OCC Earth Science Courses
GSC 1530: Introductory Geology
This four credit laboratory science course introduces
the student to the physical and chemical processes that shape the Earth. Topics
covered include plate tectonic theory; mineral formation; rock and mineral identification;
igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rock-forming processes; weathering and
soils; mass wasting; groundwater and stream processes; deserts and glaciers;
global change; rock deformation; and energy and mineral resources. A one-half
day and all-day field trip are required. There is no prerequisite. A $30 laboratory
fee is required. Day and evening sections of this course are routinely offered
during the Fall, Winter, and Summer 1 semesters.
GSC 1620: Introduction to Environmental Geology
This four credit laboratory science course introduces
the student to how geological processes affect people and their physical environment.
Topics covered include the hazards associated with earthquakes, volcanic eruptions
and landslides; the effect of volcanism on local and global climates; the formation
and exploitation of water, soil, mineral and energy resources; the disposal
of wastes and accompanying pollution; the link between geology and human health;
and land use planning. No prerequisite required. A $30 laboratory fee is required.
An evening section of this course is typically offered during the Fall and Winter
semesters at the Auburn Hills campus and a day section is offered during the
Fall semester.
FSN 1500: Foundations of Natural and Life Sciences
This four credit non-laboratory science course
emphasizes the nature and interdependency of fundamental concepts in astronomy,
biology, chemistry, ecology, geology, mathematics and physics. This is an excellent
course for non-science majors that do not require a laboratory science course
to graduate but must complete a science course. No prerequisite, no course fee.
An evening and day section of this class is offered during the Fall and Winter semesters
at the Auburn Hills campus; sections are also routinely offered at the Orchard
Ridge Campus.
The following courses have been deactivated
and do not appear in the College catalog. They can only be offered if sufficient
student interest warrants their reactivation. If you have an interest in either
of these courses, please contact Dr. Larry Kodosky at 248-232-4538.
GSC 1500: Geological Processes and Real Estate
Evaluation
This three credit general interest lecture course
reviews how geological materials and processes influence the safety and value
of residential property. The information provided will allow individuals to
make more knowledgeable home purchase and marketing decisions. Topics covered
include: indoor air quality concerns, water quality concerns, the potential
for residence structural damage from reactive minerals, the risks to property
associated with mass wasting and ground subsidence, the risks associated with
floodplain and lakefront properties, and the effects of local/regional environmental
contamination on property safety and value. No prerequisite, no course fee.
This course is usually only offered at the Auburn Hills campus during the Winter
semester.
GSC 1540: Historical Geology
This four credit laboratory science course studies
the evolution of the major land forms and life on Earth; local features will
be studied by at least three field trips which are required in addition to the
lecture and laboratory. No prerequisite, but a $20 laboratory fee is required.
This course will likely be offered in the future only if a sufficient number
of students requests it.
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