Prerequisites: For GEOL majors only; minimum of junior standing; MATH141, CHEM131 or CHEM135, CHEM132 or CHEM136, PHYS141, and at least two upper level geology courses with a third concurrent. In addition, non-degree-seeking students require the permission of the instructor. The first semester of the two-semester Geology Senior Thesis. Emphasis is on developing a plan for original research in the geosciences and presenting that plan both in writing and in public presentations that adhere to geosciences professional standards. For honors students only.