Geology –

sci245

(3 credits)

This course gives an overview of physical geology by introducing concepts such as plate tectonics and geologic time. Students gain familiarity with the processes that shape the earth's surface and recognize the relevance of studying geology. Topics include the rock cycle, weathering, formation of geological features, and preservation of geological resources.

This undergraduate-level course is 9 weeks. To enroll, speak with an Enrollment Advisor.

Topics and Objectives

Introduction to Earth and Plate Tectonics
- Describe basic concepts of geology.
- Identify the evolutionary processes of Earth.
- Use techniques to identify minerals.
- Describe the theory of plate tectonics.
Geologic Time and Sedimentary Rocks, Part I
- Compare ways of evaluating geologic time.
- Explain the role of fossils in the development of the Geologic Column.
- Explain the role of plate tectonics in the origin of sedimentary rock.
- Distinguish between the effects of weathering and erosion.
Geologic Time and Sedimentary Rocks, Part II
- Compare ways of evaluating geologic time.
- Explain the role of fossils in the development of the Geologic Column.
- Explain the role of plate tectonics in the origin of sedimentary rock.
- Distinguish between the effects of weathering and erosion.
Igneous and Metamorphic Rocks, Part I
- Explain the role of plate tectonics in the origin of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
- Compare extrusive and intrusive igneous rocks.
- Compare faults and folds.
- Interpret structures from topographic and geologic maps.
Igneous and Metamorphic Rocks, Part II
- Explain the role of plate tectonics in the origin of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
- Compare extrusive and intrusive igneous rocks.
- Compare faults and folds.
- Interpret structures from topographic and geologic maps.
Water, Desert, and Climate, Part I
- Explain the pathways of the hydrologic cycle.
- Describe processes involved with creating desert landscapes.
- Describe the effects of glacial action on land formation.
- Hypothesize the future effect of climate change on the Earth.
Water, Desert, and Climate, Part II
- Explain the pathways of the hydrologic cycle.
- Describe processes involved with creating desert landscapes.
- Describe the effects of glacial action on land formation.
- Hypothesize the future effect of climate change on the Earth.
Earth’s Resources and Geological Regions, Part I
- Identify historical events influenced by the depletion of natural resources.
- Distinguish between renewable and nonrenewable resources.
- Assess the use of fossil fuels and minerals.
- Apply basic geologic concepts to geologic features.
Earth’s Resources and Geological Regions, Part II
- Identify historical events influenced by the depletion of natural resources.
- Distinguish between renewable and nonrenewable resources.
- Assess the use of fossil fuels and minerals.
- Apply basic geologic concepts to geologic features.

The University of Phoenix reserves the right to modify courses.
While widely available, not all programs are available in all locations or in both online and on-campus formats. Please check with a University Enrollment Advisor.
Transferability of credit is at the discretion of the receiving institution. It is the student’s responsibility to confirm whether or not credits earned at University of Phoenix will be accepted by another institution of the student’s choice.

Geology –

sci245

Introduction to Earth and Plate Tectonics

Geologic Time and Sedimentary Rocks, Part I

Geologic Time and Sedimentary Rocks, Part II

Igneous and Metamorphic Rocks, Part I

Igneous and Metamorphic Rocks, Part II

Water, Desert, and Climate, Part I

Water, Desert, and Climate, Part II

Earth’s Resources and Geological Regions, Part I

Earth’s Resources and Geological Regions, Part II

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