# Environmental Science (Associate in Science)

Butte College · 2026-2027 Catalog · Department: Physical Science

Source: https://butte.curriqunet.com/catalog/iq/25398/28408/28162/28135/28332

**About the Program**

**Program Goal:** Local

**GE Pattern(s):** Butte Local, Cal-GETC

**Program Code:** 15151.00AS

This program meets the lower division major preparation for a similar major at CSU, Chico. Visit website for details www.assist.org

The AS Degree in Environmental Science prepares students for successful transfer to university level Environmental Sciences programs as well as entry-level positions in environmentally focused careers such as resource management, environmental consulting and regulatory agencies. Curriculum is primarily aligned with the lower-division requirements of CSU, Chico. Students are strongly advised to consult a counselor and refer to www.assist.org when determining a course of study for a particular transfer goal.

Environmental science explores the interactions between human activities and the geological, biological, chemical and ecological systems that shape Earth’s natural environment.  Students in this program will develop a strong foundation in scientific concepts, analytical problem-solving skills and quantitative reasoning.  They will learn to identify and analyze environmental problems and propose sustainable, science-based solutions.

**Program Learning Outcome(s):**
Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to:

1.  Explain fundamental scientific principles underlying Earth’s geological, biological, chemical, and ecological systems.
2.  Analyze environmental problems using scientific methods, quantitative reasoning, and data interpretation.
3.  Evaluate human impacts on natural systems and propose evidence-based, sustainable solutions.
4.  Demonstrate proficiency in scientific inquiry and laboratory techniques used to do research and collect data for environmental monitoring and assessment.
5.  Communicate scientific information effectively in written, oral, and graphical formats to diverse audiences.
6.  Apply interdisciplinary perspectives (e.g., natural sciences, policy, ethics) to environmental decision-making and resource management.

| Course | Title | Units |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Required courses:** | | 31 |
| AGS 50 | General Soils | 4 |
| BIOL 43 | Ecology and Evolution | 5 |
| CHEM 1 | General Chemistry I | 5 |
| CHEM 2 | General Chemistry II | 5 |
| GEOL 32 | Physical Geology with Lab | 4 |
| PSC 10 | Introduction to Environmental Science | 4 |
| PSC 50 | Introduction to Weather | 3 |
| PSC 51 | Weather Lab | 1 |
| **Select one (4-5 units):** | | 4-5 |
| MATH C2210 | Calculus I: Early Transcendentals | 5 |
| MATH C2210E | Calculus I: Early Transcendentals – Embedded Support | 5 |
| STAT C1000 | Introduction to Statistics | 4 |
| STAT C1000E | Introduction to Statistics | 4 |
| **Select one group (8 units):** | | 8 |
| **Group 1** | | 8 |
| PHYS 21 | College Physics I | 4 |
| PHYS 22 | College Physics II | 4 |
| **Group 2** | | 8 |
| PHYS 41 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers I | 4 |
| PHYS 42 | Physics for Scientists and Engineers II | 4 |
| **Total** | | **43-44** |