Associate of Science in Geological Sciences

Geologic science is the science of the earth. It is an organized body of knowledge about the earth or planet on which we live - about the mountains, the plains, the oceans, and the atmosphere. It studies the effects of geologic hazards, such as earthquakes, landslides, floods and volcanic eruptions. It also addresses the ways to conserve and protect the world's fragile geologic environment.

Planetary science concerns itself with the study of the origin of galaxies and the universe, along with the laws which order these systems and bodies.

Earth and Planetary Sciences is the department for explorers! You can study Earth and beyond through programs in Astronomy, Geology, Geography, and Environmental Studies. Each of these programs contains one or more majors and supports the student body by providing popular and transferable introductory level physical and social science courses.

Earth Scientists study mountain building, rivers and groundwater, oceans and the atmosphere and the connections between them, and the history of earth and the life it supports. Geographers study how Earth processes and resources vary spatially over the globe and influence society. Students of Environmental Studies explore how Earth processes affect human populations and how people are changing our planet. Astronomers explore how Earth’s trajectory through our solar system affects life on Earth, the possibility of life elsewhere, and the origins of our universe.

Courses include Astronomy, Geology, Physical and Human Geography, GIS, Weather and Climate, and even Black holes. Earth and planetary scientists pursue lucrative and rewarding careers protecting society from debris flows and earthquakes, finding and responsibly utilizing Earth’s mineral and energy resources, modeling climate change and understanding its impact on people, and improving social justice.

The Astronomy Major

Astronomy has played an important role in the development of modern science and technology. Astronomers study the formation, chemistry, composition, and evolution of celestial objects. Modern astronomers work with advanced technology and instrumentation to study planets, stars galaxies, nebulae, black holes, and the universe itself. Students take astronomy courses to prepare for a major in astronomy, or to fulfill general education requirements in related fields, or to prepare for various vocational jobs as technicians for high-tech industries. Graduates with a bachelor's degree in astronomy pursue careers as museum and planetarium directors, astronomers/astrophysicists, space scientists, mission data analysts, spacecraft and instrument designers, teachers, observatory technicians, telescope operators, electronics technicians, computer programmers, or to work in the fields of optics, mathematics, electronics, or computer programming.

The Geography Major

Geography is the science of space and place. Geographers study spatial distributions and relations within Earth’s human-environment systems, incorporating historic and contemporary human activities within the context of the biophysical and cultural environments, and the emergence of humanity as one of the major agents of change on Earth. The geography program exposes students to many of the tools and technologies employed by earth science professionals, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS). The Associate in Arts Degree in Geography provides for a liberal education and prepares one for positions in business, government, environmental consulting, resource management, teaching, the technology sector, and service in foreign areas.

The Geology Major

Geology is a multi-disciplinary science that applies biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and engineering to the natural world around us. The rich variety of its fields of study includes oceanography, paleontology, geophysics, geochemistry, hydrogeology, engineering geology, environmental geology and more. That is what makes geology an exciting and challenging major for students with broad scientific interests and a love for natural systems, environments and our planet’s history.

Geology majors gain scientific observational reasoning, communication skills and an understanding of geological concepts and history. This blend of interpretive scientific ability and historical perspective gives geologists an important role in society. They apply their skills and knowledge to solve complex problems related to human interaction with natural systems, hazards and resources, and to communicate solutions and options to the public.

Geology majors may choose between two AS degrees, one designed for students seeking the minimum requirements for transfer to a CSU, and the other to provide a deeper dive into the geosciences that gives students robust preparation for transfer anywhere.

SBCC offers a Transfer Agreement Guarantee (TAG). A TAG is a contractual agreement between the student, SBCC, and specific four-year colleges or universities. This includes six University of California ( *UC) institutions, six California State Institutions (CSU), seven California private institutions, nine out-of-state institutions, as well as Honors Transfer Agreements with ten institutions and 8 CSUs without campus impaction. Students must enroll in the TAG program and work with a TAG advisor. Please click here to learn more on the TAG program website.