DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL, EARTH AND OCEAN SCIENCES — COURSES

Cross-listed Courses

Courses preceded by an “L” are cross-listed with another department or program, as indicated by the parentheses in the course title: for example, “EEOS L120 (ENVSTY L120),” which is cross-listed with the Program in Environmental Studies.

Courses

EEOS 100
The Earth

This course introduces the discipline of geography and uses content material based on national standards for geographic and earth science education. The focus is on the relationships between people and their physical environments. The course also uses the tools of earth and geographic scientists. It is for non-majors only; it introduces prospective teachers of earth science and geography to the field. Students may not earn credit for both EEOS 100 and EEOS 101.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Ms Duncan, Mr Looney

EEOS 101
The Global Environment

An analysis of the physical geographic environment including the globe, the atmosphere and ocean, climate, soils, vegetation, and landform. Positive and negative interaction of human beings with these aspects of the environment is examined where appropriate.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
Distribution II Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Gelpke, Mr Looney, Mr Mensoian

EEOS 102
World Regional Geography

An overview of world regions in terms of physical environment, human populations and the relationship between them. Topics with a focus on diversity are discussed from an international viewpoint and center on particular countries.

Distribution I Area: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
Diversity Area: International.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Ms Duncan, Mr Gelpke, Mr Mensoian

EEOS 110
Earth’s Dynamic Systems

The basic principles of this course are embodied in the rock and hydrologic cycles. It examines the igneous, metamorphic, sedimentary, tectonic, and weathering systems of the rock cycle; and the runoff, glacial, ocean, groundwater, and atmospheric systems of the hydrologic cycle. A laboratory component includes one or more field trips to sites where geological phenomena can be viewed.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 2 Lab Hrs, 4 Credits
Mr Nellis

EEOS 112
Historical Geology

A general survey of the physical evolution of the earth through time from its beginnings to the present. Temporal relationships of mountain-building episodes, economic mineral resources, distribution of continents and ocean basins and paleo-life are among the topics examined. Emphasis is given to methodology and techniques used to ascertain time relationships and how they are applied to the development of a geologic time scale.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Genes

EEOS 115
Environmental Geology

This course examines geological phenomena that adversely affect the human environment. Among the naturally occurring phenomena are earthquakes, weather, climate, volcanoes, tsunamis, landslides, and subsidence and erosion. Topics also include those geological impacts which are the result of human activities, such as subsidence, flooding, soil degradation, and hazardous material contamination.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Looney, Mr Olsen, Mr Nellis

EEOS L120 (ENVSTY L120)
Introduction to Environmental Sciences

This course offers a broad overview of the physical, chemical, biological, and geological principles underlying the environmental sciences. Students are introduced to natural processes and interactions in the atmosphere, in the ocean, and on land. The course focuses on biogeochemical cycling of the elements, as well as on changes in these natural cycles with time, especially recent anthropogenic effects.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
Distribution II Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 1 Disc Hr, 3 Credits
Mr Chen

EEOS 200
Geographic Skills

This course is a comprehensive and laboratory-based introduction to the essential skills of geographic analysis. These include map reading and interpretation (distance, direction, position, patterns); analysis of aerial photographs. especially color infra-red photos (stereo-viewing); and the presentation aspects of mapping, which includes computer-aided mapping on the PC.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 2 Lab Hrs, 4 Credits
Mr Gelpke

EEOS 221
The Urban Physical Environment

An introduction to the physical environment of the city; the factors that limit or constrain human activities and the impacts of man-made conditions on the environment. Topics include: Topography, geology, the urban heat island, water, waste disposal, pollution problems, and planning for reduced hazards and impacts. Labs involve analysis of constraints in one urban area.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 2 Lab Hrs, 3 Credits
Ms Duncan

EEOS 225
Weather and Climate

This course investigates atmospheric processes forming the basis for weather patterns and climatic development on a global scale. Major topics include earth-sun relationships, heating and cooling of the atmosphere, atmospheric circulation, pressure patterns, air mass formation and frontal systems, episodic storms, vertical zonation of climate, and the Koppen System for evaluating and classifying climatic phenomena.

Prerequisite: Sophomore standing.
Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
Distribution II Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Looney, Mr Mensoian

EEOS L226
Introduction to Oceanography

This course offers a broad overview of the historical, geological, chemical, physical, and biological principles of oceanography. The student is introduced to plate tectonics and ocean sediments; waves, tides, and ocean circulation; the chemistry of the ocean and atmosphere; and marine life. Discussions cover the origins, present workings, and future of the oceans.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Looney, Mr Chen, Ms Davis

EEOS 250
Today’s Issues in Environmental Science

Designed for non-science majors, the course explores the complex environmental problems facing our society today. These issues can be placed under three headings: Population, Resources, and Pollution. Worldwide, national and individual perspectives (and actions) are emphasized, and environmental “doom-and-gloom” scenarios are avoided. The course seeks to demonstrate that environmental awareness and citizen concern may result in far-reaching environmental improvements.

Prerequisite: Sophomore standing.
Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
Distribution II Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Gardner, Mr Robinson

EEOS 251
Geography of Latin America

The primary focus of this course is the evaluation of the geographic environment and its relationship to regional differentiation and development. Topics include land tenure and distribution systems, economic integration plans, trade patterns, urbanization, land-use patterns, resource imbalance, industrialization, and spatial integration.

Prerequisite: Sophomore standing.
Distribution I Area: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Mensoian

EEOS 253
Geography of the Middle East and Northern Africa

Evaluation of the geographic environment and its relationship to regional differentiation and development. Topics include land tenure and distribution systems, urbanization, trade patterns, land-use systems, settlement patterns, resource imbalance, and geostrategic theories and implications.

Prerequisite: Sophomore standing.
Distribution I Area: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Mensoian

EEOS 254
Geography of Anglo-America

Evaluation of the geographic environment and its relationship to regional differentiation and development of the U.S. and Canada. Subjects include population distribution, physical factors (landform, climate, soils) which contribute to human patterns of land tenure, economic integration plans, urbanization, industrialization, resource imbalance and spatial differentiation and integration.

Prerequisite: Sophomore standing.
Distribution I Area: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Gelpke

EEOS 260 (ENVSTY L260)
Global Environmental Change

This course examines the cross-disciplinary (astronomical, geophysical, chemical, and biological) interactions and cycles that cause global environmental change and the impact of human activities on natural earth-ecosystem processes, including global warming, pollution, resource use, deforestation, ozone depletion, and biodiversity reduction. The environmental, social, and economic trade-offs associated with policy and management decisions will also be discussed.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
Distribution II Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 credits
Mr Olsen

EEOS 261
Statistics for Earth and Geographic Sciences

This course focuses on fundamental statistical concepts, methods in data analysis and applications to earth and geographic sciences. Topics include frequency distributions and graphic representations, measures of central location, probability distributions of random variables. Chi square test, sample size determination and linear regressions.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Ms Davis

EEOS 265
Computer Applications in Geography

This course teaches the fundamentals and geographic applications of computers. Topics Include components of a computer system and their functions; special hardware requirements for geographic applications; DOS, UNIX, Windows 98, and Windows NT operating systems; software for geographic applications; telecommunications and computer networking; and the uses of computers in spatial analysis, form and process modeling, automated cartography, digital processing and analysis of remote sensing data, and GIS.

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Lab Hrs, 4 Credits
Staff

EEOS L267 (ENVSTY L267)
Introduction to Biological Oceanography/Marine Biology

This course will examine some of the dominant habitats within the marine world in terms of the organisms that inhabit these regions, the biological and chemical processes that are dominant within those environments, and the impact of that habitat on the ocean as a whole and on humans.

Prerequisites: ENVSTY 101 or L120, or BIOL 111 and 112, or permission of the instructor.
Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Ms Urban-Rich

EEOS 270
Urban Geography

This course is an introduction to the spatial analysis of cities from two different perspectives. The first approach views cities as points and focuses on themes of evolutionary distribution, differential growth patterns, Third World urbanization, and the theoretical basis of the size, spacing and function of cities. The second approach views cities as areas and is primarily concerned with the location of people and facilities inside the city. All aspects of the course are applied to the Greater Boston Area.

Prerequisite: Sophomore standing.
Distribution I Area: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Ms Duncan and Staff

EEOS 280
Economic Geography

This course is an introduction to the field of economic geography. Topics include the evolution of the global economy, factors influencing the location of economic activities, and the need for sustainable economies.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Distribution I Area: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Ms Duncan

EEOS 298
Pacific Rim Geography

This course provides students with a geographic context for understanding the Pacific Rim, through exploration of themes significant for certain areas of the Rim. Areas to be studied include Japan; four significant economic powers-Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan; the emerging industrial states of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand; and three countries rich in resources-Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea.

Distribution I Area: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Ms Duncan

EEOS 302
Geomorphology

A topical approach to the analysis of landforms and the processes responsible for their formation. Map and aerial photographic interpretation are used to demonstrate the relationship of underlying structure to destructive and constructive processes at various stages of landform development. Environmental, regulatory, and other applications are discussed.

Prerequisite: EEOS 110, or 101, or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Genes

EEOS 305
Hydrology

Hydrology is the science dealing with the waters of the earth—their occurrence, distribution, circulation, and chemistry. This course introduces students to the physical science of hydrology in the context of its application to real-world problems. Emphasis is placed on understanding the physical processes that form the water cycle (precipitation, evapotranspiration, runoff, infiltration, and groundwater flow).

Distribution I Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Staff

EEOS 312
Glacial and Quaternary Geology

The significance and effects of the last ice age. Causes of ice ages, ice dynamics, comparison of glacial events of North America to glacial events throughout the world and current investigations concerning ice ages are among the topics discussed. Controversies concerning scientific acceptance of ice ages, the mode of ice movement, and predictability of climate allow for insight into the present and ongoing development of a science.

Prerequisite: EEOS 111 or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Genes

EEOS 324
Coastal Zone Management

This course is concerned with coastal environmental problems and their solutions. It discusses in general the identification of the component parts of the coastal zone and the development of appropriate policies for their management. Field trips to representative areas are required relative to Mass CZM.

Prerequisite: EEOS 226 or 227 or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Looney, Mr Wiggin

EEOS 327
Estuarine Geography

This course focuses primarily on abiotic and physical factors in shallow water coastal environments. Particular emphasis is given to detailed examinations of Massachusetts. The course includes field trips.

Prerequisites: EEOS 226 or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Looney

EEOS 330
Quantitative Hydrogeology

This course reviews standard quantitative aspects of hydrogeology and then applies a series of computer models to a number of different hydrogeological situations. Field data from pump tests, slug tests, and contaminant flow are investigated with programs such as modflow, graphic groundwater, rock ware, and aquifer test in order to ascertain important groundwater characteristics.

Prerequisite: EEOS 295.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Staff

EEOS 340
Planning and Land Use Law

A study of the law as it has developed and applies to the planning process and the regulation of land use in the United States, with emphasis on Massachusetts.

Prerequisite: EEOS 270 or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Mensoian, Mr Duff

EEOS 341
Urban Land Use

A field work approach to land-use analysis in a local area. Class work involves designing a land-use classification system, basic map reading, and discussion of land-use problems in the selected area. Students are expected to field map and classify existing land uses, analyze the present problem, identify conflicts and pose possible solutions. Some field work is required.

Prerequisite: It is recommended that students complete EEOS 270 before enrolling in this course. Permission of instructor.
2 Lect Hrs, 1 Field Work Hr, 3 Credits
Ms Duncan, Mr Wiggin

EEOS 352
Political Geography

A functional approach to the study of state formation and evolution. Analysis of the role of geopolitical factors as they relate to the development of internal and external tensions, boundary formation, sea frontiers, capital cities and core areas, territoriality and state-identification, and spatial organization. Geostrategic theories and major writings in the field are stressed.

Prerequisite: Junior standing.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Mensoian

EEOS 355
Historic Environments

A description, evaluation, and analysis of present North American physical environments and how they have been altered by our urban-industrial evolution. The course focuses on the historical development of interactions among settlements, economic activity, resource exploitation, waste disposal, technologies and the natural setting, culminating in how we have arrived at our current altered or damaged environments. Several field trips are required.

3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Gelpke

EEOS 360
Computer and Analytical Cartography

Topics include cartographic design, cartographic transformations, digital data formats, software for automated cartography, generation of computer maps, and cartographic modeling.

Prerequisite: EEOS 265.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Lab Hrs, 4 Credits
Staff

EEOS 370
Remote Sensing

This is an introductory course on the principles and techniques of remote sensing. It covers the physical principles of electromagnetic radiation, remote sensing systems, interpretation of aerial photographs, satellite remote sensing data, thermal and radar imagery, and applications of remote sensing.

Prerequisite: EEOS 265.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Lab Hrs, 4 credits
Mr Tian

EEOS 375
Urban Planning

A case method approach to urban planning. Students are supplied with a standard “request for a proposal” for a master plan. As an end product, they must present and submit a proposal for review. Class work focuses on how to use the planning process to design a master plan and on various approaches to designing zoning ordinances and land-use controls.

Prerequisite: EEOS 270 or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Ms Duncan, Mr Wiggin

EEOS 378
Resource Management

Using geographic concepts and tools (including maps), this course considers in depth the environmental impact of development on the resource base, particularly on water and related land resources in Massachusetts. The course also considers the impact of geographic patterns developed by urbanization; the service economy; efforts to deal with environmental impact statements; various relevant agencies; legal controls; and other forces affecting the environment. A major project is required.

Prerequisites: EEOS 101 and 110.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Gelpke

EEOS 380
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems

This course is concerned with computer handling of spatial data. It covers essential elements of a GIS, hardware requirements, GIS software, data acquisition, data structures, spatial databases, methods of data analysis and spatial modeling, and applications of GIS in solving a variety of environmental and economic problems.

Prerequisite: EEOS 265.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Lab Hrs, 4 Credits
Mr Tian and Staff

EEOS 381
Applications of Geographic Information Systems

This course is designed to give students an overview of geographic information systems (GIS) applications, a thorough understanding of the design and operation of some commonly used GIS packages, and the practical experience of using a GIS to solve a real world problem. Students go through the entire process from project design to data collection and analysis to the presentation of results.

Prerequisite: EEOS 380.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Lab Hrs, 4 Credits
Mr Tian and Staff

EEOS 385
Applied Hydrogeology

This course provides comprehensive coverage of ground water hydrology, from theory to practice, with application to issues of ground water supply, ground water quality, and ground water resource management.

Prerequisite: EEOS 295.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Lab Hrs, 4 Credits
Staff

EEOS 401
Field Methods in Hydrogeology

This course introduces students to the basic field techniques and methods used to characterize and investigate hydrogeologic systems. the course is intended to complement the theoretical aspects of hydrogeology, providing students with field experience in hydrogeologic analysis.

Prerequisite: EEOS 385 or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Lab Hrs, 4 Credits
Staff

EEOS 410
Cartographic Design and Communication

This seminar course teaches the effective design of maps for communicating spatial knowledge and analyzing of geographical data. The course introduces the theory of cartographic design, studies the language of cartography, and examines examples of maps produced by private companies and governments.

Prerequisite: EEOS 360 or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Staff

EEOS 415
Multimedia Cartography

The object of this course is to teach theoretical principles of multimedia cartography, and the techniques to implement them. This is accomplished by introducing the principles of multimedia cartographic design. Students learn how to integrate maps with pictures, images, data, movies, and sound, and acquire the technical knowledge necessary to develop multimedia products.

Prerequisite: EEOS 360 or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Staff

EEOS 417
Internet Geography

The objective of this course is to study the theoretical principles of Internet geography, and in particular of Internet cartography and Internet Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and to learn how to design and implement a website using geographical data and GIS or mapping-based software. A basic knowledge of computer cartography and GIS is required.

Prerequisites: EEOS 360 and EEOS 370, or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Staff

EEOS 444
Cooperative Education Field Experiences in Earth and Geographic Sciences

In this program majors are placed in paid work positions. Credit is awarded only to those who complete an approved learning prospectus, including working reports and a substantial research project. Note: No more than a total of 6 credits in EEOS 444 or EOS 499 may be counted toward the major.

Prerequisites: Major standing in department with over 30 semester hours of credit; minimum grade-point average of 2.5; permission of chair; by departmental invitation only.
3 or 6 Credits

EEOS 460
Digital Image Processing in Remote Sensing

This course is concerned with the computer processing and analysis of remote sensing data. Topics include radiometric and geometric characteristics of remotely-sensed data, image processing systems, image restoration, enhancement techniques, thematic information extraction, classification accuracy assessment, and integration of remote sensing and geographic information systems.

Prerequisites: EEOS 265 and 370, and MATH 125.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Lab Hrs, 4 Credits
Mr Tian

EEOS 465
Environmental Modeling with Raster GIS

This course focuses on two different topics. The first topic is raster data models, their structure and function, and in particular, their use in a modeling context. The second topic is the use of modern structured design techniques for forming a basis for the correct design and implementation of geographic information system applications.

Prerequisite: EEOS 380.
Distribution II Area: Natural Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Tian

EEOS 471
Arc Macro Language

This course is designed to respond to the strong demand of the booming GIS (Geographic Information Systems) industry for Arc Macro Language (AML) programming skills. It teaches the concepts and techniques of AML. Students learn to write AML programs for automating frequently performed ARC/ INFO functions, standardizing procedures for particular organizations, providing utilities to help inexperienced users perform complex operations, and developing customized graphic user interfaces to meet the specific needs of various applications.

Prerequisite: EEOS 381.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Staff

EEOS 472
C Programming for Geoscience Applications

This course teaches the basic concepts and skills of C programming. It emphasizes the characteristics of geoscience applications and special programming techniques for spatial data processing. Exercises include writing programs for statistical analysis, implementation of geoscience models, and reading, analysis, and graphic presentation of spatial data such as digital elevation models, digital line graphics, and TIGER files.

Prerequisite: EEOS 265 or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Staff

EEOS 478
Independent Study

This course provides an opportunity for a qualified, advanced student to work on a specialized topic or research project under the guidance of a faculty advisor outside the traditional lecture/ discussion/laboratory framework. Meetings between the student and faculty member take place during the project to define goals and expectations and to facilitate the work.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor and department chair.
Hrs by arrangement, 1-3 Credits

EEOS 479
Independent Study See EEOS 478.

EEOS 480
Special Topics

Provides an opportunity for presentation of particularly timely lectures/laboratories/field material which do not fall under the purview of any other course.

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
1-4 Credits

EEOS 498
Honors Work

This is a research reading and writing course that will have as its ultimate goal the production of an honors thesis or work product consistent with the disciplines of earth science and geographic science. Such projects would include topics related to GIS, remote sensing, urban or environmental planning, groundwater issues and other related material. The project must demonstrate a high level of competency consistent with an Honors designation.

Prerequisites: Completion of at least seven courses in the major; overall GPA of 3.2; GPA in the major of 3.4; senior standing.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits