Geologic, hydrologic, and oceanographic problems and independent studies by means of conferences, assigned readings, and field or laboratory work fitted by ESCI faculty to individual student needs; or new or specialized courses. Topics include geochemistry; geomorphology; geophysics; glaciology; groundwater; structural and regional geology; crystallography; mineralogy; petrology; thermodynamics; ore deposits; earth resource policy; paleontology; sedimentation; stratigraphy; water resources management; chemical, physical, and geological oceanography; earth systems. Also, senior synthesis and earth science teaching methods.

Introduces quantitative tools necessary for upper level Earth Science courses. Incudes basic statistical descriptions of spatially and temporally varying data, curve fitting, and time-series analysis with emphasis on atmospheric, oceanic and terrestrial data sets. Students learn to construct simple numerical models of Earth Systems. Instruction in data and analysis and modeling in Python. One year of calculus and at least one semester of intermediate Earth Science required.

Course focuses on the application of radiogenic, radioactive and stable isotopes to improve students' knowledge about the processes and timescales relevant to the formation of the planet and solar system, the evolution of the Earth system and interactions in the hydrosphere and biosphere. Topics include geochronology, tracer applications, Earth surface applications, as well as applications in the hydrosphere and biosphere. Systems discussed include the classic radiogenic systems (K-Ar, Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, Lu-Hf and U-Th-Pb), traditional (H, C, N, O) as well as nontraditional (e.g., Mg, Ca, Fe) stable isotope systems, and radioactive isotopes (e.g., radiocarbon). Course consists of lecture, where students are exposed to these applications, and a lab section to work through any questions on the homework assignments, discuss relevant papers from the literature, and carry out a project. Lab. One year each of calculus and chemistry required.

This course introduces the basic principles of paleoceanography, such as the preservation of ocean history in sediment archives and the analysis/interpretation of paleoceanographic data. The course focuses on the capabilities and limitations of paleoceanographic techniques, and empowers students to critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of results presented in scientific journals. Topics include Milankovitch cycles, faunal assemblages, temperature and circulation proxies, linear and non-linear responses to climate forcings, abrupt climate events atmospheric teleconnections and monsoons. One year of chemistry and one course in introductory geology required.