GEOL 5400 - Principles of Paleontology

Introduction to paleontology emphasizing paleontologic theory and the study of the morphology and biologic relationships of key groups preserved in the fossil record.

Requisites:
Credit Hours: 4
Repeat/Retake Information: May not be retaken.
Lecture/Lab Hours: 2.0 lecture, 2.0 laboratory
Grades: Eligible Grades: A-F,WP,WF,WN,FN,AU,I
Learning Outcomes:

Be able to identify the key morphological features and classify the key fossil taxa including their taxonomic placement and geologic stratigraphic ranges.
Be familiar with the basics of phylogenetic systematics.
Collect a series of fossils in the field, prepare and identify the specimens, and write a scientific report on their fossil collection.
Develop an understanding of Earth’s biotic history through geologic time.
Graduate students will be able to elucidate paleontological theory in detail including the relative support for core concepts of the Neo-Darwinian synthesis in the fossil record.
Graduate students will prepare a publication quality report following peer-reviewed journal format based on fossils collected on the course field trip.
Understand and be able to clearly articulate evolution by means of natural selection and punctuated equilibrium.
Understand how paleontologists develop functional hypotheses based on fossilized material.
Understand the major paleontological tools and techniques used to interpret Earth’s biotic history and evolution..
Understand the processes and primary modes of fossilization.