Great teacher, makes things interesting. Is willing to work with students. He makes you think for yourself, instead of just memorizing terms. His field studies are very good too. His class is a lot of work, but well worth it.

Very good professor, and very willing to accomodate disability accomodations. Pretty funny too. Very clear notes on board.

He's a nice teacher. he doesn't take attendence. he gives out quizzes for every chapters and his tests are extremely hard. but he does curve grades and give extra credits. his lab activities take up a lot of time.

he knows his subject and sometimes he overwhelms students. if you are a geology/science major be sure to take his class because you'll learn a lot. his tests are really hard but he always curves them, and his quizzes are not that hard if you pay attention in class.

I love this teacher. He was great at this subject and was an awesom teacher. Very helpful. Get on his good side and become buddy buddy with him. Me and my friends call him Dr. Ken.

Awesome Teacher. He definitely knows what hes talking about and actually cares about what he teaches. Not to mention the sweet field trips.

Dr. R is an excellent teacher and I highly recommend his geology courses. Take advantage of the field trips, they are good. His grading is fair and his lectures are very clear and welll-organized. He challenges his students to think independently. He has a great sense of humor, too.

Excellent professor. He is very passionate about his subject. Researches at the Smithsonian. Works very hard for his students. Gives like a 28 pt curve on every test. How easy can a class be? With easiness, does not compromise on quality.

Weights tests WAY too heavily. No clear review before tests, but curves the test grades a LOT. Do all the labs without cheating, do relatively well on the tests and quizzes, and you'll be fine.

I did the summer course, and really liked it. Of course the material is pretty hard, but no worse than any science class and WAY more interesting. He's good about explaining stuff if you ask him. Down to earth pretty normal guy who happens to know a hell-of-a-lot about rocks. Great professor.

I took the field trip classes Dr. Rasmussen offers. They were very interesting and he really is passionate about the subject matter. He is thorough and explains things enough for the student to understand. In addition, he is fair and will provide the information he expects you to know in class. I would definitely take another class with him.

Dr. K is one of the best teachers you could every hope to have for such a boring subject. He makes rocks, raindrops & even animal turds interesting! His tests are hard, but not if you go to his classes & ask questions... don't just assume you'll figure it out! Plus he's cute.. sort of a nerdy indiana jones of geology!

Love, love, love this professor. He works at the Smithsonian and is very excited about Geology and made the class extremely interesting for me. He's also a stand-up guy.

Dr. R is a very hard teacher, his test are hard, labs are easy but other than that he is a pretty chill guy

This teacher knows his earth and is an excellent teacher. He is able to translate the difficult topics into easier jargon for the student and although it's touch to learn, this boring stuff really is all about the world we live in nd I'm so glad I attempted to learn it.

He's hard. Everything is from your notes. Take the ones from the board and then some. He has quizzes exams. He curves the exams and labs are and easy A. He gives you an opportunity to get bonus points by going on field trips which are fun. Cares and is willing to help if having difficulty in class. No study guides. Ask questions.Passionate!

This professor gave very detailed lectures, but did it in a way that was interesting and understandable. If you pay attention and take good notes you should do well in his class. Definately go on the field trips because it helps your grade and helps you visualize what he is lecturing about. One of my favorite professors.

great teacher, tolerant guy, loves his subject, makes his student interested, the labs are cake, the quizzes can be tricky but, not really in people's bussiness, hes really detailed in his lectures but hands off during lab he lets you kinda teach your self and almost always helps if you get stuck, i recommend him to anyone considering Geology

(GOL 111 & 112) If you like to learn and have any interest in geology or oceanography, do yourself a favor and take Dr. Rasmussen. This amazing professor could be at any Ivy League but because he loves to teach he's stayed at NOVA for 16 years. Put forth effort and show interest in the class and he'll support you like no other. Very awesome person.

Tests are hard, labs are mostly easier. Good prof especially for science majors.

This teacher is amazing! On that note, I hated GOL106 hahaha. He is no-nonsense, but if you show interest, he will do whatever he can to turn you into a geologist. More than half the class for 106 had taken him with me in 105. Highly rec'd! Best!

awesome teacher,I was really freaked out when i heard that his exams were impossible but not really, I thought geology was only about rocks but with him I really gained interest and enjoyed the class a lot... I totally recomend him

Tests are hard. But he does curve. Lab practicals are simple if you learn the material. He is an awesome guy, I took the optional extra credit trip with him to Calvert Cliffs.. You can learn alot from him.. No homework except one lab at the Smithsonian. I'd recommend him to anyone.

Knows his stuff.

Dr. Rasmussen is a really great teacher. I took him for geo 105 and 106 and he is really helpful. He knows his stuff. His tests are hard but he curves them. I would say to take his class.

Dr. Rasmussen is a great teacher. He makes the subject interesting and is helpful. The tests are hard but nothing is a surprise. Just come to class and study, you will do fine.

Outstanding professor. He was tied for professor of the year in 2008 for a reason. He is passionate about the subject and devotes great energy to explaining the big concepts behind geology. He is big on concept and less on data which makes the class a joy. He does care about students and offers numerous extra credit opportunities.

Although geology is a hard class, Dr. Rasmussen is an excellent instructor. I learned many things which I have never known before. All I want is he should make this class a little easier.

Prof R is so awesome! I took in for GOL 105 & 106. He tests right from his powerpoints but the book is very helpful to read since thats where the info comes from. Hes a hard professor but if you show interest and show youre trying then he will help you! Prof R will always be one of my favorite professors!

Dr. Rasmussen is a terrific professor for his field. I like his teaching style and his passion for the subject matter is evident. You have to do the reading and the power points drive home the subject matter covered in class. Historical Geology covers quite a bit of material scientifically - so this will take some effort and time. Not sure how I f

Best Professor ever, very passionate about the subject, cares greatly about all his students, and even though his tests are hard, he curves appropriately. if you do the work, you should not have any problems getting an A. He gives many chances to make up work and will with you to get you over the top, but do NOT expect to skate through this class.

Dr. Rasmussen really knows his stuff..hard professor but he is fair. Do not expect his tests and quizzes to be easy because they are not, he makes you think outside the box! He does curve them though. Took him during the summer & trust me I worked my butt off to get an A so it's not impossible! Make sure you go over the book alot.

He's a really nice guy. Geology with him is not easy, but he definitely enjoys what he's teaching and he shows it. He's really helpful and is nice to everyone.

Can tell he loves the subject. He's a good teacher, nice and funny. He curves the tests and gives extra-credit opportunities, answers emails, and will explain if you don't understand (tries to get you to understand on your own first). His quizzes are killer- 10 questions, detailed, so STUDY. Study like it's your final! You'll learn a lot. :D

Professor Rasmussen is the BEST! He is very organized and has great presentations which you can reference later to study. This allows you to concentrate on the lectures and worry less about taking notes. All his exams are based on the presentations he provides. He treats all of his students respectfully. He was very helpful when I needed assist

Professor Rasmussen is the BEST!He treats all of his students respectfully. He was very helpful when I needed assistance, gave opportunities for extra credit and seemed sincerely interested in his student?s success. When he hands out the syllabus at the beginning of the course, he also provides helpful info if you didn?t take physical geology.

He really wants his students to succeed and get good grades.

Professor Rasmussen is an amazing teacher and I really enjoyed his intro to oceanography class. The only problem was that it didn't seem very much like an intro class. He's very knowledgeable in geology and oceanography and slightly expects you to be as well, making references at times that I didn't understand. Easy class, no. Interesting, yes.

One of the best professors at NOVA. He knows the material and is very passionate, loves what he does and is willing to help. The quizzes are difficult, but not impossible if you study. He does curve the midterm. Extra credit is offered, I highly recommend taking advantage of all of it. Very easy to follow in class, and gives the ppt on Blackboard.

Is quite knowledgable in every topic that deals with Geology, Geography, Oceanography, and so on. His class is not easy, and nor are his exams. Can be biting at times. The high expectations set upon his students is encouraging and understandable - since, of course- you are paying for this class, why not get the most out of it? Very recommended

Yes he is a great teacher but he expects you to know geology as if you are going to be a geologist the day you exit the class. He makes condescending comments to most people in the class purposely making a student look dumb. I received a 69 in this class and he refused to bump me up to a C. Cool guy but he can be very rude.

He knows his geology. You will learn something. Its not easy, but he's very fair. Curves almost everything (even though he'll say he doesn't). Gives extra credit and will bump your grade up if you deserve it. Test/quizzes are hard, but not impossible. Most honest class I've ever taken at NOVA.

Fantastic professor who easily conveyed his interest in the subject to his students. There is a LOT of information in his class but he presents it in such a way that most people with consistant attendance excelled on his exam. Students are easily kept involved and interested in what is going on. Lots of off-campus extra credit / lab opportunities.

Quizzes/tests were very hard and the information he asked about never seemed to be in the notes/textbook. He would often give my lab partners answers to the lab. Luckily he had quite a curve on the final because majority of the class would've failed. He knows geology inside and out and was interesting to listen to.

His enthusiasm for the subject is obvious. Tests are hard, but you feel like you've accomplished something when you're done. He truly enjoys students. If you show interest and try, he will help you and you will do well. Take advantage of extra credit opportunities!! Has a good sense of humor, but you have to be able to laugh.

One all-day class hoofing around DC buildings and monuments, taking notes and trying to keep up pace with the professor who is probably runs marathons for fun. Learned SO much. Raved to all of my friends who want to audit the class because it is THAT interesting. I bet people would still sign up if it was two all-day sessions to see more!

Anyone who has given this professor a poor review (and I've seen this personally) were those weren't willing to put in an effort for the grade andor tried to cheat their way around things. This professor is passionate, intelligent, cares about his students, and will help anyone who is willing to help themselves. Best professor I've had at any uni

Such an amazing professor and a great mentor! He knows his stuff inside and out and then some. He challenges you to be your best and to think and not memorize. This is not a slacker class. If you are willing to work hard you will do very well. One of the best professors I've ever had. He has inspired me to pursue marine geology.

I just took my second GOL135 Field Study with Dr. Rasmussen and both experiences were exceptional. I can't recommend these courses highly enough for those who want to expand their horizons or observe practical applications of earth science. Even if you're not a student of geology you'll walk away with a new appreciation for the world around us.

Took this class initially because I wanted to go into this field. While I changed my major during the class (not because of the class, mind you) I still found his lectures very informational and interesting. As long as you listen closely to him during his lectures and take good notes (I didn't even read once) you'll be good in his class.

Dr. R is truly one of those professors that can inspire you to love a subject you would have never considered! He is so knowledgeable and passionate about geology, and he creates a challenging but supportive classroom environment in which students can learn a great deal. He always pushed me to search for the best possible answer. Loved his class!

I am glade that he was my teacher. He loves his subject, therefore he want to transfer his knowledge to everyone. if someone majoring in geology don't miss him!

Professor R is a great teacher. Cares deeply about his subject and is well knowledgeable. Class is lecture heavy but provides power points on all topics covered in class. Attend class, use power point for base of notes, some light reading will help. Record lectures if able, playing back lectures helps bring topics together. Tough exams.

Dr. R. is one of if not the best science professors at NVCC. Don't expect an easy A. He makes you work for your grade, but he will go out of his way to connect with you. The biggest thing I noticed was that even though he has made Geology his life's work, he does not expect the same from you. lectures are interesting and engaging as are labs.

Not that hard of a class. Professor Rasmussen is a good teacher, he really enjoys the topic, he lives it. The class is definitely interesting, take him if you need to take a geology class.

Definitely one of the best professors I've had to date. He is able to empart his knowledge through real life experiences, passion and facts to help the student connect w/ the subject matter. His test & quizzes require a higher level of thinking and he offers many opportunities for extra credit. Great teacher will be taking him again! :)

when he teaches you can really tell that he cares about the subject he is teaching. he draws apon examples from his vast experience in the subject of oceanography. His tests are really difficult but he grades on a curve. His class rocks!! You learn so much. Study hard, and take every extra credit opportunity he offers they help a lot.

Dr Rasmussen should win Professor of the year literally every year. He changed my life for the best. I wouldn't be who I am now if I hadn't taken his courses. Excellent professor and respectable professional. A mentor, friend, & scholar. They don't make 'em like Dr. R... If you haven't taken his course - GET WITH THE PROGRAM!

Except to WORK for an A. Subject is easy, but he elaborates upon it and makes it difficult. Worth taking his class & learning. Get only 2 test; hit or miss. EXTREMELY lecture heavy. If you want an university level teacher; take him. Engages your thinking.

I really learned a lot from this class in every way. The tests are difficult, and so are the quizzes, but only if you don't listen in class. Listen in class, take very good notes, and study them afterwards and you should be fine. This is not an easy class but you will be amazed with knowledge of the professor and about the Earth. Life-changing

I adore this man. He is so passionate about geology, it's contagious. He is personable, funny, and caring. You need to do your part but he does so much to help you succeed. He includes quizzes, attendance, lots of fun interactive extra credit opportunities, and tests in your final grade. He's one in a million; take his class, no regrets.

I took Dr. R's class about a year and a half ago in my last semester at NOVA. He remains the best professor I have had by far. I even considered majoring in geology because of him. Now, his class is tough. His quizzes and tests are no joke, but he is very fair and very clear about the content that will be on them. I definitely recommend him.

A really great professor. Lectures are in depth and the labs cover everything you learn in class. There were a few quizzes, take home assignments, and midterm/final tests. Dr. R is helpful when you have questions in class or lab and his lecture slides and other materials are super helpful too.

Dr R's enthusiasm & expertise in geology are an inspiration. Engaging lectures; terrific learning exper. Class attendance & lab participation are important. Reading the text helps supplement detailed lecture slides. Quizzes, always w/advance notice. Many extra credit opportunities. Exams designed to make you think. Fair grader. Excellent class.

Dr. R is a super cool professor that really cares about what he teaches about, and it shows in how comprehensive his lectures are. He's pretty strict about not making up quizzes and tests of you miss them, but he's understanding about late homework. Overall a really cool professor.

Dr.R is amazing! I took him for a summer 6week course and i had a good time. He really cares about the subject and makes it so you care too. I am going to admit, his questions on quizzes and test are tricky so reading the textbook is a must. The homework isnt hard and the TAs are really helpful. If you pay attention in his class, hell like you.

I've taken Geology (Honors option) and a Field Geo class (which counted for extra credit!) with Professor Rasmussen and was absolutely amazed. His passion for geology is evident in his lectures, and his availability is unparalleled. I believe he is one of the best professors I have/ever will have, and recommend you take ANY of his classes.

Single greatest professor I've had. Genuinely cares about the subject, which really comes through in his teaching. Is considerate to his students, handled the COVID thing as well as could be expected. Not a class you can really coast through, but if you put in the work he is a fair grader that provides plenty of opportunity for extra credit.

Professor R gives great feedback and holds virtual office hours weekly if you need help. The labs and tests are challenging, but as long as you understand the PROCESSES and how everything works, then you'll do just fine. He provides video and reading resources to help understand the material. Make sure to check them out! Overall, good class.

Dr. Rasmussen is a great teacher. You can tell during his lectures that he is passionate about the subject he teaches and it can be contagious. I learned a lot about the natural psychical world around us and enjoyed the process. His exams can be difficult and there is a lot of reading to do but if you do the work, youll be fine. Highly recommend.

One of the tougher prof. Ive taken but easily the best. He really knows his stuff and lectures in a way that gets you interested in the subject. Taken 2 of his classes and while they are difficult, he ultimately wants you to succeed! Highly recommend!

I am taking his GOL 105 class online (TBA). I must say this guy give lectures(from other peoples) but short(like 3-6 minutes for 4-5 of them), easy, detailed enough to understand rather than teachers who assigned documentaries worth hours to watch. Lab work ez! Overall, class is not brainded ez but ez enuf with minimal work if you have 3 digits iq.

I don't know if my class was dumb or what but his class was really difficult. I passed, but I had to work hard to make sure I got the grade I wanted which was basically the core lesson of the class: working /really/ hard to get a good grade. Do not recommend him if taking 5 classes. Or if you are not a geology major. But he was really nice!

I had to drop this class due to the amount of workload needed in order to simply understand the CONCEPTS of all the topics. Professor is very knowledgable about geology and nice, however, when it comes to the studying materials for exams / midterms, he doesn't really provide a clear criteria. This class is WAY too broad to skim and wish for an A.

Dr.R is a really cool guy and has so much lore he'll tell you all about. You'll learn so much and he'll actually make you care about the environment. Like any other class, you have to do the work, if you do, trust you'll be fine for the midterm and final. He cares about you, your grade, and will help you. Take him, he's the best for oceanography.

Dr. R delivered engaging lectures & some very cool labs throughout this course. If you show up and study what he teaches + what is in the textbook you will be fine. I am not a scientifically inclined student by any means and made it out with an A, so don't let other reviews intimidate you. He is also very kind and willing to assist students who ask

An intellectually stimulating course; not an "easy A." Professor is mostly kind, lest you ask questions about something he just said or posted on Canvas. No homework. Attend lecture and study well, and you'll be fine.