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Rensselaer Catalog 2018-2019 [Archived Catalog]
Courses
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ENVE 6250 - Bench Scale Design
The design and operation of different laboratory experiments to provide experience for the environmental engineer in the practical application of chemical and biological theory. Design parameters are developed via bench scale testing. Topics include biological treatment, ion exchange, test for total carbon in a solid waste and PARR bomb calorimeter, soil columns, and microbial respirometry.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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ENVE 6300 - Bioremediation of Hazardous and Toxic Compounds
Lecture course stresses multidisciplinary approaches to the use of microbial system for biotransformation and biodegradation of toxic and hazardous material. Topics include biodegradability, enzymatic transformations, microbial ecology, and properties of organic and inorganic compounds, in situ and ex situ engineering techniques. Real world design examples and projects are introduced. Permission of instructor is required.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: ENVE 4350 or equivalent.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 3
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ENVE 6360 - Geomicrobiology
This course examines relationships between microorganisms and Earth processes. Topics include the origins of life on Earth, surface metabolism theory, biological and biochemical benchmarks. Earth is considered as a microbial habitat and is emphasized the lithosphere and hydrosphere, including soils, seawater, lakes, rivers, and groundwater. Geomicrobial processes, including microbial conversion of inorganics and metals and mineralization of organics, are discussed. Molecular and non-molecular methods for detection, isolation, and identification of geo-microbially active organisms are introduced.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Permission of instructor.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: Credit cannot be obtained for both ENVE 6360 Geomicrobiology and ENVE 4360 Geomicrobiology.
Credit Hours: 3
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ENVE 6910 - Colloquium Series
Seminars by distinguished guest speakers and graduate students on current problems in environmental and energy engineering. A broad range of subjects is covered. All undergraduates and graduates are strongly encouraged to attend as many lectures as possible.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Credit Hours: 0
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ENVE 6940 - Studies in Environmental Engineering
Credit Hours: 1 to 4
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ENVE 6960 - Topics in Environmental Engineering
Credit Hours: 1 to 4
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ENVE 6970 - Professional Project
Active participation in a semester-long project, under the supervision of a faculty adviser. A Professional Project often serves as a culminating experience for a Professional Master’s program but, with departmental or school approval, can be used to fulfill other program requirements. With approval, students may register for more than one Professional Project. Professional Projects must result in documentation established by each department or school, but are not submitted to the Office of Graduate Education and are not archived in the library. Grades of A, B, C, or F are assigned by the faculty adviser at the end of the semester. If not completed on time, a formal Incomplete grade may be assigned by the faculty adviser, listing the work remaining to be completed and the time limit for completing this work.
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ENVE 6980 - Master’s Project
Active participation in a master’s-level project, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a master’s project report. Grades S or U are assigned at the end of the semester. If recommended by the adviser, the master’s project may be accepted by the Office of Graduate Education to be archived in the library.
Credit Hours: 1 to 9
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ENVE 6990 - Master’s Thesis
Active participation in research, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a master’s thesis. Grades of S or U are assigned by the adviser each term to reflect the student’s research progress for the given semester. Once the thesis has been presented, approved by the adviser, and accepted by the Office of Graduate Education, it will be archived in a standard format in the library.
Credit Hours: 1 to 9
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ENVE 9990 - Dissertation
Active participation in research, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a doctoral dissertation. Grades of IP are assigned until the dissertation has been publicly defended, approved by the doctoral committee, and accepted by the Office of Graduate Education to be archived in a standard format in the library. Grades will then be listed as S.
Credit Hours: 1 to 12
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ERTH 1010 - Planet Earth I: The Solid Earth
Age and origin of the Earth, internal constituents, and energy sources; how plates move, oceans develop, resources accumulate, and mountains rise. Gives nonspecialists a picture of the Earth’s major processes and the ways in which they interact to provide the world’s citizens with adequate material resources. Lectures and recitation. (Students cannot obtain credit for both ERTH 1010 and ERTH 1100.)
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 1020 - Planet Earth II: Oceans and Atmosphere
An overview of the Earth’s surface processes and environment. Nature and interactions between the major oceanic, atmospheric, and terrestrial systems. Interrelations between geology, the environment, and human activities. Geologic and environmental implications, constraints, and opportunities for past, present, and future human populations and cultures. Short-and long-term benefits and consequences of actions or inaction.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 1030 - Natural Sciences I
The sciences of the natural world, focusing primarily upon physics and chemistry but including some discussion of relevant topics in astronomy and planetary science. Both classical and modern concepts are treated, at scales ranging from the atom to the universe, and an effort is made to instill an appreciation for the nature of science and the scientific method. Examples are used as appropriate to illustrate the value of science in everyday life. The course is designed for students in nontechnical fields; engineering and science majors will not be allowed to register. (Note: Natural Sciences II does qualify as a science distribution requirement for some science majors.)
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 3
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ERTH 1040 - Natural Sciences II
The sciences of the natural world, focusing primarily on the earth and life sciences. The course addresses the origin, evolution, and current state of our planet, and examines the earth as a life-supporting system. Specific examples of developments in scientific thinking are used to illustrate connections among the various disciplines comprising the natural sciences. The course is designed for nonscience majors, and cannot be used by students majoring in one of the bio-or geosciences to fulfill a distribution requirement. This restriction does not apply to students majoring in computer science, mathematics, chemistry, or physics.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: ERTH 1030 or recent course work in basic physics and chemistry.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 1100 - Geology I: Earth’s Interior
Age and origin of the Earth, internal constituents and energy sources; how plates move, oceans develop, and mountains rise. The course aims to give a quantitative picture of the Earth’s major processes and the ways in which they interact.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 3
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ERTH 1150 - Geology I: Earth’s Interior Lab
This lab focuses on geological processes in the interior of Earth and how they are manifested at the surface: age and origin of Earth, how rocks form, large scale Earth processes, and energy sources. Review plate tectonics and the evolution of the main features of Earth’s surface. Physical and chemical composition of Earth and the large scale dynamics of the planet.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: ERTH 1100 corequisite (preferred) or prerequisite.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 1
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ERTH 1200 - Geology II: Earth’s Surface
The geological environment of humankind: the atmosphere, oceans, groundwater, rivers, glaciers, deserts, and soils. The course explores the processes by which these and other features develop and change, both naturally and as a result of human activity.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 3
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ERTH 1250 - Geology ll: Earth’s Surface Lab
The lab provides an introduction to analytical approaches, measurements, and observations used by geoscientists to advance our understanding of natural surface earth, hydrologic, and atmospheric processes and the influence of human activities.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: ERTH 1200 corequisite (preferred) or prerequisite.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 1
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ERTH 2100 - Introduction to Geophysics
An introduction to various aspects of the study of the physics of the Earth. Stress and strain, deformation, isostasy, seismic waves, earthquakes, Earth structure, resource exploration, Earth dynamics, plate tectonics, mountain building, gravity and geodesy, magnetic field, and heat flow. Included are weekly labs and occasional field exercises.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: ERTH 1100.
When Offered: Spring term odd-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 2120 - Structural Geology
Introduction to stress and strain; observation, measurement, recording, and interpretation of rock structures including joints, faults, folds, and fabrics. Interpretation of structures from geologic maps. Structures and regional tectonics. Laboratory and field trips required.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: ERTH 2210 or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 2140 - Introduction to Geochemistry
An introduction to the application of chemistry to problems in the Earth and Environmental Sciences. Topics include thermodynamics and phase equilibria as applied to mineral stability, rock evolution, and water chemistry; stable isotope systematics; radiogenic isotope systematics; trace element geochemistry, organic geochemistry, and geochemical cycles.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed as CHEM 2540. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and CHEM 2540.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 2160 - Introduction to Geobiology
This course focuses on the co-evolution of life with Earth’s systems and targets students in Earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics. Topics include the emergence and early evolution of life on Earth, the environmental limits of life, microbial and metabolic evolution; the role of life in moderating global elemental cycles; earliest records of life; evolution of photosynthesis and the Great Oxidation Event; fossilization and evolution of complex life; mass radiations, mass extinctions and global changes.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: ERTH 1100 recommended but not required. A student cannot get credit for both ERTH 2160 and BIOL 2160.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Cross Listed: BIOL 2160.
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ERTH 2210 - Field Methods
Principles and methods of geologic mapping. Use of instruments. Selected field problems. Several field trips (usually on weekends) required. This is a communication-intensive course.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: ERTH 1100 or ERTH 1200 or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 3
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ERTH 2330 - Earth Materials
Overview of the chemical and physical properties of the material constituents of the Earth and terrestrial planets, including minerals, rocks, lavas, and supercritical water. Topics include mineral structure and composition, bonding, optical properties, phase transformations, stabilities and surface properties. Mineral resources and the role of minerals in the man-made environment is also discussed. Intended for students interested in learning about the constituents of planet Earth and the techniques used in their characterization (both traditional and modern) at various scales.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: ERTH-1100 Geology I or ERTH 1200 Geology II.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 2610 - Oceanography
Ocean basins and margins; origin, distribution, chemistry, and history of sediments; physical and chemical properties of seawater; global atmospheric and oceanic circulations and climatic interactions.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: CHEM 1100 and PHYS 1100 or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Fall term even-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 2620 - Current Topics in Earth Science
This course provides the student with a formal participation in the weekly colloquium series of the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. These colloquia involve lectures on a wide variety of topics in the geologic and environmental sciences primarily by outside investigators who are currently active in those fields. (Students may take this course a maximum of two times for credit.)
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: geology or environmental science majors only or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Credit Hours: 1
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ERTH 4070 - Sedimentology/Stratigraphy
Formation and interpretation of sediments and sedimentary rocks, including the processes and depositional environments that form them. Analysis of sedimentary sequences, recent sedimentary environments, and their ancient analogs. Principles of correlation. Includes labs and field trips (several one-day field trips on weekends will be required).
Prerequisites/Corequisites: ERTH 1100 and/or ERTH 1200 recommended, but not required; CHEM 1100/1110, or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Fall term odd-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4180 - Environmental Geology
A consideration of technical and scientific aspects of key geo-societal issues. Case studies and analysis of current and historic data bases will be used to illustrate topics including, but not limited to, climate modification, energy resources, future energy, water resources, water pollution, and health risks posed by lead, mercury, and emerging pollutants.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4190 - Environmental Measurements
Modern methods used in analysis of environmental samples for monitoring and research purposes. Standard and advanced techniques of air, water, sediment, and soil analysis are covered including spectrometric and chromatographic methods.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Permission of the instructor required.
When Offered: Fall term odd-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4200 - Applied Micropaleontology
This course will encompass marine, freshwater, and terrestrial microfossils (with emphasis on foraminifera), including taxonomy, evolutionary history, ecology and paleoenvironments, and a broad spectrum of micropaleontological applications, such as sea-level and climate reconstructions, geochemical analyses, oil industry research and production, and forensic geology. This course will also cover concepts of biostratigraphy and micropaleontological applications to stratigraphic correlation and time scale construction. Extensive hands-on microscope and labwork will be required.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: ERTH 1200, ERTH 2610 are strongly recommended. Permission of the instructor is required.
When Offered: Fall term even-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4340 - Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
Introduction to the observation and interpretation of igneous and metamorphic rocks in outcrop, hand sample, and thin sections. Processes of melting, solidification and migration of magmas; solid state recrystallization and pressure-temperature histories. Heat flow and regional crustal dynamics. Laboratory and field trips required.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: ERTH 2330 and ERTH 2140.
When Offered: Spring term even-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4400 - Xinformatics
Informatics covers a broad range of disciplines addressing challenges in the explosion of data and information resources. Xinformatics provides commonality for implementations in specific disciplines (e.g. X=astronomy, geology). Informatics’ theoretical bases are information and computer science, cognitive science, social science, library science, aggregating these studies and adding the practice of information processing, and the engineering of information systems. This course grounds the material that students will learn in discipline areas by coursework and project assignments. Students cannot obtain credit for more than one of ITWS or ERTH or CSCI 4400.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: CSCI 1200, ERTH or CSCI 4960.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: ITWS/CSCI 4400 and ITWS/CSCI/ERTH 6400.
Credit Hours: 3
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ERTH 4500 - Earth’s Climate: Past, Present, and Future
Overview of physical components of Earth’s climate system; builds on this foundation by examining the roles of both natural Earth system processes and anthropogenic influences in determining Earth’s climate and climate changes in the past, present, and future. Initial focus is on recent and future climate change. Remainder of course will emphasize the study and reconstruction of climates and climate change through geologic history.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: CHEM 1100/1110, or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4510 - Origins of Life: A Cosmic Perspective
To understand the origin of life is a fundamental goal of science. This course discusses evidence for important prebiotic molecules in the clouds from which new planetary systems are born, and compares cosmic and terrestrial sources of such molecules on the primitive Earth. The course is multidisciplinary, covering topics in physics, astronomy, chemistry, earth sciences, and biology.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: ASTR 2050 or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: ASTR 4510. Student may not obtain credit for both ASTR 4510 and ERTH 4510.
Credit Hours: 3
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ERTH 4540 - Organic Geochemistry
A broad survey of organic geochemistry suitable for students with a strong chemistry background who are majoring in science or engineering. Topics include the transport and fate of organic pollutants and the geochemistry of natural organic compounds in oceans, lakes, sediments, and soils.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: CHEM 2250 and ERTH 1200 or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Spring term even-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4560 - Isotope Geochemistry
Fundamentals of Isotope geochemistry as applied to biogeochemical systems in modern and ancient environments. This course covers the principles of both radiogenic and stable isotope distribution, decay, and transfer through earths exchangeable reservoirs. This course will emphasize stable isotopes, equilibrium and kinetic isotope fractionation, distribution, isotope mass balance, and using these systems to track global biogeochemical cycles in the modern environment and in deep time. Meets with ENVE 4560.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: CHEM 1100 or permission of instructor; ERTH 1100 recommended but not required.
Cross Listed: ENVE 4560. Students may not receive credit for ERTH 4560 and ENVE 4560.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4570 - Solid Earth Geophysics
The course covers the physics of the Earth’s interior, including a survey of its evolution, rotation, gravity and tides, seismicity, internal heat, magnetism, and tectonics.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: ERTH 1100 or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Upon sufficient demand.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4650 - Seismology
Introduction to the causes, consequences, and uses of vibrations in the Earth. Topics include elastic wave propagation, earthquake source mechanics, seismic risk analysis, exploration seismology, and tomographic imaging.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: MATH 1020.
When Offered: Spring term on demand.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4690 - Aqueous Geochemistry
Fundamentals of aqueous geochemistry as applied to the evolution of natural waters. Principles of chemical equilibrium, activity models for solutes, acid-base chemistry, redox chemistry, mineral solubility, aqueous complexes, ion exchange, and stable isotopes will be covered. The carbonate system, weathering reactions, and redox chemistry are examined in detail. Students learn theory, the basics of analytical techniques, computation methods, and the use of computer programs for speciation, mass balance and reaction path calculations.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: CHEM 1100 or permission of instructor; ERTH 1100 recommended but not required.
When Offered: Spring term odd-numbered years.
Cross Listed: ERTH 6690 and CHEM 4690. Students cannot obtain credit for more than one of these.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4710 - Groundwater Hydrology
Study of hydrologic, geologic, and other factors controlling groundwater flow, occurrence, development, chemistry, and contamination. Groundwater flow theory and aquifer test methods are introduced. Interactions between surface and subsurface hydrologic systems are covered. Some field trips are possible.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: MATH 1020 or equivalent or permission of the instructor.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Cross Listed: ENVE 4710.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4750 - Geographic Information Systems in the Sciences
Introduction to analysis and interpretation of spatial data and their presentation on maps (using MapInfo software). Concepts of map projections, reference frames, multivariate analysis, correlation analysis, regression, interpolation, extrapolation, and kriging will be covered.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: knowledge of Windows OS.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4810 - Chemistry of the Environment
Chemical processes important in the environment from naturally occurring and man-induced systems. Thermodynamic and chemical considerations of fuels; the thermodynamics of the atmosphere; atmospheric photochemistry; chemistry of natural water systems; chemistry of pesticides, fertilizers, and other important environmental contaminants; aspects of the carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur cycles.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: CHEM 1200 and one prior or concurrent course in organic chemistry or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed as CHEM 4810. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and CHEM 4810.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 4940 - Readings in Geology
Credit Hours: 1 to 4
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ERTH 4960 - Topics in Geology
Credit Hours: 1 to 4
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ERTH 4970 - Out-of-Classroom Experience in Earth Sciences
Credits are earned while the student gains practical experience in applying skills to working in a private company or government agency in an area relevant to the student’s educational goals. Requires a written proposal and final report.
Credit Hours: 2 to 4
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ERTH 4980 - Undergraduate Research Thesis
Independent field experience for undergraduates. Requires a written proposal and final report.
Credit Hours: 2 to 4
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ERTH 6300 - Advanced Metamorphic Petrology
In-depth analysis of metamorphic phase equilibria in pelites, amphibolites, carbonates, and ultramafic rocks. Schreinemakers’ analysis, petrogenetic grids, P-T-X relations, reaction space, geothermometry, geobarometry, and analysis of zoned prophyroblasts. Heat flow, metamorphic, and tectonic evolution. Laboratory involves analysis of textural relations in thin section and computer exercises.
When Offered: Fall term odd-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 6350 - Data Science
Data science is advancing the inductive conduct of science and is driven by the greater volumes, complexity, and heterogeneity of data being made available over the Internet. It combines aspects of data management, library science, computer science, and physical science. It is changing the way all of these disciplines do both their individual and collaborative work. Key methodologies in application areas based on real research experience are taught. This course meets with ERTH/CSCI/ITWS 4350 and ERTH/CSCI/ITWS 6350.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: CSCI 1200 and CSCI 4380.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Cross Listed: CSCI 6350 and ITWS 6350. A student can get credit for only one of these courses.
Credit Hours: 3
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ERTH 6400 - Xinformatics
Informatics covers a broad range of disciplines addressing challenges in the explosion of data and information resources. Xinformatics provides commonality for implementations in specific disciplines (e.g. X=astronomy, geology). Informatics’ theoretical bases are information and computer science, cognitive science, social science, library science, aggregating these studies and adding the practice of information processing, and the engineering of information systems. This course grounds the material that students will learn in discipline areas by coursework and project assignments. Students cannot obtain credit for more than one of ITWS or ERTH or CSCI 6400.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: CSCI 1200, ERTH or CSCI 6960.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: ITWS/CSCI 4400, ERTH 4400, and ITWS/CSCI 6400.
Credit Hours: 3
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ERTH 6540 - Advanced Igneous Petrology
Topical treatment of current problems and frontiers in igneous petrology, with emphasis on physical and chemical processes. Principles of fluid dynamics and chemical kinetics are applied to the formation and evolution of crust-and mantle-derived magmas.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: ERTH 4340.
When Offered: Spring term odd-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 3
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ERTH 6580 - Seminar in Geophysics: Selected Topics
General topics in advanced geophysics vary each time the seminar is offered. Previous subjects covered include crustal deformation, inverse theory, global positioning system, and seismic wave propagation.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
When Offered: Spring term even-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 3
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ERTH 6690 - Aqueous Geochemistry
Fundamentals of aqueous geochemistry as applied to the evolution of natural waters. Principles of chemical equilibrium, activity models for solutes, acid-base chemistry, redox chemistry, mineral solubility, aqueous complexes, ion exchange, and stable isotopes will be covered. The carbonate system, weathering reactions, and redox chemistry are examined in detail. Students learn theory, the basics of analytical techniques, computation methods, and the use of computer programs for speciation, mass balance and reaction path calculations.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: CHEM 1100 or permission of instructor; ERTH 1100 recommended but not required.
When Offered: Spring term odd-numbered years.
Cross Listed: ERTH 4690 and CHEM 4690. Students cannot obtain credit for more than one of these.
Credit Hours: 4
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ERTH 6710 - Advanced Groundwater Hydrology
An intensive study of hydrologic, geologic, and other factors controlling groundwater flow, occurrence, development, chemistry, and contamination. Groundwater flow theory and aquifer test methods are introduced. Interaction between surface and subsurface hydrologic systems are covered. Some field trips are possible. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and ERTH 4710.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: MATH 1020 or equivalent, or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 3
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ERTH 6940 - Readings in Geology
Credit Hours: 1 to 4
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ERTH 6960 - Special Topics in Geology
Topics offered previously: geomagnetism, seismology, mineral equilibria; mineral structures; igneous minerals and rocks; sedimentary processes; marine geology, convergent plate margins, geoexploration, remote sensing applications, seismic stratigraphy; physical oceanography.
Credit Hours: 1 to 4
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ERTH 6970 - Professional Project
Active participation in a semester-long project, under the supervision of a faculty adviser. A Professional Project often serves as a culminating experience for a Professional Master’s program but, with departmental or school approval, can be used to fulfill other program requirements. With approval, students may register for more than one Professional Project. Professional Projects must result in documentation established by each department or school, but are not submitted to the Office of Graduate Education and are not archived in the library. Grades of A, B, C, or F are assigned by the faculty adviser at the end of the semester. If not completed on time, a formal Incomplete grade may be assigned by the faculty adviser, listing the work remaining to be completed and the time limit for completing this work.
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ERTH 6980 - Master’s Project
Active participation in a master’s-level project, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a master’s project report. Grades S or U are assigned at the end of the semester. If recommended by the adviser, the master’s project may be accepted by the Office of Graduate Education to be archived in the library.
Credit Hours: 1 to 9
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ERTH 6990 - Master’s Thesis
Active participation in research, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a master’s thesis. Grades of S or U are assigned by the adviser each term to reflect the student’s research progress for the given semester. Once the thesis has been presented, approved by the adviser, and accepted by the Office of Graduate Education, it will be archived in a standard format in the library.
Credit Hours: 1 to 9
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ERTH 9990 - Dissertation
Active participation in research, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a doctoral dissertation. Grades of IP are assigned until the dissertation has been publicly defended, approved by the doctoral committee, and accepted by the Office of Graduate Education to be archived in a standard format in the library. Grades will then be listed as S.
Credit Hours: Variable
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ESCI 6980 - Master’s Project
Active participation in a master’s-level project, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a master’s project report. Grades S or U are assigned at the end of the semester. If recommended by the adviser, the master’s project may be accepted by the Office of Graduate Education to be archived in the library.
Credit Hours: 1 to 9
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ESCI 6990 - Master’s Thesis
Active participation in research, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a master’s thesis. Grades of S or U are assigned by the adviser each term to reflect the student’s research progress for the given semester. Once the thesis has been presented, approved by the adviser, and accepted by the Office of Graduate Education, it will be archived in a standard format in the library.
Credit Hours: 1 to 9
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ESCI 9990 - Dissertation
Active participation in research, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a doctoral dissertation. Grades of IP are assigned until the dissertation has been publicly defended, approved by the doctoral committee, and accepted by the Office of Graduate Education to be archived in a standard format in the library. Grades will then be listed as S.
Credit Hours: Variable
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GSAS 1040 - Art for Interactive Media
This course combines an introduction to traditional visual arts and digital media and serves as a foundation for work in game design and interactive art. Using studio projects that incorporate physical media, digital imaging and computer code, students develop their formal vocabulary, observational skills, and their understanding of issues in visual and interactive arts.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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GSAS 1600 - History and Culture of Games
This course surveys 5000 years of game history, from ancient Sumer/Sumerian to the latest next-generation consoles and MMOGs. In parallel with this historical tour, several major theories will be examined about the nature of play and the nature of games. Along the way it will also look at how games and play influence the cultures they are found in, and how culture in turn influences how people structure their leisure time will also be considered. This is a communication-intensive course.
When Offered: Fall, spring, and summer terms annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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GSAS 2510 - Introduction to Game Design
This course looks at the mathematics of game theory from a psychological perspective and serves as a primer in video game design. The psychology of players and designers are discussed, as well as the cognitive processes that people use when solving game-related puzzles. Additional topics include logic, human frailty, role playing, artificial intelligence, kinesics, theater, and human-computer interaction.
When Offered: Fall or spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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GSAS 2520 - Introduction to Game Storytelling
This course is designed to provide an overview of the art of effective story development. Students will come away with a heightened awareness of the structures and principles that master storytellers apply to their craft in games and other popular media. It is intended for all GSAS majors and other interested students, as well as the prerequisite for the GSAS concentration in Writing.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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GSAS 4510 - Experimental Game Design
Experimental Game Design is an upper level studio arts course focusing on the creation of innovative, workable game prototypes using a variety of interactive multimedia. Games are considered as a new genre and are analyzed as cultural artifacts. The aesthetics of game design including character development, level design, game play experience, and delivery systems are covered. Flow, game theory, and game play gestalt are considered. Alternate gaming paradigms and emerging forms are encouraged.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: ARTS 1040/GSAS 1040, or ARTS 1020 or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Cross Listed: ARTS 4510.
Credit Hours: 4
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GSAS 4520 - Game Development I
This class is a practical primer for anyone interested in a career in the rapidly evolving industry of video gaming. It is an intense, team-based, project-based course in which students will closely follow the actual game development cycle, with each team producing a complete PC game.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: ARTS 4060.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed with CSCI 4520; students cannot obtain credit for more than one course.
Credit Hours: 4
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GSAS 4540 - Game Development II
This course follows Game Development I. Students work in interdisciplinary teams to create one large-scale 3D game, working from concept to public release. Projects may include games, educational games, serious games and simulations, and interactive artworks, and will focus on creative design, technical execution, and use of game design principles. The course builds on skills and knowledge in previous courses in the GSAS core, including game design, game mechanics, game programming, art, and narrative.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: CSCI 4520/GSAS 4520 Game Development I or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: CSCI 4540.
Credit Hours: 4
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GSAS 4940 - GSAS Research Project
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Credit Hours: 1-4/4-credit version required to satisfy major.
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IENV 1910 - Environmental Seminar
Topical issues in environmental sciences covered in a seminar and discussion format. Seminar includes guest speakers from academics, industry, non-profits, and government who are experts in an array of environment-related fields. Each class includes weekly reading and short writing assignments. A short final research paper is required (~10 pgs.).
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 2
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IENV 2100 - Introduction to Environmental Studies
An introduction to a variety of ways to study the environment, especially science and technology studies, environmental science, and environmental engineering. Case studies and projects emphasize the cooperation of disciplines in addressing local and global environmental issues such as PCBs in the Hudson River, acid rain in the Adirondacks, and population growth.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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IENV 4700 - One Mile of the Hudson River
A course that focuses on the Hudson River Basin as an environmental microcosm and a vehicle through which to illustrate the natural science of river systems with particular attention to human influences. This interdisciplinary environmental science course is for environmentally oriented junior, senior, and graduate students.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: junior, senior, or graduate student status; introductory courses in biology, chemistry, and geology; environmentally oriented humanities/social sciences courses, or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Fall term even-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1010 - Exploring Music @Rensselaer
This course, which is the prerequisite for further courses in music theory and in computer music, is an introduction to the materials of music. Using a variety of examples from classical, popular, and non-western music, the class will introduce concepts of melody, harmony, rhythm, and musical form. Students will use their laptop computers for aural skills practice, notation, and basic recording exercises. Although no musical experience is required for this course, sight singing is one of the important skills to be developed.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1080 - History of Jazz and Improvised Music
The question of “what is jazz” remains a lively and contentious discussion to this day. This course charts the emergence, evolution, and influence of jazz music, as well as the many controversial musical, social, and philosophical questions it continues to provoke. The work of influential figures in American and European improvised music will be examined in detail, and the continuing development of jazz-inspired contemporary practices will be explored.
Through listening, analysis, discussion, writing, and creative projects, students will develop a greater appreciation and understanding of improvised music in a great variety of contexts, and the crucial role American jazz played in revitalizing improvisational practice throughout the 20th and 21st Centuries. By the end of the course, students will be able to identify major figures in jazz and improvised music, identify different styles and eras, and have a basic vocabulary for discussing music both analytically and in personal responses.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1110 - Nature/Society
This course focuses on the social and ecological aspects of humans in the natural world. It emphasizes critical thinking about where humans come from and where they are going as a species. The course draws on historical perspectives and addresses contemporary issues such as climate change, national energy resources, and the local foods movement. The course includes readings as well as student projects, field trips, guest lectures, and “ethnographic” assignments about this consumer society.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: limited to first-year students enrolled in the Vasudha Living and Learning Community, or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1140 - Minds and Machines
This course is an introduction to the philosophy of mind and cognitive science. Students meet in small sections to have class discussions and debates about questions like: What are minds? Are minds physical or non-physical? Do humans have free will? Does reliance on technology turn humans into cyborgs? How close are humans to building an intelligent robot or machine? Do we want this to be a goal? Students will learn how make a philosophical argument, and how to express them in writing or through an oral presentation. This course is communication intensive.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed with PHIL 1120; students cannot obtain credit for both courses.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1220 - IT and Society
Will IT increase prosperity? For whom? What role should governments play in IT development? Do corporations have new responsibilities in the Information Era? What about IT professionals? This course explores the issues, the arguments, and working solutions. The first section examines macro indicators and trends. The second section examines the microeconomics and politics of specific arenas—the software industry, the automated work place, telemedicine, television. The last section explores opportunities for improving society, using IT. This is a communication-intensive course.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed as ITWS 1220. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and ITWS 1220.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1240 - Environment and Politics
Students in this course participate in a series of class debates, presenting and cross-examining the arguments of those who have a stake in various environmental controversies (about energy, toxic chemicals, consumption, etc.). Students also work in groups to design a proposal for a project to help solve an environmental problem. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to develop their own environmental values and ideas. This is a communication-intensive course.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1290 - American Politics in Crisis
Analyzes the workings of major institutions in American society and politics during a period in which key parts of our society seem dysfunctional, having lost their integrity and ability solve problems. Through a careful reading of texts in political science and social criticism, the course covers symptoms, causes, and possible remedies. This is a communication-intensive course.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1300 - Race and Film in U.S. Culture and History
This course will investigate the emergence and transformations of the concept of race in the history and culture of the United States by analyzing films. Hollywood classics will be featured, and will also be contrasted with documentary and independent films. The course will focus on social and political contexts, as well as the film’s critical reception and film form.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1310 - Cultures of Scientific Revolutions
Examines the major transformations of science – including Copernicus and Galileo, the Scientific Revolution, evolutionary theory, relativity theory and quantum mechanics, the Manhattan Project, climate research – from the perspectives of history, philosophy, social science, and literature. Builds understandings of scientific inquiry as a creative activity, inextricable from social and political context.
When Offered: Fall term even years.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1320 - A Century of Environmental Thought
This course examines the emergence of environmental consciousness in the United States throughout the 20th century. Students in this course will study the original writings of some of the most important thinkers and activists in the history of environmentalism, examine the social contexts in which their ideas formed, and consider their relevance to contemporary sustainability issues.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1350 - Law, Values, and Public Policy: Perspectives on Science and Technology
This course examines the interconnections between values and law, seeking to understand how these affect and are affected by science and technology by examining such topics as computers and privacy, medical malpractice, abortion, and other legal conflicts surrounding new reproductive technologies, problems of expert witnesses, sexual harassment, patent infringement, auto safety litigation, and siting of hazardous facilities, among others.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1410 - Century of the Gene
This course details the scientific and social history of genetics, from Darwin and Mendel to the Human Genome Project. Special focus areas include: plant and animal breeding in the early twentieth century; eugenics movements in the U.S. and elsewhere; bacterial and fruit fly genetics; the development of molecular biology; the invention of recombinant-DNA technologies; the emergence of the biotechnology industry; the sociobiology controversies; genetics and evolutionary theory; and the Human Genome Project and contemporary genomics.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1560 - Media and Society
A survey of the historical origins and cultural impact of several mass media, including television, film, radio, the Internet, and print media. The course aims to increase media literacy through analysis of specific media products as well as discussion of broad topics such as: advertising and commercialization; politics and censorship; gender, race, and social identity.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1610 - Product Design and Innovation Design Studio I
The first design studio in the Product Design and Innovation Program introduces students to general design through a series of short projects. The projects stress creative thinking and invention, observation and perception, communication and visualization, sketching, photography, model-making, and especially open-ended exploration.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 1960 - Topics in Interdisciplinary Humanities and Social Science Studies
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 2610 - Product Design and Innovation Studio III
This studio design course focuses on an enriched sense of problem definition through an emphasis on the reach and interconnectedness of technology, and the conditionality of design selection criteria. Its design exercises, readings, and discussion press beyond marginal substitutions toward a broadened sense of possibility from, for example, “hyper cars” and human-powered homes to small-scale local agriculture and extreme ecological living systems. This is a communication-intensive course.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PDI I or PDI II or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 2960 - Topics in Interdisciplinary Humanities and Social Science Studies
Credit Hours: 4
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IHSS 4800 - Experiential Learning Project
This is an individually tailored reading course in which the student does readings and also completes an internship-type field project. The goal is to provide students with immersion in a multicultural milieu involving science and technology issues. Projects include student exchange programs, co-op placement, public service internships, community service, and other individually tailored projects subject to adviser approval. Students are expected to write up a description of their field project that integrates their field experience with the readings.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: completion of other course requirements for the minor.
When Offered: Upon sufficient demand.
Credit Hours: 3
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IHSS 4960 - Topics in Interdisciplinary Humanities and Social Science Studies
Credit Hours: 3
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IHSS 6960 - Topics in Interdisciplinary Humanities and Social Science Studies
Credit Hours: 3
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ISCI 1600 - Materials Science
Introduction to the scientific principles that dictate the structure and properties of engineering materials, including metals, ceramics, semiconductors, and polymers. Physical properties of materials (mechanical, electrical, thermal, optical) are discussed in terms of the underlying structure, spanning multiple length scales from atomic packing to micron scale defects, in practical engineering materials. Throughout the course, the material behaviors are understood from the viewpoint of thermodynamics and kinetics.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: CHEM 1100.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Cross Listed: ENGR 1600, PHYS 1600, and CHEM 1600. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and ENGR 1600, PHYS 1600, or CHEM 1600.
Credit Hours: 4
Contact, Lecture or Lab Hours: 5
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