Courses I teach...

Structural Geology

Structural geology is the study of the deformation of Earth materials. Geologic structures often, but not always, form in the context of plate tectonics. Therefore, this course will develop some of the current ideas regarding tectonics from a structural geologists’ perspective. Students will be introduced to the concepts and application of geological structural analysis in the study of formation of orogenic belts, hydrocarbon traps, active and ancient fault and shear zones, folds, and other geologic structures. The course emphasizes 3-D visualization and conceptualization using sketching as well as quantitative analysis. 

Sedimentary Field Methods

This class focusses on developing field skills required to analyze sedimentary rocks, including measuring stratigraphic section, facies analysis, weather & erosion, and soil development. Involves field trips to a variety of settings in the surrounding region and may be physically intensive with hiking over rough terrane.

Advanced Field Methods

This is an advanced course taught in the summer session. It involves analog and digital mapping of a variety of terranes ranging from simple to complex. The course is usually taught in the mountains of Colorado or New Mexico. Students should be in good physical shape and be ready to utilize all of their undergraduate geology knowledge to solve some real-world field-oriented geologic problems. It's also a really fun class; the kind of class you look back on 20 years later and say, "man, that was the funnest thing I did in college". (Well, at least that's what I hope you'll say.)

Geologic Evolution of the Southern Mid-Continent

Formerly "The Geology of Texas", following closely the superb course previously taught by Prof. Tom Lehman. Geologic evolution from the Precambrian to Holocene, including focus on Permian basin, Gulf Coast tectonics, and High Plains. Maybe taken for graduate credit.

Structural Analysis of Hydrocarbon Systems

Structural geology focusing on aspects related to Petroleum Engineering. Must be an Engineering major.

Advanced Structural Geology

Taught every other year; may be topical including Microstructures & Deformation Mechanisms, Fold & Thrust Belts, etc.

Advanced Tectonics

Graduate course in tectonics; includes classical analysis of plate tectonics from '60's to present. Also topical such as Mid-Ocean Ridges, convergent boundaries, etc.