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Geology Program

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Program

Program at a Glance

Degree Types

  • Associate Degree

Formats

  • In-Person
  • Online

Length

  • 4 Semesters | Associate Degree

Academic and Career Pathway

STEM

Disover the Forces That Build Our Planet

Geology is the science of Earth—what it’s made of, how it changes, and the powerful processes shaping its surface and interior. In the Geology program, students study the forces at work today to better understand how our planet evolved in the past and how it may change in the future.

Students interested in geology take a sequence of earth science courses and follow the Geology Transfer Pathway, earning an Associate in Science degree while preparing to continue their studies at a four-year institution.

Classes are held in the Geology Laboratory/Classroom in the Berg Instructional Center (BIC), Room 3D07, a fully equipped space designed for hands-on exploration. The Geology Lab features:

  • Museum- and demonstration-quality rock, mineral, and fossil collections
  • Extensive topographic and geologic maps from across the United States
  • Water and gas supplies and a ventilated hood for safe physical and chemical analysis
  • An integrated audio-visual system for access to digital and online resources
  • Professional equipment including a rock saw, polisher, and splitter for specimen preparation
  • Students also have exclusive access to archival geology journals and texts in the Earth Science Library/Workroom (BIC 3D10)—a valuable resource for research, projects, and deeper exploration of the field.

Geology Prerequisites

Geology classes require prerequisites in math and reading. Students must have completed a minimum of Math 0481 with a C or better or must achieve a qualifying score on the Math Placement Exam. Students must also achieve a minimum score of Reading Level 1 to enroll in geology classes.

Determine Your Path

A career in geology can be found in corporate, non-profit, government and academic settings. 

You want to attend a credible college that stands out from the rest. At COD, you'll discover:

  • Small class sizes that ensure students receive personalized attention.
  • Dedicated instructors with years of professional experience.
  • Affordable programs to help students achieve success without creating overwhelming debt or draining a savings account.
  • Instruction utilizing top-notch facilities.
  • An innovative transfer program that facilitates a convenient, affordable and streamlined approach to earning a bachelor's degree.

Associate in Science

The Geology Transfer Pathway, Associate in Science degree program represents a typical course schedule or sequence for a student planning to complete the Associate in Science degree within two years, then transfer and major in a specific discipline.

Get Started Today

The first step to getting started is to apply for admission.

Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree or certificate that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.

Earth Science Program graduates will:

  • Identify the risks, societal impacts, and appropriate responses to earth-related processes that may include geological, astronomical, atmospheric, and hydrological issues.
  • Examine and explain the interrelationships among at least two of the following systems: geological, astronomical, atmospheric, and hydrological.
  • Apply the scientific method within the context of the Earth Sciences.
  • Select appropriate resources to evaluate current societal issues.
  • Integrate knowledge of fundamental Earth Science concepts with social concerns regarding the sustainability of natural resources and/or the risks associated with natural hazards.

College of DuPage partners with several four-year institutions to help students seamlessly complete a bachelor’s degree in earth science. Students can connect with Transfer Services for personalized guidance on transfer opportunities.

For more information about Transfer Pathways, visit the College of DuPage Catalog. The pathway outlines a typical two-year course plan for completing an AA or AS degree before transferring to a four-year program. Course requirements vary by institution, so consult your faculty or academic advisor for specific guidance.

Articulation Agreements

College of DuPage maintains transfer agreements with many colleges and universities to ensure a smooth transition toward a bachelor’s degree. These agreements often include a defined course sequence. Students should regularly meet with a faculty member or Advising Services to stay on track.

Transfer Guides

Beyond articulation agreements and guaranteed admission programs, College of DuPage courses transfer to many other institutions. Transfer Guides help students select COD courses that meet prerequisites for specific majors and include details such as contact information, major requirements, general education requirements, and transfer policies.

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Earth Science Geology
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Contact Information

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Division

Earth Science Faculty Directory

Contact

Location
Berg Instructional Center (BIC), Room 2E06, (630) 942-3210

Phone
(630) 942-3210

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Take the Next Step

Whether you’re exploring, applying or planning your path, COD makes it easy to get started.

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