GEOSC 105 - Introduction to Oceanography

Number of Credits: 4
Introduction to Oceanography explores the world ocean that covers more than 70% of the earth’s surface. It looks at the biology, geology, chemistry and other physical properties of the sea. Students will explore global effects of the world ocean as well as tiny oases, the deep ocean floor, to the shallows of the coastal areas. Oceanography Laboratory is a series of exercises designed to give the student experience in working with oceanographic data and techniques. Topics include determination of chemical and physical properties of sea water, investigations of biological communities, and examination of coastal and shoreline features. (Fall, Spring & Summer Only) Three hours lecture each week. Two hours laboratory each week. Four Credits. Four billable hours.

GENERAL EDUCATION Category: Biological and Physical Sciences

Pre-requisite(s): exemption/completion of MAT 095 with a minimum grade of C or better, plus eligibility for ENGL 101.
Course Objectives: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Describe processes involved in the development of different types of waves and their impact on the environment. (PG2, PG3, PG4 GE1, GE2, GE6)
Describe the physical conditions of the oceans in terms of salinity, temperature, density, and pressure. (PG2, PG3, PG4 GE1, GE2, GE3)
Explain changes that occur to coastlines due to ocean and tectonic activity. (PG2, PG3, PG4 GE1, GE2, GE4, GE6)
Explain the theory of plate tectonics and how it relates to ocean basins. (PG2, PG3, PG4 GE1, GE2, GE4, GE6)
Explain the formation of seafloor sediments. (PG2, PG3, PG4 GE1, GE2, GE4, GE6)
Describe the various human-induced problems affecting the oceans and some sustainable solutions to these problems. (PG2, PG3, PG4 GE1, GE2, GE3, GE4, GE6)
Explain the factors that create ocean currents and how they affect marine and land environments. (PG2, PG3, PG4 GE1, GE2, GE4, GE6)
Compare phytoplankton and zooplankton and their importance. (PG2, PG3, PG4 GE1, GE2, GE4, GE6)
Explain the tide-generating forces and the conditions that produce different types of coastal tides. (PG2, PG3, PG4 GE1, GE2, GE4, GE6)
Compare the major biological components of the oceans, such as mammals, fishes, reptiles and birds. (PG2, PG3, PG4 GE1, GE2, GE4, GE6)