Geology A.S. Degree

Program Description

The Geology Associate of Science Degree equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's history, structure, economic resources, climate, and environment. This degree program meets student needs for: (1) transfer into a geological, environmental, or Earth sciences program at a four-year institution, (2) preparing for a career within the geological sciences or related fields, including energy exploration and development, environmental protection and remediation, hydrology, meteorology, hazard analysis and mitigation, and secondary and higher education, (3) fulfilling the undergraduate general education science requirement, and (4) a better understanding of the integration of natural systems with human-environment interactions within and upon the Earth.

Students who wish to pursue a degree in geology should take GEOL 101 and 111 before enrolling in additional geology courses. GEOL 101 is a prerequisite for most geology courses offered at San Bernardino Valley College and GEOL 111 will give students a more hands-on, in-depth exposure to the geological and Earth sciences. To graduate with a specialization in geology, students must complete the following required courses plus the general breadth requirements for the Associate Degree (total = 60 units)

The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program.  Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway.  It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.

Division

Science

Department

Geology

Career and Academic Pathway (CAP)

Science, Engineering, Math

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Have an understanding of the significance of Plate Tectonics in the overall picture of geologic processes

  2. Appreciate the magnitude of geologic time in explaining how the earth has changed over the course of geologic history

  3. Recognize important rock-forming minerals; both as mineral samples and as they appear in common rocks

  4. Identify the 3 major rock types (Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic) in field exposures

  5. Recognize major landform features and explain what geologic processes were involved in their formation

  6. Be prepared to transfer to an accredited 4-year degree granting institution and compete effectively against 'native' students in the same field of study

Program Map

GE General Education
O Available Online
Program Requirement
P Program Prerequisites

1st Semester

15 units

2nd Semester

15-17 units

3rd Semester

14 units

4th Semester

12-17 units

5th Semester

10-15 units