Geology
Associate of Science-Transfer Geology/Earth Science · El Camino College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Natural Sciences Division www.elcamino.edu/academics/divisions/natural-sciences/
The geology program is designed to provide students the opportunity to obtain a transfer degree upon successful completion of the geology major requirements. The student will acquire the ability to apply the theory of plate tectonics, knowledge of geologic hazards, and principles of geologic time to natural phenomena. Laboratories complement the lecture material providing the student with a foundation in observational and interpretive techniques. Competencies are assessed by examining the student's ability to make careful observations of earth materials and processes, explain observations, predict future outcomes of earth processes, and successfully complete laboratory and field trip activities.
The Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T) is intended for students who plan to complete a bachelor's degree in a similar major at a CSU campus. Students completing the AS-T are given priority consideration for admission to the CSU system, but not to a particular campus or major. In order to earn an AS-T degree, students must complete:
- Completion of 60 semester units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University.
- The California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) Requirements.
- A minimum of 18 semester units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
- Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.
- A grade of "C" or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis.
Students who have completed the AS-T will have a strong academic foundation in the field and will be prepared for upper division baccalaureate study at the university. The coursework will satisfy most of the lower-division requirements at many institutions within the California State University system. Students transferring to a UC, private, or out-of-state university should consult with an El Camino College counselor when planning to complete the degree since transfer requirements may be slightly different than those required for the AS-T.
Required Courses: 28 units
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| GEOL 1 | Physical Geology | 3 |
| GEOL 2 | History of Planet Earth | 3 |
| GEOL 3 | Physical Geology Laboratory | 1 |
| GEOL 4 | History of Planet Earth Laboratory | 1 |
| CHEM 1A | General Chemistry I | 5 |
| CHEM 1B | General Chemistry II | 5 |
| MATH 190 | Single Variable Calculus and Analytic Geometry I | 5 |
| MATH 191 | Single Variable Calculus and Analytic Geometry II | 5 |
Total Major Units: 28
GE Pattern
Complete the following:
Cal-GETC: 34 units
Required for transfer degrees (AA-T and AS-T).
Electives
As needed to reach a minimum of 60 degree-applicable units.
Minimum Degree Total: 60 units