, GEOG-G 109, or GEOL-G 122
- Description
- Earth's weather and climate are controlled by how heat and moisture move in the atmosphere. In this course, students learn and apply the basic physical laws that govern those processes. Topics include thermodynamic laws, principles of atmospheric stability, phase changes of water, nucleation of cloud droplets and the growth of clouds, and the use of common meteorological tools and data to interpret cloud and precipitation behavior.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-A 332 or GEOL-G 332.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-A 339 Weather Analysis and Forecasting
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 122, GEOG-G 109, GEOL-G 107, or GEOL-G 122; or consent of instructor
- Description
- Analysis and interpretation of meteorological data with a focus on forecasting applications for the mid-latitudes. Students learn the practical skills that weather forecasters use.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-A 339, GEOG-G 339, or GEOL-G 339.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-A 340 Physical Meteorology and Climatology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- Any introductory science course or consent of instructor
- Description
- Provides an introduction to the physical basis of Earth\'s atmosphere and climate system from global to local scales, emphasizing physical processes and properties. Analyzes surface energy and water balances in varied landscapes. Covers issues related to climate change.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-A 340, GEOG-G 304, or GEOL-G 340.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-A 347 Instrumentation for Atmospheric Science
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Introduces the principles of atmospheric measurement including sampling strategies, instrumentation and data analysis to quantify atmospheric variables and processes. Covers standard meteorological techniques: ground-based, satellite and airborne remote sensing; atmospheric chemistry and aerosol measurements. Research projects in experimental design will employ field and laboratory equipment to investigate climatological and meteorological principles.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-A 347 or GEOL-G 347.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-A 364 Dynamic Meteorology 1
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-A 340 or GEOL-G 340 or GEOG-G 304
- Description
- The atmospheric-boundary layer is the interface between the free atmosphere and the surface. Basic meteorological theory for processes in the atmospheric boundary-layer that scale from the microscale to the mesoscale. Aerodynamic and energy budget concepts. Development and application of boundary-layer models and associated parameterizations. Lecture and laboratory format.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-A 364, GEOG-G 362, or GEOL-G 364.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 302 Development of the Global Environment
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- One semester of college chemistry, physics, or astronomy; MATH-M 118 or equivalent
- Description
- Origin of the chemical elements, formation of the solar system and planets, development of the terrestrial atmosphere and rise of atmospheric oxygen, evolution of complex life and prospects for the future of our planet.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 302 or GEOL-G 302.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 308 Paleontology and Geology of Indiana
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Paleontology and sedimentary geology with a regional focus, emphasizing life, the sedimentary record, changing paleo-environments, and the origin of Indiana's modern landscape, faunas and floras, and natural resources. Labs include fossil identification and analyses of paleontological, stratigraphic and sedimentological data. Occasional field trips.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 308 or GEOL-G 308.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 314 Data Analysis for Earth Science
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- MATH-M 211 or MATH-S 211
- Description
- Introduction to processing, visualizing, and interpreting data using scientific computing techniques used in Earth science fields. Includes univariate and multivariate statistics, time-series analysis, signal processing and filtering, spatial data analysis, and computational methods such as regression, Taylor series truncation, accumulating error, interpolation, differentiation, and integration.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 314 or GEOL-G 314.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 316 Mineral Fuels and Materials
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 225 or GEOL-G 225
- Description
- Origin of petroleum, coal, industrial minerals, and ore deposits; reserves, resources, and future needs; history, economic, and environmental considerations; national minerals policy; and international aspects of energy and raw materials distribution.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 316 or GEOL-G 316.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 322 Introduction to Petrology
- Credits
- 4
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 225 or GEOL-G 225
- Description
- Study of the principal representatives of the major chemical groups of minerals. Emphasis on rock-forming and useful minerals, their crystal structure, chemistry, physical properties, association, and occurrence. Study of major rock types. Two lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. II Sem.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 322 or GEOL-G 222.
EAS-E 323 Structural Geology
- Credits
- 4
- Prerequisites
- One of EAS-E 104, EAS-E 122, GEOL-G 104, or GEOL-G 112
- Notes
- P or C: EAS-E 222 or GEOL-G 222
- Description
- Nature and origin of primary and secondary structural features of the Earth's crust, with emphasis on mechanics of deformation and origin, and three-dimensional problems illustrating structural concepts.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 323 or GEOL-G 323.
EAS-E 330 Human Impacts on Earth Systems: Quantifying Impacts, Designing Solutions
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 225 or EAS-E 226; CHEM-C 117, CHEM-H 117, or CHEM-J 117; BIOL-L 111 or BIOL-L 112; and MATH-M 119, MATH-M 120, MATH-M 211, MATH-M 212, MATH-S 211, or MATH-S 212; or consent of instructor
- Description
- Earth resources are important for human existence. However, their extraction and use often have significant consequences. As population grows and technologies advance, the demand for and consequences of using Earth materials increase. This course analyzes the benefits and problems of Earth materials usage and designs realistic solutions for the problems.
EAS-E 333 Sedimentation and Tectonics
- Credits
- 4
- Prerequisites
- One of EAS-E 225 or GEOL-G 225; and one of EAS-E 226 or GEOL-G 226
- Description
- Integrative treatment of sedimentology, stratigraphy, and structural geology. Examines links between tectonic deformation processes and the resulting sediment that forms the stratigraphic rock record. Description of sedimentary rocks, from basic features at the bed-scale to scales of sedimentary basins. Learning and applying the facies concept and using stratigraphic principles to correlate facies across sedimentary basins.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 333, EAS-E 334, GEOL-G 333, or GEOL-G 334.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 334 Principles of Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
- Credits
- 4
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 222 or GEOL-G 222
- Description
- Processes and factors influencing genesis of sedimentary particles and their deposition. Interpretation of depositional environments. Sedimentary facies and interpretation of stratigraphic record from outcrop, core sequence, and remote sensing.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 334 or GEOL-G 334.
EAS-E 341 Natural History of Coral Reefs
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- One course from the General Education Natural and Mathematical Sciences course list or one course from the General Education Social and Historical Studies course list
- Description
- Evolutionary history of reef ecosystems through geologic time inclusive of reef composition and global distribution, modern reef development, conservation and management practices, and the persistence of the reef ecosystem through climate change scenarios. Covers biologic, ecologic, and geologic principles as they pertain to coral reef ecosystems.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 341 or GEOL-G 341.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 351 Elements of Hydrology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Notes
- P or C: MATH-M 119, MATH-M 211, MATH-S 211, or MATH-V 119; and PHYS-P 110; or consent of instructor.
- Description
- An intensive survey of Earth\'s water resources, focusing on the first principles that govern surface water and groundwater and the techniques used in the field for hydrology.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 351 or GEOL-G 351.
EAS-E 390 Geoarchaeology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Geoarchaeology is designed to provide students with an introduction to the geological principles, methods and theories relevant to archaeological research and deciphering human landscapes. The class incorporates hands-on experiences with aspects of research design. Participants will study geochronology, site formation processes, geomorphology, sediments, soils, stratigraphy and paleoenvironmental reconstruction.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of ANTH-P 390, EAS-E 390, or GEOL-G 390.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 399 Reading for Honors
- Credits
- 1–6 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- Approval of departmental honors advisor
- Description
- None
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credit hours in EAS-E 399 and GEOL-G 399.
EAS-X 329 Introductory Field Experience in Environmental Science
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- One college-level chemistry course; and EAS-E 225 or GEOL-G 225
- Description
- Introduction to field-based scientific investigations. Experience in various environmental geology standard methods in topics including environmental chemistry, geology, paleoclimate and hydrogeology. Field exercises will be carried out in half-day field excursions to regional localities.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-X 329, GEOL-G 329, or GEOL-X 329.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-X 371 Teaching Internship in Geological Sciences
- Credits
- 1–3 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- Satisfactory completion of course in which they will conduct the internship; consent of instructor; consent of chair
- Description
- Interns assist preparation and implementation of an undergraduate course. They may develop course materials, oversee laboratory activities, lead discussions, maintain educational collections, or moderate online work. Interns do not assist in grading.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for on of EAS-X 371, GEOL-G 475, or GEOL-X 471.
- Grading
- S/F grading.
EAS-X 377 Field Geology and Paleoanthropology at Olduvai Gorge
- Credits
- 6
- Prerequisites
- Minimum 3.000 GPA and at least one course in geology, anthropology, physical geography, or related field of study; and department consent
- Description
- Interdisciplinary field course in geo-paleoanthropology in the Olduvai Gorge. Develops skills in the application of innovative theory and techniques in human evolutionary research. Promotes understanding of evolutionary processes, such as tectonics and climate episodes, and how these processes influence the development of savanna environments in the East African Rift Valley.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-X 377, GEOL-G 349, or GEOL-X 377.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
- 400-Level Course. One (1) course:
- EAS-A 434 Dynamic Meteorology 2
- EAS-A 437 Advanced Synoptic Meteorology and Climatology
- EAS-A 456 Wind Power Meteorology
- EAS-A 460 Mesoscale Meteorology
- EAS-A 466 Hydrometeorology
- EAS-A 474 Topics in Atmospheric Science
- EAS-A 476 Climate Change Science
- EAS-E 406 Introduction to Geochemistry
- EAS-E 411 Invertebrate Paleontology
- EAS-E 412 Introduction to Vertebrate Paleontology
- EAS-E 415 Principles of Geomorphology
- EAS-E 416 Economic Geology
- EAS-E 417 Optical Mineralogy
- EAS-E 418 Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
- EAS-E 423 Methods in Applied Geophysics
- EAS-E 424 Geographic Information Systems Applications in Geology
- EAS-E 426 Field Techniques in Basin Analysis
- EAS-E 430 Environmental and Energy Diplomacy
- EAS-E 432 Virtual Geosciences Field Camp - Northern Rocky Mountains
- EAS-E 435 Glacial and Quaternary Geology
- EAS-E 444 Methods in Analytical Geochemistry
- EAS-E 448 Sustainable Energy Systems
- EAS-E 451 Principles of Hydrogeology
- EAS-E 454 Fundamentals of Plate Tectonics
- EAS-E 470 Micrometeorology
- EAS-E 486 Aqueous Chemistry and Modeling
- EAS-E 488 Paleoclimatology: A Geological Record of Earth's Climate History
- EAS-E 490 Undergraduate Seminar
- EAS-E 491 Physical Sedimentology
- EAS-E 499 Honors Research in Geology
- EAS-X 420 Regional Geology Field Trip
- EAS-X 428 Field Geology: Montana and Wyoming
- EAS-X 429 Field Geology in the Rocky Mountains
- EAS-X 479 Geology, Hydrology and Geochemistry in the Rocky Mountains
- EAS-X 498 Undergraduate Research in Geology
EAS-A 434 Dynamic Meteorology 2
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- One of EAS-A 339, EAS-A 364, GEOG-G 339, or GEOG-G 364; and one of MATH-M 212 or MATH-S 212; and one of PHYS-H 221 or PHYS-P 221
- Description
- Introduction to dynamical processes at the synoptic to global scales. Principles of fluid dynamics and thermodynamics and their application to the atmosphere. Basic conservation laws and equations of motion. Topics covered also include planetary waves and blocking mechanisms, teleconnections, and the global general circulation.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-A 434, GEOG-G 431, or GEOL-G 434.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-A 437 Advanced Synoptic Meteorology and Climatology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-A 339, EAS-A 340, GEOG-G 304, GEOG-G 339, GEOL-G 339, or GEOL-G 340; or consent of instructor
- Description
- Analysis and prediction of synoptic scale weather systems, emphasizing the mid-latitudes. Other topics include severe weather and atmospheric/oceanic teleconnections.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-A 437, GEOG-G 433, or GEOL-G 437.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-A 456 Wind Power Meteorology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-A 340 or GEOG-G 304; and EAS-A 364; or consent of instructor
- Description
- Explains the science of wind power meteorology with a focus on practical elements, such as how to measure wind resources, estimate wind turbine loads, and optimize wind turbine siting. Lecture and lab format with project work.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-A 456 or GEOL-G 456
EAS-A 460 Mesoscale Meteorology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-A 332, EAS-A 339, EAS-A 340, or EAS-A 364, or permission of instructor
- Description
- Introduces the processes that govern the complex phenomena produced on the mesoscale and how they range in size from cold fronts and hurricanes to thunderstorms and tornadoes. Investigates how the phenomena develop, propagate, and dissipate.
EAS-A 466 Hydrometeorology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-A 340, GEOG-G 304, GEOG-G 339, GEOL-G 339, or GEOL-G 340
- Description
- Hydrometeorology is a branch of meteorology that deals with problems involving the hydrologic cycle, the water budget, and the rainfall statistics of storms. Students gain experience with the physics controlling these processes and with the tools and techniques used to observe and predict hydrometeorological processes.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-A 466 or GEOL-G 466.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-A 474 Topics in Atmospheric Science
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- An overview of methods, peer-reviewed studies, national reports, and international reports that inform our understanding of the detection, attribution, and projection of changes in extreme weather.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated with different topics for a maximum of 9 credit hours in EAS-A 474 and GEOL-G 474.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-A 476 Climate Change Science
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Notes
- R: At least two college-level physical science courses or other experience reading and interpreting scientific data
- Description
- Evidence for and theories of climate change over a range of time scales. Sources of natural climate forcing are presented, historical evolution of climate change is quantified, and model tools and climate projections are presented along with analyses of climate change impacts.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-A 476, GEOG-G 475, or GEOL-G 476.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 406 Introduction to Geochemistry
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- CHEM-C 117, CHEM-J 117, CHEM-H 117, or CHEM-S 117
- Description
- Interactions between geology, chemistry, and biology in natural systems. Explores biogeochemical processes on small scales and in terms of global cycles, as well as human impacts on biogeochemical cycling.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 406 and GEOL-G 406.
EAS-E 411 Invertebrate Paleontology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- One course from the General Education Natural and Mathematical Sciences course list
- Description
- Structure, classification, habitats, and geological history and significance of the invertebrate phyla. Laboratory study of fossils.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 411 or GEOL-G 411.
EAS-E 412 Introduction to Vertebrate Paleontology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- One course from the General Education Natural and Mathematical Sciences course list
- Description
- Fossil record, comparative morphology, phylogeny, biogeography, and paleoecology of the major vertebrate groups. Functional modifications of the vertebrate skeleton for existence in various aquatic and terrestrial environments. Laboratory study of recent and fossil osteological specimens. Field trip to a museum with a major vertebrate paleontology collection.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 412 and GEOL-G 412.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 415 Principles of Geomorphology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 226 or GEOL-G 226
- Description
- Covers how and why topography develops across a range of Earth environments. Explores how major earth systems, such as tectonics and climate, influence erosion, sediment transport, and topography, as well as the importance of geomorphology to societal needs ranging from natural hazards to landscape management and restoration.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 415 or GEOL-G 415.
EAS-E 416 Economic Geology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 225 or GEOL-G 225; and EAS-E 226 or GEOL-G 226; and CHEM-C 117, CHEM-J 117, or CHEM-S 117
- Description
- Origin, geologic occurrence, distribution, use, and conservation of important geologic natural resources. Metallic minerals; industrial minerals and rocks; coal, petroleum, natural gas, and other energy resources.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 416 and GEOL-G 416.
EAS-E 417 Optical Mineralogy
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 225 or GEOL-G 225
- Description
- Theory and use of optics in the identification and classification of rock-forming minerals in fragments and thin sections.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 417 or GEOL-G 417.
EAS-E 418 Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 225 or GEOL-G 225
- Description
- Covers the petrogenesis of igneous and metamorphic rock. Emphasizes the application of modern petrographic, mineralogic, geochemical and phase equilibria techniques to the solution of relevant petrologic problems through lectures and lab work.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 418 or GEOL-G 418
EAS-E 423 Methods in Applied Geophysics
- Credits
- 4
- Prerequisites
- PHYS-H 221 or PHYS-P 221
- Description
- Fundamentals and application of geophysics to geologic problems; emphasis on geophysical exploration. Occasional laboratory demonstrations or problems and field work.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 423 and GEOL-G 423.
EAS-E 424 Geographic Information Systems Applications in Geology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Concepts and use of geographic information systems (GIS) and global positioning system (GPS) technologies are introduced during intensive laboratory sessions. Fieldwork, conducted in the Indiana University Research and Teaching Preserve, involves mapping of pertinent features using GPS units followed by additional data collection aimed at attributing specific mapped features.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 424 or GEOL-G 424.
EAS-E 426 Field Techniques in Basin Analysis
- Credits
- 1–3 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 334 or GEOL-G 334. R: EAS-E 323 or GEOL-G 323
- Description
- Instruction in sedimentological techniques including facies, paleocurrent and provenance analysis; measured sections, facies mapping and approaches to regional study of sedimentary basins in the field. Application of these techniques to actual field problems in basin analysis.
- Repeatability
- GEOL-G 426 or EAS-E 426 may be taken multiple times in consecutive or concurrent terms for a maximum of 3 credit hours.
EAS-E 430 Environmental and Energy Diplomacy
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Explores the practical applications of scientific and technical expertise to U.S. foreign policy. Part of the State Department's "Diplomacy Lab," which engages university classes as consultants to State Department offices/embassies to address current issues in environmental and energy policy.
EAS-E 432 Virtual Geosciences Field Camp - Northern Rocky Mountains
- Credits
- 4
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 225, EAS-E 226, and EAS-E 333
- Description
- An immersive virtual capstone field course integrating geoscience sub-disciplines to solve complex 4-dimensional problems. Teaches geoscience skills, critical thinking, project management, problem solving, etc. This course is intended for students who cannot take an intensive course in the field.
EAS-E 435 Glacial and Quaternary Geology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 111 or GEOL-G 111; and one of EAS-E 334, EAS-E 415, GEOL-G 334, or GEOL-G 415; or consent of instructor
- Description
- The Quaternary Period is examined with a focus upon the last glaciation with specific reference to Northwest Indiana. Topics include glacier processes, glacial sediments, glacial landforms and landform assemblages, specific glacial lake processes, sediments and drainage events, dating methods, soil mechanics and environmental applications. Field trips are mandatory.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 435 or GEOL-G 435.
EAS-E 444 Methods in Analytical Geochemistry
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- CHEM-C 103, CHEM-C 105, CHEM-C 117, CHEM-H 117, CHEM-J 117, or CHEM-S 117
- Description
- An overview of basic collection and preparation of water, soil, and geologic materials for analysis by analytical geochemistry techniques for environmental and exploration geology, and geochemistry applications. Techniques include Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP), Atomic Spectrometry Absorption (AAS) by flame and graphite furnace, X-ray fluorescence, and Leco carbon and sulfur concentration determinations.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 444 or GEOL-G 444.
EAS-E 448 Sustainable Energy Systems
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- Junior standing or consent of instructor
- Description
- Examination of current energy use and the role of renewable energy resources in meeting future demand. Covers the physical and technological basis for geothermal, wind, solar, hydro and marine energy, in addition to the environmental, economic, and social impacts of developing and utilizing these sustainable resources.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 448, GEOG-G 442, or GEOL-G 448.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 451 Principles of Hydrogeology
- Credits
- 2–4 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- CHEM-C 117, CHEM-H 117, CHEM-J 117, or CHEM-S 117; and MATH-M 211 or MATH-S 211
- Description
- Physical and chemical properties of water; chemical equilibria and stable isotopes in groundwaters; acid drainage, landfills, and agricultural pollution; Darcy's Law, fluid potential, unsaturated flow; fluid and aquifer properties affecting groundwater flow; fluid mass-balance equation and its application; contaminant transport.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 451 and GEOL-G 451.
EAS-E 454 Fundamentals of Plate Tectonics
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 333 or GEOL-G 333
- Description
- Synthesis of observations from diverse disciplines of geology leading to the development of modern plate tectonic theory. Applications of plate tectonic principles to fundamental problems of continental and marine geology.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 454 or GEOL-G 454.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 470 Micrometeorology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-A 340, GEOG-G 304, or GEOL-G 340; and MATH-M 211 and MATH-M 212; or consent of instructor
- Description
- Atmospheric processes at the micro and local scale. Topics include energy and mass exchange over simple nonvegetated surfaces, vegetated surfaces, nonuniform terrain, and inadvertent climate modification.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 470, GEOG-G 470, or GEOL-G 470.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 486 Aqueous Chemistry and Modeling
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- CHEM-C 117, CHEM-H 117, CHEM-J 117, or CHEM-S 117; or consent of instructor
- Description
- Introduces principles of chemical reactions in geological systems and processes. Covers calculation of mineral solubility, construction of pH-Eh diagrams, and simulation of laboratory experiments with chemical modeling software. Provides practice in the skills necessary for interpretation of water chemistry data, acquired from the field and laboratory experiments, in support of thesis research.
EAS-E 488 Paleoclimatology: A Geological Record of Earth's Climate History
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 227; or at least 3 EAS-prefixed courses at the 200-level or higher
- Description
- Examines how Earth's climate has varied over geological time based on evidence from rock records. Explores varied approaches to reconstruction of past climates based on evidence contained in the records from sedimentary sequences and fossil occurrences, complemented by insights provided by geochemical data.
EAS-E 490 Undergraduate Seminar
- Credits
- 1–3 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- Open to junior and senior majors by special consent
- Description
- Readings and discussion of selected topics.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 6 completions and 18 credit hours of EAS-E 490 or GEOL-G 490.
EAS-E 491 Physical Sedimentology
- Credits
- 3
- Prerequisites
- None
- Description
- Covers dynamics of fluid flow, hydraulics of sediment transport, interaction of physical processes in depositional environments.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-E 491 and GEOL-G 491.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-E 499 Honors Research in Geology
- Credits
- 1–6 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- Approval of departmental honors advisor
- Description
- None
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours in EAS-E 499 and GEOL-G 499.
EAS-X 420 Regional Geology Field Trip
- Credits
- 1–4 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- Any EAS-E course at the 300-399 level
- Description
- Field investigation of selected regions of North America for study of mineralogic, lithologic, stratigraphic, structural, paleontologic, geomorphologic, or other geological relationships. Six to 15 days in the field.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credit hours in EAS-X 420, GEOL-G 420, and GEOL-X 420.
EAS-X 428 Field Geology: Montana and Wyoming
- Credits
- 5
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 225 or EAS-E 322; and EAS-E 333
- Description
- An immersive capstone course for geoscience majors that teaches integration of all aspects of geoscience to solve 4-dimensional geologic problems in the field. Teaches fundamental field geoscience skills, critical thinking, time and project management, complex problem solving, etc.
EAS-X 429 Field Geology in the Rocky Mountains
- Credits
- 5–8 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- EAS-E 322, EAS-E 323, GEOL-G 222, or GEOL-G 323
- Description
- Six weeks, including five weeks at the Geologic Field Station in Montana. Geologic reconnaissance, measurement of stratigraphic sections, mapping on aerial photographs, construction of structure sections. Regional geomorphology, stratigraphy, and structure through South Dakota, the Black Hills, Wyoming, Montana, Yellowstone Park, and Glacier Park.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-X 429, GEOL-G 429, or GEOL-X 429.
EAS-X 479 Geology, Hydrology and Geochemistry in the Rocky Mountains
- Credits
- 6
- Prerequisites
- At least 22 credit hours of coursework in earth science or consent of instructor
- Description
- Surface and near-surface environmental processes are examined within the geologic setting of the IU Judson Mead Geologic Field Station. Components of the Willow Creek Demonstration Watershed are studied within the same general field areas to illustrate their interconnectedness. Includes trips in and around Yellowstone National Park and Butte, Montana.
- Repeatability
- Credit given for only one of EAS-X 479, GEOL-G 433, or GEOL-X 479.
- Fall 2023CASE NMcourse
EAS-X 498 Undergraduate Research in Geology
- Credits
- 1–6 credit hours
- Prerequisites
- Junior standing and consent of advisor
- Description
- Field and laboratory research in selected problems in geology.
- Repeatability
- May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours.
- 300-Level Course. One (1) course:
- Minor GPA, Hours, and Minimum Grade Requirements.
- Minor GPA. A GPA of at least 2.000 for all courses taken in the minor—including those where a grade lower than C- is earned—is required.
- Minor Minimum Grade. Except for the GPA requirement, a grade of C- or higher is required for a course to count toward a requirement in the minor.
- Minor Upper Division Credit Hours. At least 9 credit hours in the minor must be completed at the 300–499 level.
- Minor Residency. At least 9 credit hours in the minor must be completed in courses taken through the Indiana University Bloomington campus or an IU-administered or IU co-sponsored Overseas Study program.
Minor Area Courses
Unless otherwise noted below, the following courses are considered in the academic program and will count toward academic program requirements as appropriate:
- Any course at the 100-499 level with the
EASsubject area prefix--as well as any other subject areas that are deemed functionally equivalent - Any course contained on the course lists for the academic program requirements at the time the course is taken--as well as any other courses that are deemed functionally equivalent--except for those listed only under Addenda Requirements
- Any course directed to a non-Addenda requirement through an approved exception
This program of study cannot be combined with the following:
- Bachelor of Arts in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (EASBA)
- Bachelor of Science in Atmospheric Science (ATSCIBS)
- Bachelor of Science in Earth Science (EASCIBS)
- Bachelor of Science in Earth Science and Master of Science in Secondary Education (EAS-BSMSED)
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Geoscience (ENGEOSCBS)
- Certificate in Atmospheric Science (ATMSCIACRT)
- Minor in Atmospheric Science (ATSCIMIN)
- [Discontinued credential name unavailable] (GEOLBA)
- [Discontinued credential name unavailable] (GEOLBS)
- [Discontinued credential name unavailable] (GEOLSASCON)
- [Discontinued credential name unavailable] (GEOLMIN)
Exceptions to and substitutions for minor requirements may be made with the approval of the unit's Director of Undergraduate Studies, subject to final approval by the College of Arts and Sciences.