Program Overview

The Associate in Science in Geology transfer degree focuses on an understanding of 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:

• Define the application of the scientific method to geology and the forces, which shape the Earth.
• Describe the processes of plate tectonics as it relates to mountain building events, volcanoes, earthquakes, and evolution of landscapes.
• Illustrate the processes of mineral and rock formation and importance of economic resources.
• Evaluate geologic landscapes and structures such as faults, folds and the physical forces required to develop a geologic landscape.
• Relate geologic time and the fossil record to past climates and the tectonic and ecological environments responsible for the formation of the Earth.
• Study past climates both warm and cool and how ice ages impacted climate and landscapes.