Lower Division Courses

Most SIO lower-division courses (with the exception of SIO 50) are taught as general interest courses and, as such, are often appropriate for college general educational requirements. SIO 50, Introduction to Earth and Environmental Sciences is an introductory course intended for Earth Science majors, students interested in the major, students who have a specialization or minor in Earth Sciences and majors in other related fields. The quarter abbreviation (F,W,S) indicates the quarter in which the course is usually offered. Obviously, circumstances sometimes mandate a change of scheduled offerings. Students are strongly advised to check the Schedule of Classes or to contact the Scripps Institution of Oceanography Program Office (Galbraith Hall, room 188, 534-8157) to obtain up-to-date information.

SIO 1. The Planets

Space exploration has revealed an astonishing diversity among the planets and moons in our solar system. The planets and their histories will be compared to gain insight and a new perspective on planet Earth. Prerequisite: none. (S)

SIO 10. The Earth (4)

A basic introduction to geology for students with little previous science background. The course stresses understanding of the concepts of the structure of the Earth and the processes which have formed it and continue to modify it. The course emphasizes material which every educated citizen should know for appreciation and enjoyment of the world around us, for understanding geological events as reported in the news, and for participating in making intelligent decisions regarding the future of our environment. Three-hour lecture plus optional local field trips. Prerequisite: none. (W)

SIO 12. History of the Earth and Evolution (4)

Evolution of the Earth from its origin in the early solar system to formation of continents and ocean basins, and how the planet became habitable. It examines the geologic record of evolution, extinction, plate tectonics, and climate changes through time. Three-hour lecture. Prerequisite: none. (S)

SIO 15. Natural Disasters (4)

An introduction to environmental perils and their impact on everyday life. Geological and meteorological processes are explored, including earthquakes, volcanic activity, large storms, global climate change, mass extinctions throughout Earth's history, and human activity that causes and prevents natural disasters. Prerequisite: none. (F)

SIO 20. The Atmosphere (4)

Descriptive introduction to meteorology and climate studies. Topics include global and continental wind and precipitation patterns, weather forecasting, present climate and past climate changes (including droughts, El Ni?o events), man-made modification of climate, including CO2 and other greenhouse gases effects, ozone destruction, "little ice ages", acid rain. Three-hour lecture. Prerequisites: some high school physics and chemistry background recommended. (W)

SIO 25. Climate Change and Society (4)

Climate change is one of the most complex and critical issues affecting societies today.  This course will present the scientific evidence for climate change and its impacts and consider governmental policy responses and possible adaptation strategies.  (W)

SIO 30. The Oceans (4)

Presents modern ideas and descriptions of the physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects of oceanography, and considers the interactions between these aspects. Intended for students interested in the oceans, but who do not necessarily intend to become professional scientists. Three-hour lecture, one-hour discussion. Prerequisite: some background in high school chemistry recommended. (F)

SIO 35. Water (4)

This course will examine the properties of water that make it unique and vital to living things. Origin of water on Earth and neighboring planets will be explored. Socially relevant issues concerning water use and contamination will be covered. Prerequisite: none. (S)

SIO 40. The Biosphere (4)

Earth science reveals the fascinating connections that exist between the living and non-living components of our planet. This course will explore how life on earth influences, and is influenced by, the geochemical cycles of elements like carbon, nitrogen and oxygen. Three-hour lecture. Prerequisites: some background in high-school chemistry and biology recommended. (S)

SIO 50. Introduction to Earth and Environmental Sciences (5)

This course is an introduction to how our planet works, focusing on the formation and evolution of the solid earth, and the processes affecting both its surface and interior. Laboratories and field trips complement and extend the lecture material. Prerequisite: none. (F)

SIO 87. Freshman Seminar (1)

The freshman seminar program is designed to provide the new students with the opportunity to explore and intellectual topic with a faculty member in a small setting. Topics vary from quarter to quarter. Enrollment is limited to 15-20 students, with preference given to entering freshmen. (P/NP grades only). SIO Staff (F,W,S)

SIO 90. Undergraduate Seminar (1)

Provides an introduction to Earth and Marine Sciences. Faculty members from departments in natural sciences, geosciences, and marine sciences will offer perspectives in these areas.

SIO 96. Frontiers in the Earth Sciences (2)

An introduction to current research in the earth sciences. Background in science not required, but may be useful for some topics. Areas covered vary from year to year. (S)

SIO 99. Independent Study (2-4)

Independent reading or research on a problem by special arrangement with a faculty member. Prerequisite: completion of at least 30 units of undergraduate study with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0.