graduate Program - Course descriptions
GEOLOGY
GEOL 501 - APPLIED STRATIGRAPHY (I)GEOL 505 - APPLIED STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY (II)Review of basic concepts in siliciclastic and carbonate sedimentology and stratigraphy. Introduction to advanced concepts and their application to exploration and development of fossil fuels and stratiform mineral deposits. Modern facies models and sequence-stratigraphic concepts applied to solving stratigraphic problems in field and subsurface settings.
Prerequisites: GEOL 314 or equivalent or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture, 4 hours lab; 4 semester hours.GEOL 506 - PHYSICS OF ROCK DEFORMATION (II)Structural geology with emphasis on solving problems in field and lab exercises using systematic analysis by geometric and mapping techniques. Interpretation of the structural aspects of ore control, fossil fuels, and environmental geology. Relationships between mechanical properties and structural behavior of geological materials.
Prerequisite: GEGN 316 or equivalent.
2 hours lecture, 4 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEOL 510 - IMPACT GEOLOGY (II)A material-oriented, mechanistic approach to understanding brittle and ductile rock deformation. Starts with fundamental understanding of stress and strain. Physical processes of rock fracture, friction, and flow will be studied as they relate to earthquakes, crustal fluid movement, creep, and folding. Emphasis on relating initial and derived microstructure, such as grain size, micro-cracks, and intracrystalline dislocation, to stresses, temperatures, and fluids in the Earth. Rock anisotropy, heterogeneity, and scale effects discussed.
Prerequisite: GEGN 309 or equivalent.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 511 - HISTORY OF GEOLOGIC CONCEPTS (II)A seminar-based course of inquiry into the nature, process, and geological significance of extra-terrestrial impacts on the Earth. Course topics include the nature of impactors, impact processes, morphology of impact structures, shock metamorphism, case studies of impacts, and the role of impacts in Earth evolution, biologic extinctions, and economic deposits. Optional field trips to Meteor Crater and other impact sites over Spring Break.
2 hours seminar, 3 hours lab, 3 credit hours.
GEOL 512 - MINERALOGY AND CRYSTAL CHEMISTRY (I)Lectures and seminars concerning the history and philosophy of the science of geology; emphasis on the historical development of basic geologic concepts.
3 hours lecture and seminar; 3 semester hours.
Required of all doctoral candidates in department.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 513/CHGC 513 - HYDROTHERMAL GEOCHEMISTRY (II)Relationships among mineral chemistry, structure, crystallography, and physical properties. Systematic treatments of structural representation, defects, mineral stability and phase transitions, solid solutions, substitution mechanisms, and advanced methods of mineral identification and characterization. Applications of principles using petrological and environmental examples.
Prerequisites: GEOL 321, DCGN 209 or equivalent or consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 514 - BUSINESS OF ECONOMIC GEOLOGY (II)Geochemistry of high-temperature aqueous systems. Examines fundamental phase relationships in model systems at elevated temperatures and pressures. Major and trace element behavior during fluid-rock interaction. Theory and application of stable isotopes as applied to hydrothermal mineral deposits. Review of the origin of hydrothermal fluids and mechanisms of transport and deposition of ore minerals. Includes the study of the geochemistry of magmatic aqueous systems, geothermal systems, and submarine hydrothermal vents.
Prerequisites: GEGN 401 or consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEOL 515 - ADVANCED MINERAL DEPOSITS – SEDIMENTARY AND BASINAL SYSTEMS (II)Examines the business side of mineral exploration including company structure, fundraising, stock market rules and regulations, and legal environment. Reviews the types of minerals exploration companies, differences between mineral sectors, rules and practices of listing a minerals company on a stock exchange, and legal requirements of listing and presenting data to stockholders. The course is centered on lectures by industry representatives from the Denver area. Includes participation in a technical conference in Vancouver or Toronto and meetings with lawyers, stockbrokers, and geoscientists working in the mineral industry.
Prerequisites: GEGN 401 or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture and seminar; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years when student demand is sufficient.GEOL 516 - ADVANCED MINERAL DEPOSITS - EPIGENETIC HYDROTHERMAL SYSTEMS (II)Geology of mineral systems at a deposit, district, and regional scale formed dominantly by sedimentary and basinal processes. Emphasis will be placed on a systems approach to evaluating metal and sulfur sources, transportation paths, and traps. Systems examined will vary by year and interest of the class. Involves a team-oriented research project that includes review of current literature and laboratory research.
Prerequisites: GEGN 401 or consent of instructor.
1 hour lecture, 5 hours lab; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 519 - ABITIBI GEOLOGY AND EXPLORATION FIELD SCHOOL (II, S)Time-space aspects of metallogenesis in relation to regional and local geological evolution of the earth. Processes leading to the generation of metalliferous hydrothermal mineralizing solutions within tectonic and lithologic frameworks, and to the development of favorable ore-forming environments. Emphasis will be placed on processes responsible for ore genesis in magmatic-hydrothermal systems such as porphyry copper-molybdenum-gold deposits, epithermal precious metal deposits, metamorphogenetic gold deposits, volcanic and sedimentary rock-hosted epigenetic base metal ores and epigenetic sedimentary-rock hosted and unconformity-related uranium deposits.
Prerequisite: GEGN 401 or equivalent, or consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture, 2 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEOL 521 - FIELD AND ORE DEPOSIT GEOLOGY (I, S)Methods of field practices related to mineral exploration and mining. Regional and deposit-scale geology of Archean mineral deposits, including lode gold deposits and volcanic-hossted massive sulfide deposits. Includes mineral prospect evaluation, structural geology, physical volcanology, deposit definition, alteration mapping, mining methods, ore processing, and metallurgy. Core logging, underground stope mapping, open pit mapping, lithogeochemical sampling, and field-analytical techniques. Course involves a seminar in the spring semester that focuses on the geology and deposit types in the area to ve visited. An intense 14-day field trip is run in the summer semester. Each day includes up to 4 hours of instruction in the field and 4 hours of team-oriented field exercises.
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
6 hours lab and seminar; 2 semester hours in spring, 1 semester hour in summer.
Offered alternate years when student demand is sufficient.GEOL 543 - MODERN SEDIMENTS FIELD PROGRAM (S)Field study of major mineral deposit districts inside and outside of the USA. Examines regional and deposit-scale geology. Underground and open pit mine visits and regional traverses. Topics addressed include deposit definition, structural geology, alteration mapping, mining methods, and ore processing. Course involves a seminar in the spring semester that focuses on the geology and deposit types in the area to be visited. An intense 10-14 day field trip is run in the summer semester.
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
6 hours lab and seminar; 2 semester hours in spring, 1 semester hours in summer.
Offered alternate years when student demand is sufficient. Repeatable for credit.GEOL 545 - INTRODUCTION TO REMOTE SENSING (I)Detailed field study of modern transitional and shallow marine environments of sedimentary deposition. Both detrital and carbonate environments are included. Emphasis on energy and mineral resources. Conducted at field locations such as southeastern United States and the Bahamas. Fees are assessed for field and living expenses and transportation.
Prerequisite: Background in sedimentary geology and consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEOL 546 - GEOLOGIC APPLICATIONS OF REMOTE SENSING (II)Theory and application of remote sensing techniques using visible, infrared, and microwave electromagnetic energy. Spectral information from cameras and scanning instruments, including infrared photography, radar imagery, Landsat imagery, and imaging spectroscopy. Survey of applications to geology and global change. Lab interpretation of remote sensing imagery and introduction to digital image processing.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEOL 550 - INTEGRATED BASIN MODELING (I)Application of remote sensing to regional geologic studies and to mineral and energy resource assessments. Study of remote sensing techniques, including spectral analysis, lineament analysis, and digital image processing. Reviews of case studies and current literature. Student participation in discussion required.
Prerequisite: GEOL 545 or consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEOL/GPGN 570 - APPLICATION OF SATELLITE REMOTE SENSING (II)This course introduces students to principal methods in computer-based basin modeling: structural modeling and tectonic restoration; thermal modeling and hydrocarbon generation; and stratigraphic modeling. Students apply techniques to real data set that includes seismic and well data and learn to integrate results from multiple approaches in interpreting a basin's history. The course is primarily a lab course.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. A course background in structural geology, sedimentology/stratigraphy or organic geochemistry will be helpful.
1 hour lecture, 5 hours labs; 3 semester hours.GEOL/GPGN/MNGN 580 - INDUCED SEISMICITY (II)Students are introduced to geoscience applications of satellite remote sensing. Introductory lectures provide background on satellites, sensors, methodology, and diverse applications. One or more areas of applications are presented from a systems perspective. Guest lecturers from academia, industry, and government agencies present case studies focusing on applications, which vary from semester to semester. Students do independent term projects, under the supervision of a faculty member or guest lecturer, that are presented both written and orally at the end of the term.
Prerequisite: PHGN 200, MATH 225, GEOL 309 or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEOL 605 - ADVANCED STRUCTURAL AND TECTONIC PRINCIPLES (I)Earthquakes are sometimes caused by the activities of man. These activities include mining and quarrying, petroleum and geothermal energy production, building water reservoirs and dams, and underground nuclear testing. This course will help students understand the characteristics and physical causes of man- made earthquakes and seismicity induced in various situations. Students will read published reports and objectively analyze the seismological and ancillary data therein to decide if the causative agent was man or natural processes.
Prerequisites: Undergraduate geology and physics.
3 hours lecture, 3 semester hours.
Offered spring semester, odd years.GEOL 606 - ADVANCED STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY (REGIONAL) (II)Seminar discussions on geotectonic principles, mountain patterns and cycles, type regional and areal studies in tectonic style. Comparative tectonics. Includes field work in nearby areas on specific tectonic problems, review of recent literature, and tectonic analysis in mineral and fuel exploration.
Prerequisite: GEOL 309.
2 hours lecture and seminar, 3 hours field; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 607 - GRADUATE SEMINAR (II)Seminar discussion of the world’s main tectonic provinces using modern methods of tectonic analysis; includes discussion of typical structures for each province and thorough review of recent literature. Assigned reports on analysis of regional structural patterns and their possible reproduction experimentally.
Prerequisite: GEOL 605.
3 hours lecture and seminar; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 609 - ADVANCED PETROLEUM GEOLOGY (II)Recent geologic ideas and literature reviewed. Preparation and oral presentation of short papers.
1 hour seminar; 1 semester hour.
Required of all geology candidates for advanced degrees during their enrollment on campus.GEOL 610 - ADVANED SEDIMENTOLOTY (II)Subjects to be covered involve consideration of basic chemical, physical, biological and geological processes and their relation to modern concepts of oil/gas generation (including source rock deposition and maturation), and migration/accumulation (including that occurring under hydrodynamic conditions). Concepts will be applied to the historic and predictive occurrence of oil/gas to specific Rocky Mountain areas. In addition to lecture attendance, course work involves review of topical papers and solution of typical problems.
Prerequisite: GEGN 438 or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEOL 611 - ADVANCED STRATIGRAPHY (II)Keynote lectures and a seminar series on the physical depositional processes, as the basic processes and key restrictions for building stratigraphy. Linkage of physical processes with depositional environments and stratigraphy. Learning the key observations for recognizing depositional environments in outcrops and cores. Linkage to well logs. Seminars, field trips, field labs and report required.
Prerequisite: GEOL 501 or equivalent.
3 hours lecture and seminar; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 613 - GEOLOGIC RESERVOIR CHARACTERIZATION (I or II)Seminar on history and development of stratigraphic concepts and terminology; sedimentary processes and related facies for detrital, carbonate, and evaporite sequences; tectonics and sedimentation; stratigraphic styles in plate tectonic models. Field trips and report required.
Prerequisite: GEOL 314 or equivalent or GEOL 501.
3 hours lecture and seminar; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 614 - PETROLEUM GEOLOGY OF DEEP-WATER CLASTIC DEPOSITIONAL SYSTEMS (I)Principles and practice of characterizing petroleum reservoirs using geologic and engineering data, including well logs, sample descriptions, routine and special core analyses and well tests. Emphasis is placed on practical analysis of such data sets from a variety of clastic petroleum reservoirs worldwide. These data sets are integrated into detailed characterizations, which then are used to solve practical oil and gas field problems.
Prerequisites: GEGN 438, GEOL 501, GEOL 505/605 or equivalents.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEOL 615 - GEOCHEMISTRY OF HYDROTHERMAL MINERAL DEPOSITS (I)Course combines local and regional deep-water sedimentology, sequence stratigraphy, reservoir geology, interpretation of outcrops, reflection seismic records, cores and well logs. Focus is on depositional processes, facies and their interpretation within deep-water depositional systems, turbidite models and their evolution, control of reservoir characteristics and performance, turbidites within a sequence stratigraphic framework, and the global occurrence of turbidite reservoirs. Laboratory exercises on seismic, well log, and core interpretation. Seven day field trip to study classic turbidites in Arkansas and to develop individual field mapping and interpretation projects.
Prerequisites: GEGN 438, GEOL 501 or equivalents.
3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 4 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 616 - SEMINAR IN ECONOMIC GEOLOGY (I, II)Detailed study of the geochemistry of selected hydrothermal mineral deposits. Theory and application of stable isotopes as applied to mineral deposits. Origin and nature of hydrothermal fluids and the mechanisms of transport and deposition of ore minerals. Review of wall-rock alteration processes. Fundamental solution chemistry and the physical chemistry of hydrothermal fluids.
Prerequisite: GEGN 401 or equivalent or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEOL 617 - THERMODYNAMICS AND MINERAL PHASE EQUILIBRIA (I)Each topic unique and focused on a specific mineral deposit type or timely aspect of economic geology. Review of the geological and geographic setting of a specific magmatic, hydrothermal, or sedimentary mineral deposit type. Detailed study of the physical and chemical characteristics of selected deposits and mining districts. Theory and application of geological field methods and geochemical investigations. Includes a discussion of genetic models, exploration strategies, and mining methods.
Prerequisites: GEGN 401 or consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture; 2 semester hours.
Repeatable for credit.GEOL 621 - PETROLOGY OF DETRITAL ROCKS (II)Basic thermodynamics applied to natural geologic systems. Evaluation of mineral-vapor mineral solution, mineral-melt, and solid solution equilibria with special emphasis on oxide, sulfide, and silicate systems. Experimental and theoretical derivation, use, and application of phase diagrams relevant to natural rock systems. An emphasis will be placed on problem solving rather than basic theory.
Prerequisite: DCGN 209 or equivalent or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 624 - CARBONATE SEDIMENTOLOGY AND PETROLOGY (II)Compositions and textures of sandstones, siltstones, and mudrocks. Relationship of compositions and textures of provenance, environment of deposition, and burial history. Development of porosity and permeability. Laboratory exercises emphasize use of petrographic thin sections, x-ray diffraction analysis, and scanning electron microscopy to examine detrital rocks. A term project is required, involving petrographic analysis of samples selected by student.
Prerequisites: GEOL 212 or 210, GEOL 221 or equivalent or consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture and seminar, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.
Offered on demand.GEOL 625 - ADVANCED METAMORPHIC PETROLOGY (I)Processes involved in the deposition of carbonate sediments with an emphasis on Recent environments as analogs for ancient carbonate sequences. Carbonate facies recognition through bio- and lithofacies analysis, three-dimensional geometries, sedimentary dynamics, sedimentary structures, and facies associations. Laboratory stresses identification of Recent carbonate sediments and thin section analysis of carbonate classification, textures, non-skeletal and biogenic constituents, diagenesis, and porosity evolution.
Prerequisite: GEOL 321 and GEGN 314 or consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture/seminar, 2 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEOL 628 - ADVANCED IGNEOUS PETROLOGY (I)Metamorphic processes and concepts, emphasizing physical and chemical controls in the development of mineral assemblages. Petrographic examination of rock suites from representative metamorphic zones and facies. Emphasis on the interrelationships of crystallization and deformation and an interpretation of metamorphic history.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture and seminar, 2 hours lab; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 642 - FIELD GEOLOGY (S)Igneous processes and concepts, emphasizing the genesis, evolution, and emplacement of tectonically and geochemically diverse volcanic and plutonic occurrences. Tectonic controls on igneous activity and petrochemistry. Petrographic study of igneous suites, mineralized and non-mineralized, from diverse tectonic settings.
Prerequisites: GEOL 221, GEOL 212, GEGN 306 or GEGN 307.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEOL 643 - GRADUATE FIELD SEMINARS (I, II, S)Field program operated concurrently with GEGN 316 field camp to familiarize the student with basic field technique, geologic principles, and regional geology of Rocky Mountains.
Prerequisite: Undergraduate degree in geology and GEGN 316 or equivalent.
During summer field session; 1 to 3 semester hours.GEOL 645 - VOLCANOLOGY (II)Special advanced field programs emphasizing detailed study of some aspects of geology. Normally conducted away from the Golden campus.
Prerequisite: Restricted to Ph.D. or advanced M.S. candidates.
Usually taken after at least one year of graduate residence. Background requirements vary according to nature of field study. Consent of instructor and department head is required. Fees are assessed for field and living expenses and transportation.
1 to 3 semester hours; may be repeated for credit with consent of instructor.GEOL 653 - CARBONATE DIAGENESIS AND GEOCHEMISTRY(II)Assigned readings and seminar discussions on volcanic processes and products. Principal topics include pyroclastic rocks, craters and calderas, caldron subsidence, diatremes, volcanic domes, origin and evolution of volcanic magmas, and relation of volcanism to alteration and mineralization. Petrographic study of selected suites of lava and pyroclastic rocks in the laboratory.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
1 hour seminar, 6 hours lab; 3 semester hours.Petrologic, geochemical, and isotopic approaches to the study of diagenetic changes in carbonate sediments and rocks. Topics covered include major near-surface diagenetic environments, subaerial exposure, dolomitization, burial diagenesis, carbonate aqueous equlibria, and the carbonate geochemistry of trace elements and stable isotopes. Laboratory stresses thin section recognition of diagenetic textures and fabrics, x-ray diffraction, and geochemical/isotopic approaches to diagenetic problems.
Prerequisite: GEOL 624 or equivalent or consent of instructor.
4 to 6 hours lecture/seminar/lab; 3 semester hours.
GEGN/GPGN/PEGN 503 - INTEGRATED EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT (I)GEGN/GPGN/PEGN 504 - INTEGRATED EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT (II)Students work alone and in teams to study reservoirs from fluvial-deltaic and valley fill depositional environments. This is a multidisciplinary course that shows students how to characterize and model subsurface reservoir performance by integrating data, methods and concepts from geology, geophysics and petroleum engineering. Activities and topics include field trips to surface outcrops, well logs, borehole cores, seismograms, reservoir modeling of field performance, written exercises and oral team presentations.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEGN/CHGC 509 - INTRODUCTION TO AQUEOUS GEOCHEMISTRY (I)Students work in multidisciplinary teams to study practical problems and case studies in integrated subsurface exploration and development. The course addresses emerging technologies and timely topics with a general focus on carbonate reservoirs. Activities include field trips, 3D computer modeling, written exercises and oral team presentation.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture and seminar; 3 semester hours.GEGN 517 - FIELD METHODS FOR ECONOMIC GEOLOGY (II)Analytical, graphical and interpretive methods applied to aqueous systems. Thermodynamic properties of water and aqueous solutions. Calculation and graphical expression of acid-base, redox and solution-mineral equilibria. Effect of temperature and kinetics on natural aqueous systems. Adsorption and ion exchange equilibria between clays and oxide phases. Behavior of trace elements and complexation in aqueous systems. Application of organic geochemistry to natural aqueous systems. Light stable and unstable isotopic studies applied to aqueous systems.
Prerequisite: DCGN 209 or equivalent, or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEGN 518 - MINERAL EXPLORATION (I)Methods of field practices related to mineral exploration and mining. Lithology, structural geology,alteration, and mineralization vein-type precious metal deposits. Mapping is conducted both underground at the Edgar Test Mine and above ground in the Idaho Springs area. Drill core and rock chips from different deposit types are utilized. Technical reports are prepared for each of four projects. Class is run on Saturday (9 am-4 pm) throughout the semester.
Prerequisites: GEGN 401 or consent of instructor.
6 hours lab and seminar; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years when student demand is sufficient.GEGN 520 - INDUSTRIAL MINERALS AND ROCKS (I)Mineral industry overview, deposit economics, target selection, deposit modeling, exploration technology, international exploration, environmental issues, program planning, proposal development. Team development and presentation of an exploration proposal.
Prerequisite: GEOL 515, GEOL 516, or equivalent.
2 hours lecture/seminar, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.Introduction to the Industrial Minerals industry via appreciation of geologic occurrence, physical and chemical material properties, mining and processing considerations, and marketing of various commodities. Development of skills in preparation of commodity surveys, reserves and resources classifications, and project appraisals. Required field trips to toperational sites and trip reports. Mid-term and final exams. Individual student commodity term project and presentation. Prerequisite: Senior or graduate status in eath resources field or consent of instructor.GEGN/CHGC 527 - ORGANIC GEOCHEMISTRY OF FOSSIL FUELS AND ORE DEPOSITS (II)
3 hours lecture/seminar; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years when student demand is sufficient.GEGN/MNGN 528 - MINING GEOLOGY (I)A study of organic carbonaceous materials in relation to the genesis and modification of fossil fuel and ore deposits. The biological origin of the organic matter will be discussed with emphasis on contributions of microorganisms to the nature of these deposits. Biochemical and thermal changes which convert the organic compounds into petroleum, oil shale, tar sand, coal, and other carbonaceous matter will be studied. Principal analytical techniques used for the characterization of organic matter in the geosphere and for evaluation of oil and gas source potential will be discussed. Laboratory exercises will emphasize source rock evaluation, and oil-source rock and oil-oil correlation methods.
Prerequisite: CHGN 221, GEGN 438, or consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture; 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEGN 530 - CLAY CHARACTERIZATION (I)Role of geology and the geologist in the development and production stages of a mining operation. Topics addressed: mining operation sequence, mine mapping, drilling, sampling, reserve estimation, economic evaluation, permitting, support functions. Field trips, mine mapping, data evaluation exercises, and term project.
Prerequisite: GEGN 401 or GEGN 405 or permission of instructors.
2 hours lecture/seminar, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEGN 532 - GEOLOGICAL DATA ANALYSIS (I or II)Clay mineral structure, chemistry and classification, physical properties (flocculation and swelling, cation exchange capacity, surface area and charge), geological occurrence, controls on their stabilities. Principles of X-ray diffraction, including sample preparation techniques, data collection and interpretation, and clay separation and treatment methods. The use of scanning electron microscopy to investigate clay distribution and morphology. Methods of measuring cation exchange capacity and surface area.
Prerequisite: GEOL 210 or GEGN 306 or equivalent, or consent of instructor.
1 hour lecture, 2 hours lab; 1 semester hour.GEGN 542 - ADVANCED ENGINEERING GEOMORPHOLOGY (II)Techniques and strategy of data analysis in geology and geological engineering: basic statistics review, analysis of data sequences, mapping, sampling and sample representativity, univariate and multivariate statistics, geostatistics, and geographic informations systems (GIS). Practical experience with geological applications via supplied software and data sets from case histories.
Prerequisites: Introductory statistics course (MACS 323 or MACS 530 equivalent); and previous or concurrent enrollment in MACS 532 or permission of instructor.
2 hours lecture/discussion; 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEGN 570 - CASE HISTORIES IN GEOLOGICAL ENGINEERING AND HYDROGEOLOGY (I)Application of quantitative geomorphic techniques to engineering problems. Map interpretation, photointerpretation, field observations, computer modeling, and GIS analysis methods. Topics include: coastal engineering, fluvial processes, river engineering, controlling water and wind erosion, permafrost engineering. Multi-week design projects and case studies.
Prerequisite: GEGN 342 and GEGN 468, or graduate standing; GEGN 475 or GEGN 575 recommended.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEGN 571 - ADVANCED ENGINEERING GEOLOGY (I)Case histories in geological and geotechnical engineering, ground water, and waste management problems. Students are assigned problems and must recommend solutions and/or prepare defendable work plans. Discussions center on the role of the geological engineer in working with government regulators, private-sector clients, other consultants, and other special interest groups.
Prerequisite: GEGN 442, GEGN 467, GEGN 468, GEGN 469, GEGN 470 or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEGN 573 - GEOLOGICAL ENGINEERING SITE INVESTIGATION (II)Emphasis will be on engineering geology mapping methods, and geologic hazards assessment applied to site selection and site assessment for a variety of human activities.
Prerequisite: GEGN 468 or equivalent.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEGN 574 - GEOTECHNICAL ASPECTS OF WASTE DISPOSAL (II)Methods of field investigation, testing, and monitoring for geotechnical and hazardous waste sites, including: drilling and sampling methods, sample logging, field testing methods, instrumentation, trench logging, foundation inspection, engineering stratigraphic column and engineering soils map construction. Projects will include technical writing for investigations (reports, memos, proposals, workplans). Class will culminate in practice conducting simulated investigations (using a computer simulator).
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.
GEGN 575 - APPLICATIONS OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (II)Analysis and review of the legal and technical problems surrounding the shallow land burial of waste materials, with special emphasis on hazardous solid waste. Methods of investigation of new and abandoned or inactive waste sites. Measurement of contaminant movement in the ground, design of contaminant and monitoring systems, case histories of field performance, and current research findings.
Prerequisite: GEGN 468 and EGGN 461/EGGN 463.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEGN 576 - FUNDAMENTALS OF VECTOR GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (I, II)An introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and their applications to all areas of geology and geological engineering. Lecture topics include: principles of GIS, data structures, digital elevation models, data input and verification, data analysis and spatial modeling, data quality and error propogation, methods of GIS evaluation and selection. Laboratories will use Macintosh and DOS-based personal computer systems for GIS projects, as well as video-presentations. Visits to local GIS laboratories, and field studies will be required.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.
GEGN 577 - VECTOR GIS ANALYSIS FUNCTIONS (I, II)Fundamentals of relational vector GIS; topological relationships; spatial coordinate systems; data capture and conversion; displaying and correcting errors; mapping precision; spatial data attribute accuracy; and database models. Case studies.
Prerequisite: GEGN 475 or GEGN 575.
2 hours lecture; 2 semester hours.
Offered on demand.GEGN 578 - GIS PROJECT DESIGN (I, II)Classification of relational vector GIS analysis functions; topological relationships; constructing a database; associating attributes with spatial data; relating and joining attribute tables; selecting and manipulating data records; edgematching and merging maps; displaying data; query and analysis functions; topological overlay operations; distance functions. Case studies of spatial analysis projects.
Prerequisite: GEGN 475 or GEGN 575, and GEGN 576.
2 hours lecture; 2 semester hours.
Offered on demand.GEGN 581 - ADVANCED GROUNDWATER ENGINEERING (I)Project implementation of GIS analyses. Projects may be undertaken by individual students, or small student teams. Documentation of all project design stages, including user needs assessment, implementation procedures, hardware and software selection, data sources and acquisition, and project success assessment. Various GIS software may be used; projects may involve 2-dimensional GIS, 3-dimensional subsurface models, or multi-dimensional time-series analyses.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Variable credit, 1-3 semester hours, depending on project.
Offered on demand.GEGN 583 - MATHEMATICAL MODELING OF GROUNDWATER SYSTEMS (II)Lectures, assigned readings, and discussions concerning the theory, measurement, and estimation of ground water parameters, fractured-rock flow, new or specialized methods of well hydraulics and pump tests, tracer methods.
Prerequisite: GEGN 467 or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEGN 585 - HYDROCHEMICAL EVOLUTION AND MODELING OF GROUND-WATER SYSTEMS (I)Lectures, assigned readings, and direct computer experience concerning the fundamentals and applications of finite-difference and finite-element numerical methods and analytical solutions to ground water flow and mass transport problems.
Prerequisite: A knowledge of FORTRAN programming, mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and GEGN 467 or consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEOL 643 - GRADUATE FIELD SEMINARS (I, II, S)Application of hydrologic, geochemical, and isotopic concepts to the natural evolution of groundwater systems. Principles of groundwater evolution in the vadose zone, in evaporative environments, wetlands, unconfined and confined groundwater systems, and areas of interaquifer mixing. Introduction of use of geochemical modeling techniques to constrain problems of mass transfer and mass balance in groundwater systems. Course is designed to provide students with overview of hydrochemistry prior to taking advanced numerical modeling courses in hydrology and geochemistry.
Prerequisites: DCGN 209 and GEGN 467 or equivalent or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEGN 669 - ADVANCED TOPICS IN ENGINEERING HYDROGEOLOGY (I, II)Special advanced field programs emphasizing detailed study of some aspects of geology. Normally conducted away from the Golden campus.
Prerequisite: Restricted to Ph.D. or advanced M.S. candidates. Usually taken after at least one year of graduate residence. Background requirements vary according to nature of field study. Consent of instructor and department head is required. Fees are assessed for field and living expenses and transportation.
1 to 3 semester hours; may be repeated for credit with consent of instructor.GEGN 670 - ADVANCED TOPICS IN GEOLOGICAL ENGINEERING (I, II)Review of current literature and research regarding selected topics in hydrogeology. Group discussion and individual participation. Guest speakers and field trips may be incorporated into the course.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
1 to 2 semester hours; may be repeated for credit with consent of instructor.GEGN 671 - LANDSLIDES: INVESTIGATION, ANALYSIS & MITIGATION (I)Review of current literature and research regarding selected topics in engineering geology. Group discussion and individual participation. Guest speakers and field trips may be incorporated into the course.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEGN 672 - ADVANCED GEOTECHNICS (II)The geological engineer’s role in assessment and design for heavy construction projects from the preliminary site investigation stage through the final design stage. An advanced course for the application of siting and design methods to complex projects.
Prerequisite: GEGN 571 or consent of instructor.
1 hour lecture, 6 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEGN 673 - ADVANCED GEOLOGICAL ENGINEERING DESIGN (II)Geological analysis, design, and stabilization of natural soil and rock slopes and rock foundations; computer modeling of slopes; use of specialized methods in earth construction.
Prerequisite: GEGN 468, EGGN 461/EGGN 463 and MNGN 321.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEGN 675 - ADVANCED TOPICS IN GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS (I, II)Application of geological principles and analytical techniques to solve complex engineering problems related to geology, such as mitigation of natural hazards, stabilization of earth materials, and optimization of construction options. Design tools to be covered will include problem solving techniques, optimization, reliability, maintainability, and economic analysis. Students will complete independent and group design projects, as well as a case analysis of a design failure.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.GEGN 681 - VADOSE ZONE HYDROLOGY (II)Review of current developments and research in specific advanced topics concerning Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology and their applications to all areas of geology and geological engineering. Topics will include 3-dimensional data systems, the problems of 3-dimensional data structures, visualization and rendering of complex geological objects, interactions with analytical models, and the capabilities of new software and hardware.
Prerequisites: GEGN 575 and consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.
Repeatable for credit under different topics.GEGN 682 - FLOW AND TRANSPORT IN FRACTURED ROCK (I)Study of the physics of unsaturated groundwater flow and contaminant transport. Fundamental processes and data collection methods will be presented. The emphasis will be on analytic solutions to the unsaturated flow equations and analysis of field data. Application to non-miscible fluids, such as gasoline, will be made. The fate of leaks from underground tanks will be analyzed.
Prerequisites: GEGN 467 or equivalent; Math through Differential Equations; or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEGN 683 - ADVANCED GROUND WATER MODELING (II)Explores the application of hydrologic and engineering principles to flow and transport in fractured rock. Emphasis is on analysis of field data and the differences between flow and transport in porous media and fractured rock. Teams work together throughout the semester to solve problems using field data, collect and analyze field data, and do independent research in flow and transport in fractured rock.
Prerequisites: GEGN 581 or consent of instructor.
Offered alternate years.
3 hours lecture; 3 credit hours.GEGN 684 - CHEMICAL MODELING OF AQUEOUS SYSTEMS (II)Flow and solute transport modeling including:
- advanced analytical modeling methods
- finite elements, random-walk, and method of characteristics numerical methods
- discussion of alternative computer codes for modeling and presentation of the essential features of a number of codes
- study of selection of appropriate computer codes for specific modeling problems
- application of models to ground water problems
- study of completed modeling projects through literature review, reading and discussion.
Prerequisite: GEOL/CHGC 509 or GEGN 583, and GEGN 585 or consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.GEGN 685 - APPLIED GROUND-WATER MODELING PROBLEM SOLVING (I, II)Provides theoretical background and practical experience in the application of chemical equilibrium and reaction path models to problems in diverse fields of theoretical and applied aqueous geochemistry. Advanced topics in aqueous geochemistry are presented and subsequently investigated using computer simulation approaches. Includes hands-on experience with the software EQ3/6. Instruction is provided in the use of basic UNIX commands. The course progressively builds user ability through a wide variety of applications including problems in thermodynamic data quality evaluation, ore deposition, sediment diagenesis, groundwater evolution, contaminant geochemistry, leachate generation, and enhanced oil recovery treatments. Course ends with student presentations of a chemical modeling study applied to a problem of their choosing.
Prerequisite: GEGN 585 or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture/computer lab; 3 semester hours.Approach to and resolution of technical ground-water modeling problems from industrial applications. Conceptual analysis taught via Socratic Dialectic. Students reproduce, analyze, and resolve each problem. Each class offers new problems and learning experiences, thus the course can be repeated for credit with consent of instructor. By successful completion of this course, students earn certification to advise on the International Ground Water Modeling Center technical support line in a part-time employment mode.
Prerequisite: GEGN 583 or consent of instructor.
2 hours recitation alternate weeks; 3 hours lab every week; 2 credit hours.
CHGC 503 - INTRODUCTION TO GEOCHEMISTRY (I)CHGC 504 - METHODS IN GEOCHEMISTRY (II)A comprehensive introduction to the basic concepts and principles of geochemistry, coupled with a thorough overview of the related principles of thermodynamics. Topics covered include: nucleosynthesis, origin of earth and solar system, chemical bonding, mineral chemistry, elemental distributions and geochemical cycles, chemical equilibrium and kinetics, isotope systematics, and organic and biogeochemistry.
Prerequisite: Introductory chemistry, mineralogy and petrology, or consent of instructor.
4 hours lecture; 4 semester hours.CHGC 505 - INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY(I)Sampling of natural earth materials including rocks, soils, sediments, and waters. Preparation of naturally heterogeneous materials, digestions, and partial chemical extractions. Principles of instrumental analysis including atomic spectroscopy, mass separations, and chromatography. Quality assurance and quality control. Interpretation and assessment of geochemical data using statistical methods.
Prerequisite: Graduate standing in geochemistry or environmental science and engineering.
2 hours lecture; 2 semester hours.CHGC 506 - WATER ANALYSIS LABORATORY(I)Detailed discussion of the moreimportant mechanisms of organic reaction. Structural effects and reactivity. The application of reaction mechanisms to synthesis and structure proof.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.CHGC/GEGN 509 - INTRODUCTION TO AQUEOUS GEOCHEMISTRY (I)Instrumental analysis of water samples using spectroscopy and chromatography. Methods for field collection of water samples and field measurements. The development of laboratory skills for the use of ICP-AES, HPLC, ion chromatography, and GC. Laboratory techniques focus on standard methods for the measurement of inorganic and organic constituents in water samples. Methods of data analysis are also presented.
Prerequisite: Introductory chemistry or consent of instructor.
3 hours laboratory; 1 semester hour.CHGC 511 - GEOCHEMISTRY OF IGNEOUS ROCKS (II)Analytical, graphical, and interpretive methods applied to aqueous systems. Thermodynamic properties of water and aqueous solutions. Calculation and graphical expression of acid-base, redox and solution-mineral equilibria. Effect of temperature and kinetics on natural aqueous systems. Adsorption and ion exchange equilibria between clays and oxide phases. Behavior of trace elements and complexation in aqueous systems. Application of organic geochemistry to natural aqueous systems. Light stable and unstable isotopic studies applied to aqueous systems.
Prerequisite: DCGN 209 or equivalent, or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.GEGN/CHGC527 - ORGANIC GEOCHEMISTRY OF FOSSIL FUELS AND ORE DEPOSITS (II)A survey of the geochemical characteristics of the various types of igneous rock suites. Application of major element, trace element, and isotope geochemistry to problems of their origin and modification.
Prerequisite: Undergraduate mineralogy and petrology or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.CHGC 555 - ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIC CHEMISTRY (II)A study of organic carbonaceous materials in relation to the genesis and modification of fossil fuel and ore deposits. The biological origin of the organic matter will be discussed with emphasis on contributions of microorganisms to the nature of these deposits. Biochemical and thermal changes which convert the organic compounds into petroleum, oil shale, tar sand, coal, and other carbonaceous matter will be studied. Principal analytical techniques used for the characterization of organic matter in the geosphere and for evaluation of oil and gas source potential will be discussed. Laboratory exercises will emphasize source rock evaluation, and oil-source rock and oil-oil correlation methods.
Prerequisite: CHGN 221, GEGN 438, or consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture; 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours
Offered alternate years.CHGC/CHGN 562 - MICROBIOLOGY AND THE ENVIRONMENTA study of the chemical and physical interactions which determine the fate, transport and interactions of organic chemicals in aquatic systems, with emphasis on chemical transformations of anthropogenic organic contaminants.
Prerequisites: A course in organic chemistry and CHGN 503, Advanced Physical Chemistry or its equivalent, or consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.
Offered on demand.CHGC 563 - ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY (I)This course will cover the basic fundamentals of microbiology, such as structure and function of procaryotic versus eucaryotic cells; viruses; classification of micro-organisms; microbial metabolism, energetics, genetics, growth and diversity; microbial interactions with plants, animals, and other microbes. Additional topics covered will include various aspects of environmental microbiology such as global biogeochemical cycles, bioleaching, bioremediation, and wastewater treatment.
Prerequisite: ESGN 301 or consent of Instructor.
3 hours lecture, 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.CHGC 564 - BIOGEOCHEMISTRY AND GEOMICROBIOLOGY (I)An introduction to the microorganisms of major geochemical importance, as well as those of primary importance in water pollution and waste treatment. Microbes and sedimentation, microbial leaching of metals from ores, acid mine water pollution, and the microbial ecology of marine and freshwater habitats are covered.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
1 hour lecture, 3 hours lab; 2 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.CHGC 610 - NUCLEAR AND ISOTOPIC GEOCHEMISTRY (II)Designed to give the student an understanding of the role of living things, particularly microorganisms, in the shaping of the earth. Among the subjects will be the aspects of living processes, chemical composition and characteristics of biological material, origin of life, role of microorganisms in weathering of rocks and the early diagenesis of sediments, and the origin of petroleum, oil shale, and coal.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.CHGC 699A - SELECTED TOPICS IN GEOCHEMISTRY (I, II)A study of the principles of geochronology and stable isotope distributions with an emphasis on the application of these principles to important case studies in igneous petrology and the formation of ore deposits. U, Th, and Pb isotopes, K-Ar, Rb-Sr, oxygen isotopes, sulfur isotopes, and carbon isotopes included.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
3 hours lecture; 3 semester hours.
Offered alternate years.CHGC 699B - SPECIAL TOPICS IN AQUEOUS AND SEDIMENTARY GEOCHEMISTRY (I, II)Detailed study of a geochemical topic under direction of a member of the staff. Work on the same or a different topic may be continued through later semesters and additional credits earned.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
1 to 3 semester hours.CHGC 699C - SPECIAL TOPICS IN ORGANIC AND BIOGEOCHEMISTRY (I, II)Detailed study of a specific topic in the area of aqueous or sedimentary geochemistry under the direction of a member of the staff. Work on the same or a different topic may be continued through later semesters and additional credits earned.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
1 to 3 semester hours.CHGC 699D - SPECIAL TOPICS IN PETROLOGIC GEOCHEMISTRY (I, II)Detailed study of a specific topic in the areas of organic geochemistry or biogeochemistry under the direction of a member of the staff. Work on the same or a different topic may be continued through later semesters and additional credits earned.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
1 to 3 semester hours.Detailed study of a specific topic in the area of petrologic geochemistry under the direction of a member of the staff. Work on the same or a different topic may be continued through later semesters and additional credits earned.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
1 to 3 semester hours.
GXGN 571 - GEOCHEMICAL EXPLORATION (I, II)Dispersion of trace metals from mineral deposits and their discovery. Laboratory consists of analysis and statistical interpretation of data from soils, stream sediments, vegetation, and rock in connection with field problems. Term report required.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab; 3 semester hours.