The Associate of Science Degree in Environmental Science prepares students who are intending to transfer to a four-year institution in the environmental sciences. This degree provides for completion of general lower-division coursework associated with the requirements for a bachelor degree in environmental science, environmental studies, environmental and occupational health, etc. The degree is specifically designed for students intending to transfer to a CSU or UC campus and to gain entry-level employment in the environmental science field. Students completing the degree will take specific courses in chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics in addition to general education preparation such as the CSU general education plan or IGETC. (See admission requirements of individual colleges and universities and transfer requirements for specific majors).
Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.| Course | Units | Typically Offered |
| 1st Semester | ||
| CHEM 120 - Introduction to Chemistry (RHC GE 5)M | 5.0 | |
CHEM 120 - Introduction to Chemistry (5.0 units) (Formerly CHEM 090) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course. This one-semester course is designed for students intending to major in science or engineering. The course primarily prepares students for CHEM130; additionally, it fulfills the General Education requirement in the physical sciences. This course introduces the fundamental principles of general chemistry, with emphasis on chemical nomenclature and quantitative problems in chemistry. The lecture presents classical and modern chemistry, including atomic theory, periodic properties, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, acids and bases, gas laws, and solutions. The laboratory introduces the techniques of experimental chemistry with examples from all areas of chemistry. | ||
| Select one: MATH 190 / MATH 190H (RHC GE 2)M | 4.0 | |
MATH 190 - Calculus I (4.0 units) Prerequisite:MATH 180 or MATH 185 or appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures) This course is designed for students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. It is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable, and covers functions, limits and continuity, the techniques and applications of differentiation and integration, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. MATH 190H - Calculus I Honors (4.0 units) Prerequisite:ENGL C1000 and MATH 185 or MATH 180 or appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures) This course is designed for students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. It is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable, and covers functions, limits and continuity, the techniques and applications of differentiation and integration, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. | ||
| RHC GE 9 - Ethnic StudiesGE | 3.0 | |
Select one: | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 12.0 | |
| 2nd Semester | ||
| CHEM 130 - General Chemistry IM | 5.0 | |
CHEM 130 - General Chemistry I (5.0 units) (Formerly CHEM 001A) Prerequisite: CHEM 120 This course is the first semester of a two-semester sequence designed for students intending to major in science and engineering. The lecture course covers classical and modern chemistry, with applications in stoichiometry and classical atomic theory of chemistry, periodic properties, gas laws, modern quantum theory of atomic and molecular structure and periodic properties, thermochemistry, liquids and solids, and solution chemistry. The laboratory introduces experimental chemistry with examples from all areas of chemistry. | ||
| BIOL 120 - Environmental BiologyM | 3.0 | |
BIOL 120 - Environmental Biology (3.0 units) (Formerly BIOL 020) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have a knowledge of elementary algebra concepts. In this course, students utilize basic biological concepts and an interdisciplinary approach to determine how to address environmental challenges. Topics may include ecosystem characteristics and functions, population dynamics, energy and material resource use, pollution, and alternative energy sources. Because the course takes up the social, political, and economic implications of environmental decisions, it is intended for students from many disciplines, including non-STEM disciplines. This course fulfills the general education requirement for life sciences majors. | ||
| BIOL 120L - Environmental Biology LaboratoryM | 1.0 | |
BIOL 120L - Environmental Biology Laboratory (1.0 units) (Formerly BIOL 020L) Prerequisite/Corequisite: BIOL 120 This laboratory course complements the Environmental Biology lecture course and is designed for students interested in furthering their understanding of the environmental sciences. The scientific method is employed to investigate ecosystems and their functions, natural selection, population interactions, environmental toxicology, radiation exposure effects, soil and groundwater systems, water pollution, alternative energy systems, and environmental resistance. This is a required course for Environmental Science majors. | ||
| RHC GE 8 - Oral Communication and Critical ThinkingGE | 3.0† | |
† some classes may have higher units. Select one: | ||
| RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE | 1.0 | |
Select one: KINA or DANC activity course. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 13.0† | |
| 3rd Semester | ||
| CHEM 140 - General Chemistry IIM | 5.0 | |
CHEM 140 - General Chemistry II (5.0 units) Prerequisite: CHEM 130 CHEM 140 is a continuation of CHEM 130. Theory and techniques of elementary physical chemistry are stressed. Emphasis is placed on the dynamics of chemical change using thermodynamics and reaction kinetics as the major tools. A thorough treatment of equilibrium is given, with many examples of acid/base, buffer, solubility, and complex ions. Entropy and free energy, electrochemistry, coordination compounds and a brief introduction to organic chemistry and nuclear chemistry are presented. Various analytical techniques used in modern chemistry are introduced. Descriptive chemistry of representative metallic and nonmetallic elements is included. The Laboratory introduces experimental chemistry with examples from areas of kinetics, equilibrium, acid/base and buffer preparation, differential titration, electrochemistry, and qualitative analysis. Modern instrumental methods are used in some exercises. | ||
| PHY 150 - General Physics IM | 4.0 | |
PHY 150 - General Physics I (4.0 units) (Formerly PHY 001) Prerequisite: MATH 175 This course is the first of a two-semester, trigonometry-based physics sequence and is designed for students transferring to a four-year institution and planning careers in health professional fields such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, and optometry as well as those students in engineering technology and architecture. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, energy, work, momentum, conservation principles, rotational motion, simple harmonic motion, fluids, and thermodynamics. Students majoring in the biological sciences should consult a counselor as to whether this course satisfies the general preparation requirements for their major at their intended transfer university. | ||
| Select one: COMM C1000 / COMM C1000H (RHC GE 8)GE | 3.0 | |
COMM C1000 - Introduction to Public Speaking (formerly SPCH 101) (3.0 units) (Formerly SPCH 001A, SPCH 101) Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU In this course, students learn and apply foundational rhetorical theories and techniques of public speaking in a multicultural democratic society. Students discover, develop, and critically analyze ideas in public discourse through research, reasoning, organization, composition, delivery to a live audience and evaluation of various types of speeches, including informative and persuasive speeches. This course is designed for Communication Studies majors and recommended for students interested in the Forensics: Speech and Debate team, and/or Pathway to Law. COMM C1000H - Introduction to Public Speaking - Honors (formerly SPCH 101H) (3.0 units) (Formerly SPCH 101H) Advisory: ENGL C1000 In this course, students learn and apply foundational rhetorical theories and techniques of public speaking in a multicultural democratic society. Students discover, develop, and critically analyze ideas in public discourse through research, reasoning, organization, composition, delivery to a live audience and evaluation of various types of speeches, including informative and persuasive speeches. This is an honors course. This course is designed for Communication Studies majors and recommended for students interested in the Honors Transfer Program, Forensics: Speech and Debate team, and/or Pathway to Law. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 12.0 | |
| 4th Semester | ||
| BIOL 200 - Principles of Biology 1 (Molecular and Cellular Biology)M | 5.0 | |
BIOL 200 - Principles of Biology 1 (Molecular and Cellular Biology) (5.0 units) (Formerly BIOL 001A) Prerequisite:CHEM 120 This course is first in a sequence of courses for undergraduate preparation for biology majors. The course covers principles and applications of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure and function, biological molecules, homeostasis, cell reproduction and its controls, molecular genetics, classical/Mendelian genetics, cell metabolism including photosynthesis and respiration, and cellular communication. Additional areas of focus include evolution and ecology. The laboratory portion of the course applies the processes of scientific inquiry and experimental design to the study of biological concepts focusing on observations, experimentation, record keeping, data collection and analysis, and presentation of outcomes. The course sequence also provides excellent preparation for students who intend to pursue post-graduate studies in the medical sciences. | ||
| ET 290 - Work Experience Education/Internship for Environmental Technology-Related FieldsM | 1.0 | |
ET 290 - Work Experience Education/Internship for Environmental Technology-Related Fields (1.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have knowledge of elementary algebra concepts. This course supports and reinforces on-the-job training in business and industrial establishments under the supervision of a college instructor. Training is informed by learning objectives. Students work in a skilled or professional-level assignment in their area of vocational interest, and meet performance objectives related to instruction that are above and beyond the conditions of regular employment. This course is intended for students whose job is related to the field of environmental technology and have completed or enrolled in the appropriate coursework. The course may be taken once and repeated for a maximum of 16 units. Contact the Work Experience Education Office regarding re-enrollment procedures. | ||
| ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (RHC GE 1)GE | 3.5 | |
ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (3.5 units) (Formerly ENGL 001A, ENGL 101) Prerequisite:Placement as determined by the college’s multiple measures assessment process. In this course, students receive instruction in academic reading and writing, including writing processes, effective use of language, analytical thinking, and the foundations of academic research. This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. | ||
| RHC GE 7b - HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
† some classes may have higher units. Select one: | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 12.5† | |
| 5th Semester | ||
| Select one: PHY 211 / PHY 150 M | 4.0 | |
PHY 211 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - I (4.0 units) (Formerly PHY 201) Prerequisite:MATH 190 or MATH 190H This course is the first of a three-semester sequence designed for students transferring to four-year institutions with majors in the sciences and engineering. Topics covered include kinematics, dynamics, energy, work, momentum, and conservation principles. PHY 150 - General Physics I (4.0 units) (Formerly PHY 001) Prerequisite: MATH 175 This course is the first of a two-semester, trigonometry-based physics sequence and is designed for students transferring to a four-year institution and planning careers in health professional fields such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, and optometry as well as those students in engineering technology and architecture. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, energy, work, momentum, conservation principles, rotational motion, simple harmonic motion, fluids, and thermodynamics. Students majoring in the biological sciences should consult a counselor as to whether this course satisfies the general preparation requirements for their major at their intended transfer university. | ||
| RHC GE 7a - Fine ArtsGE | 3.0 | |
Select one: | ||
| RHC GE 6 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE | 3.0 | |
Select one: | ||
| RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE | 1.0 | |
Select one: KINA or DANC activity course. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 11.0 | |
| Total Units for Environmental Science AS program | 60.5† | |
|
|
| † | Some classes may have higher units |
| M | Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement |
| GE | General Education course |
| EL | Elective Course |
| Course | Units | Typically Offered |
| 1st Semester | ||
| Select one: MATH 190 / MATH 190H (Cal-GETC 2)M | 4.0 | |
MATH 190 - Calculus I (4.0 units) Prerequisite:MATH 180 or MATH 185 or appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures) This course is designed for students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. It is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable, and covers functions, limits and continuity, the techniques and applications of differentiation and integration, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. MATH 190H - Calculus I Honors (4.0 units) Prerequisite:ENGL C1000 and MATH 185 or MATH 180 or appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures) This course is designed for students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. It is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable, and covers functions, limits and continuity, the techniques and applications of differentiation and integration, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. | ||
| CHEM 120 - Introduction to ChemistryGE | 5.0 | |
CHEM 120 - Introduction to Chemistry (5.0 units) (Formerly CHEM 090) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course. This one-semester course is designed for students intending to major in science or engineering. The course primarily prepares students for CHEM130; additionally, it fulfills the General Education requirement in the physical sciences. This course introduces the fundamental principles of general chemistry, with emphasis on chemical nomenclature and quantitative problems in chemistry. The lecture presents classical and modern chemistry, including atomic theory, periodic properties, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, acids and bases, gas laws, and solutions. The laboratory introduces the techniques of experimental chemistry with examples from all areas of chemistry. | ||
| Cal-GETC 3A - ArtsGE | 3.0† | |
† some classes may have higher units. Select one: | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
| 2nd Semester | ||
| CHEM 130 - General Chemistry IM | 5.0 | |
CHEM 130 - General Chemistry I (5.0 units) (Formerly CHEM 001A) Prerequisite: CHEM 120 This course is the first semester of a two-semester sequence designed for students intending to major in science and engineering. The lecture course covers classical and modern chemistry, with applications in stoichiometry and classical atomic theory of chemistry, periodic properties, gas laws, modern quantum theory of atomic and molecular structure and periodic properties, thermochemistry, liquids and solids, and solution chemistry. The laboratory introduces experimental chemistry with examples from all areas of chemistry. | ||
| BIOL 120 - Environmental Biology (Cal-GETC 5B)M | 3.0 | |
BIOL 120 - Environmental Biology (3.0 units) (Formerly BIOL 020) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have a knowledge of elementary algebra concepts. In this course, students utilize basic biological concepts and an interdisciplinary approach to determine how to address environmental challenges. Topics may include ecosystem characteristics and functions, population dynamics, energy and material resource use, pollution, and alternative energy sources. Because the course takes up the social, political, and economic implications of environmental decisions, it is intended for students from many disciplines, including non-STEM disciplines. This course fulfills the general education requirement for life sciences majors. | ||
| BIOL 120L - Environmental Biology Laboratory (Cal-GETC 5C)M | 1.0 | |
BIOL 120L - Environmental Biology Laboratory (1.0 units) (Formerly BIOL 020L) Prerequisite/Corequisite: BIOL 120 This laboratory course complements the Environmental Biology lecture course and is designed for students interested in furthering their understanding of the environmental sciences. The scientific method is employed to investigate ecosystems and their functions, natural selection, population interactions, environmental toxicology, radiation exposure effects, soil and groundwater systems, water pollution, alternative energy systems, and environmental resistance. This is a required course for Environmental Science majors. | ||
| Cal-GETC 6 - Ethnic StudiesGE | 3.0 | |
Select one: | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 12.0 | |
| Summer 1 | ||
| ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (Cal-GETC 1A)GE | 3.5 | |
ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (3.5 units) (Formerly ENGL 001A, ENGL 101) Prerequisite:Placement as determined by the college’s multiple measures assessment process. In this course, students receive instruction in academic reading and writing, including writing processes, effective use of language, analytical thinking, and the foundations of academic research. This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 3.5 | |
| 3rd Semester | ||
| CHEM 140 - General Chemistry IIM | 5.0 | |
CHEM 140 - General Chemistry II (5.0 units) Prerequisite: CHEM 130 CHEM 140 is a continuation of CHEM 130. Theory and techniques of elementary physical chemistry are stressed. Emphasis is placed on the dynamics of chemical change using thermodynamics and reaction kinetics as the major tools. A thorough treatment of equilibrium is given, with many examples of acid/base, buffer, solubility, and complex ions. Entropy and free energy, electrochemistry, coordination compounds and a brief introduction to organic chemistry and nuclear chemistry are presented. Various analytical techniques used in modern chemistry are introduced. Descriptive chemistry of representative metallic and nonmetallic elements is included. The Laboratory introduces experimental chemistry with examples from areas of kinetics, equilibrium, acid/base and buffer preparation, differential titration, electrochemistry, and qualitative analysis. Modern instrumental methods are used in some exercises. | ||
| PHY 150 - General Physics IM | 4.0 | |
PHY 150 - General Physics I (4.0 units) (Formerly PHY 001) Prerequisite: MATH 175 This course is the first of a two-semester, trigonometry-based physics sequence and is designed for students transferring to a four-year institution and planning careers in health professional fields such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, and optometry as well as those students in engineering technology and architecture. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, energy, work, momentum, conservation principles, rotational motion, simple harmonic motion, fluids, and thermodynamics. Students majoring in the biological sciences should consult a counselor as to whether this course satisfies the general preparation requirements for their major at their intended transfer university. | ||
| US HISTORY (Cal-GETC 4)GE | 3.0 | |
| ||
| Total Semester Units: | 12.0 | |
| 4th Semester | ||
| BIOL 200 - Principles of Biology 1 (Molecular and Cellular Biology)M | 5.0 | |
BIOL 200 - Principles of Biology 1 (Molecular and Cellular Biology) (5.0 units) (Formerly BIOL 001A) Prerequisite:CHEM 120 This course is first in a sequence of courses for undergraduate preparation for biology majors. The course covers principles and applications of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure and function, biological molecules, homeostasis, cell reproduction and its controls, molecular genetics, classical/Mendelian genetics, cell metabolism including photosynthesis and respiration, and cellular communication. Additional areas of focus include evolution and ecology. The laboratory portion of the course applies the processes of scientific inquiry and experimental design to the study of biological concepts focusing on observations, experimentation, record keeping, data collection and analysis, and presentation of outcomes. The course sequence also provides excellent preparation for students who intend to pursue post-graduate studies in the medical sciences. | ||
| ET 290 - Work Experience Education/Internship for Environmental Technology-Related FieldsM | 1.0 | |
ET 290 - Work Experience Education/Internship for Environmental Technology-Related Fields (1.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have knowledge of elementary algebra concepts. This course supports and reinforces on-the-job training in business and industrial establishments under the supervision of a college instructor. Training is informed by learning objectives. Students work in a skilled or professional-level assignment in their area of vocational interest, and meet performance objectives related to instruction that are above and beyond the conditions of regular employment. This course is intended for students whose job is related to the field of environmental technology and have completed or enrolled in the appropriate coursework. The course may be taken once and repeated for a maximum of 16 units. Contact the Work Experience Education Office regarding re-enrollment procedures. | ||
| Cal-GETC 1B - Critical Thinking and CompositionGE | 3.0† | |
† some classes may have higher units. Select one: | ||
| UC/CSU ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to UC. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
| 5th Semester | ||
| Cal-GETC 1C - Oral CommunicationGE | 3.0 | |
Select one: | ||
| Select one: POLS C1000 / POLS C1000H (Cal-GETC 4) GE | 3.0 | |
POLS C1000 - American Government and Politics (formerly POLS 110) (3.0 units) (Formerly POLS 110, 002) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is an introduction to government and politics in the United States and California. Students examine the constitutions, structure, and operation of governing institutions, civil liberties and civil rights, political behaviors, political issues, and public policy using political science theory and methodology. POLS C1000H - American Government and Politics - Honors (formerly POLS 110H) (3.0 units) (Formerly POLYS 110H, POLS 110H) Advisory: ENGL C1000 This is an introduction to government and politics in the United States and California. Students examine the constitutions, structure, and operation of governing institutions, civil liberties and civil rights, political behaviors, and public policy using political science theory and methodology. This is an honors course. | ||
| Cal-GETC 3B - HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
† some classes may have higher units. Select one: | ||
| UC/CSU ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to UC. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
| Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
| Total Units for Environmental Science AS program | 63.5† | |
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|
|
| † | Some classes may have higher units |
| M | Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement |
| GE | General Education course |
| EL | Elective Course |
| Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet. |
Students will apply environmental science concepts and analytical procedures in various fields.
Students will have the ability to apply economic principles to analyze environmental problems.
Students will have the ability to work as a member of an interdisciplinary team to solve environmental problems.
Students will strengthen their skills in reading, writing, oral communication, and critical thinking.