ADT in Geology

This curriculum is designed to provide an opportunity for the Geology major to achieve an Associate in Science Degree in Geology for Transfer (AS-T in Geology) which completes the first and second year requirements for transfer to a four-year public California institution. Students with a degree in geology may pursue careers in education, consulting, research or work in industry as an entry geologist or geotechnician in fields such as engineering geology, environmental geology, petroleum and mining geology, hydrogeology, seismology, paleontology, geophysics, marine geology and volcanology. While at least a baccalaureate degree is recommended preparation for those considering professional careers, completion of this curriculum will demonstrate commitment to the field and provide comprehensive preparation for further academic study through upper-division course work.

This curriculum specifically prepares the prospective transfer student for upper division course work in Geology or a similar major at a California State University (CSU) campus. Students should consult a counselor, the Transfer Center and the catalog of the transfer college or university to plan a specific program of study to meet the college or university’s requirements.

A.S.-Transfer Degree Level Student Learning Outcomes

Students completing the Geology A.S.-Transfer Degree will:

1. Demonstrate scientific literacy by defining and explaining the major steps in the scientific method such as empirical data, testable hypothesis, and theory, applying general math skills such as metric unit conversion, solving rate problems, and producing and interpreting data in tables and graphs.

2. Identify and classify the earth materials, such as most common minerals, rocks, and major groups of fossils in the lab and the field and their basic relationship to common natural resources.

3. List, explain, and evaluate global and local geological hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, and seismic sea waves in terms of appropriate geological processes and the theory of plate tectonics.

4. Demonstrate an understanding of the geologic time scale and relative and numerical methods of measuring geologic time, age of the Earth, and major events in its history

Students receiving this transfer degree must meet the following requirements:

1. Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following:
   1. The Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education - Breadth Requirements.
   2. A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
2. Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.
3. Meet the 12-unit residency requirement. 

ADTs also require that students must earn a "C" (or "P") or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. 

Additional recommended preparation for transfer-bound students (not part of the Geology Degree) 

2.5-Year Curriculum Map Example
This map represents one possible pathway through the program and is only for reference.

*It is highly recommended that you make an appointment to create a customized education plan that fits your needs.

Note: Co-requisite MATH course (2 units) and/or substitute ENGL 101E (5 units) may be needed based on placement.

Career Opportunities

There are a variety of careers you can do with this major.

To explore more about this major, schedule an appointment with a career counselor.