Geology

Geology Associate in Science for Transfer

Geology is the study of the Earth and our neighboring planets in space, their composition, processes, and history. Through courses offered in the program students will learn about plate tectonics, the rock cycle, mineralogy, geological time and the fossil record, Earth's internal structure, weathering and erosion, earthquakes, sedimentology, Earth's oceans and atmosphere, processes that shape the land surface, and the evolution the planet and life on it. The curriculum includes the standard foundational courses of Introduction to Geology and Historical Geology. It also includes Earth Science, which is a required component for certain science education majors. Enrollment in this program provides students with an understanding of fundamental geological concepts and principles and builds critical thinking skills when examining geologic issues in the world. Students will learn to interpret geologic and topographic maps, read and interpret basic seismic data, identify different tectonic plate boundary types, differentiate between different types of volcanism, construct geologic profiles, understand properties of both surface and groundwater flow, interpret basic meteorological data, understand oceanic and atmospheric circulation systems, identify basic minerals, rocks, sediments, and fossils, and collect and analyze data pertaining to Earth studies. Graduates with degrees in Geology have excellent employment opportunities locally, nationally, and internationally in fields such as petroleum and minerals exploration, atmospheric observation, water resources & management, planetary studies, paleontology, environmental protection, and science education & communication. Upon completion of the following requirements, the student will be eligible for an Associate Degree for Transfer: (1) Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following: a. California General Education Transfer Curriculum (CalGETC). b. A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district. (2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0. (3) The completion of all courses required for the major with a “C” or better. A “P” (Pass) grade is acceptable for courses in the major.

Program Learning Outcomes

• 1. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to recognize, analyze, and interpret processes behind natural phenomena.

• 2. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to apply the methodologies of science when approaching a problem.

• 3. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to apply logical quantitative and qualitative reasoning in solving problems or analyzing arguments.

Program Requirements