Geology
Program Description
Everything you have, every place you go, everything you do, and everything you touch is influenced completely and entirely by Geology. From the materials that your car is made from and the gasoline that propels it, to the synthetic fibers you are wearing – everything comes from the Earth. Geology (Geo meaning Earth, and ology meaning study of) takes a close look at the surface of the Earth and its interior. In geology, you not only study beautiful rocks and minerals that makeup and the crust, but you also examine colorful rock layers inside the Earth (structure), and the astonishing history of our planet (continental drift and plate tectonics, dinosaurs, global warming, and cooling, etc.). From recognizing natural disasters and how to be safe from them to understanding mans’ place in time and on the planet, Geology will help you become more informed about your environment and your place in society and culture and will empower you to be an aware, informed leader in your family and your community.
Transfer Preparation
MSJC offers a wide range of course work that prepares students for the workforce or for transfer to four-year colleges and universities. All four-year institutions prescribe their own standards for course evaluation and admissions. Courses that fulfill major requirements for an associate degree in a program at MSJC might not be the same as those required for transfer into a similar major at a four-year university. Please meet with a Counselor to confirm transfer requirements.
Transfer students are advised to do research on prospective majors and careers. The MSJC Transfer Center and MSJC catalog can be helpful tools. Students interested in transferring to CSU’s or UC’s can access major preparation by visiting ASSIST. All students are advised to meet with a counselor at least once a semester to create or update their comprehensive education plan.
- Explain the interrelationship between humans and the physical environment.
- Appreciate different cultural and ethnic perspectives within the context of environmental opportunities and
challenges. - Apply the scientific method to objective and subjective analysis of cultural and physical environments.
- Explore and critically appreciate spatial relationships at different local, regional, and global scales.
Discover in-demand careers and education options based on your interests! See the list of careers below or explore further by searching for Careers or Programs.
Note: There are no guaranteed positions for students completing these programs. Education and work experience required will vary by employer. The salary and benefits for specific occupations will be dependent on work experience, education, background, and employer. Labor market statistics are from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Census Bureau, O-NET, EMSI.
| Career/Industries | CA Annual Median Salary or Range | Employment Demand or Opening CA |
|---|---|---|
| Geophysical Data Technicians (A, B, M) | $62,427 | 109 |
| Mining and Geological Engineers (B,M) | $141,038 | 32 |
| Geoscientists (B, M, D) | $97,457 | 382 |
| Hydrologists (B, M) | $104,106 | 91 |
(degree required: SM some college, C: Certificate, A: Associate degree, B: Bachelor’s degree, M: Master’s degree, D: Doctorate)