Geology

Program Overview:

Geology examines all aspects of the physical Earth: its materials, processes, and history. Geology is a physical science and therefore requires a solid background in mathematics, chemistry and physics. Additionally, geologists need to have good computer and communication skills. Students majoring in geology at CSI can obtain an A.S. degree and then transfer to a four-year university to complete their Bachelor’s or advanced degrees. Work and career paths for majors vary widely because geology is a broad and diverse science. Geologists typically divide their time between the field, lab, and office. Geologists are typically employed by a variety of organizations including, oil and gas industry, mining companies, environmental consulting firms, and national and state government agencies.

Program Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the Geology program, the student will be able to:

1. Use math and science concepts to interpret, formulate and solve geologic problems.
2. Make sound observations to form a testable hypothesis.
3. Interpret and communicate scientific information via written, spoken, and/or visual representations.
4. Describe, identify, and interpret Earth materials (rocks and minerals) both in hand sample and in field settings where relationships, scale, and context can be considered.
5. Explain fundamental Earth processes, both surficial and internal (such as plate tectonics).
6. Summarize basic and major events in Earth history in the context of plate tectonics.
7. Enroll in and successfully complete upper division Geology courses in the pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree in Geology.

Career Information:

Sample Career Opportunities: Natural Sciences Managers; Geoscientists; Hydrologists; Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers

*Talk to an advisor for additional career choices