Print
Geoscience

Course Code
GEOS 416  Credits
Title Paleontology 
Prerequisite GEOS 102 OR GEOS 115 OR GEOS 116 OR BIOL 111 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description An introduction to the history of life on Earth. Lectures focus on concepts in paleontology including origin of life; evolution; ecology; and use of fossils in the solution of geologic problems. Characteristics of common fossils will be the focus of the laboratory. Two lectures and one one-hour lab per week. One field trip is required; up to two optional field trips possible (fee will be required to cover travel cost of trips). 



Course Code
GEOS 417  Credits
Title Taphonomy and Paleoecology 
Prerequisite GEOS 102 OR GEOS 115 OR GEOS 116 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description This course will explore the variety of processes that affect the condition and formation of fossils, and the use of this information in the fields of paleontology, paleoecology, and archeology to make interpretations concerning environments and specific processes. Taphonomic processes in both marine and terrestrial environments, and the effects on invertebrate and vertebrate fossils will be addressed. This course will include at least one weekend field trip, and students will be expected to pay a small fee to cover transportation costs. 



Course Code
GEOS 450  Credits
Title Field Geology 
Prerequisite GEOS 315 GEOS 302 GEOS 303 GEOS 370 GEOS 115 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description This is a three week course that will be offered during the summer. Students will be exposed to the basics of geologic reconnaissance, measurement of stratigraphic sections, mapping on aerial photographs and topographic maps, and construction of structure sections. The course will also introduce students to the regional geomorphology, stratigraphy, and structure through South Dakota, the Black Hills, Wyoming, Montana, Yellowstone Park, and Theodore Roosevelt Park. An additional fee will be assessed to students to cover the cost of lodging, food, and transportation. 



Course Code
GEOS 455  Credits
Title Field Methods in Geoarchaeology 
Prerequisite ANTH 115 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Provides field experience with a variety of geoarchaeological techniques applied within the context of an interdisciplinary research program. Research design and the research process will also be emphasized. In addition to the listed pre-requisite, students must have taken at least one entry level geology course. Same as ANTH 455



Course Code
GEOS 469  Credits 1-12 
Title Internship 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description A supervised, practical experience in the field, with report, journal, or other synthesis done in consultation with an MSUM advisor. A maximum of 12 internship credits may be applied to the degree. 



Course Code
GEOS 490  Credits 1-3 
Title Topics in Geosciences 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description This is a topical course and may be repeated when the course topic changes. 



Course Code
GEOS 492  Credits
Title Senior Seminar 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Student and faculty participants will give oral presentations of their own independent research and/or critical evaluation of professional literature. The course will review methods of library research and Geoscience research. Students must have taken at least one introductory course in Geosciences and must have attained junior status in a Geoscience major.