Image

 ![Coastal research landscape used as the Northmoor University hero image.](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2026-01/camilo-botia-k4vFDPJoDZk-unsplash.1600x1200.jpg.avif?itok=ujHvC8nC)

 

 



Course code

GEOL 410

 

Course credit

1.50

 

Covers the geophysical methods used to image the seafloor and the sediment below it: multibeam and sidescan sonar, sub-bottom profiling, seismic reflection, and gravity and magnetic survey. Addresses acquisition, processing and interpretation for each.

The course includes sea time aboard R/V *Cascadia Strait*. Students plan survey lines, operate equipment, and process and interpret the data they collected themselves. The difference between a survey designed in a classroom and one that survives contact with weather, vessel traffic and a finite amount of ship time is a substantial part of the learning.

Processing is done by the students rather than demonstrated. Assessment is based on an interpretation of the survey data, defended against the acquisition parameters that produced it.



Instructors

[Dr. Tobias Wren](/person/dr-tobias-wren)

[Dr. Samuel Hartley](/person/dr-samuel-hartley)

 

 

Prerequisite

GEOL 150, calculus and physics.



 

Terms offered

spring

 

 

Offering frequency

annually