Graduate Courses in Geology (GEOL)

5101 Graduate Seminar (1-0)
The course deals with modern fields of research in the geosciences. The format varies from group discussions to the presentation of oral reports. The course can be taken for credit up to a maximum of three times. At least one semester is required of all students.

5302 Special Problems (3-0)
Qualified students may pursue independent laboratory or field problems under the supervision of the staff. A project proposal is required before enrollment.

5304 Special Topics (3-0)
Individually directed readings and conferences on special topics in geology. A seminar or lecture format may be used when sufficient interest exists in a timely topic. Prerequisite: Graduate standing in geology and by arrangement with the instructor

5306 Advanced Structural Methods (3-0)
Discussion of new geophysical, paleomagnetic and structural methods.  Application of these methods in resolving large-scale structural problems to scale, applied structural problems.

5308 Advanced Igneous Petrology (3-0)
A study of the origin, emplacement, and distribution of igneous rocks utilizing thermodynamics, phase equilibria, major and trace elements and isotope geochemistry.

5312 Volcanology (3-0)
Origin and emplacement of volcanic systems. Application of information obtained from modern volcanoes, experimental studies and theoretical considerations to the understanding of ancient volcanic terrains.

5316 Trace Elements in Magmatic Systems (3-0) Discussions from current literature concerning the thermodynamics of trace element distribution and the application of isotopic and trace element geochemistry to models of magma genesis and evolution. Prerequisite: Geology 3410 or 4403, Chemistry 3404 recommended

5317 Aqueous Geochemistry (3-0)
The course involves the study of the geochemistry of surface and groundwater as applied to geologic and environmental problems. Prerequisite: Geology 3410 and Chemistry 3404 recommended

5320 Advanced Paleontology (3-0)
Understanding the basic principles of evolution and ecology through the study of fossil organisms. The use of fossils in historical interpretations.

5322 Stratigraphic Analysis (3-0)
The determination of the depositional history of sedimentary rocks by the study of lithology and paleontology.

5326 Carbonate Petrology (3-0)
Origin, classification and diagenesis of ancient and modern carbonate rocks and sediments.

5328 Advanced Sedimentation (3-0)
Selected recent sedimentary environments and their ancient counterparts. Methods of investigation of sediments and sedimentary rocks with emphasis on terrigenous environments and rocks.

5332 Dynamic Stratigraphy (3-0)
An analysis of the stratigraphic record emphasizing the relationships between dynamic processes and facies changes in modern and ancient environments.

5333 The Dynamic Earth (3-0)
An earth science course designed to provide the elementary and secondary teacher with modern concepts of plate tectonics, volcanism, earthquakes and other manifestations of the dynamic earth.

5401 Remote Sensing (3-3)
A course dealing with the uses of remote sensing for geology interpretation. The lab provides practical application of a technique used in almost all fields of geology.

6301 Thesis (0-6)
Satisfactory completion of this course will result in an acceptable prospectus presented to the Graduate Committee. The student will normally register for this course no earlier than the second semester of graduate study. The student will enroll each semester or summer term in which assistance is provided by committee members or when use of the library or other research facilities of Sul Ross State University is made.

6302 Thesis (0-6)
The student will enroll in this course each semester or summer term in which assistance is provided by Committee members or when use of the library or other research facilities of Sul Ross State University is made. Satisfactory completion of this course will result in the completed thesis presented to the Graduate Committee, accepted by the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, and filed in the Office of the Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs.