ESSC 108 Introduction to Earth Science [GEKN]

This class provides a basic understanding of the nature of the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. Emphasis is on understanding the dynamic processes that affect the Earth and how to apply this knowledge to everyday life.

Credit 3 hrs May not be repeated for additional credit
Grade Mode Normal (A-F) Course Rotation Fall, Winter, and Summer

Prerequisites -
Corequisites - ESSC 109
Restriction by Major -
Restriction by Class - Undergraduate standing

Additional Information - This course does not count towards the Earth Science minor.

Rationale for Knowledge of the Disciplines - Earth scientists view the entire Earth as a complex system in which a number of components dynamically interact on different timescales. Because the human race is entirely dependent on the resources of the Earth System, because the dynamic nature of the Earth System has a profound impact on individual and societal well-being, and because human activities, in turn, influence the delicate equilibrium of this system, it is essential to produce a citizenry that has a meaningful understanding of Earth System Science. Students will learn the procedures, practices, methodologies, and assumptions that are fundamental to a scientific understanding of the Earth System. The overarching goal of the course is to create scientifically literate citizens that are both willing and able to participate responsibly in a global community by (1) carefully applying the scientific method as a tool for problem-solving, in general; (2) critically evaluating the scientific merit of anything that is presented as science (is it really science?), especially in the area of Earth System Science; and (3) thoroughly incorporating Earth System Science in important decisions and issues at the personal, local, national and global levels.

Equivalent Course(s) - ESSC 202, GESC 108, GESC 202
Course History -
Change to title and description 2/2019, effective Fall 2019; Course Rotation added 12/2014

Earth Science, Earth Systems, Knowledge of the Disciplines - Natural Sciences (GEKN)

Winter 2025 Course Sections

Fall 2024 Course Sections