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Geology

Are you curious about how the Earth works? Do you want a career that takes you out in nature? A degree in geology could be for you.

In this program, you will study the science of our planet, including its history, landforms, resources and natural systems. You’ll explore the role of geology and minerals in your everyday lives and learn how to interpret maps and identify minerals and rocks. This pre-major program is designed to prepare you to transfer at the junior level into a geology or related degree program at a four-year college or university.

Whether want to research volcanoes or earthquakes, work in the environmental field, or pursue a career in private industry, government or as a teacher, this program will lay the groundwork for a variety of geology-related career options.

SFCC is a MESA College

MESA: Mathematics, Engineering Science, Achievement logo
SFCC offers extra support and career development to students pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or math programs through MESA (Math, Engineering, Science Achievement).

What You’ll Learn

  • Demonstrate an understanding of geologic theories and their application to models used to predict natural phenomena
  • Apply the scientific method through the analysis of data and provide scientific conclusions
  • Communicate laboratory results verbally, visually, and/or in writing
  • Illustrate knowledge of the interconnectedness of spheres involving geology, the environment, and human interactions
  • Utilize critical thinking skills while working in diverse teams, to analyze peer-reviewed scientific information
  • Conduct experiments following safety protocol, scientific method, and best management practices

You and your advisor will use this program map as a starting point to create a personal education plan customized to your needs. No matter what level of math you’re starting with, we will support you along your journey. We meet you where you are and help you reach your goals. We have a place for you!
Need more details? Check out the degree worksheet for the Associate in Science – Transfer Track 1. Course descriptions and course learning outcomes can be found in our online catalogue.

Program Map for

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Choose program map:

Total Credits: 90

First Quarter

Course ID
Course Title
Credits
ENGL& 101
English Composition I
5
GEOL& 101
Intro to Physical Geology
5
MATH& 151
Calculus I
5
Total Credits
 
15

Second Quarter

Course ID
Course Title
Credits
MATH& 152
Calculus II
5
PHIL 110
Introduction to Ethics
5
Choose 1 course from:
ANTH& 100
Survey of Anthropology
5
ANTH& 206
Cultural Anthropology
5
Total Credits
 
15

Third Quarter

Course ID
Course Title
Credits
GEOG& 100
Introduction to Geography
5
MATH& 153
Calculus III
5
Choose 1 course from:
FILM 141
Introduction to Film
5
HUM 107
Introduction to Cultural Studies
5
Total Credits
 
15

Fourth Quarter

Course ID
Course Title
Credits
CHEM& 161
General Chemistry w/Lab I
5
PHYS 201
Engineering Physics I
5
Choose 1 course from:
CMST 226
Gender Communication
5
CMST 227
Intercultural Communication
5
Total Credits
 
15

Fifth Quarter

Course ID
Course Title
Credits
CHEM& 162
General Chemistry w/Lab II
5
GEOL 116
Environmental Geology
5
PHYS 202
Engineering Physics II
5
Total Credits
 
15

Sixth Quarter

Course ID
Course Title
Credits
CHEM& 163
General Chemistry w/Lab III
5
MATH& 146
Introduction to Statistics
5
PHYS 203
Engineering Physics III
5
Total Credits
 
15

You and your advisor will use the Program Map located on this page to create a personal education plan customized to your interests and goals, your start quarter, full- or part-time status, any prior credits you have, and the classes available each quarter. To see the requirements for the AS-T 1 Biological Sciences, Environmental/Resource Sciences, Chemistry, Geology and Earth Science, click here, then scroll down to Associate in Science – Transfer Track 1 (AS-T 1)

Maximum estimated costs for completing this program

  • Tuition

  • Resident

    $
    9,544
  • Non-Resident

    $
    17,651
  • International

    $
    21,823
  • Books

    $
    1,526
  • Course Fees

    $
    234
  • Institutional Fees

    $
    1,511

  • The amounts listed for tuition and lab & course fees reflects a maximum estimated cost and may be lower based on courses selected.
  • The amount listed for books is a maximum estimated cost based on the price of new textbooks purchased during the previous school year. Costs may be lower based on student choices and availability (used books vs new, rental vs purchase).
  • For more information about costs, visit our page How Much Does It Cost?

  • Vicki Moore
    Vicki Moore
    Stem Pathway Specialist
    Vicki.Moore@sfcc.spokane.edu
    509-533-4150

  • Jennifer Barson
    Jennifer Barson
    Geology
    A.A., Pierce Community College; B.S. Central Washington University; M.S., University of Nevada, Reno
    Jennifer.Barson@sfcc.spokane.edu
    509-533-3060
  • Holly Lodoen
    Holly Lodoen
    Instr&Classroom Supt Tch2
    Holly.Lodoen@sfcc.spokane.edu
    509-533-3656

Have a question? Let's hear it.

Jennifer Barson

Faculty
Jennifer.Barson@sfcc.spokane.edu
509-533-3060
Building 28, Room 236

Vicki Moore

Pathways Specialist
Vicki.Moore@sfcc.spokane.edu
509-533-4150
Building 28, room 115