Course List for GEOL and ENVS courses
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Geology courses |
Environmental Science courses |
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Note: textbooks listed are for 2011-12 academic year: we will have the texts for next year listed by the end of June.
First year 1000-level Geology courses
GEOL 1013 OUR DYNAMIC EARTH
An introduction to the Earth; its composition, internal structure, external features, and physical evolution. The concepts of sea-floor spreading and plate tectonics provide a framework for the origin and development of continents, oceans, mountains and volcanoes, and lead to an appreciation of an evolving, dynamic Earth. Field trips required. (3h lab)
Text: "The Changing Earth" (6th Edition) by Monroe and Wicander
GEOL 1023 EARTH HISTORY: GLOBAL CHANGE THROUGH TIME
Changes in the Earth's continents, oceans, biosphere, and atmosphere over the past 4.6 billion years. The application of understanding of the past as a key to future global changes. Other topics include: mass extinctions, plate tectonics, paleomagnetism, geologic dating, mountain-building and mineral resources. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 1013
Text: "The Changing Earth" (6th Edition) by Monroe and Wicander (same text as GEOL 1013)
"The Last Billion Years" by The Atlantic Geoscience Society
GEOL 1033 GENERAL OCEANOGRAPHY (not offered in 2011/12)
Offshore and deep-water oceanography, emphasizing an interdisciplinary approach and including geological, biological, physical and chemical aspects. History of oceanography; exploration techniques, instruments and vessels; origin of oceans and ocean basins; physiography of the ocean basins; deep-sea sediments; continental drift, sea-floor spreading and plate tectonics; marine volcanism; waves, tides and ocean currents; climatology and sea-level changes; marine ecology; marine resources.
Text: "Essentials of Oceanography" (4th Edition) by T. Garrison
GEOL 1073 NATURAL DISASTERS
Natural disasters, their causes and effects and the science that underlies decision-making, prediction, and remediation. Topics include volcanoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, rivers and flooding, mass wasting and erosion, subsidence, coastal hazards, severe weather, climate change, impacts and extinctions.
Text: "Natural Hazards" (Second Canadian Edition) by Edward Keller, Robert Blodgett & John Clague
Second year 2000-level Geology courses
GEOL 2043 TECHNIQUES IN PETROLOGY AND STRATIGRAPHY
Origin, occurrence, composition and classification of igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. An integrated overview of petrogenetic processes in a plate tectonic framework, including magma genesis, clastic and carbonate depositional processes, stratigraphic principle and metamorphic zones and facies. Laboratory study of rocks in hand sample and thin section. (3 h lab). Prereq: Geol 2133
Text: TBA
GEOL 2083 FIELD METHODS
Held each spring locally near Antigonish. Twelve days, focussed on field work and processing of field data to familiarize students with techniques of geological mapping. Involves electronic and manual measurement of field data including use of GPS instruments and laptop computers and subsequent preparation of maps, sedimentary sections, and cross-sections in paper and digital form.
Prereq: Geol 2043
Field notebook required - available from department. Cost for accommodation at Camp Geddie approx. $350
GEOL 2133 MINERALOGY
Crystal symmetry and structure. Mineral chemistry, physical properties, associations, and uses. Identification of common minerals in hand sample. X-ray diffraction, transmitted light optical theory, and introduction to the petrographic microscope. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 1013 (coreq with dept. permission) Coreq: Chem 1013
Text: "Introduction to Mineralogy", W. Nesse
GEOL 2213 HISTORY OF LIFE (not offered in 2011/12)
The morphology, classification and evolution of the major groups of animals and plants in the fossil record. Emphasis will be on invertebrate paleontology, but attention will be given to the origin of life, Precambrian fossils, trace fossils, micro-fossils, fossil algae, vascular plants, lower vertebrates, dinosaurs and man. Laboratory work will include a systematic survey of the major groups of organisms having a fossil record. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 1023 or Biol 1123
Text: "History of Life" (4th Edition) R. Cowen
GEOL 2703 APPLIED GEOMORPHOLOGY
Basic concepts in geomorphology including fluvial systems, continental glaciation, coastal processes, mass wasting, soil development, strength of materials, weathering, periglacial geomorphology, and airphoto interpretation. Emphasis will be on the environmental application of these concepts. Laboratory work will concentrate on airphoto interpretation and mini-projects related to some of these themes. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 1013
Text: "Geomorphology: A Canadian Perspective" by A.S.Trenhaile (4th edition)
GEOL 2753 ATMOSPHERE, WEATHER AND CLIMATE
The composition, structure, and dynamics of the atmosphere; weather, climate, and biogeographic patterns; microclimatology; paleoclimates, paleogeography, and extinctions; human effect on air quality; climate change. (3h lab) Prereq: second year standing
Text: "The Atmosphere: an introduction to Meteorology" (10th or 11th Edition) by F.K.Lutgens & E.J.Tarbuck
Third year 3000-level Geology courses
GEOL 3103 INTRODUCTION TO GEOCHEMISTRY (offered in 2011/12)
Investigation of chemical principles involved in geologic processes, emphasizing those acting on the surface and in near-surface environments . Topics include weathering, mineral exploration and environmental geochemistry applications. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 2303; Prereq or Coreq: Chem 1023
GEOL 3303 CLASTIC SEDIMENTOLOGY AND PETROLEUM GEOLOGY
Study of clastic, chemical and biogenic sedimentation and diagenetic processes, sedimentary environments and facies. Field and laboratory techniques for the analysis, interpretation and classification of sediment and sedimentary rock textures, compositions and structures. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 2123 and 2303
Text: "Facies Models" ed. by James & Dalrymple.
GEOL 3323 CARBONATE SEDIMENTOLOGY AND RESERVOIR DEVELOPMENT (not offered in 2011/12)
This course focuses on the origin, composition and diagenesis of carbonate rocks. Lectures cover: modern carbonate sediments and depositional environments; development of facies models; petrographic and geochemical analysis of limestone and dolostone, petroleum and groundwater reservoir development. Laboratory exercises emphasize the interpretation of limestone lithofacies to understand paleoenvironments of deposition. Prereq: Geol 2303 or Geol 2213
GEOL 3403 IGNEOUS PETROLOGY
The origin of magmas, their evolution, and crystallization. Igneous provinces and the relation between igneous activity and tectonics. Patterns of igneous activity through geological time. Laboratory studies of classical and local igneous rock suites. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 2123
Text: "Principles of Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology" (2nd Edition) by John D. Winter
GEOL 3503 METAMORPHIC GEOLOGY
The mineralogical, textural, and structural characteristics of metamorphic rocks and the development of metamorphic facies. Contact and regional metamorphism, metasomatism, and anatexis are considered in detail. Current ideas relating metamorphism and tectonic setting provide the framework. Laboratory studies of classical and local metamorphic rock suites. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 2123, 3603; Geol 3403 recommended
Text: "Principles of Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology" by John D. Winter
GEOL 3603 STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY
Rock structures and their geometric representation. Principles of stress and strain applied to brittle and ductile rock deformation. Fractures, faults, folds, and foliations: classification, mechanisms of formations, and tectonic environments. Practical work includes map interpretation, and graphic and computer techniques for analyzing structural data, and field studies of different types of deformed rocks. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 2303
Text: "Earth Structure" (2nd Edition) by B. Van Der Pluijm
GEOL 3723 HYDROGEOLOGY (not offered in 2011/12)
Groundwater as part of the hydrologic cycle. Physical aspects of water movement in geologic materials - both saturated and unsaturated. Groundwater resource mapping and exploitation. Groundwater chemistry and biology: drinking water quality, contamination and associated health concerns. Exposure to laboratory and field techniques for groundwater monitoring. Field trips may be required. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 2703
GEOL 3823 EXPLORATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL GEOPHYSICS (not offered in 2011/12)
Principles and applications of geophysical methods used by the exploration and environmental geologist, including seismic, magnetic, gravimetric, electromagnetic, electric, and radiometric methods, and bore-hole logging. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 2303
Text: "An Introduction to Geophysical Exploration" by P. Keary, M. Brooks, & I. Hill
Fourth year 4000-level Geology courses
GEOL 4083 FIELD SCHOOL
Held for about 12 days preceding fall term and continuing into the term. Advanced field methods of geological mapping with preparation of a map and report. Prereq: Geol 2083, 3603
GEOL 4713 QUATERNARY GEOLOGY
An advanced treatment in Quaternary Geology with emphasis on methods of investigating environmental change. Topics covered will include Quaternary paleoenvironments, methods of paleclimate reconstruction, dating techniques, records of Holocene climate change. Mapping in Quaternary environments, exploration in glaciated terrain. Prereq: Permission of dept.
GEOL 4803 ECONOMIC GEOLOGY 1 - MINERAL DEPOSITS
The nature, occurrence and origin of mineral deposits, with emphasis on metallic deposits. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 3403, 3603
Text: "Introduction to Ore Forming Processes" by L. Robb
GEOL 4833 EXPLORATION & ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY (not offered in 2011/12)
Geochemical principles and techniques applied in mineral exploration and environmental geochemistry. Includes theory of dispersion, natural precipitation barriers, solubility, sorption and practical experience in the design and execution of geochemical surveys, analysis of samples and interpretation of results. (3h lab) Prereq: Geol 3103; 4803 or Chem 2853
GEOL 4913 SPECIAL PROJECTS
Guided study in an area of particular interest under the direction of a staff member. Such work may be based on lecture, field, laboratory or library study, or all four, focusing on aspects of earth science not normally covered in the scheduled course offerings. The student may have responsibility in programming the research in addition to its conduct. Prereq: Permission of dept.
GEOL 4996 HONOURS THESIS
First year 1000-level Environmental Science courses
ENVS 1013 INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 1
This course will introduce students of environmental science to the interdisciplinary nature of the science and some of the skills necessary for success in the field. Topics covered will include the skills of information retrieval and assessment, communications, and critical analysis. In addition, the more substantive areas of environmental ethics, risk management and environmental policy will be studied (3 h lab). Prereq: restricted to ENVS majors
Text: "Environmental Science: a Canadian Perspective" (5th Edition) by Bill Freedman
ENVS 1023 INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 1
This course is a continuation of the introduction to environmental science presented in Envs 1013. Students will approach issues of current environmental concerns and develop interdisciplinary strategies for study and resolution. Students will be expected to build on their interdisciplinary coursework and the skills acquired in Envs 1013 (3 h lab). Prereq: Envs 1013 with C- or better
Text: "Environmental Science: a Canadian Perspective" (5th Edition) by Bill Freedman
ENVS 1643 HUMAN ACTIVITY AND THE ENVIRONMENT (not offered in 2011/12)
An exploration and study of the relationships between humans and the environment. Topics covered will include the consumption of resources, the generation of wastes and changes in the conditions of land, water, air and other species. Prereq: Second year university standing. Cannot be used for major credit by Envs majors.
Third year 3000-level Environmental Science courses
ENVS 3113 LEGAL ISSUES IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE (not offered in 2011/12)
A course designed to explore the constitutional, legislative and regulatory context of environmental law from a science perspective. A comparison and contrast of international environmental law responses for specific issues will be conducted in relation to Canada's treaty obligations and the common law system. Prereq: 6h science and third year standing
ENVS 3313 ENVIRONMENT AND HUMAN HEALTH (not offered in 2011/12)
Course content will explore the interactions between human and environmental systems and their effects on human health. Students will identify and discuss the science involved in human and environmental systems through a case study analysis of selected examples. Topics may include climate change, pesticides, global health governance, ecosystem health, scoioeconomics conditions and health, and alternative medicine practices (including traditional medicine and health promotion and prevention). Prereq: Biol 1123 or 1823
ENVS 3423 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
As interdisciplinary approach to the principles, practices, and methods involved in environmental impact assessments. Impacts covered include socio-economic, soils and geology, ecology, air, water and climate, and and noise. The legal and regulatory framework within which EIA's are conducted will also be included. (3h labs/field work) Prereq: Biol 2033, Chem 2813 or 2853, Envs 2643, Geol 2703, or permission of Department Head
ENVS 3523 FIELD COURSE IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
An examination of natural, urban, and industrial ecosystems based on integrative study from the biological, geological, management, social, and economic perspectives. Relationships among and between the physical environment, biota, and human populations will be illustrated and discussed. Sampling design and techniques, treatment of data, and interdisciplinary approaches to resource management will be incorporated in field work, labs, lecture-discussion, and projects. Prereq: Permission of Department Head
Fourth year 4000-level Environmental Science courses
ENVS 4013 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE PROJECT
Designed to encourage students to explore the interdisciplinary nature of environmental problems. Initial lectures will focus on an integrative approach to research in the environmental sciences. Students will then be encouraged to undertake project work from their major field of study, under the direction of a faculty member from that discipline, but concentrating on an environmental aspect of it. Cooperative work by several students working on the same problem but from different aspects will be encouraged. Final project papers will be presented in the project colloquium at term end. Prereq: permission of Department Head
ENVS 4423 SENIOR SEMINAR IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
In this course students will be challenged to synthesize the knowledge they have gained from contributing disciplines into an understanding of structures and processes in natural and disturbed environments. The goal will be to refine skills of critical analysis and interpretation of data and relationships among environmental variables and ecological systems.
ENVS 4613 CONTAMINANTS IN THE ENVIRONMENT
This course will examine the historical release, fate, and risk assessment of chemicals in ecosystems. Lectures will cover: (i) the major classes of chemical contaminants; (ii) factors affecting contaminant fate in ecosystems (iii) methods of ecological risk assessment for contaminants (toxicity, persistence, bioaccumulation, and long range transport). Laboratory exercises will explore methods of assessing contaminant fate. Prereq: Chem 2813 or 2853
ENVS 4996 HONOURS THESIS
This course requires the student to propose and carry out an original study and submit and defend a thesis. As a component of an interdisciplinary degree, the thesis should reflect an interdisciplinary approach to the issue under study. Prior to registering in 4996, students should normally have completed a thesis proposal and successfully established their ability to complete interdisciplinary work. Prereq: Completion of the first three years (90h) of the BScH Envs program; CGPA of 3.00 or higher