EARS 1: How the Earth Works
This course introduces the principles of physical geology by describing the Earth's components and analyzing the processes that control its evolution. Mountain ranges and deep sea trenches, volcanism and earthquakes, surficial and deep-seated geologic processes provide the evidence we will use to interpret the Earth's makeup and history. Earth resources, geologic hazards, and environmental protection will be discussed in connection with a variety of general geologic topics.
EARS 36: Astrobiology
This course will explore the nascent field of astrobiology—study of life in the universe. Students will be introduced to the various research aspects in the fields of biology, chemistry, geology, planetary science, and astronomy that contribute to our current understanding of astrobiology. Scientific hypothesis testing and evolution will be a course focus as technological innovation continues to shape the field. Together we will work to address the questions: How does life begin and evolve? Is there life beyond Earth and, if so, how can we detect it?
EARS 45-46-47: Field Methods aka the Stretch
The study of geologic phenomena and field problems associated with the solid Earth. The analysis of outcrop evidence of the structural, stratigraphic, and geomorphic history of selected regions. Field studies of rock associations, geologic structures, active and fossil volcanism, and mineral resources in the western United States. The interrelationship between upper crustal processes and earth materials in the development of landforms and landscapes, and rock and mineral provinces. The integrated use of geologic instruments, topographic maps, aerial photography, and satellite imagery to enable resource assessment. Because of the nature of this course, class meetings, assignments, readings, and reports are scheduled irregularly.
EARS 51: Mineralogy and Earth Processes
Crystallography, mineral chemistry, and physical properties of the principal rock forming minerals, especially the silicates. In the laboratory, technique of hand identification, the petrographic microscope, and X-ray diffraction are mastered. The course culminates with three case studies that relate mineralogic change to the geologic cycle, such as in regional metamorphism during mountain building; the origin of petroleum; and soil formation.
EARS 58: Stratigraphy and Sedimentary Petrology
This is a combined lecture, laboratory, seminar, and field-based course focused on the origin, diagenetic modification, and depositional history of sedimentary rocks. The course will cover theoretical and practical aspects of sedimentary petrology and stratigraphy that are critical to understanding the record of ancient climate and environments, as well as the tectonic development of sedimentary basins. In addition to studying hand specimens and utilizing standard petrographic microscopy, we will also introduce some of the other major instrumental methods used in the field today (e.g., isotope systems, provenance analyses, X-ray diffraction, etc…). This course will culminate in an optional multi-day field excursion to a sedimentary basin to complete a field-based research project.
EARS 58 in the News:
Views from the Green — Dartmouth News (html)
EARS 201: Fundamentals and Pedagogy in Earth Sciences
This course aims to develop some of the fundamental concepts and skills of geology as well as to provide teaching experience. We will use the rich geological history of New England as our training ground for learning and reviewing geologic concepts and practicing field skills. In order to provide ample background, we will read classic texts and recent, cutting-edge papers on the geology of New England. We will also conduct local and regional field trips to investigate exposures and hone field skills. In preparation for graduate teaching responsibilities, as well as for further careers in teaching, we will learn about and discuss pedagogy. Students will develop and present an introductory-level earth sciences lecture and provide critiques of other students’ presentations. Finally, this course will help focus students’ graduate research projects through class discussions and final presentations.
EARS 272: Topics in Historical Geobiology (Graduate Seminar)
This seminar uses primary literature to examine the interactions between Earth and life over geological timescales. The course helps students develop skills in critical analysis and communication, along with an understanding of the general context underlying the field of historical geobiology. All students will both lead and participate in discussions.
Additional Image Credit: Ed Meyer, NASA Astrobiology, Mark Wilson Wooster Geology