Geology Associate in Science Degree

Program Overview

The Associate in Science Degree in Geological Science provides a foundation in geology, paleontology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics, preparing students for transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor's degree in Geology. The program emphasizes understanding Earth's systems, processes, and history, equipping students for careers in various fields within geology, including engineering geology, environmental geology, and paleontology.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

This Associate in Science Degree in Geological Science prepares students for transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor's degree in Geology.

Objectives:

• Provide a solid foundation in the fundamental principles and concepts of physical and historical geology, including the processes shaping the Earth, its materials, geologic time and dating methods, ecology, evolution, extinction, and the fossil record.
• Develop skills in applying the principles of the scientific method and geologic concepts to identify minerals, rocks, and fossils; interpret maps, cross sections, and stratigraphic columns; and analyze geologic and paleontologic data.

Program Description:

The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of Earth's systems, processes, and history. It provides a rigorous curriculum in geology, paleontology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics, ensuring students are well-equipped for advanced studies in geology.

Outline:

Required Core Courses (28 units):

• GEOL 100: Survey of Geology (3 units)
• GEOL 101: Geology Laboratory (1 unit)
• PALN 110: General Paleontology (3 units)
• PALN 111: Paleontology Laboratory/Field Studies (1 unit)
• MATH 251: Calculus with Analytic Geometry I (5 units)
• MATH 252: Calculus with Analytic Geometry II (5 units)
• CHEM 210: General Chemistry I (5 units)
• CHEM 220: General Chemistry II (5 units)

Additional Recommended Preparation (not required):

• PHYS 250: Physics with Calculus I (4 units)

Careers:

Career Paths:

Graduates with an Associate in Science Degree in Geological Science can pursue various career opportunities in the field of geology, including:

• Engineering Geologist
• Environmental Geologist
• Geochemist
• Geology Assistant
• Geophysicist
• Hydrologist
• Mining Geologist
• Marine Geologist
• Oceanographer
• Paleontologist
• Petroleum Geologist
• Petrologist
• Seismologist
• Soils Technician
• Teacher/Professor
• Volcanologist
• Waste Management Geologist

Employment Opportunities:

Approximately 40% of geologists work for oil and gas companies in service or exploration. Others work for mining and quarrying companies, as consultants, or self-employed. Government agencies such as the Bureau of Mines, U.S. Geological Survey, and Bureau of Reclamation also offer employment opportunities.