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University of Calgary Calendar 2023-2024 COURSES OF INSTRUCTION Course Descriptions G Geology GLGY
Geology GLGY

For more information about these courses contact the Department of Earth, Energy, and Environment: science.ucalgary.ca/earth.

Junior Courses
Geology 201       Principles of Geoscience
Composition and internal structure of the Earth; surface processes; internal processes and global tectonics; rocks and minerals, topographic and geologic maps.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 201 and any of 209, 376 or 471 will not be allowed.
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Geology 202       Applications of Geoscience
Applications of geology and geophysics to the study of earthquakes, volcanoes and other geologic hazards; natural resources; environmental management; human impact on the Earth and global change.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 201.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 202 and 203 will not be allowed.
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Geology 209       Introduction to Geology
Basic concepts regarding the major features of Earth; its rock and mineral composition, processes controlling erosion, deposition and surface structures; formation of mountains, ocean basins and continents; internal structure of the Earth and plate tectonics.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-0)
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 209 and 201 will not be allowed.
Notes:
Not open for credit to Honours, Majors or Minors in Geology, Geology (Petroleum Geology Concentration), Applied and Environmental Geology, Geophysics, Environmental Science (Geology Concentration) or Natural Sciences (Geoscience Concentration).
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Geology 297       Topics in Geology
Lectures and study in geological sciences.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-0) or (3-1T)
Notes:
This course is not part of the Field of Geology.
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT
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Senior Courses
Geology 301       Geology of the Mountain Regions of Western Canada
Selected topics encountered in introductory physical geology will be pursued in greater depth in order to explain the geology of Western Canadian Mountain Parks and adjacent areas.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-0)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 201 or 209.
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Geology 305       Introduction to Dinosaurs
Biology, evolution, and extinction of dinosaurs; geographic and temporal distribution, habitats, and ecology of the various dinosaur groups; preservation, exploration, collection, preparation, and identification of dinosaur fossils.
Course Hours:
3 units; (2-1T)
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Geology 307       Geological History of Life
The history of life from the earliest records to the present. Fossils, geological time, extinction, basic paleontology. The rise and development of various animals and plants including dinosaurs, mammals and humans.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-0)
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Geology 308       Geology and Human Health
An overview of human health issues related to geological phenomena. Examples of possible topics include medical geology, heavy metals in groundwater, effects of volcanic eruptions, effects of asbestos-type minerals, acid mine drainage and soil nutrient deficiencies.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-0)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 201 or 209.
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Geology 313       Mineralogy
The chemical and physical properties of the common minerals in the context of the common rock types; introduction to crystallography; optical properties of minerals; introduction to mineral associations and rock textures in hand samples and thin sections; introduction to analytical techniques (XRD, electron microprobe, etc.).
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 202; and Chemistry 201 or 211; and 3 units from Mathematics 249, 265 or 275; and Physics 211 or 221.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 313 and 423 will not be allowed.
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Geology 323       Geochemical Processes
Focus is on chemical processes taking place in geological settings with emphasis on the abundance relationships of the elements in the Earth and the processes governing the differentiation, migration and distribution of the elements. Discussions include mineral, rock and aqueous chemistry; applications of radiogenic and stable isotopes; thermodynamics and phase diagrams; biogeochemistry and organic geochemistry; analytical techniques; applications and case studies.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 313; and Chemistry 201 or 211; and Chemistry 203 or 213.
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Geology 333       Igneous, Metamorphic and Ore Rocks and Processes
Origin, identification, classification and interpretation of igneous and metamorphic rocks. Including common rock types, mineral assemblages and textures in hand samples and thin section, volcanic and plutonic processes and conditions, thermo-chemical conditions of metamorphic rock formation, introduction to ore deposits and ore minerals in hand sample, Canadian examples of ore deposits, tectonic settings of igneous, metamorphic and ore rocks.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 313; and Chemistry 201 or 211; and Chemistry 203 or 213.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 333 and 311 will not be allowed.
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Geology 337       Introduction to Geologic Field Methods
Study of various rock types and sediment exposures focusing on recognition and description of rock types, construction of geological maps and cross-sections and measurement of stratigraphic sections. Field skills will include map interpretation, navigation, and measuring planar and linear features.

Course Hours:
3 units; (96-120 hours)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 333, 343, and 381.
Notes:
This course occurs in rugged field conditions and varying weather, for which participants must be prepared and equipped. A supplementary fee will be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course. Students will require consent of the department to drop this course.
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Geology 338       Virtual Geological Mapping and Techniques
Virtual study of various rock types and sediment exposures using computational tools to focus on the recognition and description of rock types, construction of geological maps and cross-sections, and measurement of stratigraphic sections.
Course Hours:
3 units; (60–80 hours)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 333, 343, and 381.
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Geology 343       3D Geologic Structures and Methods
Methods of 3D geologic data collection, manipulation and interpretation. Special emphasis on maps and cross sections and the geometric methods and data types used to understand and work with 3D geologic relationships. Course will emphasize hands-on exercises and teach the application of: geologic maps, subsurface data; relative dating; cross-cutting relations, and 3D visualization of the architecture of geological bodies and surfaces and their relationship to causative processes.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 381.
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Geology 353       Surficial Systems
Overview of the geomorphologic and hydrologic processes that operate on and just beneath the Earth’s surface. Includes hydrology (precipitation, evaporation, soil water, ground water, and their interaction in watersheds), surface processes (erosion, weathering, rivers, glaciers, Quaternary geology, landforms); engineering properties of surface materials; applications (including aggregates and water as resources, geotechnical issues, water quality, etc.).
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 202; and Chemistry 203 or 213; and Physics 223; and Physics 211 or 221; and Mathematics 267 or 277.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 353 and 373 will not be allowed.
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Geology 376       Geology, Engineering, and the Environment
The principles and methods of physical geology with special emphasis on their application in dealing with civil engineering and environmental problems. Laboratory: properties of minerals and rocks, analysis and interpretation of geological maps, photogeology and seismic refraction in site investigation problems.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to the Schulich School of Engineering.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 376 and 201 will not be allowed.
Notes:
Students who have completed this course may visit the Undergraduate Science Centre to have Geology 376 used in lieu of Geology 201 for prerequisite purposes.
Also known as:
(formerly Geology 471)
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Geology 377       Petroleum Engineering Geology
The principles and methods of physical geology with special emphasis on their application to the exploitation of oil and gas. Laboratory: properties of minerals and rocks, analysis and interpretation of surface and subsurface maps, interpretation of borehole logs and core, properties of sedimentary rocks.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to Schulich School of Engineering.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 377 and 201 will not be allowed. This course is not open to Geology majors.
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Geology 381       Sedimentary Rocks and Processes
Origin, identification, classification and interpretation of sediments, siliciclastic, carbonate and evaporite rocks. Study of sediment/rock components (minerals), fossils and textures in hand sample and thin section; sedimentary structures and processes; introduction to depositional environments; burial, lithification and diagenesis; applications, including introduction to basin analysis/tectonics, exploration for water and petroleum resources, etc.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 202; and 3 units from Chemistry 201, 211, 203 or 213; and Physics 211 or 221.
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Geology 401       Physical Hydrogeology
Hydrologic cycle, conservation principle, Darcy's Law, groundwater flow systems, aquifer testing, soil hydrology, effective stress, land subsidence, solute transport.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-2)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 202; and Mathematics 267 or 277; and Physics 211 or 221.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 401 and 601 will not be allowed.
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Geology 403       Aqueous Geochemistry
Theoretical and applied aspects of aqueous solution chemistry. Topics include: methods for collection and preservation of water samples in the field, laboratory analysis of waters, theory and application of aqueous thermochemical models.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 323.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 403 and 503 will not be allowed.
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Geology 431       Igneous Petrology
Petrogenesis of igneous rocks using field data, geochemistry and experiments. Application of igneous petrology to Earth processes and evolution.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 323 and 333.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 431 and either 443 or 531 will not be allowed.
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Geology 433       Metamorphic Petrology
Petrogenesis of metamorphic rocks. Application of metamorphic petrology to Earth processes and evolution.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 323 and 333.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 433 and either 443 or 533 will not be allowed.
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Geology 435       Field Methods
Field-based study of relevant geoscience topics. Skills development in the collection, description, analysis and interpretation of geological information in the field, and in the communication of field data and results.
Course Hours:
3 units; (80-100 hours)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 337.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 435 and either Geology 437 or 439 will not be allowed.
Notes:
A maximum of 6 units may be taken. This course occurs in rugged field conditions and varying weather, for which participants must be prepared and equipped. It may occur outside Canada. A supplementary fee will be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course. Students will require consent of the department to drop this course. 
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT
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Geology 441       Field Techniques in Hydrogeology
Entails a week at a hydrogeology field site in Alberta or British Columbia. Hydrogeology and geotechnical techniques will be demonstrated and will involve hands-on participation by students. After the field work, students will conduct extensive analysis and interpretation of data gathered during the field session, complete exercises and prepare a written report.
Course Hours:
3 units; (80-100 hours)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 401.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 441 and 639 will not be allowed.
Notes:
This course occurs in rugged field conditions and varying weather, for which participants must be prepared and equipped. A supplementary fee will be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course. Students will require consent of the department to drop this course. 
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Geology 445       Structural Geology
Mechanical principles involved in the deformation of rocks; classification of tectonic structures in stratified and non-stratified rocks; manipulation of structural data and its predictive use. Includes basic kinematics, dynamics, rheology, and descriptive structural geology. Also includes a strong lab component emphasizing 3D problem solving, structural analysis, and the use of geologic data sets to construct geologic cross-sections.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 343.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 445 and 341 will not be allowed.
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Geology 463       Siliciclastic Sedimentology
Depositional and diagenetic facies models applied to main depositional settings for siliciclastic sedimentary rocks, based on both modern and ancient examples. Investigation of the linkages between provenance, deposition, stratigraphic stacking and diagenesis of siliciclastic rocks, and how these factors affect the quality of subsurface fluid reservoirs.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 313, 323, and 381.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 463 and 461 will not be allowed.
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Geology 475       The Geological Record of Global Change
Geochemical relationships among the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere will be examined. Topics include the carbon cycle, chemical weathering, mid-ocean ridge hydrothermal activity, past changes in seawater chemistry, stable isotopes, climate change.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-0)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 202; and Chemistry 201 or 211; and Chemistry 203 or 213.
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Geology 483       Carbonate Sedimentology
Petrography of carbonate sediments and their biotic and abiotic constituents. Ocean chemistry of carbonate systems and ocean acidification. Sedimentological, biological and climatic significance of modern and ancient carbonates. Warm- and cool-water carbonate factories. Lacustrine, peritidal, neritic, reef, slope, and pelagic environments. Diagenesis, dolomitization and carbonate reservoirs.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 323, 381 and 493.  
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 483 and either 461 or 583 will not be allowed.
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Geology 493       Evolution of Earth through Life and Time
Origin and evolution of life within the framework of evolution of continents, oceans and atmosphere. Processes and signature of life. Concepts and patterns of evolutionary biology/paleobiology, extinctions, and diversity of life forms. Morphology and taxonomy of fossil groups and geological applications.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 381.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 493 and 491 will not be allowed.
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Geology 505       Contaminant Hydrogeology
Chemical and biological processes in surface water and groundwater systems. Topics include: water quality, contaminant transport and dispersal, fluid-sediment interactions, remediation of contamination. Techniques will include the use of thermochemical models, numerical modelling of contaminant migration, and examination of case studies.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 401 or 601; and Geology 403 or 503.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 505 and 609 will not be allowed.
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Geology 509       Independent Study
A written report based on independent study. Originality is emphasized, laboratory and field studies are encouraged.
Course Hours:
3 units; (0-9)
Prerequisite(s):
Science 311; and consent of the Department and of a departmental faculty member.
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT
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Geology 510       Senior Thesis
A written report based on extensive independent study. Originality is emphasized, laboratory and field studies are encouraged.
Course Hours:
6 units; (0-9)
Prerequisite(s):
Science 311; and consent of the Department and of a departmental faculty member who will act as a supervisor.
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Geology 523       Advanced Mineralogy
Crystal chemistry of important mineral groups. Relations between structure, property, and composition. Common structure types and their use in understanding complex minerals. Elements of symmetry, space groups, X-ray diffraction techniques, and introduction to crystal structure determination and refinement using experimental data sets and extensive use of computers. Emphasis is on the interpretation and application of results to solving problems in Earth Sciences.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 313 or 423; and 78 units.
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Geology 527       Ore Deposits
Processes of formation of metallic ore and diamond ore deposits. Classification of ores based on petrologic association. Introduction to ore microscopy.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 431 or 433.
Notes:
This course may include an experiential learning field experience in the form of a weekend field trip.
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Geology 535       Early Earth Evolution
Geological evolution in the early stages (Precambrian) of Earth's history including planetary accretion, core formation, evolution of mantle and differentiation of bulk silicate earth, evolution of continental crust and its tectonic mechanisms, evolution of continental mantle lithosphere, evolution of atmosphere and hydrosphere, geologic record of early life, etc. Current geochemical and geodynamic models that attest to these events in the geological record will be explored.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-2S)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 431 or 433.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 535 and 599.18 (Early Earth Evolution) will not be allowed.
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Geology 537       Advanced Field Methods
Field-based study of complex geoscience topics. Advanced skills development in one or more aspects of field data collection, portrayal, description, analysis, and interpretation. Field work will normally be conducted away from Calgary in the spring or summer semester (destinations vary).
Course Hours:
3 units; (80-100 hours)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 337 and consent of the Department.
Notes:
This course occurs in rugged field conditions and varying weather, for which participants must be prepared and equipped. It may occur outside Canada. A supplementary fee will be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course. Students will require consent of the department to drop this course. 
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Geology 541       Advanced Structural Geology
Structural features of complexly folded strata; advanced fold and fault analysis; simple statistical analysis of data; structural analysis; applications to exploration and exploitation; cross-sections and balancing; advanced map interpretation; tectonics; neotectonics.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 445 or 341; and 78 units.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 541 and 641 will not be allowed.
Notes:
This course may include an experiential learning field experience in the form of a weekend field trip.
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Geology 545       Petroleum Geology Field School
Description and analysis of sedimentary rocks in the field with the objective of recognizing and developing analog models for basin- and field-scale subsurface fluid reservoirs. Consideration of the range of factors affecting reservoir quality e.g. depositional settings, stratigraphy, diagenesis, deformation, etc.
Course Hours:
3 units; (80-100 hours)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 337.
Notes:
This course occurs in rugged field conditions and varying weather, for which participants must be prepared and equipped. A supplementary fee will be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course. Students will require consent of the department to drop this course. 
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Geology 555       Global Tectonics
Global aspects of plate tectonics and regional geology through time. Application of fundamental stratigraphic and structural principles. Contributions of geophysics, geochemistry, experimental and theoretical petrology to the modern plate tectonic model. Analysis and interpretation of major structural provinces as they relate to plate boundary interactions.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-2S)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 431; and Geology 493 or 491.
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Geology 561       Sequence Stratigraphy
Integrated approach to the study of genetic stratigraphic sequences and their bounding surfaces, linked to facies analysis of clastic and carbonate successions. Principles of sequence stratigraphy and applications to petroleum reservoirs.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 343, 381 and 78 units.
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Geology 571       Engineering Geology
The role of geology in engineering problems. Characterization of rock, rock masses and soil. Mechanical behaviour of geologic material. Investigation methods and case histories.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 343; and Physics 211 or 221; and Mathematics 267 or 277.
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Geology 577       Introduction to Petroleum Geology
Fundamental concepts of petroleum geology from deposition/maturation of source rocks to hydrocarbon generation, migrate on and accumulation. Principles of hydrocarbon production, introduction to techniques of subsurface geological analysis applied to the evaluation and quantification of oil and gas reservoirs.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 445; and 3 units from Geology 463, 483 or Geophysics 457.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 577 and any of 575, 589.01 (Aqueous Fluids), 589.02 (Petroleum Fluids), 589.07 (Analy Tech for Petro Geochem), 589.08 (Petro Generation & Migration), 591, 595.01 (Petro Glgy III Core Exam), 596, 689.01 (Aqueous Fluids), 689.02 (Petroleum Fluids), 689.07 (Analytical Techniques for Petroleum Geochemistry), 689.08 (Petroleum Generation Migration), 694.01 (Adv Petroleum Geol III Core Ex), 694.03 (Reservoir Evaluation and Hydrocarbon Play Assessment), 696, will not be allowed.
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Geology 579       Basin Analysis
Origin of basin subsidence, basin fills and petroleum systems. Basins in their geodynamic environment. Physical state of the lithosphere. Basins due to lithospheric stretching, flexure, and strike-slip deformation. Effects of mantle dynamics. Sediment provenance and routing system. Basin stratigraphy. Subsidence and thermal history. Petroleum basins from around the world.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 381, 445, 493 and Geophysics 351.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 579 and 595.05 (Basin Analysis) will not be allowed.
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Geology 581       Advanced Petroleum Geology
Principles and applications of the characterization of petroleum systems, reservoirs and their fluids with a focus on unconventional resources. Methods of reservoir characterization, log analysis, subsurface mapping and the evaluation of reservoir heterogeneity with respect to geological characteristics and fundamental fluid flow related reservoir and fluid properties. Also examines subsurface CO2 storage and other routes to eliminating CO2 emissions from fossil fuel use as well as looking at the role of geoscience in energy recovery innovation and technology development.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 577.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 581 and any of 575, 589.01 (Aqueous Fluids), 589.02 (Petroleum Fluids), 589.07 (Analy Tech for Petro Geochem), 589.08 (Petro Generation & Migration), 591, 595.01 (Petro Glgy III Core Exam), 596, 689.01 (Aqueous Fluids), 689.02 (Petroleum Fluids), 689.07 (Analytical Techniques for Petroleum Geochemistry), 689.08 (Petroleum Generation Migration), 694.01 (Adv Petroleum Geol III Core Ex), 694.03 (Reservoir Evaluation and Hydrocarbon Play Assessment), 696 will not be allowed.
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Geology 587       Invertebrate Paleobiology
Advanced study of selected groups of invertebrate fossil groups, micro- and macrofossils, with extensive presentation of various aspects related to morphology, fossilization, taxonomy, classification, biostratigraphical distribution, evolution, extinction, and industry applications. The lab component includes direct study on each of the fossil groups and advanced biostratigraphy exercises.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 493 or Zoology 401.
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Geology 597       Geostatistics
Statistical analysis of spatial data, multivariate data analysis, regression, variogram analysis, kriging, co-kriging and stochastic simulation.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Mathematics 211; and Mathematics 267 or 277; and 78 units.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 597 and 697 will not be allowed.
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Geology 599       Contemporary Topics in Geology
Courses are offered in contemporary topics in areas such as geochemistry, hydrogeology, mineralogy, paleontology, petroleum geology, petrology, quantitative geology, sedimentology, structural geology, and surficial geology.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-0) or (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
78 units and consent of the Department.
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT
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Graduate Courses

Graduate students are urged to read the Department of Earth, Energy, and Environment section in the Graduate Studies calendar. Only where appropriate to a student's program may graduate credit be received for courses numbered 500-599. Courses numbered 600 are available to fourth-year students who obtain Departmental approval and who have credit for the prerequisite courses.

Geology 601       Advanced Physical Hydrogeology
An advanced treatment of topics covered in Geology 401.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-2)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 601 and 401 will not be allowed.
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Geology 602       Advanced Aqueous Geochemistry and Environmental Microbiology
An advanced treatment of Aqueous Geochemistry and Environmental Microbiology.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.  
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 602 and either of 403 or 699.10 will not be allowed.
Notes:
This course includes field work in potentially rugged conditions and varying weather, for which participants must be prepared and equipped. A supplementary fee will be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course.
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Geology 605       Groundwater Flow and Reactive Transport Modelling
Review of the partial differential equations and boundary conditions that describe groundwater flow and transport. Introduction to numerical methods. The course emphasizes the practical aspects of building groundwater and transport models using computer exercises and a groundwater modelling project.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-2T)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 401 or 601.
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Geology 609       Advanced Contaminant Hydrogeology
An advanced treatment of topics covered in Geology 505.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 609 and 505 will not be allowed.
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Geology 611       Groundwater Resource Management
Advanced topics related to groundwater resource development and management, including exploration methods, aquifer test analysis, aquifer-aquitard systems, groundwater recharge, and the role of models. Fundamental issues related to regional integrated management of water resources.
Course Hours:
3 units; (2-2)
Prerequisite(s):
Mathematics 253 or 267 or 277 or 283 or Applied Mathematics 219 and Geology 401 or Geography 415.
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Geology 615       Advanced Laboratory Methods in Geoscience
An overview of analytical methods (XRD, SEM, FESEM, EPMA, XRF, ICP-MS, MS, organic geochemical analyses, etc.) in geoscience and their applications. The course will provide the theoretical background of the techniques as well as opportunities for practical experience. Particular emphasis will be placed on analytical techniques available within the department.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 615 and 699.57 will not be allowed.
Notes:
Students must complete appropriate safety training prior to commencing lab related work.
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Geology 623       Modern Diffraction and Scattering Techniques
Space groups and principles of X-ray, neutron, and electron diffraction and their applications. Crystal structure determination and refinement using single crystal and Rietveld methods. X-ray and neutron scattering techniques (using the Pair Distribution Function, PDF) to examine local disorder in nano-materials and glasses. Phase transition and structural evolution with pressure, temperature, and composition. Analyses of experimental data sets and extensive use of computers.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 523.
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Geology 633       Advanced Petrologic Methods
Theoretical and applied problems in petrology, including some or all of: numerical techniques in petrology, phase equilibria, geothermometry and geobarometry, kinetics in petrology, physics and chemistry of magmatic processes. Laboratory will consist of petrographic study of rock suites.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 543.
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Geology 637       Advanced Geoscience Field Studies
Application of advanced concepts and/or methods to field problems of current interest.
Course Hours:
3 units; (80-100 hours)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 633 and any of 435, 537 or 545 will not be allowed.
Notes:
A maximum of 6 units may be taken.
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT
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Geology 639       Field Laboratory in Groundwater Hydrogeology
Entails a week at a hydrogeology field site in Alberta or British Columbia. Hydrogeology and geotechnical techniques will be demonstrated and will involve hands-on participation by students. After the field work, students will conduct extensive analysis and interpretation of data gathered during the field session, complete exercises and prepare a written report. Relative to Geology 441, Geology 639 requires more sophisticated analyses of data and additional exercises.
Course Hours:
3 units; (80-100 hours)
Prerequisite(s):
Geology 401 or 601 and admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 639 and 441 will not be allowed.
Notes:
This course has limited enrolment. This course occurs in rugged field conditions and varying weather, for which participants must be prepared and equipped. A supplementary fee will be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course. Students will require consent of the department to drop this course.              
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Geology 641       Advanced Structural Methods
Analysis of mesoscopic and megascopic structural data; the construction and analytical use of cross-sections, subsurface maps and 3-dimensional models; structural analysis of the Canadian Cordillera.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 641 and 541 will not be allowed.
Notes:
There may be a week-end field excursion during the term.
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Geology 647       Geology Well Log Applications
Geological applications of petrophysical well logs and integration with core descriptions and core analysis data. Derivation of reservoir properties from single-well and multi-well studies.
Course Hours:
3 units, (2-2-2T)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 647 and any of Geology 449, 699.71, or Geophysics 449 will not be allowed.     
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Geology 655       Unconventional Gas Reservoir Characterization and Evaluation
Overview of the unique storage and production mechanisms associated with coalbed methane, tight gas and shale gas reservoirs; adsorbed gas storage and modelling; gas-in-place determination and volumetric reserves estimation; material balance techniques; fracture and matrix flow mechanisms; completion/stimulation methods; reservoir characterization methods including core analysis, rate-transient and pressure-transient analysis; exploration and development concepts.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-0)
Prerequisite(s):
Petroleum Engineering 523 and admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 655 and 699.37 will not be allowed.
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Geology 660       Advanced Sequence Stratigraphy
Concepts and application of sequence stratigraphy to seismic, outcrops, cores, and well logs, with a focus on siliciclastic depositional systems.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 660 and either of 561 or 699.34 will not be allowed.
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Geology 663       Applications of Stable Isotopes
Application of stable isotope techniques with special focus on Hydrogeology, Geology and Environmental Sciences. The use of isotopes to understand the water, carbon, nitrogen and sulphur cycles is demonstrated. Topics include hydrology, paleoclimates, geothermometry, fossil fuels exploration and recovery, pollutant tracing, food webs, forensic investigations, among others.
Course Hours:
3 units; (2-1)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Also known as:
(Physics 663)
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Geology 670        Independent Study
A written report based on laboratory and field studies, or literature review is required.
Course Hours:
3 units; (0-6)
Prerequisite(s):
Consent of the Department.
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT
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Geology 675       Advanced Topics in Dinosaur Paleontology
Topics related to the paleobiology, paleoecology, and paleoenvironments of the Dinosauria will be covered.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-0)
Prerequisite(s):
Consent of the Department or enrolment in a paleontology-based graduate program.
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Geology 683       Advanced Carbonate Sedimentology
Advanced coverage of carbonate sedimentology, including the origin of carbonate sediments, modern and ancient, and their depositional and diagenetic environments.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 683 and either Geology 483 or 699.02 will not be allowed.
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Geology 697       Advanced Geostatistics

Advanced treatment of the topics covered in Geology 597.


Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Mathematics 253 or 267 or 277 or 283 or Applied Mathematics 219 and Mathematics 211.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 697 and 597 will not be allowed.
Notes:
Completion of Mathematics 331 and/or Statistics 357 or 327 is recommended prior to taking this course.
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Geology 698       Reservoir Characterization for Field Development
A team-based, integrated reservoir description experience working with geophysical, geological, petrophysical, and engineering data to produce a field development plan.
Course Hours:
6 units; (3-0)
Prerequisite(s):
Chemical Engineering 621 and Geology 697 and Organizational Behaviour and Human Resources 789, and admission to the Master of Science in Geoscience with Reservoir Characterization Specialization.
Also known as:
(Chemical Engineering 698)
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Geology 699       Selected Topics in Geology
Courses are offered in specific topics in areas such as geochemistry, hydrogeology, mineralogy, paleontology, petroleum geology, petrology, quantitative geology, sedimentology, structural geology, and surficial geology.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3) or (3-0)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT
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Geology 705       Graduate Skills in Geoscience
Provides incoming graduate students with an overview of professional skills that are key to success in graduate school and beyond. Presentation skills, writing scientific manuscripts, the peer review process, defence and candidacy exams, intellectual property and innovation, and networking basics.
Course Hours:
3 units; (3-3)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate-level Geoscience program or consent of the Department.
Antirequisite(s):
Credit for Geology 705 and 699.56 will not be allowed.
Also known as:
(Geophysics 705)
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Geology 707       Geology and Geophysics of Western Canada
Topics include stratigraphy, sedimentology, structure, petrology, geophysics and economic geology. Laboratories contain a field component.
Course Hours:
3 units; (2-2)
Prerequisite(s):
Admission to a graduate program in Geoscience.
Notes:
This course includes an optional overnight field trip in potentially rugged conditions and varying weather, for which participants must be prepared and equipped. A supplementary fee will be assessed to cover additional costs associated with this course. 
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