Geology minors gain knowledge about subjects such as plate tectonics, interpretation of sedimentary processes, and regional geology.
As a Geology minor, you will have an opportunity to explore all parts of geology and the different ideas and historical aspects that have make up the subject.
These requirements are from an excerpt from the University Academic Catalog, which outlines the requirements for a student to earn the distinction of being a Castleton University graduate. The complete catalog is available online.
The Geology minor is offered by the Natural Sciences Department.
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
GEY 1030 |
Dynamic EarthThis is an introductory geology course which examines the geological features of the earth and the processes that operate in the interior and on the surface of the earth which are responsible for their formation. Topics studied include volcanos, earthquakes, mountain building, plate tectonics, glaciers, minerals, rocks, streams and groundwater. Also covered are the techniques and methods geologists use to learn more about the earth. Lecture and lab This course fulfills the Natural Science general education requirement. Fee Lab fee $50 Fall |
4 |
GEY 1050 |
The Earth through TimeThis is an introductory geology course that examines the evolution of the earth, and the life on the earth, from 4.6 billion years ago to the present. We will develop the foundation necessary to understand the evidence and clues geologists use to interpret earth history. This course fulfills the Natural Science general education requirement. Fee Lab fee $50. Spring, odd years |
4 |
GEY 2020 |
Sedimentology and StratigraphyInterpretation of sedimentary processes and depositional environments through the study of sedimentary rocks and their characteristics is the focus of this course. Identification of siliciclastic and carbonate sedimentary rocks, and recognition of textural features and sedimentary structures, along with vertical and lateral variation in lithology, provides the necessary data to interpret past environments of deposition, and how those environments have changed through time. The physical and chemical processes involved in weathering and diagenesis will be studied. Prerequisite: GEY 1030 or GEY 1050, and CHE 1041 or CHE 1051 or consent of instructor. Fee Lab fee $50 |
4 |
GEY 3110 |
HydrogeologyThis is an applied hydrogeology course with lecture, laboratory and field experience. Course material will include the hydrologic cycle, ground water, wells, water quality/contamination and flow modeling. Lecture and lab. Prerequisite: GEY 1030, GEY 1050 or consent of the instructor. Fee Lab fee $50. |
4 |
SCI 2210 |
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems(also listed as GEO 2210 - Introduction to Geographic Information Systems) This course is designed to introduce students to the basic concepts of modern geographic information systems (GIS). The class will consist of lectures, discussions, readings, demonstrations, and hands-on training exercises using ESRI's GIS software. This will give students experience in defining spatial problems and solutions, organizing and locating geographic data, manipulating data for display, and map creation and use of a desktop GIS. Students will be expected to use what they have learned to develop a final GIS project. This course fulfills the Digital and Computing Literacy general education requirement. Fee Lab fee $40 Spring |
3 or 4 |
Ecological Studies majors cannot use GEY 3310 Hydrogeology to fulfill both their upper-level elective choice for the major and the Geology Minor requirements.