# Earth Science (Associate in Science)

Woodland Community College · 2026-2027 Catalog · Department: Geology

Source: https://wcc.yccd.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/WCC-Catalog-2026-27.pdf#page=171

The AS Degree in Earth Science prepares students with the skills needed to succeed in entry-level technical positions in the geological profession, including such fields as geologist, earth scientist, conservation scientist (land use), environmental scientist (environmental assessment and mitigation, including air & water quality analysis), mining, hydrology, agronomy, or serving as a lab tech. Completion of this coursework will also help students complete the coursework needed to transfer to a 4 year and obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Earth Science or Geology which will provide additional professional opportunities. In all cases, students should consult with a counselor for more information on specific university admission and transfer requirements so that the courses you select best match with your transfer goals.

### Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

- Demonstrate an understanding of the purpose of scientific inquiry and the implications and applications of basic scientific principles within the field of geology.
- Demonstrate the ability to use appropriate mathematical concepts and methods to understand, analyze, and communicate issues within geology in quantitative terms.
- Think and reason scientifically in order to analyze data/information in addressing & evaluating problems and issues pertaining to geology.

**Required Courses for Major**

| Course | Title | Units |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Required Core Courses** | | 8 |
| **All of the following** | | 4 |
| GEOL-11L | Historical Geology | 4 |
| **Choose from the following options** | | 4 |
| **Option 1** | | 4 |
| GEOL-8 | Earth Science | 3 |
| GEOL-8L | Earth Science Laboratory | 1 |
| **Option 2** | | 4 |
| GEOL-10L | Physical Geology | 4 |
| **Select one of the following Chemistry courses** | | 5 |
| CHEM-1A | General Chemistry I | 5 |
| CHEM-2A | Introductory Chemistry | 5 |
| **Select one of the following Math courses** | | 4 |
| MATH-9 | Calculus for Business, Social and Life Sciences | 4 |
| MATH-C2210 | Calculus I: Early Transcendentals | 4 |
| **Electives- Select 1 course from the list provided below** | | 3-5 |
| ASTR-C1000 | Introduction to Astronomy with Lab | 4 |
| CHEM-1B | General Chemistry II | 5 |
| GEOG-1 | Physical Geography | 3 |
| GEOL-12 | Oceanography | 3 |
| GEOL-20 | Geology of California | 3 |
| MATH-C2220 | Calculus II: Early Transcendentals | 4 |
| **Total units** | | **20-22** |

†To earn an Associate degree, students will complete at least 60 units of degree-applicable coursework, including required courses for the major (listed above), General Education, and Graduation Requirements.