Courses

Join mapping geologist Trevor Contreras from the Washington Geological Survey in this 23-minute informative talk as he discusses geological mapping in Washington State. Learn about the survey's work, resources, and geological information systems with hosts Nick Zentner from Central Washington University and Jordan Carey. Discover how to access valuable geological data through the WA Geology Library and the WA Geologic Information Portal, essential tools for researchers, students, and anyone interested in Washington's geological features. Contact Trevor directly via email for further geological inquiries about Washington State.

Discover the fascinating world of mineral identification in this 51-minute webinar presented by the Rutgers Geology Museum. Learn essential techniques for identifying rocks and minerals from Ethan Penner, a graduate student at Binghamton University. Explore the physical properties used in mineral identification, including color, streak, luster, hardness, and crystal structure. Gain practical skills to analyze and classify minerals found in nature. Delve into the "What's Inside that Rock?" Instagram series for additional visual examples and insights. Access valuable resources and expertise from the Rutgers Geology Museum to enhance your understanding of mineralogy and geological sciences.

Embark on a geological journey through time as longtime USGS geologist Don Swanson shares his reflections on extensive field work conducted in the South Cascades of Washington during the 1960s, 1980s, and 1990s. In this 41-minute video, gain valuable insights into the geological history and formations of this fascinating region, as Swanson recounts his experiences and observations spanning three decades of research. Discover the evolving understanding of the area's geology, the challenges faced during field expeditions, and the significant findings that have shaped our knowledge of the Cascade Range. Learn about the methods and techniques employed in geological fieldwork during different eras, and how they contributed to our current comprehension of this dynamic landscape.

Embark on a 33-minute geological field exploration video where you'll examine an unusual series of rock outcrops alongside an experienced geologist. Discover unique geological formations and learn to identify distinctive rock characteristics, structural features, and geological processes that have shaped these extraordinary outcrops. Gain insights into field geology techniques, observation methods, and the analytical thinking required to interpret uncommon geological phenomena. Develop your understanding of how geologists approach and analyze mysterious or atypical rock formations in the field, enhancing your ability to recognize and appreciate the complexity of Earth's geological history through hands-on field investigation.

Explore the career path of a mining geologist through this comprehensive 48-minute interview with Jessica Scanlan from MineLife Media. Discover what a typical day looks like for mining geologists, from underground work experiences to field versus office responsibilities. Learn about the inspiration behind pursuing mining geology, the unique experience of working far underground, and the fascinating places mining geologists get to visit around the world. Understand the relationship between mining and environmental protection, examine common mining myths, and explore whether society will always need mining operations. Get detailed insights into educational requirements and training pathways, including whether a master's degree is necessary and what specializations to consider. Compare geological engineering versus engineering geology career tracks, and learn about the various roles and positions available within the mining industry. Discover the tools mining geologists use, emerging career opportunities in the field, and how mined areas are rehabilitated after operations conclude. Address practical concerns about math requirements, job accessibility, compensation expectations, and both the challenges and rewards of working in mining geology. Gain perspective on resource sustainability and whether we'll eventually run out of materials to mine, while understanding the most fulfilling aspects of a career in mining geology.

Explore the fascinating career of earthquake geology through this comprehensive 39-minute interview with Dr. Wendy Bohon, featuring insights into what earthquake geologists do, how they study seismic activity, and why this field matters for building resilience against geological hazards. Discover the daily responsibilities of earthquake geologists, from fieldwork and data analysis to collaboration with various professionals, while learning about the specialized tools and technologies used in seismic research. Gain valuable career guidance including educational requirements, salary expectations, and different geology specializations available at state geological surveys, plus get answers to common questions about earthquake myths, the relationship between earthquakes and volcanoes, and whether seismic activity is increasing globally. Learn about Dr. Bohon's personal journey into the field, her most inspiring and challenging experiences, and practical advice for aspiring earthquake geologists, including the importance of persistence in pursuing this career path. The interview covers essential topics such as earthquake prediction limitations, the iconic "spaghetti magnitude scale," and addresses viewer questions about various aspects of earthquake geology work, making it an invaluable resource for students considering careers in geoscience or anyone interested in understanding how scientists study and prepare for seismic hazards.

Engage with NASA chief scientist and leading planetary geologist Ellen Stofan in this inspiring conference talk from the World Science Festival's Pioneers in Science program. Discover Stofan's expertise on the terrains of Titan, Venus, Mars, and Earth as she interacts with high school students from around the globe. Gain insights into her career path, sources of inspiration, and NASA's science initiatives. Learn from one of the premier experts in planetary geology and explore the potential for future scientific breakthroughs in space exploration.

Explore the realities of working in the oil and gas industry through an in-depth interview with petroleum geologist Julia Astro in this comprehensive 2-hour and 23-minute video. Discover what daily life looks like for petroleum geologists, from exploring and producing natural resources to understanding the industry's role in the current energy landscape. Learn about the necessity of oil and gas in today's world, how companies are evolving during the energy transition, and emerging technologies like carbon capture. Gain insights into different types of geologists working in the field, including geophysicists and geochemists, while exploring career perks, educational requirements, and salary expectations. Address common myths about the oil and gas industry and understand the tools and techniques used to locate underground resources. Examine the industry's future prospects, climate considerations, and whether oil and gas represents a viable long-term career path. Access valuable resources for students and professionals, including information about the Houston Geological Society Student Expo, AAPG mentorship programs, internship opportunities, and top recruiting companies. Get practical advice on educational pathways, from bachelor's degrees to advanced degrees, and learn about networking opportunities through professional geological societies.

Explore the fascinating world of plate tectonics in this 35-minute lecture by Robert Constanteau from the UF Thompson Earth Systems Institute. Delve into the study of geology, continental drift, and mid-ocean ridges. Discover the concept of deep time and its relation to the solar system. Examine divergent plate boundaries using a world map, and learn about volcanoes, earthquakes, explosive eruptions, and tsunamis. Gain valuable insights into Earth's dynamic processes through this comprehensive overview, followed by a Q&A session to address any lingering questions.

Join Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries geologist Jason McClaughry as he presents a detailed 45-minute talk about the Crooked River Caldera in central Oregon. Discover the geological features and formation history of this significant volcanic structure as McClaughry shares insights from his research and fieldwork. The presentation includes information referenced in DOGAMI Bulletin 108, providing viewers with comprehensive scientific data about this fascinating geological formation in the Pacific Northwest. Learn about volcanic processes, regional geology, and the scientific methods used to study ancient calderas in this informative geological lecture hosted by Nick Zentner.

Explore the groundbreaking field notes of geologist Joseph Pardee in this illuminating 1-hour and 13-minute video presentation by Nick Zentner and Glenn Cruickshank. Delve into never-before-seen geological discoveries as the presenters unveil and analyze Pardee's original observations. Gain insights into the geological history of the region through these newly revealed field notes, offering a unique perspective on past geological events and formations. Access accompanying visual materials through the provided Google Slides link to enhance your understanding of the discussed geological concepts and findings.

Join Washington Geological Survey geologist Brennan van Alderwerelt for a comprehensive lecture on the hazards associated with abandoned mine waste in Washington state. This 1-hour 16-minute presentation, hosted in Ellensburg, Washington, examines the environmental and public health concerns related to historical mining operations. The livestream begins with an introduction period before the main lecture starts at the 14:05 mark. Learn about the geological implications, potential contamination issues, and ongoing assessment efforts related to mine waste sites throughout Washington's diverse landscapes.

Join Idaho geologist Shawn Willsey as he guides Skye Cooley and Nick Zentner through Malm Gulch in this 26-minute geological exploration video. Discover the fascinating geological features and history of this Southern Idaho location, where ancient sequoia fossils provide insights into the region's prehistoric climate and environment. Learn about the geological formations, rock layers, and paleontological significance of the area through expert field observations and discussions. Explore how these fossilized remains of giant sequoia trees reveal important information about Idaho's geological past and the dramatic environmental changes that have occurred over millions of years. Gain practical field geology knowledge as the team examines rock outcrops, discusses geological processes, and interprets the evidence preserved in the landscape of this remarkable Southern Idaho site.

Learn about the fascinating geological formations of calderas in Washington's Cascade Range through an engaging lecture featuring geologist Dave Tucker from Western Washington University. Explore the identification and characteristics of these massive volcanic depressions as Tucker shares his expertise alongside host Nick Zentner. Gain deep insights into the regional geology of the Pacific Northwest, drawing from Tucker's extensive research and field experience. Discover how these enormous volcanic features formed and their significance in shaping the landscape of the Cascade Range.

Explore the geological intricacies of the Clarno Formation in central Oregon through a detailed 37-minute lecture delivered by Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries geologist Jason McClaughry. Delve into the magmatic processes, formation history, and unique characteristics of this significant geological feature as McClaughry shares his expert insights and research findings from extensive field studies in the region.

Learn about groundbreaking research on the Cascade Mountains' formation timeline in this 47-minute geology lecture where Montana geologist Skye Cooley presents new perspectives and evidence challenging traditional theories about when and how the Cascade Range was uplifted. Explore detailed geological data, examine alternative hypotheses, and understand the complex processes that may have shaped one of North America's most prominent mountain ranges. Delve into the scientific debate surrounding mountain formation timing, tectonic processes, and the geological evidence that supports these new interpretations of Cascade Range development.

Explore rock outcrops near Cayuse Pass in Mount Rainier National Park through a 27-minute video lecture. Join geologist Nick Zentner as he examines and explains the geological features visible along the roadside, providing insights into the area's geological history and formation. Gain a deeper understanding of the diverse rock types and structures present in this scenic location within one of America's most iconic national parks.

Join USGS geologist Lydia Staisch as she discusses the latest research on the formation and cutting of Hells Canyon with Nick Zentner in this 46-minute educational talk. Learn about new geological findings that update our understanding of how North America's deepest river gorge was formed, with Staisch explaining the evidence and conclusions from her recent paper on the subject. Explore the geological processes, timeline, and forces that shaped this dramatic landscape feature along the border between Idaho and Oregon.

Join USGS geologist Jim O'Connor as he guides Nick Zentner through the Upper Ellensburg Formation in this 45-minute educational lecture. Explore the geological features and significance of Columbia River Pathways in this GEOL 351 presentation scheduled for May 6, 2025.

From Yellowstone to the Everglades, join geologist and National Geographic director Ford Cochran on a fascinating scientific tour of all of America's national parks.