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Bachelor of Science in Geosystems Engineering and Hydrogeology

Geosystems engineers and hydrogeologists are concerned with the development and use of engineering approaches in the management of natural resources from the earth's surface and subsurface, environmental restoration of subsurface sites, and other processes related to the earth sciences. This degree program, offered jointly by the College of Engineering and the College of Natural Sciences, is designed to teach students the geological and engineering principles needed to solve subsurface resource development and environmental problems. The curriculum includes a fundamental sequence of engineering and geological sciences courses in such areas as multiphase fluid flow, physical and chemical hydrology, heat and mass transfer, field methods, and engineering design. This interdisciplinary systems approach, combining engineering and geological sciences, is increasingly required to address complex real-world problems such as characterization and remediation of aquifers. The degree program is designed to prepare graduates for employment with environmental, water resource management, and energy companies in addition to many government agencies. Better graduates of the program may pursue graduate study in subsurface environmental engineering, petroleum engineering, geology, and other related fields.

Graduates of this program are expected to be able to apply knowledge of mathematics, geological sciences, and engineering; design and conduct experiments and engineering tests, as well as analyze and interpret geologic data; design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs; function on multidisciplinary teams; identify, formulate, and solve engineering and geological problems; understand professional and ethical responsibilities in the practice of engineering and hydrogeology; communicate effectively using oral, written, and graphical expressions, including technical reports; appreciate the impact of engineering and geological solutions in a global and societal context; recognize the need for and have the ability to engage in independent study and lifelong learning; understand contemporary issues and the ways they affect the practice of engineering and hydrogeology; use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering and geological tools, including computers, that are appropriate for good engineering and geologic practice.

Containing the following elements, the technical curriculum provides both breadth and depth in a range of topics.

• A combination of college-level mathematics and basic sciences (some with experimental work) that includes mathematics through differential equations, probability and statistics, physics, chemistry, and geology.
• Basic engineering and geologic topics that develop a working knowledge of fluid mechanics, strength of materials, transport phenomena, material properties, phase behavior, and thermodynamics.
• Engineering and geosciences topics that develop competence in characterization and evaluation of subsurface geological formations and their resources using geoscientific and engineering methods, including field methods; design and analysis of systems for producing, injecting, and handling fluids; application of hydrogeologic and reservoir engineering principles and practices for water and energy resource development and management; contamination evaluation and remediation methods for hydrologic resources; and use of project economics and resource valuation methods for design and decision making under conditions of risk and uncertainty.
• A major capstone design experience that prepares students for engineering and hydrogeologic practice, based on the knowledge and skills acquired in earlier coursework and incorporating engineering and geological standards and realistic constraints.
• A general education component that complements the technical content of the curriculum.

Curriculum

Course requirements are divided into three categories: basic sequence courses, major sequence courses, and other required courses. Enrollment in major sequence courses is restricted to students who have received credit for all of the basic sequence courses and have been admitted to the major sequence by the College of Engineering Admissions Committee. (Requirements for admission to a major sequence are given in this chapter.) Enrollment in other required courses is not restricted by completion of the basic sequence.

Courses used to fulfill technical and nontechnical elective requirements must be approved by the petroleum and geosystems engineering faculty and the geological sciences faculty before the student enrolls in them. Courses that fulfill the social science and fine arts/humanities requirements are listed in this chapter.

Suggested Arrangement of Courses

First Year -- Fall Semester

First Year -- Spring Semester

Second Year -- Fall Semester

Second Year -- Spring Semester

Third Year -- Fall Semester

Third Year -- Spring Semester

Third Year -- Summer Session

Fourth Year -- Fall Semester

Fourth Year -- Spring Semester

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Undergraduate catalog

Contents
Chapter 1 - The University
Chapter 2 - School of Architecture
Chapter 3 - Red McCombs School of Business
Chapter 4 - College of Communication
Chapter 5 - College of Education
Chapter 6 - College of Engineering
Chapter 7 - College of Fine Arts
Chapter 8 - College of Liberal Arts
Chapter 9 - College of Natural Sciences
Chapter 10 - School of Nursing
Chapter 11 - College of Pharmacy
Chapter 12 - School of Social Work
Chapter 13 - The Faculty
Texas Common Course Numbering System (Appendix A)
Appendix B

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