Fall 2025 - EASC 421 D100
Volcanology (3)
Class Number: 2586
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Fri, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Glyn Williams-Jones
glynwj@sfu.ca
1 778 782-3306
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Corequisites:
or Prerequisite: EASC 301 with a grade of C- or better. EASC 207 recommended.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
An introduction to volcanology through examination of volcanic eruptions and their consequences. Topics include the rheological properties of magmas and lavas, eruption dynamics, monitoring and hazard assessment, emplacement of volcanic deposits, and environmental impacts of eruptions.
COURSE DETAILS:
This course is designed to give students an introduction to physical and chemical volcanology through a comprehensive examination of volcanic eruptions and their consequences. The main topics covered are the rheological properties of magmas and lavas, structure of volcanic landforms, eruption dynamics, monitoring and hazard assessment, the emplacement of volcanic deposits, extraterrestrial volcanism and the effects of eruptions on the environment.
Course Topics:
- Properties of magmas and lavas
- Volcanic eruption dynamics
- Structure of volcanic landforms
- Types of volcanic deposits and emplacement mechanisms
- The hazards, monitoring techniques and mitigation of volcanic events
Course Organization:
One 2-hour lecture and 3-hour lab per week.
Grading
- Lab/ Field trip assignments 15%
- In class Volcanic Hazard Simulation 10%
- Mid-term Exam 35%
- Final Exam 40%
NOTES:
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Prerequisite - EASC 207 Co-Requisite - EASC 301 |
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Be aware that during the field trip there will be periods of hiking close to cliffs and crossing roads with busy traffic. Appropriate clothing and footwear must be worn. Further details regarding safety, food, camping and field supplies will be discussed prior to the field trip. There will be a supplementary fee. |
Materials
RECOMMENDED READING:
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“Volcanism” by Hans-Ulrich Schmincke, 2004, Springer, New York, 329 p., ISBN 9783642189524 |
REQUIRED READING NOTES:
Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.
To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION
Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.