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Home Academics Programs and Majors Geology

Geology

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses Faculty

Geology (GEOL) Courses

GEOL 300 Physical Geology

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Successful completion of Prealgebra and the skills needed to read and write college-level texts.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
  • C-ID:C-ID GEOL 100
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides an introduction to the dynamic nature of Earth through the study of Earth processes. Topics include global plate tectonics and related processes such as seismic and volcanic activity. It also covers mineral and rock formation, and those processes related to the development of fluvial, glacial, desert, and coastal environments. The occurrence, use, and abuse of renewable and non-renewable resources such as air, ground and surface water, and fossil fuels are also covered. Field experiences may be required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • explain the origins and characteristics of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rock types.
  • compare divergent, convergent, and transform plate tectonic boundaries in terms of the geologic processes and landforms found at each.
  • recognize the dynamic nature of geologic processes and their rates as they relate to Earth's great age.
  • analyze problems affecting daily life such as earthquake risks, volcanic hazards, mass wasting problems, rising sea levels, global warming, and use/abuse of natural resources.

GEOL 301 Physical Geology Laboratory

  • Units:1
  • Hours:54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:GEOL 300
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5C
  • C-ID:C-ID GEOL 100L
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a laboratory study of the basic principles of geology and their applications to everyday life. It encompasses the study and identification of common rocks and minerals, the interpretation and recognition of geologic structures and landforms, interpretation of maps, aerial photographs, remote sensing images, seismic information, and analysis of geologic hazards. Field experiences may be required.


























Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify and classify minerals by their physical properties.
  • evaluate rock samples and differentiate between igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks.
  • appraise major types of aerial photographs, remote sensing imagery, and topographic and geologic maps and interpret geologic information from them.
  • interpret ancient geologic, geographic, and environmental settings by using sedimentary rocks.
  • formulate views of Earth's interior based on analyzing seismic information.
  • explain major Earth features to demonstrate understanding of plate tectonic processes.
  • describe the three types of tectonic plate boundaries and give examples of their characteristic features.

GEOL 305 Earth Science

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Successful completion of Prealgebra and the skills needed to read and write college-level texts.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC Credit Limitation: No credit if taken after a college level course in Astronomy, Geology, Oceanography or Meteorology)
  • General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
  • C-ID:C-ID GEOL 120
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is an introductory science course covering major topics in geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy. It focuses on Earth as a dynamic and continually evolving planet and emphasizes the relationships between human-Earth interactions. Field trips may be required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • describe the Big Bang origin theory of the universe and explain the importance of stellar fusion to the formation of elements that make up the known universe.
  • classify the planets in our solar system as terrestrial and Jovian and list the characteristics of each category.
  • outline the processes and features associated with running water, groundwater, glaciers, wind, and waves that impact Earth's surface.
  • cite the factors/processes that are responsible for producing Earth's seasons, weather, and climate.
  • describe divergent, convergent, and transform plate tectonic boundaries in terms of the geologic processes (seismic activity, subduction, volcanism) and landforms found at each.
  • illustrate, with real world examples, issues affecting daily life, such as earthquake risks, volcanic hazards, mass wasting, rising sea levels, climate change, and use-abuse of natural resources.
  • classify rocks by their visible characteristics as igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rock types.

GEOL 306 Earth Science Laboratory

  • Units:1
  • Hours:54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:GEOL 305
  • Advisory:Successful completion of Prealgebra and the skills needed to read and write college-level texts.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: No credit if taken after GEOL 300 or 301)
  • General Education:CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5C
  • C-ID:C-ID GEOL 120L
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course emphasizes scientific methods, critical thinking skills, and systematic Earth science laboratory procedures. Topics include weather analysis, rock and mineral identification, study of topographic and geologic maps, and exercises in astronomy and oceanography.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • apply the scientific method to evaluate Earth science processes.
  • distinguish between specimens of rocks and minerals and their modes of formation.
  • differentiate between various geological processes that work to shape the topography of Earth.
  • analyze atmospheric observations (temperature, pressure, humidity, cloud cover) to make basic weather forecasts.
  • examine astronomical patterns and phenomena including planetary motion, solar and lunar eclipses, lunar phases, sun angle, and constellations.
  • survey Earth's basic marine processes and describe seafloor topography.
  • describe the three atmospheric lifting mechanisms in their geographic contexts.
  • interpret and analyze various types of maps and satellite imagery used in the Earth sciences.

GEOL 310 Historical Geology

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:(GEOL 300 or GEOL 305) and successful completion of Prealgebra and the ability to read and write college-level English.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
  • C-ID:C-ID GEOL 110
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers the geologic history of the Earth as shown by the rock record and by the succession of fauna and flora through the processes of evolution and extinction. Plate tectonics and its driving mechanisms are used to understand the assembly and breakup of supercontinents, growth and erosion of mountains, and changing sea levels. The evolution of species, ecosystems, climates, and landscapes is placed in a plate tectonics context. Stratigraphic, mineralogic, geochemical, and petrographical techniques for interpreting the sequence of past geological events are studied. Field experiences may be required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • evaluate the history of the Earth in its 4.6 billion-year history in the context of the geological timescale, and the relative and numerical methods used to construct the timescale.
  • describe the mechanisms of evolution and extinction and how they have shaped the history of life and affected geological processes in the past.
  • describe how the rock cycle has changed over geological time in terms of minerals, igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.
  • explain the mechanisms and features of plate tectonics and geological change and how they have shaped the Earth's history.
  • analyze the assembly, movement, and growth of the continents, and formation and breakup of supercontinents, with special regard for the North American continent.
  • analyze the factors that have determined the state of Earth's climate system in the past.

GEOL 311 Historical Geology Laboratory

  • Units:1
  • Hours:54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:GEOL 310
  • Advisory:GEOL 300 and 301
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5C
  • C-ID:C-ID GEOL 110L
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a laboratory study in historical geology. It applies principles of physical geology and paleontology in the reconstruction of the history of the Earth. Exercises in stratigraphy, paleontology, and interpretation of geologic maps are utilized. Field experiences may be required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • compare the evolution of major fossil phyla.
  • analyze examples of stratigraphic sequences to determine depositional environments.
  • analyze rock specimens to infer the processes involved in their origins.
  • analyze fossil assemblages to infer geologic ages.

GEOL 320 Global Climate Change

  • Same As:GEOG 305
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Successful completion of Prealgebra and the skills needed to read and write college-level texts.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course explores the history and mechanisms of climate change in Earth’s past, as well as the methods that scientists use to investigate climate change. It also focuses on climate change in Earth’s recent history (the past few million years) and the role that humans have had in climate change, especially since the industrial revolution. Additionally, it investigates the effects of climate change in today’s world and discusses possible technological and political solutions to this vast and increasingly important problem, and how societies may adapt to the changes. Field experiences may be required. This course is not open to students who have completed GEOG 305.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • describe the scientific tools used to study global climate change in the past and present.
  • explain the components, processes, and dynamics of the global heat budget, as they pertain to the ocean/atmosphere system.
  • describe the various lines of evidence that scientists use to investigate climate change in Earth’s deep past.
  • explain the conditions that led to extensive climate change over the past 2.5 million years.
  • analyze the manner in which climate change is portrayed in the media.
  • discriminate between and evaluate mechanisms of climate mitigation and adaptation at international, national, state, and local levels.
  • evaluate the human causes of climate change, the evidence surrounding that, and the possible consequences of anthropogenically driven climate change.

GEOL 325 Environmental Hazards and Natural Disasters

  • Same As:GEOG 307
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Successful completion of Prealgebra and the skills needed to read and write college-level texts.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers the environmental effects and applications of Earth-related processes. It focuses on earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, flooding, hurricanes, and related current events. Additional topics include the availability and exploitation of natural resources, waste disposal, and global climate change. Humans as a force in environmental change are emphasized. This course addresses geology, engineering, environmental studies, natural resources, geography, and science education. Field experiences may be required. This course is not open to students who have completed GEOG 307.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • identify and describe potential environmental hazards associated with different geomorphologic settings.
  • describe short- and long-term consequences of environmental hazards on human activities.
  • compare and contrast renewable and non-renewable natural resources.
  • analyze the impact of human activity on natural resources.
  • distinguish between short- and long-term global climate trends.
  • evaluate current environmental issues that involve Earth system processes.

GEOL 330 Introduction to Oceanography

  • Same As:GEOG 308
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Successful completion of Prealgebra and the skills needed to read and write college-level texts.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is an integrated study of the world's oceans, including the physical, chemical, biological, and human-made processes that affect the oceans. Topics include plate tectonics, ocean basins and sediments, water chemistry, waves, tides, shoreline processes, ocean currents, and biosystems. Human impacts on oceans will also be discussed. Regional oceanographic features are emphasized and field experiences may be required. This course is not open to students who have completed GEOG 308.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • describe and evaluate the relationships between marine processes and plate tectonics.
  • assess the impact of human activities on ocean chemistry, biosystems, and global climate.
  • examine common coastal features and processes.
  • evaluate the impacts of shoreline processes on human activities and structures.
  • analyze the relationships between weather patterns and oceanic circulation.
  • assess and interpret the gross chemical composition of the ocean.
  • evaluate and measure the impacts of resource extraction on marine environmental concerns.
  • describe the distribution of sediment in the oceans and the processes that move sediment.

GEOL 331 Introduction to Oceanography Lab

  • Same As:GEOG 309
  • Units:1
  • Hours:54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:GEOG 308 or GEOL 330
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:CSU Area B3; IGETC Area 5C
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a laboratory investigation of Earth's oceans, emphasizing coastal processes of California. Topics include plate tectonics, ocean basins and sediments, water chemistry, waves, tides, shoreline processes, ocean currents, and biosystems. Field experiences may be required. This course is not open to students who have completed GEOG 309.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • assess the physical and chemical similarities and differences of distinct coastal environments.
  • analyze the changing physical and chemical conditions on biological patterns.
  • analyze the relationships between sea floor morphology and plate tectonics.

GEOL 345 Geology of California

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Successful completion of Prealgebra and the skills needed to read and write college-level texts.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • General Education:AA/AS Area IV; CSU Area B1; IGETC Area 5A
  • C-ID:C-ID GEOL 200
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides a survey of the physical and historical aspects of California geology, emphasizing the linkage of geology and people through economic and social impacts. It is recommended for non-majors and majors in geology and is of particular value to science, engineering, environmental studies, education, and economics majors. Field experiences may be required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • interpret the formation of California's geologic provinces within the framework of plate tectonics.
  • describe California's geologic resources, their distribution, use, and conservation.
  • analyze California's geologic hazards and assess their prediction, prevention, and mitigation.
  • evaluate the continuing interaction between geology and humans in California.
  • locate California's geologic provinces on a map.

GEOL 392 Field Studies in Mountain Landscapes

  • Units:1 - 4
  • Hours:6 - 24 hours LEC; 36 - 144 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course explores the geologic processes that form mountains, as well as the importance of mountains as sources of water, energy, mineral resources, and biodiversity. The environmental hazards posed by mountains are studied, along with the human impacts on mountains. Course content varies by destination and may include topics in geologic processes, geomorphology, meteorology, and plant and animal habitats. This course also introduces geologic field techniques such as geologic map interpretation, and use of compass, rock hammers, and GPS. Field trips are required.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • compose field notes and collect and analyze geological field data.
  • describe and explain mountain features related to the particular physical environments under study.
  • integrate information from various disciplines (geology, biology, ecology, history, meteorology) to explain the patterns of mountain landscapes.
  • describe the hazards that mountains pose to humans.
  • summarize the historical and present-day impacts that humans have on mountains.

GEOL 393 Field Studies in Coastal Landscapes

  • Units:1 - 4
  • Hours:6 - 24 hours LEC; 36 - 144 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course explores the dynamics of the coastal ocean environment, the array of geomorphic processes, and the range of landforms found on the ocean's edge, as well as offshore. Topics include the work of waves and tides and resultant changes to coastal features, types of beach materials, storm impacts, and coastal responses to climate change. Coastal impacts on humans and human impacts on coasts are also examined including engineering solutions to coastal hazards. Field trips are required. A field trip expense fee may be required to cover camping fees, lodging, or other incidentals. The instructor should be contacted for details prior to the first meeting.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • compose field notes.
  • collect and analyze data.
  • describe and explain geological phenomena of different coastal regions.
  • examine the effects of global climate change to coastal regions and their inhabitants.
  • interpret geologic and topographic maps of coastal regions.
  • summarize the engineering solutions to different coastal hazards.
  • describe the dynamic nature of coastlines and the impact on inhabitants.

GEOL 394 Field Studies in Volcanic Landscapes

  • Units:1 - 4
  • Hours:6 - 24 hours LEC; 36 - 144 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course studies geologic principles, processes, and features in volcanic environments. Course content varies by destination and will include topics in physical geology (plate tectonics, volcanic eruption types, volcanic products, climatic and other environmental effects of volcanoes, including natural hazards as well as human interactions with volcanoes). It also introduces tools and techniques used for geologic field work such as maps, map reading, compass, and the Global Positioning System (GPS). Field trips are required. A field trip expense fee may be required to cover camping fees, lodging, or other incidentals. The instructor should be contacted for details prior to the first meeting.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

  • apply concepts and processes discussed in lecture to experiences in the field.
  • compose field notes.
  • collect and analyze field data.
  • describe and explain geologic phenomena exhibited in diverse volcanic regions.
  • integrate information from various disciplines (geology, biology, ecology, anthropology, history, economics, cultural studies, and others) to explain landscape patterns and processes around volcanoes.
  • examine the meteorological aspects of volcanic mountains.

GEOL 495 Independent Studies in Geology

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

Independent Study is an opportunity for the student to extend classroom experience in this subject, while working independently of a formal classroom situation. Independent study is an extension of work offered in a specific class in the college catalog. To be eligible for independent study, students must have completed the basic regular catalog course at American River College. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval. Only one independent study for each catalog course will be allowed.

GEOL 499 Experimental Offering in Geology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

Field trips to selected locations of geologic interest in California and bordering areas. This course provides a general geologic understanding of a particular region of California and/or bordering areas. Course content may include pate tectonics, earthquakes and seismicity, geomorphology, recent volcanic activity, glacial features, ore deposits, mining, regional geology, and structural geology (faulting). Intended for those with a general interest in geology, earth science, environmental studies, civil engineering, science education, or the outdoors. Field trips(s) required.

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