Summer 2009

Introduction to Geological Field Methods

Introduction to Geological Field Methods (GEOL 4120) is a three-credit course (semester system) for students with little or no field experience. It is designed as a preparatory course for Geology Field Course.

Introduction to Geological Field Methods is designed to give students a background in field geology.

The course will teach note taking in the field, proper use of Brunton compass, measuring and describing rock sections by several methods and degrees of detail, plus small area mapping of several types of terrain with topographic maps, aerial photos, and tape and compass maps. Reports, sections, and maps will be produced from the field notes. 

Students entering Geological Field Methods must have completed Physical and Historical Geology and Sedimentology and Mineralogy.

ALL WORK is completed by the termination of this course.

Geology Field Course

Geology Field Camp (GEOL 4960), a six credit course (semester system) is structured to teach students the hands-on mechanics of field work and in-office preparation of reports and maps.

Geology Field Course is an intermediate-level course designed for students who have completed Introduction to Field Methods and who are able to proceed into more advanced mapping, analysis and interpretation of local and regional field geology. 

Experience is gained by preparing maps using aerial photos, topographic maps, Brunton compass, plus GPS information in both field and office. Exercises are performed in mapping and structural interpretations in sedimentary, igneous, metamorphic, and mineralized areas. Travel into the Colorado Plateaus and Basin and Range provinces is part of the field experience.

Students entering Geology Field Course must have completed courses in Physical and Historical Geology, Sedimentology, Mineralogy, Structural Geology, and Introduction to Field Methods. If there is a question of background, contact Dr. Mark Colberg.

ALL WORK is completed by the termination of this course.

Cost
The course fee for Introduction to Geological Field Methods is $1015 .  The course fee for Geology Field Course is $1925 .  These fees include tuition, student fees, class transportation while at camp and use of most equipment (Brunton compass, pocket stereo, Jacob Staff, tapes, aerial photos, topographic maps, clipboard, hard hat, safety glasses, and GPS units).  There is also a one time $40.00 admission fee to the University.

Housing and Food

For Housing, contact: www.suu.edu/ss/housing.  Food is separate.

Faculty
The Faculty attending each session will be Dr. Mark Colberg, Dr. Eric Roberts and Professor Phillip Moore.

Facilities
Headquarters for this course is the campus of Southern Utah University. Facilities include dormitories, physical education facilities, computer laboratory, and other typical campus facilities.

Personal Equipment
Each student will need at least the following personal equipment: a geology pick, 10X hand lens, day pack, hydration gear, sturdy hiking shoes, and field clothes. The terrain will be rough and the weather hot. Proof of medical insurance coverage for the duration of the field courses is required.

Health Insurance
A personal health insurance policy is strongly encouraged as you are not covered by the University during non classroom hours.

Area Information
Southern Utah University is located in the heart of one of the world's most varied geological areas. The campus is situated at the western edge of the Colorado Plateaus and the eastern edge of the Basin and Range provinces. The base location is a beautiful, modern university campus only 64 miles from Zion National Park, 76 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park, and 22 miles from Cedar Breaks National Monument. It is within easy driving distance of Grand Canyon, Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef and Great Basin National Parks, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and Las Vegas.

How to Apply

Get the application forms
For additional information write to:
          Dr. Mark R. Colberg
          Summer Geology Field Course
          Southern Utah University
          Cedar City, Utah 84720-2498

E-mail: colberg@suu.edu
Fax: (435) 865-8051
Phone: (435) 586-8331

Applications should be completed and received at SUU by April 17, 2009.