Geology, A.S.
Prairie State College’s Geology A.S. program offers a comprehensive introduction to earth sciences, including the study of rocks, minerals, landforms, and natural phenomena. Designed for students planning to transfer to a four-year university, this program also opens pathways to careers in environmental consulting, resource management, and more.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Geology?
With this degree, you can transfer to a four-year institution to complete a bachelor’s
degree in geology, environmental science, or earth sciences. It also provides a foundation
for entry-level positions in environmental consulting, land assessment, natural resource
management, and geological surveying. The program prepares you for further education
and careers focused on understanding and managing Earth’s natural systems.
Graduates with an Associate in Science in Geology are prepared to transfer to four-year
colleges or universities to pursue bachelor’s degrees in geology, environmental science,
or related fields. Career opportunities include environmental consulting, natural
resource management, geological surveying, and working with government agencies on
natural disaster mitigation and land management. The demand for geologists and earth
scientists is expected to grow, especially in areas related to environmental protection
and sustainable resource utilization.
Suggested Curriculum
Geologists study the Earth, its processes, natural resources, and the impact of human
activity. They work in areas like resource exploration, disaster research, environmental
protection, and education. The typical four-year program builds on foundational sciences
such as math, chemistry, and physics in the first two years, followed by advanced
science courses in the last two years. Students are encouraged to complete the Associate
in Science degree before transferring.
Area A: Communication (9 credits)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900) - with a grade of C or better
- ENG 102 Composition II (C1 901R) - with a grade of C or better
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts (6 credits)
Select two courses from the list for Area B with one course selected from the humanities area and one course from the fine arts area.
Area C: Mathematics (5 credits)
- MATH 171 Calculus with Analytic Geometry I (M1 900-1; MTH 901)
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (7-8 credits)
- GEOLO 101 Physical Geology (P1 907L)
- Select one life science course (3-4)
Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (6 credits)
Select two courses in two different disciplines from the list for Area B .
Select one MATH course and one ASTRO, BIOL, CHEM, ENGR, GEOG (not GEOG 101), GEOLO, METEO, PHYSC, or PHYSI course from the list for Courses Approved for Transfer to qualify for an A.S. degree. Each course must be 3 credits or more. The courses below are recommended to meet this requirement as they are typically taken by freshmen and sophomores at universities for this specific major.
- CHEM 110 General Chemistry I (P1 902L; CHM 911)
- CHEM 130 General Chemistry II (CHM 912)
- MATH 172 Calculus with Analytic Geometry II (M1 900-2; MTH 902)
- MATH 173 Calculus with Analytic Geometry III (M1 900-3; MTH 903)
- PHYSI 120 College Physics I (P1 900L) *
- PHYSI 130 College Physics II *
- PHYSI 210 University Physics I (P2 900L; PHY 911) *
- PHYSI 220 University Physics II (PHY 912) *
Check with the university you plan to transfer to before selecting courses in this area.
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Faculty Contact Information
Christine Brooms
Professor, Coordinator, Chemistry Department Chair, Natural Sciences
Email: cbrooms@prairiestate.edu
Phone: 709-3604
Office: 2297
April McDonnell
Science Lab Coordinator
Email: amcdonnell@prairiestate.edu
Phone: 709-7760
Office: 3145
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
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