Geology Associate in Science Degree for Transfer
Program Overview
Geology Associate in Science Degree for Transfer
Related Degrees & Certificates
- AS Associate in Science Degree Program
- Geology | 60 units
Career Opportunities
Specific career opportunities include engineering geologist, environmental geologist, geochemist, geology assistant, geophysicist, hydrologist, mining geologist, marine geologist, oceanographer, paleontologist, petroleum geologist, petrologist, seismologist, soils technician, teacher/professor, volcanologist, and waste management geologist.
Program Learning Outcomes
Students completing this program will be able to:
- Apply tools, practices, and quantitative reasoning to collect, analyze, and interpret geologically relevant data in laboratory and field settings.
- Apply concepts, models, and quantitative techniques from mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology to solve complex geologic problems.
- Apply scientific inquiry and investigation of evidence to formulate and critically evaluate scientific arguments, especially as relates to geologic phenomena.
- Evaluate quantitative and qualitative evidence for how humans impact earth processes and how earth processes impact humans.
Recommended High School Preparation
- Coursework in Chemistry, biology, Mathematics
University Transfer Program
Use Assist to identify lower division major preparation for the California State University and the University of California systems. For independent or out-of-state colleges and universities use their catalogs to locate this information. Transfer Services can assist you to gather this information.
About the Program
An Associate degree in Geological Science prepares the student for transfer to a baccalaureate institution for a four-year degree in Geology. While some jobs are available for technicians with Associate degrees in Geological Science, a Bachelor’s degree in Geology is a minimum requirement for employment in exploratory geology, minerals management, and engineering.
Approximately 40% of geologists work for oil and gas companies, either in service or exploration. Some work for mining and quarrying companies, while others work as consultants or are self-employed. Government agencies provide employment opportunities with the Bureau of Mines, U.S. Geologic Survey, and Bureau of Reclamation. Specific career opportunities include engineering geologist, environmental geologist, geochemist, geology assistant, geophysicist, hydrologist, mining geologist, marine geologist, oceanographer, paleontologist, petroleum geologist, petrologist, seismologist, soils technician, teacher/professor, volcanologist, and waste management geologist.
Program Overview
An associates of science for transfer degree in Geology prepares the student for transfer to a baccalaureate institution for a four-year degree in Geology. While some jobs are available for technicians with Associate degrees in Geological Science, a Bachelor's degree in Geology is a minimum requirement for employment in exploratory geology, minerals management, and engineering.
Approximately 40% of geologists work for oil and gas companies, either in service or exploration. Some work for mining and quarrying companies, while others work as consultants or are self-employed. Government agencies provide employment opportunities with the Bureau of Mines, U.S. Geologic Survey, and Bureau of Reclamation.
Program Requirements
Major Requirements
- Required Core Courses: 28 units
- CHEM 210 | General Chemistry I | 5 units
- CHEM 220 | General Chemistry II | 5 units
- GEOL 100 | Survey of Geology | 3 units
- GEOL 101 | Geology Laboratory | 1 unit
- MATH 251 | Calculus with Analytic Geometry I | 5 units
- MATH 252 | Calculus with Analytic Geometry II | 5 units
- PALN 110 | General Paleontology | 3 units
- PALN 111 | Paleontology Laboratory | 1 unit
- Additional recommended preparation (not required):
- PHYS 250 | Physics with Calculus I | 4 units
- PHYS 260 | Physics with Calculus II | 4 units
- Total Required Major Units: 28
General Education
- Certified completion of one of the following:
- California State University General Education-Breadth pattern (CSU GE Breadth)
- OR
- Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC/CSU) pattern
Elective courses
- If applicable, additional courses to meet the minimum 60 CSU transferable units requirement.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Geology Associate in Science Degree for Transfer (AS-T) prepares students for transfer to a four-year university to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Geology. This program provides a foundation in the fundamental concepts and principles of geology, including the Earth's internal and external processes, materials, geologic time and dating methods, ecology, evolution, extinction, and the fossil record. Graduates will be able to apply the scientific method and geologic concepts to identify minerals, rocks, and fossils, interpret maps and data, and analyze geological and paleontological information.
Objectives:
- Equip students with a strong foundation in geology for successful transfer to a four-year university.
- Develop students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills through the application of scientific methods to geological problems.
- Enhance students' understanding of the Earth's history, composition, and processes.
- Prepare students for diverse career opportunities in geology and related fields.
Program Description:
The AS-T program in Geology is designed to meet the lower-division requirements for a Bachelor's degree in Geology at most California State Universities (CSUs) and many other universities. The program consists of 28 units of required major courses, including General Geology, Geology Laboratory, Paleontology, Paleontology Laboratory/Field Studies, Calculus with Analytic Geometry I & II, and General Chemistry I & II. Students are also encouraged to take additional recommended courses in Physics with Calculus I & II.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Earth's internal and external processes
- Materials of the Earth
- Geologic Time and Dating Methods
- Ecology, Evolution, Extinction, and the Fossil Record
- Mineral and rock identification
- Interpretation of geologic maps, cross-sections, and stratigraphic columns
- Analysis of geologic and paleontologic data
- Application of the scientific method to geological problems
Program Structure:
- 28 units of required major courses
- 3 units of General Geology
- 1 unit of Geology Laboratory
- 3 units of General Paleontology
- 1 unit of Paleontology Laboratory/Field Studies
- 5 units of Calculus with Analytic Geometry I & II
- 5 units of General Chemistry I & II
- 0-8 units of electives to meet the minimum 60 transferable unit requirement
Course Schedule:
Specific course schedules are available online through the College of San Mateo (CSM) website.
Individual Modules:
- General Geology: This course provides an overview of the Earth's composition, structure, and history. Topics covered include plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, weathering, erosion, and sedimentation.
- Geology Laboratory: This laboratory course provides hands-on experience in identifying minerals, rocks, and fossils, interpreting geologic maps, and analyzing data.
- General Paleontology: This course focuses on the history of life on Earth, including the study of fossils, evolution, and extinction.
- Paleontology Laboratory/Field Studies: This laboratory/field course provides hands-on experience in collecting, preparing, and identifying fossils.
- Calculus with Analytic Geometry I & II: These courses provide a foundation in calculus, which is essential for understanding many aspects of geology.
- General Chemistry I & II: These courses provide a foundation in chemistry, which is essential for understanding the composition of rocks and minerals.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Projects
- Presentations
- Laboratory reports
- Fieldwork reports
Assessment Criteria:
- Accuracy
- Completeness
- Clarity
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Laboratory activities
- Field trips
- Guest lectures
Faculty:
The Geology program is taught by experienced faculty with expertise in various areas of geology.
Unique Approaches:
- The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory activities and field trips.
- Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects with faculty members.
- The program prepares students for careers in both the public and private sectors.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- 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
Career Opportunities:
Graduates of the Geology AS-T program can find employment in a variety of industries, including:
- Oil and gas
- Mining
- Environmental consulting
- Government agencies
- Education
Career Outcomes:
Graduates of the Geology AS-T program are well-prepared for transfer to a four-year university to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Geology. With a Bachelor's degree, graduates can qualify for a wider range of career opportunities in geology and related fields.
Other:
- The Geology AS-T program is designed to meet the lower-division requirements for a Bachelor's degree in Geology at most California State Universities (CSUs) and many other universities.
- Students are encouraged to meet with a CSM counselor to discuss their academic goals and develop a comprehensive student educational plan (SEP).
- The program is offered at the College of San Mateo (CSM) in San Mateo, California.
College of San Mateo
Overview:
College of San Mateo (CSM) is a community college located in San Mateo, California. It is known for its high-quality academic programs and its commitment to student success. CSM is consistently ranked as a top community college.
Services Offered:
CSM offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Students can receive personalized guidance on course selection, degree planning, and career exploration.Financial Aid:
Financial assistance is available to help students pay for tuition, fees, and other expenses.Student Support Services:
CSM provides a variety of support services, such as tutoring, counseling, and disability services.Basic Needs Assistance:
Resources are available to help students with food, housing, and financial coaching.Library:
The CSM library offers a wide collection of books, journals, and other resources.Athletics:
CSM has a strong athletic program with a variety of sports teams.Student Life:
CSM offers a variety of student clubs and organizations, as well as social events and activities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
CSM provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can participate in a variety of clubs and organizations, attend social events, and engage in extracurricular activities. The campus offers a variety of amenities, including a library, athletic center, and student center.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High-Quality Academic Programs:
CSM offers a wide range of academic programs, including associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs.Affordable Education:
CSM is a relatively affordable option for higher education.Supportive Campus Environment:
CSM provides a supportive and welcoming campus environment for students.Strong Faculty:
CSM has a dedicated and experienced faculty who are committed to student success.Convenient Location:
CSM is located in a convenient location with easy access to public transportation.Academic Programs:
CSM offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
