Geology

Award Type: Associate in Science for Transfer

The Associate in Science for Transfer in Geology will provide the foundational knowledge of geology to students who want to earn a baccalaureate degree in Geology. Geology is an interdisciplinary science that seeks to study and understand the physical processes of the Earth and other planets, including plate tectonics, rocks, minerals, earthquakes, volcanoes, the fossil record and Earth's history and past climate, and natural geological resources. The Associate in Science for Transfer in Geology will prepare students to move into the California State University (CSU) system to pursue a baccalaureate degree in Earth Science, Geology, or Geophysics. Students who complete the Associate in Science for Transfer in Geology receive priority admission to the California State University system, though admission to a specific campus is not guaranteed.

Associate Degree for Transfer Requirements

Completion of 60 semester units that are eligible for transfer to a California State University, including the following:

1. Completion of the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC).
2. A minimum of 18 semester units in a major or area of emphasis as determined by the community college district.
3. Obtainment of an overall minimum grade point average of 2.0.
4. Minimum grade of C, or P grade, for each course in the major.

The following Allan Hancock College graduation requirements will not be required: Health and Wellness, Multicultural Gender Studies and Allan Hancock College General Education.

The graduate of the Associate in Science for Transfer in Geology will:

1. Recognize and explain the role of fundamental geologic principles, such as plate tectonic theory and deep time, in the interpretation of observed geologic phenomena.
2. Research, evaluate, and cite scientific information in order to formulate coherent summaries of earth processes.
3. Interpret geologic processes using underlying chemical properties and physical laws.
4. Evaluate ideas about the natural universe using testable methodology, differentiate between scientific and non-scientific information, and demonstrate understanding of the scientific method by designing a valid scientific inquiry.
5. Apply knowledge of current geologic processes to the understanding of Earth's past geologic history.
6. Evaluate and analyze contemporary geologic problems including the implications of human activities on geologic resources.