GEOL 300    Physical Geology    3 Units

Prerequisite: None.
Advisory: MATH 100 and ENGRD 116, ENGWR 51, or ESLW 310; or placement through the assessment process.
General Education: AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LEC
Description: This in-depth course provides an understanding of the dynamic nature of the earth through the study of earth processes including plate tectonics, plate boundary events and features of the ocean basins, earthquakes and the earth's interior, mineral and rock systems, ground water, development and destruction of landforms, glaciers, deserts and examples of environmental geology. One field trip experience is required. May be taken separately from the physical geology laboratory.

Schedule: Eight Week - First, Jan 17-Mar 16
F            06:00PM-09:10PM   LEC   S.Sterling           ARC MAIN Rm 424      17284
Sa           09:00AM-12:10PM   LEC   S.Sterling           ARC MAIN Rm 424      17284

Schedule: Eight Week - Second, Mar 17-May 14
MW           01:00PM-04:10PM   LEC   T.Boroughs           Off Campus Ethan 252 22260

Schedule: Full Term, Jan 17-May 20
MW           09:00AM-10:20AM   LEC   G.Jaecks             ARC MAIN Rm 424      17278
TTh          09:00AM-10:20AM   LEC   G.Jaecks             ARC MAIN Rm 424      22172
MW           12:00PM-01:20PM   LEC   M.Levy               ARC MAIN Rm 424      17282
MW           06:00PM-07:20PM   LEC   R.Oldham             ARC MAIN Rm 424      17568

GEOL 301    Physical Geology Laboratory    1 Unit

Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: GEOL 300
General Education: AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LAB
Description: This course encompasses the study and identification of common rocks and minerals, the interpretation and recognition of geologic structures and landforms, interpretation of maps, aerial photographs, remote sensing images, seismic information, analysis of geologic hazards, and field observations of the local geology.

Schedule: Eight Week - Second, Mar 17-May 14
TTh          06:00PM-09:10PM   LAB   R.Oldham             ARC MAIN Rm 425      17290

Schedule: Full Term, Jan 17-May 20
TTh          10:30AM-12:00PM   LAB   G.Jaecks             ARC MAIN Rm 425      17286
MW           07:30PM-08:50PM   LAB   R.Oldham             ARC MAIN Rm 424      17288

GEOL 305    Earth Science    3 Units

Prerequisite: None.
Advisory: MATH 32 and ENGRD 116, ENGWR 51 or ESLW 310; or placement through assessment
General Education: AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LEC
Description: This is an introductory science course covering major topics in geology, oceanography, meteorology, astronomy, scientific method and philosophy of science. A field trip may be required. This course is not designed for science and/or geology majors. This course may not be taken with GEOL 301 (Physical Geology Laboratory).

Schedule: Full Term, Jan 17-May 20
F            09:00AM-12:05PM   LEC   T.Boroughs           ARC MAIN Rm 424      17478
MW           10:30AM-11:50AM   LEC   M.Levy               ARC MAIN Rm 424      20344
TTh          10:30AM-11:50AM   LEC   M.Levy               ARC MAIN Rm 424      20162
MW           01:30PM-02:50PM   LEC   M.Levy               ARC MAIN Rm 424      17476

GEOL 306    Earth Science Laboratory    1 Unit

Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: GEOL 305
General Education: CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LAB
Description: This course emphasizes scientific methods, critical thinking skills, and systematic Earth science laboratory procedures. Topics include weather analysis, rock and mineral identification, study of geologic concepts by means of topographic and geologic maps, and exercises in astronomy and oceanography. This course is not available for credit to students who have completed GEOL 300 or GEOL 301.

Schedule: Full Term, Jan 17-May 20
TTh          12:00PM-01:20PM   LAB   M.Levy               ARC MAIN Rm 425      20164
F            12:15PM-03:20PM   LAB   T.Boroughs           ARC MAIN Rm 424      19282
MW           03:00PM-04:20PM   LAB   G.Jaecks             ARC MAIN Rm 425      17644

GEOL 330    Introduction to Oceanography    3 Units

Same As: GEOG 308
Prerequisite: None.
Advisory: GEOG 300 or GEOL 300
General Education: AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LEC
Description: This course is an integrated study of water on earth emphasizing physical oceanography. Topics include ocean and shoreline processes, plate tectonics, sea floor morphology, types and distribution of seafloor sediment, ocean sediment transport, ocean chemistry, ocean currents, marine resources, and environmental concerns. Regional oceanographic features are emphasized and a field trip to gain familiarity with regional physical shoreline features is required. This course is not open to students who have completed GEOG 308.

Schedule: Full Term, Jan 17-May 20
TTh          01:30PM-02:50PM   LEC   G.Jaecks             ARC MAIN Rm 425      22174

GEOL 331    Introduction to Oceanography Lab    1 Unit

Same As: GEOG 309
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: GEOG 308 or GEOL 330; GEOL 330 or GEOG 308
Advisory: GEOG 301 or GEOL 301
General Education: CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LAB
Description: This course is a laboratory investigation of water on Earth, emphasizing the shape of the sea floor, marine navigation, plate tectonics, sea floor materials and their utilization, the spatial distribution of ocean sediment, the physical and chemical nature of sea water, currents, tides, and marine weather. This course is not open to students who have completed GEOG 309.

Schedule: Full Term, Jan 17-May 20
TTh          03:00PM-04:40PM   LAB   G.Jaecks             ARC MAIN Rm 425      31374
TBA          TBA               LAB   G.Jaecks              TBA TBA             31374

GEOL 390    Field Studies in Geology    .5-4 Units

Same As: GEOG 390
Prerequisite: None.
Course Transferable to CSU
Hours: 24 hours LEC ; 144 hours LAB
Description: This course involves field trips to selected locations of geologic interest. Course content varies according to field trip destination but may include topics in physical geology, environmental geology, economic geology, and/or introduction to tools and techniques used for geosciences field research (e.g. map and compass, the Global Positioning System (GPS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), etc.). Field excursions are required and field trip expense fees may be required. This course may be taken 4 times using different field trip destinations.

Schedule: Other Term, Mar 27-Apr 17
Owens & Death Valley Calif.
F            06:15PM-09:20PM   LEC   H.Howard              TBA TBA             23120
TBA          TBA               LAB   H.Howard              TBA TBA             
Units: 2.0
Hours: 6 hours LEC; 96 hours LAB
Lectures: March 27 and April 17 in 422
Field Trip: April 3-10
Description: Geography and Geology of Owens and Death Valleys, California: Eastern California provides a breathtaking contrast in landscapes, both physical and human. On this field trip, we'll view the highest and lowest points in the United States, see snow-capped, forest-covered peaks and some of the driest, most inhospitable portions of North America. We will also explore vastly different approaches to land use and resource management, focusing on the transition from resource extraction, to resource conservation and recreation. This trip will focus on the geologic forces and cultural influences that have created this portion of California: we'll investigate the geographic and geologic histories of these two imposing valleys, see evidence of explosive volcanic eruptions, examine fault patterns and fault scarps, explore slot canyons, assess man's impact on erosion, examine the results of consistent gale-force winds, climb sand dunes, and attempt to explain a classic geologic riddle. We will also examine evolution of the human environment, with emphasis on indigenous peoples, pioneers, mining, road building, tourism, and federal protection. Hiking will be required, and participants should be prepared for changeable weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow). Participants will provide their own camping equipment and meals. Transportation will be provided by ARC with no private cars allowed. A field trip expense fee will be required (due at our first meeting) to cover camping fees, entrance fees, and other incidentals. The instructor should be contacted for details prior to the first meeting: Hugh Howard, howardh@arc.losrios.edu, (916) 484-8805.

Schedule: Other Term, Apr 14-Apr 28
Yosemite High Country
T            06:00PM-08:50PM   LEC   C.Thomsen            ARC MAIN D 219       22920
Yosemite High Country
T            06:00PM-08:50PM   LEC   G.Jaecks             ARC MAIN D 219       22920
TBA          TBA               LAB   C.Thomsen             TBA TBA             
Units: 1.0
Hours: 6 hours LEC; 48 hours LAB
Lectures: April 14 and 28, 6:00 p.m. - 8:50 p.m.
Field Trip: April 23 - 26.
Description: This course will offer an overview of Yosemite National Park, from the amazing valley floor and its magnificent waterfalls, to Glacier Point and the Mariposa grove of Redwoods, to Tuolumne Meadows and the high country. You can't really visit Yosemite without some hiking, so come prepared to walk at elevations ranging from 3,900 to 8,200 feet. Campsites will be reserved; camping fee approximately $10 per person. Students will be responsible for providing their own camping equipment and meals, generally prepared in small groups.

TBA          TBA               LAB   G.Jaecks              TBA TBA             
Units: 1.0
Hours: 6 hours LEC; 48 hours LAB
Lectures: April 14 and 28, 6:00 p.m. - 8:50 p.m.
Field Trip: April 23 - 26.
Description: This course will offer an overview of Yosemite National Park, from the amazing valley floor and its magnificent waterfalls, to Glacier Point and the Mariposa grove of Redwoods, to Tuolumne Meadows and the high country. You can't really visit Yosemite without some hiking, so come prepared to walk at elevations ranging from 3,900 to 8,200 feet. Campsites will be reserved; camping fee approximately $10 per person. Students will be responsible for providing their own camping equipment and meals, generally prepared in small groups.

Schedule: Other Term, Apr 23-May 07
Surprise Valley & Warner Mtn
Th           06:00PM-08:50PM   LEC   M.Levy                TBA TBA             21408
TBA          TBA               LAB   M.Levy                TBA TBA             
Units: 1.0
Hours: 6 hours LEC; 48 hours LAB
Lectures: Apr 23 & May 7
Field Trip: April 30-May 3
Description: This field excursion examines the geology and geography of the Warner Mountain Range and Surprise Valley, features in the Modoc Plateau geomorphic province that are tucked away in the remote northeast corner of California. This area is the northwestern-most expression of the Basin and Range crustal extension and participants will be able to view the characteristic features of this type of landscape including fault block mountains, playas (remnants of ice age lakes), fault scarps, volcanic rocks, and hot springs. Our trip to the area will take us through the Black Rock Desert where the Burning Man festival is held each year and the Paiute Indian Reservation where magnificent Pyramid Lake is located. Human issues related to grazing rights, ranching, agriculture, and water availability will also be highlighted. Light hiking will be required and participants should be prepared for changeable weather conditions (snow, rain, hot, cold). Transportation will be provided by ARC with no private cars allowed. A field trip expense fee will be required to cover 3 nights lodging. Please contact Professor Lisa Levy prior to the first meetting (levym@arc.losrios.edu) or at 916 484-8684.

Schedule: Other Term, May 20-Jun 03
Grand Staircase: Bryce, Zion, & Grand Canyon
W            06:00PM-09:05PM   LEC   H.Howard              TBA TBA             22756
TBA          TBA               LAB   H.Howard              TBA TBA             
Units: 2.5
Hours: 6 hours LEC; 120 hours LAB
Lectures: May 20 & June 3 in room 422
Field Trip: May 22-May 31
Description: The Grand Staircase is an immense sequence of sedimentary rock layers that is dramatically exposed in southern Utah and northern Arizona. The region stretches downward from Bryce Canyon National Park, through Zion National Park, and into Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Staircase is unique in that it preserves more Earth history than any other place on the planet. In addition to unique geology, the region is known for incredible plant and animal diversity, Native American history and the history of European settlement, rich dinosaur fossils, breathtaking vistas, and unparalleled stargazing opportunities. This trip will focus on both the physical and human geographies of the region, as experienced through lecture, discussion, and exploration. The three main destinations are Bryce Canyon, known for dramatic limestone pinnacles, fins, and slot canyons; Zion Canyon, known for its towering sandstone cliffs, intimate canyons, and the pristine Virgin River; and The Grand Canyon, known for - well, its grand canyon! Additional destinations include Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (UT), Valley of Fire State Park (NV), and Red Rock Canyon State Park (CA). Hiking will be required, and participants should be prepared for changeable weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow). Participants will provide their own camping equipment and meals. Transportation will be provided by ARC with no private cars allowed. A field trip expense fee will be required (due at our first meeting) to cover camping fees, entrance fees, and incidentals. The instructor should be contacted for details prior to the first meeting (Howardh@arc.losrios.edu, or (916) 484-8805).