About Geology
Geology is the study of the materials of which the Earth is made (rocks, minerals, water, oil, natural gas, and magmas), the structures that are produced (Earth layers, mountains, volcanoes, basins), the processes acting upon them (earthquakes, volcanism, landslides, floods, magnetic fields), and the evolution of Earth and its materials over time (Earth formation, early history, ice ages, and climate change).
Geology courses are recommended for anyone interested in understanding and living with the natural world around us and in making informed decisions on matters pertaining to interactions between natural Earth processes and society.
Geology, an interdisciplinary science, requires expertise in chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science, and critical thinking. It requires skill in problem-solving, analysis, scientific inquiry, and communication. This Associate's of Science Transfer in Geology is specifically designed to prepare you for transfer to a CSU geology program at the upper-division level. It may also be appropriate for transfer into programs in geology, oceanography, earth sciences, and environmental sciences. To accomplish this goal, majors will complete transferable lower-division courses in geology, math, and chemistry.
Explore Potential Careers
Studying Geology can lead to a variety of different jobs or career paths. Below are just some of the many options you will have.
Industries hiring geology majors include:
- Energy and Mineral Industries (exploration, modeling, environmental mitigation, engineering)
- Environmental Clean Up and Hazard Mitigation Companies
- Federal Government (local and regional planning, state and Federal environmental regulation and protection, geological engineering, state geological surveys, U.S. Geological Survey, National Park Service, state parks, E.P.A.)
- Nonprofits (environmental, planning, education)
- Academia
- Secondary Education (Earth Science Teachers)
For additional resources, review:
Program Options
Click on the degree below to see a sample map of courses to take to complete your goal from start to finish.
Please note that the course map provided is just an example to help you get started. Please meet with a counselor to personalize the plan to you and your Academic goals.
Transfer Options
The program coursework you complete at City College will satisfy lower-division requirements for related majors at several colleges and universities. Start planning your transfer by exploring Geology programs at the following institutions:
- San Francisco State University – School of the Environment (includes Geology, Oceanography, Meteorology, Geography, Environmental Science, and Environmental Studies)
- San Jose State University – Geology Department
- University of California, Berkeley – Earth and Planetary Science Department
- University of California, Davis – Department of Geology
- University of California, Santa Cruz – Earth Sciences Department
- California State University East Bay – Geology B.A.
- Humboldt State University – Department of Geology
Have questions about transfer?
- Visit the Transfer Center for help, transfer information, and/or to speak with college representatives.
- Visit Earth Sciences Department Transfer Advice for additional recommendations.