This 2004-2006 Bridgewater State College Catalog Web Addenda contains the most up-to-date information. Information in this Catalog Web Addenda supersedes the published version of this catalog.

Only changes made to program requirements, courses or academic policies are outlined here. This Web Addenda should be used in conjunction with the 2004-2006 print or Online Catalog.

EARTH SCIENCES (EASC)

EASC 280 Vertebrate Paleontology (3 credits) (New)

Prerequisite: EASC 101
This course examines the nearly 500 million year history of vertebrate life on Earth and the origin of the major innovations that characterize its diversity. This diversity will be considered in the light of various classification methods, and the major innovations will be discussed in the context of various mechanisms of evolution. Spring semester

EASC 320 Geology of New England (3 credits) (New)

Prerequisite: EASC 101
This course will examine the geological history of New England and adjacent areas with an emphasis on the last 500 million years of geologic time. In this context, the tectonic history of New England will be explored in detail. Other important topics include the changing surface environment with a focus on ice ages and climate change. The laboratory will emphasize the use of geologic maps and field trips to areas of geologic significance in southeastern New England. Two hours of lecture and one four-hour laboratory period weekly. Fall semester

EASC 400 Earth Systems Science I (3 credits) (New)

Prerequisite: EASC 101 and EASC 305 and GEOG 221
This course provides an overview of the emerging discipline of Earth Systems Science. The physical and chemical nature of the four primary earth systems, including the solid earth, the hydrosphere, the atmosphere, and the biosphere, will be explored in detail. An emphasis will be placed on a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the flow of energy and matter among the four systems . Fall semester

EASC 410 Earth Systems Science II (3 credits) (New)

Prerequisite: EASC 400
This course is a continuation of Earth Systems Science I, with an emphasis on the global biogeochemical cycles that operate within and among the solid earth, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere. In addition, Earth systems history and human impacts on the Earth's systems will be examined, with an emphasis on past and future global climate change. Spring semester