GEOLOGY 110
GEOLOGY OF THE AMERICAN SOUTHWEST
Fall 2014
Objective: Geology 110 is a course involving a study of the Earth, its materials and physical
processes, and the systems that make it a dynamic planet. An emphasis is placed on how
geologic systems shape the Earth’s landscape, focusing particular attention on the spectacular
landforms in the national parks in the Colorado Plateau region. Geology 110 is primarily for
non-geology majors who want to acquire a better knowledge of geologic processes through a
hands-on study of some of the most famous and scenic landmarks of the American west.
A major feature of this course is the 10-day field trip to southern Utah, northern Arizona and
western New Mexico. Sites expected to be visited will include Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand
Staircase-Escalante, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Grand Canyon National Parks, Coral Pink
Sand Dunes, Dead Horse Point and Goosenecks State Parks of Utah, Dixie National Forest,
Ship Rock, Antelope Canyon, and Monument Valley National Tribal Parks.
Students will be given ample opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, yet
will pause at key points for geologic discussions, thus truly placing the classroom amidst aweinspiring scenery. Students interested in a physical challenge, and who are visual types of
learners will thrive in this course.
Prerequisites: Permission of the instructor. NOTE: Enrollment will be limited for this course.
Interested students are encouraged to consult with Mr. Cochran about the application process.
Course Fees: $1675 per student. Fees will cover the cost of travel from South
Bend to Las Vegas, rental of vehicles, gas, motels, and entry into all parks.
Physical requirements: Some of the stops to be visited will be close to the road, however, many
involve hikes, some quite strenuous, in order to reach points of geologic and scenic interest. It is
expected that students will be in above average physical condition. Students must be able to
carry out sustained physical activity at high elevations every day. Students with personal
medical concerns must notify the instructor prior to enrolling in this class. Students will visit
geologic sites where the potential for severe physical harm is very real - specifically large cliffs.
However, students will not be required to approach any closer to the edge of cliffs than they are
comfortable with. Students with significant fear of heights have taken and enjoyed this course.
Expectations: In addition to course work, including quizzes and tests, students are required to
maintain a road log of the trip, participate in all hikes and class discussions and prepare a written
report of up to 5 pages that focuses on one of the trip’s stops. This report is due three weeks
after returning to Holy Cross. Note: As representatives of Holy Cross College, student behavior
must be beyond reproach at all times. Students must abide by the Code of Student Conduct as
outlined in the Holy Cross Student Handbook, along with all state and federal laws. In addition
all national and state park rules will be observed by all class participants.
Class Schedule: 75 minute classes will be held two times per week. 100% attendance is strongly
encouraged.
Registration for the Fall 2014 Geology 110 course is a 4-Step process:
1. Discuss with Mr. Cochran – by phone (574-239-8409) or in person. An informational session
is scheduled March 20.
2. Students must submit a written application, including an essay no later than April 10, 2014
3. Students accepted into the course will be notified by April 15, 2014. Accepted students must
then register on the Portal.
4. Accepted students must submit a $600 deposit to Mr. Cochran no later than May 1, 2014.
Students may risk losing their reserved space in the class if the deposit is not received by May 1.
This financial commitment is necessary at this time in order for the college to make necessary
advance travel accommodations.
Cancellation Policy: This course may be cancelled by the college in case of insufficient
enrollment.
Food and Lodging: Lodging each night will be in motels (Double occupancy). Meals are NOT
covered by course fees. Grocery stops will be made every few days for purchasing food for
lunches and snacks to be eaten “on the trail”. Time for breakfast and dinner will be available in
town at the start and end of each day. Students must bring money for their own food and
miscellaneous materials. It is recommended that a minimum of $300 be budgeted for food
expenses. We will also stop at park gift shops where you may desire to have extra cash.
More Information: Contact Mr. Cochran at (574) 239-8409, or dcochran@hcc-nd.edu.
Also please visit http://www.hcc-nd.edu/geology
Fall 2014 Field Trip Itinerary:
Day
10/17
10/18
10/19
10/20
10/21
10/22
10/23
10/24
10/25
10/26
Visit
Stay
Fly to Las Vegas, depart for Utah
Zion NP
Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Bryce Canyon NP
Escalante, Capitol Reef NP
Dead Horse Point, Arches NP(Windows, Delicate Arch)
Arches NP (Devil’s Garden)
Goosenecks, Monument Valley, Ship Rock
Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon NP
Grand Canyon NP
Las Vegas
Springdale, UT
Kanab, UT
Escalante, UT
Moab, UT
Moab, UT
Moab, UT
Kayenta, AZ
Grand Canyon, AZ
Grand Canyon, AZ
Return to HC
Holy Cross College
Geology of the American Southwest
Geology 110
Fall 2014 Application
The one prerequisite for acceptance for Geology 110 is to have the permission of the instructor.
Because this course involves 10 days of travel, it is imperative that all participants can be relied
on to conduct themselves appropriately at all times. Please type or print in ink.
Name: ___________________________________________ Date:
School Address:
Student Phone:
Student E-Mail:
Sex: ____
Birth Date:
Application requirements:
 All interested students are highly encouraged to first meet with Mr. Cochran
(574-239-8409 or dcochran@hcc-nd.edu).
 Each application must be accompanied by a short essay (one page maximum)
explaining your interest in this course.
 Do you have any medical or physical limitations which could restrict you from
performing sustained physical activity at high elevations each day? YES / NO
If yes, please elaborate on a separate page.
 Please list one instructor, administrator or advisor whom Mr. Cochran may
contact. This person should be able to attest to your good moral character,
demeanor, reliability, and attitude toward education.
Referral Name
Title
Phone
Email
Please return this completed application by 5 PM, April 10, 2014 to Mr. Daniel Cochran at
PO Box 308
Notre Dame, IN 46556
Once accepted, student will receive approval to register on the Portal.
Deposit: Upon acceptance into this course, a $600 non-refundable deposit is due no later
than May 1, 2014. Deposit will be applied toward the overall $1675 course fee. Students
may risk losing reserved space in class if deposit is not received by May 1. In the event that
the course is canceled due to a lack of participants, a full refund of this deposit will be
made to the applicant.
Feb 12, 2014