Mar 28, 2024  
2021-2022 General Catalog 
    
2021-2022 General Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Geology, B.S.


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This plan is intended to give the student basic professional competence in geology. A calculus-based series of support courses is highly recommended for students intending to pursue a more quantitative geoscience career. It provides an excellent foundation for graduate school or a professional career in the geosciences such as a Professional Geologist, Hydrologist, or Geophysicist registered with the State of California.

Program Learning Outcomes


Students who complete the Bachelor of Science in Geology degree a 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:

  1. Competence in scientific inquiry,
  2. Critical thinking abilities,
  3. Written and oral communication proficiency, and 
  4. 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.

Major Electives


Choose 9 units of upper-division geology electives in consultation with a departmental advisor.

Units


Total units in the major core: 41

Total units in major electives: 9

Total units in supporting courses: 22-24

Total units in the major: 72-80

Program Roadmaps


First-Year Advising Guide


First-Year Advising Guide

Sample Four-Year Program


Geology, B.S.


Freshman Year: 29 Units

Fall Semester (14 Units)

Spring Semester (15 Units)

Sophomore Year: 29 Units

Junior Year: 29 Units

Spring Semester (15 Units)

Senior Year: 30 Units

Fall Semester (15 Units)

  • GE 
  • Geology Elective
Spring Semester (15 Units)

Senior Summer: 4 Units

Total Semester Units: 120


Sample Two-Year Program for Transfer Students


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