The Associate in Science in Geology transfer degree focuses on an understanding of the internal processes responsible for the formation of the Earth from a scientific perspective. Students choosing the geology degree program will study a range of natural science concepts including plate tectonics, climate change, and the evolution of the dynamic planet Earth. This degree employs the scientific method to understand the formation of the Earth, including how volcanoes, and mountain building events change the geography and ecosystems of the Earth. Students will explore geologic time as it relates to the origins and evolution of life through the fossil record. An understanding of the formation of economically important mineral and fossil fuel resources is an important aspect of the degree program. A portion of this course will focus on the diverse California geology and coastal development. Completion of this major will provide students with a well-rounded understanding of human impacts on the globe and the ways geologic hazards such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides impact human development.

Program Level Learning Outcomes

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

1. Define the application of the scientific method to geology and how it allows scientists to develop theories of the natural forces that shape the evolving Earth.
2. Describe the processes of plate tectonics as it relates to mountain building events, volcanoes, earthquakes, and evolution of landscapes.
3. Define the processes of mineral and rock formation and the importance of economic resources.
4. Evaluate geologic landscapes and structures, such as faults, folds and the physical forces required to develop a geologic landscape.
5. Relate geologic time and the fossil record to past climates and the tectonic and ecological environments responsible for the formation of the Earth.
6. Examine past climates, both those warmer and cooler than current conditions, and how ice ages impacted climate and shaped landscapes.
7. Perform rudimentary calculations relating to physical structure and chemical compositions.

Associate Degree for Transfer Graduation Requirements

Associate Degrees for Transfer require students to meet the following requirements:

• Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units of degree-applicable courses,
• Minimum overall grade point average of 2.0,
• Minimum grade of “C” (or “P”) for each course in the major, and
• Completion of Cal-GETC.

Students should consult a GWC counselor in order to select the best pathway to meet their educational goals. For students who intend to transfer, the choice of general education will be specific to both their major and transfer institution.

Course List Units

Course	Title	Units
Required Courses – Core
GEOL G110	Physical Geology	4
GEOL G120	Historical Geology	4
CHEM G180	General Chemistry A	5
CHEM G185	General Chemistry B	5
MATH G180	Calculus 1	4
MATH G185	Calculus 2	4
Major Total		26
GE Pattern (Cal-GETC)		37-39
Transferable Electives (as needed to reach 60 units)
Total Units		60

 

Per the SB1440 guidelines, the 60 unit total for this degree can only be met with IGETC. Students can elect to complete the CSU-GE Breadth and have the degree awarded with the understanding that they will be completing more than the 60 units under an ADT approval.