Summer 2010

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 to give students a background in field geology and serves as a preparatory course for the Geology Field Course..

Introduction to Geological Field Methods will teach note taking in the field, proper use of Brunton compass, measuring and describing sedimentary rock sections, plus small area mapping of several types of terrain with topographic maps, aerial photos, and tape and compass methods. Reports, sections, and maps will be produced from the field notes. 

Students entering Geological Field Methods must have completed courses in Physical and Historical Geology and Sedimentology, Mineralogy, and Structural Geology.

Geology Field Course

Geology Field Camp (GEOL 4960), is a six credit course (semester system) structured to teach students the hands-on mechanics of field work and the preparation of geologic maps, cross sections and reports.  This is an advanced level course designed for students who have completed a course in introductory field methods and who are able to proceed into more advanced mapping, analysis and interpretation of geologically complex terrains.

Experience is gained by preparing maps using aerial photos, topographic maps, the Brunton compass, and GPS methodologies.  Honing observational and interpretive skills is stressed.  . Exercises include work in sedimentary, igneous, metamorphic and mineralized terrains.  Field trips into areas of the Colorado Plateau, and parts of the Basin and Range enhance the experience.

Students entering Geology Field Course must have completed courses in Physical and Historical Geology, Sedimentology, Mineralogy, Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology, Structural Geology, and Introductory Field Methods.

Cost
The course fee for Introduction to Geological Field Methods is $1058 .  The course fee for Geology Field Course is $2052 .  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.

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 16, 2010.