Geosciences - GEOG / GEOL
AVC Geosciences offers students the opportunity to study Earth through the complementary disciplines of Geography and Geology. Students can explore physical landscapes, weather and climate, cultural and regional patterns, spatial technologies, rocks and minerals, and the processes that shape Earth through time.
The department includes transfer-focused pathways in both Geography and Geology, along with specialized study in Geographic Information Science (GIS). These programs help students build strong analytical, scientific, mapping, laboratory, and field-based skills for transfer, career development, and further study.
Geography Programs
Geography AA-T
60 units
A transfer-focused degree that introduces students to both physical and cultural geography while developing geographic and spatial analysis skills for continued university study.
Geographic Information Systems Certificate
15 units
A focused certificate in GIS that builds practical skills in mapping, data acquisition, spatial analysis, cartography, and project-based geospatial problem solving.
Geology Programs
Geology AS-T
60 units
A transfer degree designed for students preparing for upper-division geology study, with coursework in physical and historical geology, chemistry, calculus, and laboratory science.
Geology Fundamentals Certificate
8 units
A foundational certificate that introduces students to the core principles of physical and historical geology and supports early preparation for further geology coursework and transfer.
Courses You May Take
Geography Courses
- GEOG 101 - Physical Geography: Earth's Surface Landscapes
- GEOG 101L - Physical Geography Lab: Earth's Surface Landscapes
- GEOG 102 - Physical Geography: Earth's Weather & Climate
- GEOG 102L - Physical Geography Lab: Earth's Weather & Climate
- GEOG 105 - Cultural Geography
- GEOG 106 - California Geography
- GEOG 110 - World Regional Geography
- GEOG 201 - Map Interpretation and GPS
- GEOG 205 - Introduction to Geographic Information Science (GIS)
- GEOG 220 - Data Acquisition and Management in Geographic Information Science (GIS)
- GEOG 221 - Spatial Analysis in Geographic Information Science (GIS)
- GEOG 222 - Cartography for Geographic Information Science (GIS)
- GEOG 298C - Special Studies in Geographic Information Science (GIS)
- GEOG 299 - Special Topics-Field Geography
Geology Courses
- GEOL 101 - Physical Geology
- GEOL 101H - Physical Geology Honors
- GEOL 101L - Physical Geology Lab
- GEOL 102 - Historical Geology
- GEOL 102L - Historical Geology Laboratory
What You Will Learn
Students in Geosciences develop skills in spatial thinking, map interpretation, geospatial technology, scientific observation, field and laboratory analysis, and the study of Earth systems. Geography students examine patterns across landscapes, climate, culture, and regions, while GIS students build technical skills in mapping, data management, and spatial analysis.
Geology students investigate Earth materials, geologic history, and the natural processes that shape the planet over time. Across the department, students gain transferable scientific and analytical skills that support continued study, career exploration, and interdisciplinary work.
Plan Your Path
AVC Geosciences includes multiple paths, including transfer degrees in Geography and Geology as well as a focused GIS certificate.
Students are encouraged to review program requirements carefully and meet with a counselor to choose the course sequence that best matches their transfer, career, or certificate goals.
Contact
Math, Science and Engineering Division
(661) 722-6300, ext. 6415