Distinguished Teaching Professors

John W. Delano, Ph.D.
State University of New York at Stony Brook

Professors

William S. F. Kidd, Ph.D.
Cambridge University

Gregory D. Harper, Ph.D.
University of California, Berkeley

Professor Emeritae/i

Winthrop D. Means, Ph.D.
University of California, Berkeley

Akiho Miyashiro, D.O.C.
Tokyo University

Associate Professors

Andrei Lapenis, Ph.D.
State Hydrological Institute, St. Petersburg
(joint appointment in Geography and Planning)

Braddock K. Linsley, Ph.D.
University of New Mexico

Associate Professor Emeritae/i

George W. Putman, Ph.D.
Pennsylvania State University

Visiting Assistant Professors

John G. Arnason, Ph.D.
Stanford University

Adjuncts (estimated): 2
Teaching Assistants (estimated): 8

Graduates with a B.S. in geology or environmental science have found satisfying employment not only in jobs directly related to these disciplines but also in a wide variety of other activities. Students graduating with a B.S. in geology who pursue advanced degrees in geology, computer science, business administration, or geophysics have a competitive edge in the job market. Professional opportunities in jobs using geological expertise are much wider for graduates with master's degrees, in particular for employment with environmental service/consulting companies, oil and mineral resource companies, and with state or federal agencies having responsibilities involving geological matters (geological surveys, water supply, environmental conservation, transport, etc.). Developing shortages of fossil fuels and raw materials for industry, along with an increasing need for professionals trained to understand complex environmental problems should provide a sustained demand for professional geologists and environmental scientists.

The Geology Program sponsors two weekly seminar series that provide students with a sampling of important topics in current geological research: (1) informal talks given by faculty and graduate students; and (2) formal seminars presented by outside speakers. The Program also sponsors field trips in New York, New England, and the Appalachians.

General Program B.S.:  A minimum of 66 credits for the combined major and minor including: (Required) A Geo 100N or A Geo 100F, 106, 210, 212, 222, 230, 231 (or 231Z), 330, 350, 400, , 470 (or 470Z); A Mat 111 or 112 or 118, 113 or 119; A Phy 105N, 106, 108N; 109, A Chm 120N, 121, 122A, 122B. Elective Classes (choose at least 9 credits of the following; A Geo 260, 211, 331, 332, 420, 435, 450, 466, 497. Students are encouraged to take the following additional courses: A Geo 315, 317; A Phy 109; A Mat 108, 214, 220, 311; A Csi 101N or 201N; A Atm 100N.

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.):  A minimum of 56-60 credits for the combined major and minor including: A Phy 105, 106, 108, 109; A Mat 101, 108, 111; A Chm 120N; A Geo 100N, 106, 250 or A Gog 101N; A Atm 100N or 102, 210, 211; two courses from A Gog 304, 385, 431, 496; a total of at least 12 credits from the following, including at least one course from each discipline: A Geo 330, , 350, 435, and A Atm 304, 305, 307, 311, 408.

The B.A. in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences is offered as an interdisciplinary study of significant breadth spanning two classical disciplines. Students electing this major have the potential to realize new opportunities for personal enrichment and career development. However, those students committed to seeking advanced degrees in geology or atmospheric science should pursue the corresponding B.S. degree instead. All students contemplating any of the curricula described here should thoroughly discuss their options with personnel of the Advisement Services Center (ASC) and a department undergraduate adviser before formal declaration of a specific major.

Students who have achieved a GPA of 3.5 in the major, and an overall GPA of 3.25, may apply to the Department Chairperson not later than the end of their junior year to enter the Department Honors Program. Interested students should enroll in Geo 499, Seminar in Geology, in the spring semester of their junior year. In order to graduate with Honors, accepted students must take A Geo 498, Independent Honors Research (3 credits), and complete it with a grade of A or A-, as well as maintaining superior academic performance overall and in the major during their senior year. Proposals for research to be done in A Geo 498 must be approved in writing by the supervising faculty member and the Department Chairperson before the end of the spring semester of the student's junior year. The other three required credits for Departmental Honors will consist of a total of three credits of A Geo 499 Seminar in Geology, one in each of the last three semesters of the degree program.

The combined B.S./M.S. program in geology provides an opportunity for students of recognized academic ability and educational maturity to fulfill integrated requirements of undergraduate and master's degree programs from the beginning of the junior year. A carefully designed program can permit a student to earn the B.S. and M.S. degrees within ten semesters.

The combined program requires a minimum of 138 credits, of which at least 30 must be graduate credits. In qualifying for the B.S., students must meet all University and college requirements, including the requirements of the undergraduate major described previously, the minimum 60-credit liberal arts and sciences requirement, general educational requirements, and residency requirements. In qualifying for the M.S., students must meet all University and college requirements as outlined in the Graduate Bulletin, including completion of a minimum of 30 graduate credits and any other conditions such as a research seminar, thesis, comprehensive examination, professional experience, and residency requirements. Up to 12 graduate credits may be applied simultaneously to both the B.S. and M.S. programs.

The following graduate courses may be substituted for required undergraduate courses: A Geo 517 for A Geo 470, A Geo 535 for A Geo 435, A Geo 550 for A Geo 450, A Geo 566 for A Geo 466,. A reading knowledge of a foreign language useful in the study of geology (French, German, Russian, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese) must be demonstrated before completion of the program, or satisfactory proficiency in a research skill such as computer programming may be substituted for the language requirement at the discretion of the department.

Students are considered as undergraduates until completion of 120 graduation credits and satisfactory completion of all B.S. requirements. Upon meeting B.S. requirements, students accepted into the combined B.S./M.S. program are automatically considered as graduate students.

Students may apply for admission to the combined degree program in geology at the beginning of their junior year or after the successful completion of 56 credits, but no later than the accumulation of 100 credits. A cumulative grade point average of 3.20 or higher and three supportive letters of recommendation from faculty are required for consideration.

A Geo 100N Planet Earth (3)
Introduction to the Geological Sciences, including evidence for the major processes and significant events in the origin, history and present condition of the solid Earth. Major topics include geological time, earthquakes, volcanism, plate tectonics and the origin and movement of continents and oceans, mountain building, evidence for past climate change, including glaciation, formation of the earth-moon system, earth resources and geological constraints and consequences of energy use. Emphasis is placed on understanding why we think we know things about the Earth, to enable the student to understand common features of rocks and minerals and the larger-scale solid Earth, and to provide a lifetime background for making informed judgments on increasing number of public issues requiring geological knowledge. Fall and spring semesters. [NS]

A Geo 100F Planet Earth (3)
A Geo 100F is the writing intensive version of A Geo 100N; only one may be taken for credit. Fall semester only. [NS WI]

A Geo 106 Physical Geology Laboratory (1)
Elementary classification of minerals and rocks, and their identification in hand specimen. Introduction to geological maps and sections, both as sources of geological information and as aids in the solution of practical problems. Guided and self-guided field trips to building stones of downtown Albany. This course is required for majors in Geology and Earth Science. One lab each week. Corequisite(s): A Geo 100N or 100F. Fall and spring semesters.

A Geo 201 (= A Gog 201) Environmental Analysis (3)
Uses laboratory work and local field excursions to give students "hands-on" experience in physical geography and environmental sciences. Focuses on human impacts on the environment and on problems of environmental contamination. Prerequisite or corequisite: A Gog 101N. [NS]

A Geo 210 Earth Materials (4)
Crystal structures and crystal chemistry, with emphasis on the major rock- and soil-forming mineral groups. Selected minerals of commercial importance. Examples of mineral-forming processes, and use of mineral properties as indicators of geological conditions. Three lectures, one lab each week. Prerequisite(s): A Geo 100N or 100F, 106; or permission of instructor. Fall semester only.

A Geo 211 Optical Mineralogy Laboratory (1)
Introduction to the petrographic microscope. Optical properties of minerals and their use for mineral identification. One lab each week. Corequisite(s): A Geo 210 or permission of instructor.

A Geo 212 Earth Materials Laboratory (1)
An introduction to the study of minerals. Major topics include the formation, physical properties, structure, symmetry, and classification of minerals with emphasis on rock-forming minerals. In laboratory, students will gain hands-on experience with mineral identification of hand samples and mineral properties. The course also introduces more advance topics in mineral transformations, crystal chemistry, and crystallography. The laboratory is an integral part of A Geo 210 and, therefore, neither this class nor A Geo 210 may be taken separately.

A Geo 222 Igneous and Metamorphic Geology (4)
Description, classification, and occurrence of igneous and metamorphic rocks. Introduction to phase diagrams, metamorphic facies, and petrogenetic grids. Laboratory section will involve practical identification of mineralogy and textures in hand specimens and thin sections. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisite(s): A Geo 100N or 100F, 106, 210, 211; or permission of instructor. Spring semester only.

A Geo 230 Stratigraphy, Sedimentology, and the Fossil Record (3)
Stratigraphic principles and correlation, identification and classification of sedimentary rocks, introduction to paleontology and historical geology. Three lectures and one lab each week. Offered fall semester only. Geology BS and Earth Science BS majors must also register concurrently for either A Geo 231 or A Geo 231Z, Field Excursions in Stratigraphy. Prerequisite(s): A Geo 100N or 100F, 106; or permission of instructor. Fall semester only.

A Geo 231 Field Excursions for Stratigraphy (2)
One lab per week and five full-day weekend field trips to be taken by Geology BS and Earth Science BS majors concurrently with A Geo 230 Stratigraphy. Corequisite(s): A Geo 230 or permission of instructor.

A Geo 231Z Field Excursions for Stratigraphy (2)
One lab per week and five full-day weekend field trips to be taken by Geology and Earth Science BS majors concurrently with A Geo 230 Stratigraphy. Extended written and illustrated reports must be submitted based on the observations made on each trip. A Geo 231Z is the writing intensive version of A Geo 231; only one may be taken for credit. Corequisite(s): A Geo 230 or permission of instructor. [WI]

A Geo 250 Energy and Resources (3)
Examination of energy production using non-renewable (coal, oil, natural gas, uranium) versus renewable resources (hydroelectric, solar, wind, geothermal) relative to present and future environmental and societal impacts. Fields trips to energy producing facilities (e.g., Blenheim-Gilboa Pumped Storage Power Plant). Prerequisites; A Geo 100 or Atm 100; Chm 120N or Phy 105N; Mat 111.

A Geo 260 Earth Surface Processes and Hazards (3)
An aspect of environmental science that includes natural geologic processes potentially harmful to people and human modifications of natural systems that can make them harmful. Includes rivers and flooding, groundwater, severe storms, landslides, soil erosion, acid rain, greenhouse effect, pollution and waste disposal, coastal problems, estuarine and wetland problems, and hazards associated with volcanoes and earthquakes. Prerequisites: A Geo 100N.

A Geo 317 (= A Gog 317) Geomorphology (3)
A systematic introduction to the study of landforms and the processes that shape them. Laboratory work and field trips are part of the course. Prerequisite(s): A Gog 101N; A Geo 100N or 100F; or permission of instructor. Fall semester only. May not be offered during 2002-2003.

A Geo 330 Structural Geology I (3)
Descriptive structural geology, with emphasis on features seen at outcrop and map scales. Selected examples of rock microstructures and their interpretation. Three lectures each week. Prerequisite(s): A Geo 100N or 100F, 106. Spring semester only.

A Geo 331 Field Excursions for Structural Geology I (1)
Five full-day weekend field trips to be taken by Geology and Earth Science BS majors concurrently with Structural Geology I. Several written and illustrated reports must be submitted based on the observations made. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor; corequisite: A Geo 330.

A Geo 332 Structural Geology Laboratory (1)
Structures on maps, on images, and in rock specimens; computer-based presentation of data. One lab each week. Corequisite(s): A Geo 330. Spring semester only.

A Geo 350 Environmental Geochemistry (4)
Contemporary topics are used to develop concepts of geochemical processes operating in Earth's environmental system. These topics (a) PCBs in the Upper Hudson River, (b) biogeochemical cycles in the global climate system, and (c) geochemical constraints on long-term disposal of high-level, nuclear wastes. 3 hours per week in classroom setting + 2 hours per week of oral presentations by students. This course satisfies the General Education requirement in Oral Discourse.

A Geo 395Z Writing in the Geological Sciences (1)
May be taken with any Geo course at the 300 or 400 level to fulfill a writing intensive version of that course. Students will have an opportunity for assistance during writing and revision of written material with the help of editorial assignments from the instructor. Corequisite(s): any A Geo 300 or 400 level course. Fall and spring semesters. [WI]

A Geo 400 Field Mapping (4)
Supervised geological mapping. Three weeks of field work (camping in the field) followed by independent study and laboratory sessions for preparation of report (in Albany). Field work starts in early August; laboratory sessions once a week in first quarter of fall semester. Prerequisite(s): A Geo 230, 330; or permission of instructor.

A Geo 401 Instrumental Analysis in Environmental Science (3)
A hands-on introduction to instrumental analysis in earth science. Lecture topics include basic principles of spectroscopy, chromatography, mass spectrometry, sampling methods, and error estimation with specific applications to environmental science and geology. In laboratory, students will gain hands-on experience with ion chromatography, atomic absorption spectrometry, carbon analysis, and other methods. Provides a foundation for research projects in the senior year. Two hours lecture/ 2 hours laboratory each week. Prerequisites: A Mat 108 and A Geo 350 or permission of the instructor.

A Geo 420 Instrumental Analysis in Environmental Science (3)
A hands-on introduction to instrumental analysis in earth science. Lecture topics include basic principles of spectroscopy, chromatography, mass spectrometry, sampling methods, and error estimation with specific applications to environmental science and geology. In laboratory, students will gain hands-on experience with ion chromatography, atomic absorption spectrometry, carbon analysis, and other methods. Provides a foundation for research projects in the senior year. Two hours lecture/2 hours laboratory each week. Prerequisite(s): A Mat 108 and A Geo 412 or A Geo 415 or permission of the instructor. S/U graded

A Geo 435 Geohydrology (3)
Introduction to surface water hydrology and ground water hydrogeology. Topics to be covered include, stream hydrograph analysis, flood plain determination, drainage basin analysis, aquifer characterization, pump test analysis, groundwater chemistry and tracers, contaminant hydrogeology, regulatory policy, and introduction to groundwater modeling. . Prerequisite(s): A Mat 112, A Chm 120N or permission of instructor. Spring semester only.

A Geo 450 Paleoclimatology (4)
Introduction to the field of Paleoclimatology. Focus will be on the use of sediments and other biological and geological archives to reconstruct environmental, climatic, and oceanographic change over a range of time scales. Lecture will also provide an introduction to the fields of climatology, age dating techniques, climatic/ environmental proxies (tracers), micro-paleontology, and time-series analysis. In addition to lectures, the class will involve review of current scientific studies, class presentations by each student, and a review paper on a relevant topic of choice. 3 lectures each week and 2 hours each week of oral presentations by students; Prerequisites: A Chm 120N, A Mat 108, or permission of the instructor. This course satisfies the General Education requirement in Oral Discourse. Fall semester only.

A Geo 466 Marine/Estuary Systems (3)
Interdisciplinary study of marine and estuary systems with a focus on marine/estuary sedimentology and biogeochemistry. Additional study of lacustrine systems will be integrated into the class. In addition to lectures, the class will involve review of current scientific studies, a class presentation by each student, and a review paper on a relevant topic of choice. 3 lectures each week. Prerequisites: A Geo 100N, A Chm 120N, A Geo210, or permission of the instructor. Spring semester only.

A Geo 470 Tectonics (4)
Seismologic basis for plate tectonics, kinematics of plate motions, paleomagnetism. Study of modern mid-ocean ridges, magmatic arcs, transforms, and collisional belts. Three lectures and one lab per week. Prerequisite(s): A Geo 230, 330; or permission of instructor. Fall semester only.

A Geo 497 Independent Study (1-3)
Field or laboratory investigation of a chosen geologic problem, including the writing of a research report to be undertaken during the senior year. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. Students may repeat this course once for additional credits. Fall or spring semesters.

A Geo 498 Undergraduate Honors Research (3)
Supervised research for undergraduates admitted to the Department Honors Program. To be taken summer and/or fall semester at beginning of senior year. Written proposal for research must be approved no later than end of spring semester of junior year. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and chair. Fall and spring semesters.

A Geo 499 Seminar in Geology (1)
Oral presentation by students of a research topic: attendance at weekly seminar given by other students in this course, and A Geo 500, and regular attendance at geological science seminars given by outside speakers [approximately once weekly in semester]. Students admitted to the Departmental Honors Program must take this course in the last three semesters of their degree program. Fall and spring semesters.

Professor Emeritae/i

Geirmundur Arnason, Ph.D.
University of Stockholm, Sweden

Duncan C. Blanchard, Ph.D.*
Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Ulrich Czapski, Ph.D.
Hamburg University

Jai S. Kim, Ph.D.
University of Saskatchewan

Volker A. Mohnen, Ph.D.
University of Munich

Jon T. Scott, Ph.D.
University of Wisconsin

Professors

Lance F. Bosart, Ph.D.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Kenneth L. Demerjian, Ph.D.
Ohio State University

Daniel Keyser, Ph.D.
Pennsylvania State University

Arthur Z. Loesch, Ph.D.
University of Chicago

John E. Molinari, Ph.D.
Florida State University

Associate Professors

Vincent P. Idone, Ph.D. (Chairperson)
University at Albany

Robert G. Keesee, Ph.D.
University of Colorado

Christopher Thorncroft, Ph.D.
University of Reading

Assistant Professor

Karen Mohr, Ph.D.
University of Texas, Austin

Associated Faculty

Julius Chang, Ph.D.*
State University of New York at Stony Brook

David R. Fitzjarrald, Ph.D.*
University of Virginia

Lee C. Harrison, Ph.D.*
University of Washington, Seattle

David Knight, Ph.D.
University of Washington, Seattle

G. Garland Lala, Ph.D.*
University at Albany

Michael Landin, M.S.
University at Albany

Joseph J. Michalsky, Ph.D.*
University of Kentucky

Qilong Min, Ph.D.*
University of Alaska, Fairbanks

Richard R. Perez, Ph.D.*
University at Albany

James J. Schwab, Ph.D.*
Harvard University

Christopher J. Walcek, Ph.D.*
University of California, Los Angles

Wei-Chyung Wang, D.E.S.*
Columbia University

Kevin Tyle, M.S.
University at Albany

Fangqun Yu, Ph.D.*
University of California, Los Angeles

Visiting Professors

Michael J. Reeder
Monash University

Morris Weisman
National Center for Atmospheric Research

W. James Steenburgh
University of Utah

* Primary appointment with the Atmospheric Sciences Research Center as Research Professors.

Adjuncts (estimated): 1
Teaching Assistants (estimated): 10

Graduates obtain employment in weather forecasting, environmental engineering, radio and TV broadcasting, scientific consulting, and other private firms; in university departments and research laboratories; and in federal and state agencies such as the National Weather Service, U.S. Air Force, and State Department of Energy Conservation. About half our graduates choose to go on to graduate school for an advanced degree. (The department offers full financial support and a complete tuition waiver to most students accepted into our graduate program.)

General Program B.S.:  A combined major and minor sequence including A Atm 210 (or 210Z), 211, 320, 321, 333, 410, 411; at least 12 additional credits from A Atm 307 (or 307Z) and higher level courses as advised; A Phy 140, 145, 150, 240; A Mat 111 or 112 or 118, 113 or 119, 214, 311; A Chm 120N, 122A. No more than 6 credits from A Atm 490, 497, 498 or 499 may be applied toward the major requirements; further, a maximum of 3 credits from A Atm 490 will apply.

A solid foundation in physics and mathematics is recommended for all students planning to major in atmospheric science. It is recommended that all students considering this major meet with a representative of the department before each of the freshman and sophomore registration sessions.

Students who have by the end of their fourth semester attained a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.25 and a grade point average of at least 3.5 in courses required of the major in atmospheric science may apply to the department chair for the program leading to a B.S. degree with honors in atmospheric science. Applications must be submitted before the end of the first semester of the student's junior year and must be accompanied by letters of recommendation from at least two faculty members.

To be admitted to the program, a student must have completed three semesters of physics (A Phy 140, 145, 150, 240, three semesters of mathematics (A Mat 111 or 112 or 118, 113 or 119, 214), and must be enrolled in or have completed A Atm 333. These requirements may be altered, upon request, for qualified transfer students. At the end of the junior year, the student's program will be reviewed by the Honors Committee to see if satisfactory progress is being made.

To be eligible for a degree with honors, students must complete a minimum of 74 credits specified as follows: (1) the physics, mathematics, and chemistry requirements of the major; (2) the core sequence in atmospheric science (A Atm 210 or 210Z, 211, 320, 321, 333, 410 and 411) plus any three A Atm courses at the 400 or 500 level; (3) a coherent core of three upper-division courses in any discipline besides atmospheric science; and (4) 6 credits of A Atm 499 taken over at least two semesters culminating in a significant undergraduate thesis and an honors seminar in the student's final semester. Students in the program must maintain both a minimum grade point average of 3.25 overall and 3.5 in atmospheric science courses taken to satisfy major requirements during the junior and senior years.

Upon completion of the requirements, the honors committee will make its recommendation to the faculty to grant the degree with honors in atmospheric science based upon the candidate's (1) academic record, (2) research project report, (3) honors seminar, and (4) faculty recommendations.

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.):  A minimum of 56-60 credits for the combined major and minor including: A Phy 105, 106, 108, 109; A Mat 101, 108, 111; A Chm 120N; A Geo 100N or 105N, 106, 190N or A Gog 101N; A Atm 100N or 102, 210 or (210Z), 211; two courses from A Gog 304, 385, 431, 496; a total of at least 12 credits from the following, including at least one course from each discipline: A Geo 330, 335, 415, 435, and A Atm 304 or (304Z), 305, 307 or (307Z), 311, 335, 390, 408b.

The B.A. in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences is offered as an interdisciplinary study of significant breadth spanning two classical disciplines. Students electing this major have the potential to realize new opportunities for personal enrichment and career development. However, those students committed to seeking advanced degrees in the geological or atmospheric sciences should pursue the corresponding B.S. degree instead. All students contemplating any of the curricula described here should thoroughly discuss their options with personnel of the Advisement Services Center (ASC) and a department undergraduate adviser before formal declaration of a specific major.

The combined B.S./M.S. program in atmospheric science provides an opportunity for students of recognized academic ability and educational maturity to fulfill simultaneously undergraduate and graduate course requirements in their senior year, thereby accelerating progress toward the M.S. degree. A carefully designed program can permit a student to complete the B.S. and M.S. degrees one year sooner than is otherwise possible.

The combined program requires a minimum of 138 credits, of which at least 30 must be graduate credits. In qualifying for the B.S., students must meet all University and college requirements, including the requirements of the undergraduate major described previously, the minimum 60-credit liberal arts and sciences requirement, the general education requirements, and residency requirements. In qualifying for the M.S., students must meet all University and college requirements as outlined in the Graduate Bulletin, including completion of a minimum of 30 graduate credits and any other conditions such as a research seminar, thesis, comprehensive examination, professional experience, and residency requirements. Up to 9 graduate credits may be applied simultaneously to both the B.S. and M.S. programs.

In the summer following the senior year, the student will begin work on his or her graduate research. In preparation for this accelerated research program, the student will be required to take two semesters (6 credits) of A Atm 499, Undergraduate Research, during the junior or senior year. These 6 credits may be counted toward the undergraduate elective requirement from either of the following requirements: (1) from any four additional A Atm courses at the 400 or 500 level as advised or (2) from 6 additional credits in mathematics or sciences as advised.

Students are considered as undergraduates until completion of 120 graduation credits and satisfactory completion of all B.S. requirements. Upon meeting B.S. requirements, students are automatically considered as graduate students.

Students may apply for admission to the combined degree program in atmospheric science at the beginning of their junior year or after the successful completion of 56 credits, but not later than the accumulation of 100 credits. A cumulative grade point average of 3.2 or higher and three supportive letters of recommendation from faculty are required for consideration.

A Atm 100N The Atmosphere (3)
Non-technical survey of the atmosphere; the physical environment of society and its historical development; intentional and unintentional modifications of the environment; cloud types and structure; severe storms; weather forecasting; air pollution; major wind and weather systems. Does not yield credit toward the major in atmospheric science. Two lectures, one-two-hour discussion each week. May not be taken for credit by students with credit for A Atm 210 or 210Z or 320. Fall and spring semesters. [NS]

A Atm 101N The Upper Atmosphere (3)
Elementary survey of the properties and geophysical phenomena of the upper atmosphere; ionosphere, magnetosphere, and interplanetary space, ionospheric and magnetic storms; aurora and airglow; observational techniques including rockets and satellites. Does not yield credit toward the B.S. in atmospheric science. Two lectures, one two-hour discussion each week. May not be offered during 2002-2003. [NS]

A Atm 102N Science and Major Environmental Issues (3)
Study of the role of science in creating, defining, evaluating, and resolving major issues relating to energy production and its use and impact on the physical environments; case studies of such issues as change in climate, air pollution, the fluorocarbon/ozone link, etc. Three lectures each week. Does not yield credit toward the B.S. in atmospheric science. Spring semester only. [NS]

A Atm 107N The Oceans (3)
Introductory survey of the physical, chemical, geological, and biological processes in the marine environment; promise and problems of the oceans as a natural resource. Does not yield credit toward the B.S. in atmospheric science. Three lectures each week. Spring semester only. [NS]

A Atm 199 Contemporary Issues in Atmospheric Science (1)
Issues from the current literature in selected areas of atmospheric science. Particular areas of study to be announced each term. Intended for students interested in exploring in depth themes covered in large lecture courses. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor. S/U graded. May not be offered during 2002-2003.

A Atm 210 Atmospheric Structure (4)
Technical survey of the atmosphere with application of elementary physical and mathematical concepts to the horizontal and vertical structure of the atmosphere; planetary, regional and local circulations; atmospheric radiation; precipitation physics and thermodynamics. Three lectures and one discussion/lab period each week. Prerequisites: A Mat 111 or 112 or 118; A Phy 108 or 150. Fall semester only.

A Atm 210Z Atmospheric Structure (4)
A Atm 210Z is writing intensive version of A Atm 210; only one may be taken for credit. Fall semester only. [WI]

A Atm 211 Weather Analysis and Forecasting (4)
Physical principles and empirical methods of weather analysis and forecasting, with emphasis on synoptic, regional and local weather systems; introduction to use and interpretation of observed weather data, satellite imagery, temperature and precipitation processes, soundings and stability; use of computer forecast guidance models and products of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction. Prerequisite: A Atm 210 (or Atm 210Z) or permission of instructor. Spring semester only.

A Atm 297 Independent Study I (1-3)
By advisement only and may be repeated once for credit. S/U graded. Fall and spring semesters.

A Atm 300Z Solar Energy (3)
Discussion of solar energy technology, including solar energy measurement and distribution; direct use of the sun's energy; solar architecture; energy from wind, tides, waves, currents, and salinity gradients; biomass and geothermal energy; energy use, conservation, and other major environmental issues. Prerequisite(s): 6 credits in mathematics including one course in calculus; A Phy 108N or 150; junior or senior class standing. May not be offered during 2002-2003. [WI]

A Atm 304 Air Quality (3)
Designed for undergraduate students not pursuing the B.S. in Atmospheric Science. Topics include air pollution criteria standards and regulations, basic air pollution monitoring (including quality assurance), simple statistical analysis of data, and pollutant transport, transformation and deposition. Prerequisite(s): A Mat 111 or 112 or 118; A Phy 108 or 150.Offered alternate Spring semester. Next offered in Spring 2004.

A Atm 304Z Air Quality (3)
A Atm 304Z is writing intensive version of A Atm 304.; only one may be taken for credit. Offered alternate spring semesters; will next be offered in spring 2004. [WI]

A Atm 305 Global Physical Climatology (3)
The physical basis of climate and climate variability from a coupled atmosphere-ocean perspective. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the causes of regional climate differences and regional climate variability and the role that the global atmosphere and oceans play in the process Prerequisite(s): A Atm 210 (or 210Z). Offered alternate fall semesters; will next be offered in fall 2003.

A Atm 307 (= A Chm 307) Introduction to Atmospheric Chemistry (3)
Chemical principles and concepts leading to understanding the composition and change in the chemical/atmospheric environment; sources and links of chemical constituents; chemistry of the troposphere and stratosphere; measurement and theory of greenhouse gases; global pollution and ozone depletion. Prerequisite(s): A Mat 111 or 112 or 118; A Phy 108 or 150; A Chm 121N. Offered alternate Spring semesters. Will next be offered Spring 2003

A Atm 307Z (= A Chm 307) Introduction to Atmospheric Chemistry (3)
A Atm 307Z is the writing intensive version of A Atm 307; only one may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): A Mat 111 or 112 or 118; A Phy 108 or150N A Chm 120N. . Offered alternate Spring semester. Will next be offered Spring 2003. [WI]

A Atm 311 Severe and Unusual Weather Analysis and Forecasting (4)
Continuation of Atm 211, with emphasis on severe and unusual weather analysis and forecasting, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, downbursts, derechoes, hail, flash floods, hurricanes, winter storms, blizzards, blocking weather patterns, floods and drought; introduction to weather analysis software and weather display systems; commercial meteorology. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 211. Fall semester only.

A Atm 320 Atmospheric Thermodynamics (3)
Equation of state; principles of thermodynamics; water vapor and moist air thermodynamics; changes of phase and latent heat; hydrostatic equilibrium; atmospheric convection; thermodynamic diagrams; atmospheric stability and severe weather events. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 210 (or 210Z); A Mat 214; A Phy 150. Fall semester only.

A Atm 321 Physical Meteorology (4)
Atmospheric physics, including radiation, optics, and visibility; atmospheric electricity; cloud and aerosol physics; acoustics; upper atmospheric processes; radar meteorology. Three lectures and one lab discussion per week. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 210 (or 210Z); A Mat 214; corequisite: A Atm 320. Spring semester only.

A Atm 333 Quantitative Methods in Geophysics (3)
Important topics in atmospheric and geophysical science studied using various analytical and numerical techniques. Description and analysis of specific but disparate geophysical phenomena will expose the student of the commonality of application of certain classical and modern mathematical approaches used to expound the underlying physical principles. Prerequisite(s): A Mat 214, 311. Fall semester only.

A Atm 335 Meteorological Remote Sensing (2)
Satellite remote sensing from UV to microwave including the principles of atmospheric radiative transfer, descriptions of important satellite orbits and sensors, the retrieval of atmospheric variables from active and passive systems, and basic principles of interpretation. Prerequisite(s): A Mat 111 or 112 or 118 and A Atm 211. Offered alternate spring semesters; will next be offered in spring 2004.

A Atm 390 Commercial Meteorology (2)
Examination of the impact of weather and climate forecasting on social and economic factors in our society. Emphasis on severe weather prediction, warnings, and disaster preparedness. Guest lectures by private-sector professional meteorologists. Each student will participate as a member of a mock "company" providing weather services to a real client in the community. One lecture each week. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 311. Offered alternate spring semesters; will next be offered in spring 2003.

A Atm 400 Synoptic Meteorology I (3)
Electronic meteorological database description and analysis procedures; use of meteorological software packages and remote sensing technologies in weather analysis and forecasting; operational numerical weather prediction model procedures; application of fundamental thermodynamic and dynamic principles to multiscale weather events; scientific issues in weather forecasting. Two joint lecture-laboratory periods each week. Corequisites: A Atm 311; 410. Fall semester only.

A Atm 401 Synoptic Meteorology II (3)
Application of more advanced thermodynamic and dynamic concepts, laws and remote sensing technologies to multiscale weather analysis and prediction; structure of global scale temperature, wind and precipitation regimes and their causes; use of operational weather prediction models and products for research and weather forecasting; severe weather and heavy precipitation analysis and forecasting. Two joint class/laboratory periods each week. Prerequisite: A Atm 400; corequisite(s): A Atm 411. Spring semester only.

A Atm 408 Hydrometeorology (3)
The physical processes governing the continental hydrologic cycle such as water vapor transport, runoff, evapotranspiration, streamflow, sub-surface recharge; land/atmosphere interaction; spatial/ temporal variability of hydrologic parameters. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 320 and A Mat 311.

A Atm 408B Hydrometeorology (3)
The physical processes governing the continental hydrologic cycle such as water vapor transport, runoff, evapotranspiration, streamflow, sub-surface recharge; land/atmosphere interaction; spatial/ temporal variability of hydrologic parameters. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 211 or A Geo 260; will not yield upper level credit for the atmospheric science B.S. degree.

A Atm 409 Atmospheric Precipitation Processes (3)
Fundamentals of atmospheric precipitation processes; atmospheric moisture budget; convective and stratiform precipitation; application of satellite and radar imagery to precipitation analysis and forecasting; mesoscale convective systems; mesoscale precipitation structure in cyclones; flash flood forecasting; quantitative precipitation forecasting exercise. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 320; A Mat 311. Corequisite: A Atm 410. Offered every other year; will next be offered in fall 2003.

A Atm 410 Dynamic Meteorology I (3)
Forces and force balances in the atmosphere; thermal wind, vorticity and circulation; structure and dynamics of the middle latitudes and tropical cyclones. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 210 (or 210Z), 320; corequisite: A Atm 333; A Mat 214. Fall semester only.

A Atm 411 Dynamic Meteorology II (3)
Derivation and scaling of the equations of atmospheric motion; major forces in the atmosphere; dynamics of frontal cyclones; mathematics of weather prediction. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 410. Spring semester only.

A Atm 414 Air Pollution (3)
Physical and chemical processes affecting air suspensoids; pollutant dispersion; effects of pollutants on materials, vegetation, and animal life; environmental gas cycles; applications to instruments and industrial removal processes. Corequisite(s): A Atm 410 or permission of instructor. Fall semester only.

A Atm 421 Tropical Meteorology (3)
Tropical cyclone dynamics and thermodynamics; tropical cyclone formation; monsoons; tropical waves; El Niqo. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 410 or equivalent. Spring semester only. May not be offered in 2002-2003.

A Atm 422 Meteorological Instrumentation and Measurement (2)
Principles of meteorological measurement; error and propagation of error; measurement of temperature, pressure, windfield, water vapor and solar radiation; basic photogrammetry; survey of measurement systems: Doppler radar, lidar, profilers and ASOS. One lecture and one demonstration/laboratory session per week. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 321; A Phy 240. May not be offered in 2002-2003.

A Atm 424 Fundamentals of Atmospheric Electricity (3)
An introduction to the basic electrical processes operating in the atmosphere; fair weather electricity and the global circuit; electrical properties of clouds and thunderstorms; thunderstorm electrification; the lightning flash; observation and measurement techniques. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 321; A Mat 214; A Phy 240. Spring semester only. May not be offered during 2002-2003.

A Atm 430 Solar Radiation and Applications (3)
Definition of solar and terrestrial radiation components; basic celestial geometry; introduction to the measurement of solar radiation; principles of solar radiation transfer through the Earth's atmosphere; study of the interrelationship between solar radiation components; applied solar radiation examples. Prerequisite(s): A Mat 113 or 119; A Phy 150. May not be offered during 2002-2003.

A Atm 433 Software-based Computational Geophysics (3)
Computation of solutions of geophysical problems using contemporary symbolic and numerical mathematical software for PCs. Problems will be drawn from a variety of topics in atmospheric and geological sciences. Emphasis will be placed on the use of appropriate software to obtain, graphically display and physically interpret the solutions. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 333 or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2002-2003.

A Atm 450 Computer Applications in Atmospheric Science (3)
Computer programming and numerical methods for solving atmospheric science problems; data handling and storage; examination of currently used programs in atmospheric science research; iterative methods; numerical weather prediction. Prerequisite(s): A Atm 333; A Csi 204 or 205 or permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2002-2003.

A Atm 490 Internship in Atmospheric Science (1-3)
Research or operational experience in atmospheric-related activities with local governmental agencies or private industry. No more than 3 credits for A Atm 490 may be applied toward major requirements in atmospheric science. Internships are open only to qualified juniors and seniors who have an overall grade point average of 2.50 or higher. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing in atmospheric science. S/U graded, may be repeated for credit.

A Atm 497 Independent Study II (1-3)
May be repeated once for credit. No more than 6 credits from A Atm 490, 497, 498, and 499 may be applied toward major requirements in atmospheric science. Prerequisite(s): junior senior class standing, and by advisement only. Fall and spring semesters.

A Atm 498 Computer Applications in Meteorological Research (3)
Directed individual study of a particular problem in atmospheric science that requires use of the University Computing Center and/or departmental computers. May be repeated once for credit. No more than 6 credits from A Atm 490, 497, 498, and 499 may be applied toward major requirements in atmospheric science. Prerequisite(s): A Csi 201N or permission of instructor. S/U graded.

A Atm 499 Undergraduate Research (3)
Guided research leading to a senior thesis. Oral presentation of results required. May be repeated for credit. No more than 6 credits from A Atm 490, 497, 498, and 499 may be applied toward major requirements in atmospheric science. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior class standing, and permission of department chair. S/U graded.

Program in Environmental Science

Graduates with a B.S. in Environmental Science will be well qualified for a broad range of positions within the highly inter-disciplinary field of environmental science. Consulting firms, industry, federal and state government agencies all require employees with this type of training. The demand for individuals with such a degree is anticipated to remain strong as our society attempts to cope with and address myriad environmental impacts that are occurring on local, regional, national and global scales. Additionally, graduates with this degree are well prepared to consider advanced degrees in the sciences, or other fields such as business administration (M.B.A.) or law (J.D.).

Bachelor of Science (B.S.):  A minimum of 65/66 credits for the combined major and minor including: A Atm 100N, A Geo 100N, 201, 210, 250, 350, A Gog/Pln 330, A Mat 111 or 112, 113, and 108, A Bio 110N/F, A Chm 120N, A Phy 105N, 108N.

Additionally each student must choose one concentration in Earth Science, Atmospheric Science, Biology, or Geography (see below):

Earth Science Concentration (19-20 credits)

A Geo 210; 401:  Electives (any combination of the following):  A Bio 111N, 316, A Geo 330, 435, 450, 466, 497, 498, A Phy 202N.

Atmospheric Science Concentration (19-20 credits)

A Atm 210/Z:  Electives (any combination of the following):  A Atm 211, 304, 305, 307/Z , 311, 335, 422, 408B:  Additional electives (maximum of two):  A Geo 420, 450, A Bio 316, A Phy 202N.

Biology Concentration (19-20 credits)

A Bio 111N, 320, 316:  Electives (any combination of the following):  A Bio 212, 314, 319/Z, 325, 365, 366, 402, 422, 432, 436, 442/443, 444, 445, 455, 468, A Chm 440 A+B.

Geography Concentration (19-20 credits)

A Geo 260:  Electives (any combination of the following):  A Gog 290, 293, 304, 385, 390, 404, 414, 431, 479, 485, A Gog/Pln 496, A Geo 401, 435.

Atm 100N; The Atmosphere (3)
Geo 100N; Planet Earth (3)
Geo/Gog 201; Environmental Analysis (3)
Geo 260N; Earth Surface Proc. & Hazards (3)
Geo 250; Energy and Resources (3)
Geo 350; Environmental Geochemistry (3)
Gog 330; Principles of Environ. Manag. (3)
Mat 111 or 112;Algebra and Calculus II or Calculus I (4)
Mat 113; Calculus II (4)
Mat 108; Statistics (3)
Bio 110N/F; General Biology I (4)
Chm 120N;General Chemistry I (3)
Phy 105N+108N; General Physics I and II (6)

Earth Science Concentration (19-20 credits)

Required:
Geo 210; Earth Materials (4)
Geo 401; Instrum. Anal. in Environ. Sci. (3)

Electives (any combination):
Bio 316; Biogeography (3)
Geo 330; Structural Geology I (3)
Geo 435; Geohydrology (3)
Geo 450; Paleoclimatology (4)
Geo 466; Marine/Estuary Systems (3)
Geo 497; Independent Study (at USGS or other local organization) (1-3)
Geo 498; Honors Research (3)
Phy 202N; Environmental Physics (3)

Atmospheric Science Concentration (19-20 credits)

Required:
Atm 210/Z; Atmospheric Structure (3)

Electives (any combination):
Atm 211; Weather Analysis and Forecasting (4)
Atm 304; Air Quality (3)
Atm 305;Global Physical Climatology (3)
Atm 307; Atmospheric Chemistry (3)
Atm 311; Severe and Unusual Weather Anal. & Forecasting (3)
Atm 335; Meteorological Remote Sensing (3)
Atm 422; Meteorol. Instrumentation & Meas.(2)
Atm 408B; Hydrometeorology (3)

Additional electives ( maximum of two):
Geo 401; Instrum. Anal. in Environ. Sci.(3)
Geo 450; Paleoclimatology (4)
Gog 431; Climatic Change (3)
Bio 316; Biogeography (3)
Phy 202N; Environmental Physics (3)

Biology Concentration (19-20 credits)

Required:
Bio 111N; General Biology II (4)
Bio 320; Ecology (3)
Bio 316; Biogeography (3)

Electives (any combination):
Bio 212; Introductory Genetics (4)
Bio 314; General Bacteriology (3)
Bio 319/Z; Field Biology (3)
Bio 325; Comparative Anatomy of Chordates (4)
Bio 365; Biological Chemistry (3)
Bio 366; Biological Chemistry II (3)
Bio 402; Evolution (3)
Bio 422; Biological Architecture (3)
Bio 432; Animal Behavior (3)
Bio 436; Sensory Worlds (3)
Bio 442/443; Restoration Ecology (3+1)
Bio 444; Biology of Birds (3)
Bio 445; Experimental Ecology (3)
Bio 455; Plant Ecology (4)
Bio 468; Behavioral Ecology (3)
Chm 440 A; Comprehensive Biochemistry A (3)
Chm 440 B; Comprehensive Biochemistry B (3)

Geography Concentration (19-20 Credits)

Electives (any combination):
Gog 290; Introduction to Cartography (4)
Gog 293; Use and Interpretation of Aerial Photographs (3)
Gog 304; Climatology (3)
Gog 385; Introduction to Remote Sensing of the Environment (4)
Gog 390; Intermediate Cartography (3)
Gog 404; Topics in Physical Geography (1-4)
Gog 414; Computer Mapping (3)
Gog 431; Climatic Change (3)
Gog 479; Fundamentals of Applied GIS (3)
Gog 485; Advanced Remote Sensing of the Environment (3)
Gog/Pln 496; Geographic Information Systems (3)
Geo 401; Instrum. Anal. in Environ. Sci. (3)
Geo 435; Geohydrology (3)