Geology Course Descriptions
GEOL 300
Physical Geology
3 Units
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: Concurrent enrollment in GEOL 301.
General Education: AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LEC
Physical geology is an introduction to the composition and dynamics of the earth from the atomic scale of minerals to the global scale of plate tectonics. Topics include the composition of minerals and rock, volcanism, earth structures, earthquakes, erosion and surface processes, geologic time, geologic hazards, and plate tectonics. In this course, attention will focus on the rocks, landscapes, and scenic areas of the American West. Emphasis is placed on how humans affect the environment. Successful completion of physical geology prepares the student to recognize, understand, and appreciate processes which continually change our earth.
GEOL 301
Physical Geology Laboratory
1 Unit
Prerequisite: None
Corequisite: GEOL 300 (may be taken previously)
General Education: CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LAB
This course provides "hands-on" experience with the tools and skills discussed in Physical Geology (GEOL 300). Lab topics include mineral and rock identification, map and air photograph interpretation and landform identification, and introduction to the study of geologic maps and cross-sections.
GEOL 305
Earth Science
3 Units
Prerequisite: None
General Education: AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
See UC Limitations & Counselor
Hours: 54 hours LEC
This course is an introductory course covering major topics in geology, oceanography, meteorology, astronomy, scientific method, and philosophy of science. This course is designed for non-science majors. This course is not open to students who have received credit for GEOL 300 or GEOL 310.
GEOL 306
Earth Science Laboratory
1 Unit
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: GEOL 305
General Education: CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
See UC Limitations & Counselor
Hours: 54 hours LAB
This course emphasizes scientific methods and systematic laboratory procedures. Topics include weather analysis, rock and mineral identification, study of geologic concepts by means of topographic maps, and exercises in astronomy and oceanography. One field trip may be required. Not open to students who have received credit for GEOL 300 or GEOL 301.
GEOL 310
Historical Geology
3 Units
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: GEOL 300 or 305; an introductory geology or earth science course.
General Education: AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LEC
This course studies the origin and geologic history of Earth and the evolution of its plant and animal inhabitants. Plate tectonic theory is used to explain changes in composition and structure of rocks in Earth's crust from the formation of Earth to the present. Emphasis is placed on the formation of sedimentary rocks for the purpose of understanding how they and the fossils contained within them record changes in Earth environment and processes. Evolution and extinction are studied to understand how they reflect environmental changes in Earth's ocean, atmosphere, and surface.
GEOL 311
Historical Geology Laboratory
1 Unit
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: GEOL 310 (may be taken concurrently).
Advisory: GEOL 300
General Education: CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LAB
Laboratory studies will accompany and complement GEOL 310, Historical Geology. Use of sedimentary rocks, fossils, geologic maps, and cross sections will aid in interpreting ancient environments, tectonic settings, and geologic history. Other concepts addressed include age relations and correlation of rock and time units, and introduction to fossil identification and biostratigraphy. At least one field trip or an appropriate alternative activity will be required as an introduction to sedimentary environments and field methods in geology.
GEOL 330
Introduction to Oceanography
3 Units
Prerequisite: None.
General Education: AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LEC
The course will provide an introduction to the basic principles and practices of oceanography. Topics will be presented in terms of the applications of physics, geology, chemistry, and biology to a study of the world's oceans. Specific topics will include planetary science and earth origin, the geologic timescale, geography and location systems, matter, marine provinces, sediments, seismology, plate tectonics, seawater composition, geochemical distributions, deep ocean circulations, winds and surface circulation, waves, tides, estuarine environment, biological production, nekton, plankton, and benthic organisms.
GEOL 342
Geology of the National Parks
3 Units
Prerequisite: None.
General Education: AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LEC
This course introduces students to Earth's geologic story as revealed by the rocks and landscapes in our State and National parklands. Attention will focus on how natural Earth processes have formed our State and National parklands. This course addresses surface shaping processes such as volcanism, plutonism, deformation, sedimentation, glaciation and fluvial activity as displayed in our parks and monuments.
GEOL 345
Geology of California
3 Units
Prerequisite: None.
General Education: AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
Hours: 54 hours LEC
This course provides a survey of the physical and historical aspects of California's geology, emphasizing the linkage between humans and geology through socio-economic impacts. This course is recommended for non-majors and majors in geology and is of particular value to science, engineering, environmental studies, education, and economic majors.
GEOL 390
Field Studies in Geology
.5-4 Units
Prerequisite: None
Course Transferable to UC/CSU
See UC Limitations & Counselor
Hours: 18 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
This course covers the study of geologic principles and processes of specific areas (mountains, deserts, great valley, coastal region, etc.). For specific details, see the course description (s) listed in the schedule. Students will be responsible for providing their own lodging (or camping equipment) and meals. This course may be taken up to four times for credit under a new topic or destination.
GEOL 495
Independent Studies in Geology
1-3 Units
Prerequisite: None.
Course Transferable to CSU
See UC Limitations & Counselor
Hours: 54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
An independent studies project involves an individual student or small group of students in study, research, or activities beyond the scope of regularly offered courses. See the current catalog section of "Special Studies" for full details of Independent Studies.
GEOL 499
Experimental Offering in Geology
.5-4 Units
Prerequisite: None
Course Transferable to CSU
See UC Limitations & Counselor
Hours: 54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB