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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