Earth Science, B.A.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students who completethe Bachelor of Arts in Earth Science degree are required to demonstrate:

1. The understanding of geologic terms, concepts, and theories,
2. The ability to collect geologic data through laboratory and field studies, and to formulate logical interpretations and conclusions from those data,
3. The ability to compare, contrast and demonstrate appreciation of competing views within geology, involving both historical and current controversies,
4. A solid understanding of geologic conditions specific to California and the unique global geological context of California, and
5. The ability to identify common rocks and minerals found in any country located anywhere on Earth.

Additionally, students are also expected to acquire the following general skills:

6. Competence in scientific inquiry,
7. Critical thinking abilities,
8. Written and oral communication proficiency, and 
9. Quantitative reasoning skills. 

Degree Requirements

See the “Degree Requirements ” in the University Catalog for complete details on general degree requirements.

General Education Requirements (48 units). 

See the “General Education Program ” requirements in the University Catalog for information on General Education requirements. Some major requirements may double count for GE requirements.

Required Major Core Courses

Required Supporting Courses

• MATH 160 - Precalculus Mathematics Unit(s): 4 OR
• MATH 161 - Differential and Integral Calculus I Unit(s): 4 OR
• MATH 165 - Elementary Applied Statistics Unit(s): 4

•  

• CHEM 102 - Chemistry and Society Unit(s): 3 OR
• CHEM 110 - Introductory General Chemistry Unit(s): 3 OR
• CHEM 115A - General Chemistry Unit(s): 5

•  

• Any 100 or 200-level Physics or Astronomy course

Units

Total units in major electives: 33

Total units in supporting courses: 10-14

Total units in the major core: 61-65*

Suggested Major Elective Courses

Secondary Education Teaching Preparation

Geology and Earth Science students must demonstrate competence in the natural sciences by passing the subject matter examination required by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC). One part of the examination will test breadth of knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, astronomy, and geology. Another part of the examination will test depth of knowledge in a particular area, such as geology. The B.S. in Geology or the B.A. in Earth Science degrees are recommended to prepare for the part of the examination that tests depth of knowledge in geology. For recommended course selection to help prepare for the part of the examination that tests breadth of scientific knowledge, please see the Teaching Credential section of the SSU catalog. GEOL 107, Introduction to Earth Science, is specifically designed for students who are preparing to take the CCTC single-subject exam. For more information, please contact the Department of Geology, (707) 664-2334.

Program Road Maps

Sample Two-Year Program for Transfer Students

First-Year Advising Guide

First-Year Advising Guide