2007-08 Academic Catalog	home FAQs request

Courses 

Earth Science 

E SC 104 — Introductory Astronomy: Solar System, 1.0 credit. E1.
This course is an introduction to our solar system designed for students in all disciplines. Topics include: light and telescopes, a historical overview of astronomy, a study of the components of the solar system and a discussion of the formation of the solar system. Past, present and future space exploration missions are also covered. Three class periods and one laboratory/observing period each week.
Prerequisite: high school algebra and geometry or MATH 110 — Precalculus

E SC 106 — Introductory Astronomy: Stars, Nebulae and Cosmology, 1.0 credit. E2.
This course is an introduction to the universe beyond our solar system designed for students in all disciplines. Topics include: light and telescopes, the appearance of the sky, negotiating star maps, the physical nature of stars and their formations and life cycles, clusters of stars, gas clouds, and laboratory/observing period each week. (Introductory Astronomy: E SC 104 — The Solar System is not a prerequisite.)
Prerequisite: high school algebra and geometry, or MATH 110 — Precalculus

E SC 250 — Pre-May Seminar, 0.25 credit. B4.
An introduction to the fundamentals of three earth sciences: astronomy, geology and meteorology. Designed to provide a background for students on the earth science May Seminar.

E SC 300 — May Seminar, 1.0 credit. MS.

E SC 302, ENVR 302 — Geology, 1.0 credit. E2.
A study of the structure of the earth, its dynamic nature, the processes of its formation and the forces changing it. A brief introduction to historical geology and regional geomorphology is included. Laboratory sessions will emphasize the study and identification of rocks and minerals, interpretation of land forms and geological maps, a lapidary project, and a survey of the fossil record. A field trip to western North Dakota, eastern Montana and the Black Hills region of South Dakota is an integral part of this course. Two lectures and one three- hour laboratory per week.

E SC 380 — Special Topics, 0.5 to 1.0 credit. D.
Courses covering various topics of interest in this particular discipline are offered regularly. Contact department or program chair for more information.

E SC 390 — Cooperative Education, 0.5 to 2.0 credits. E.

E SC 480 — Independent Study, 0.5 to 1.0 credit. E.
This course provides an opportunity for individual students to conduct in-depth research of a particular topic under the direct supervision of a faculty member. Contact the department or program chair for more information.