Geology
 

Geology imageMost people think of geologists as simply studying rock materials and making collections of these materials.  However, geology is a dynamic ever-changing field of study that is concerned with Earth resources, hazards, and the interaction of humanity on the environment.  Geologists also provide information for solving problems and establishing policies for resource management, environmental protection, public health, safety, and welfare.

If you are interested in understanding Earth, like to explore, enjoy problem solving, and are interested in the outdoors, geology may be the field of study for you.
For more information see: http://www.agiweb.org/workforce/brochure.html  

Want to find out if this program is for you? Check out potential careers on the web at www.acinet.org or www.bls.gov/oco.

AA/AS Degree
The Associate of Science degree is designed to give you a traditional liberal arts education with a math or science emphasis that will transfer to a four year college or university. The AS provides a solid foundation of study in the areas of natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, pre-engineering, and allied health.  Click here for track specific information. 
Program Description
This program provides the basic preparation in geology for students planning to transfer at the junior level.  A study of geology leads to careers in a variety of sub-disciplines such as: Earth Science Teaching, Petroleum Geology, Economic Geology, Mining, Paleontology, Volcanology, Hydrogeology, and Environmental Geology.
The geology program at Pikes Peak Community College emphasizes field experience in the courses offered due to its location in the southern Rockies.
"60+60" Transfer Guarantee
Spend two years at PPCC, earning your Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree, and we’ll send you off with half the credits you’ll need for a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree. Guaranteed.
If you sign up for the 60+60 Bachelor’s Degree Transfer Program, we guarantee that the credits you’ve earned at PPCC will automatically be accepted by any four-year, public institution of higher learning in the state – providing, of course, you follow a few simple rules. For instance, you have to maintain at least a “C” in each of your 60+60 courses. And only approved 60+60 courses apply. But other than that, there’s hardly anything difficult about it.
If you think you might want to move on to a state college or university after completing your two years at PPCC, ask one of our advisors about the 60+60 program. Find out more at www.ppcc.edu/60plus60.  
Employment Opportunities
Geologists may sample the deep ocean floor or examine rock samples from the Moon or Mars.  However, the work of most Geologists is typically “down to Earth.”  They explore for new mineral and petroleum resources, work as consultants on engineering and environmental concerns, research specific problem in geology or new areas of study, teachers, writers, editors, and museum curators, and other sub-disciplines.  Geologists and Geoscientists typically divide their time among work in the field, the laboratory, and the office.
The employment outlook in the geosciences (geology) as with any profession varies with the economic climate of the country.  At the present the long-range outlook is good.  Disappearing energy, mineral, and water resources along with increasing concerns about the environment and natural hazards constantly present new challenges to geologists.
Many geologists are self-employed as consultants or work with consulting firms.  Other Geologists work for federal or state government agencies.  The USGS (Department of the Interior), Department of Energy, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, NASA, NOAA, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, state geological surveys.
Career Path Notes
A strong interest in science and a good education are the most important elements in becoming a Geologist.  The geosciences utilize biology, chemistry, mathematics (including calculus), physics, and engineering.  Any High School courses related to these subjects plus geology or earth science courses will help in the preparation for studies in the geosciences.  A solid background in English is also needed because geologists need to be able to write and speak clearly.
Advising
www.ppcc.edu/Advising
Transfer Opportunities
www.ppcc.edu/Transfer
Financial Aid
www.ppcc.edu/FinancialAid
Apply
www.ppcc.edu/Apply
For More Information
Call the Division of Health, Environmental, Natural and Physical Sciences at 719-502-3400
Minimum Recommended Basic Skills
Recommended basic skills standards are
• ENG 060
• MAT 090
• REA 090