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 | ||
Select one: MATH 190 / MATH 190H (CSU GE B4)M | 4.0 | |
MATH 190 - Calculus I (4.0 units) Prerequisite:MATH 180 MATH 190 is a semester course designed primarily for those students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. This is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable. It includes topics in functions, limits, and continuity, techniques and applications of differentiation and integration and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. MATH 190H - Calculus I Honors (4.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 180; ENGL 101 MATH 190 is a semester course designed primarily for those students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. This is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable. It includes topics of functions, limits, and continuity, 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 Chemistry (CSU GE B1)M | 5.0 | |
CHEM 120 - Introduction to Chemistry (5.0 units) 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. | ||
CSU GE E - Lifelong Learning/Self DevelopmentGE | 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) 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 (CSU GE B2)M | 3.0 | |
BIOL 120 - Environmental Biology (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have 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 (CSU GE B3)M | 1.0 | |
BIOL 120L - Environmental Biology Laboratory (1.0 units) 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. | ||
CSU GE C1 - ArtsGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
Summer 1 | ||
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (CSU GE A2)GE | 3.5 | |
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition. 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. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication. | ||
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) 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 (CSU GE D)GE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. All CSU campuses have a graduation requirement in American Institutions. Students may choose one of the following US History courses to partially fulfill this requirement: HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170. | ||
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) 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. | ||
CSU GE A3 - Critical ThinkingGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
CSU GE C1 or C2 - Arts or HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Arts Humanities | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
5th Semester | ||
CSU GE F - Ethnic StudiesGE | 3.0 | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Select one: POLS 110 / POLS 110H (CSU GE D)GE | 3.0 | |
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program. | ||
CSU GE A1 - Oral CommunicationGE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one: SPCH 100, 101, 101H, 120, 140 | ||
CSU GE C2 - HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
Total Units for Environmental Science AS program (Transfer to CSU) | 63.5† | |
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor. |
† | 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 (IGETC 2A)M | 4.0 | |
MATH 190 - Calculus I (4.0 units) Prerequisite:MATH 180 MATH 190 is a semester course designed primarily for those students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. This is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable. It includes topics in functions, limits, and continuity, techniques and applications of differentiation and integration and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. MATH 190H - Calculus I Honors (4.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 180; ENGL 101 MATH 190 is a semester course designed primarily for those students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. This is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable. It includes topics of functions, limits, and continuity, 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 Chemistry (IGETC 5A)GE | 5.0 | |
CHEM 120 - Introduction to Chemistry (5.0 units) 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. | ||
IGETC 3A - ArtsGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
2nd Semester | ||
CHEM 130 - General Chemistry IM | 5.0 | |
CHEM 130 - General Chemistry I (5.0 units) 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 (IGETC 5B)M | 3.0 | |
BIOL 120 - Environmental Biology (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have 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 (IGETC 5C)M | 1.0 | |
BIOL 120L - Environmental Biology Laboratory (1.0 units) 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. | ||
IGETC 7 - Ethnic StudiesGE | 3.0 | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0 | |
Summer 1 | ||
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (IGETC 1A)GE | 3.5 | |
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition. 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. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication. | ||
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) 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 (IGETC 4)GE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. All CSU campuses have a graduation requirement in American Institutions. Students may choose one of the following US History courses to partially fulfill this requirement: HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170. | ||
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) 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. | ||
IGETC 1B - Critical Thinking and CompositionGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
IGETC 3A or 3B - Arts or HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Arts Humanities | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
5th Semester | ||
IGETC 1C - Oral Communication (CSU Only)GE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one: | ||
Select one: POLS 110 / POLS 110H (IGETC 4) GE | 3.0 | |
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program. | ||
IGETC 6 - Foreign Language (UC ONLY)GE | 4.5 | |
Notes: Proficiency equivalent to two years of high school study in the same language or select one: | ||
IGETC 3B - HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 13.5† | |
Total Units for Environmental Science AS program (Transfer to UC/CSU) | 65.0† | |
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor. |
† | 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.
Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.
Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601
Phone: (562) 692-0921
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