Environmental Science, Associate in Science Degree

Orange Coast College

Upon completion of the requirements for the Associate in Science Degree in Environmental Science, students will be prepared to transfer to CSU/UC and obtain a baccalaureate degree (or higher degree) in Environmental Science. This degree is also a pathway toward internships and/or entry-level opportunities within the field, e.g., field ecologist, geologist, and/or hydrologist. The Environmental Science major requires completion of a minimum of 43 major units, 36-40 of which are required core units. The additional 7-13 units must be taken from a list of restricted related electives from a variety of departments. The ESEC department strongly recommends that all declared Environmental Science majors get counseling to select electives that will best prepare them for their intended transfer institution as there is high variation in requirements among institutions and some of the courses listed, including core courses, have pre-requisites that will increase the number of units required to complete this degree. For students interested in an environmental law, policy or health monitoring emphasis in Environmental Science, they should consider an Associated in Applied Arts Degree in Environmental Science. The department strongly recommends that all declared Environmental Science majors complete the following courses prior to transfer: Physics A120 (Algebra-based Physics: Mechanics) and Physics A185 (Algebra-based Physics: Electricity/Magnetism) or Physics A280 (Calculus-based Electricity and Magnetism) and Physics A285 (Calculus-based Modern Physics), and/or Chemistry A220 (Organic Chemistry). Check the requirements of the transferring institution. Program Outcomes Describe the major biological, chemical, and physical components and processes within organisms and the environment. Describe historical and current human activities that negatively impact the environment (energy resources, urbanization, agricultural methods, etc) and how economics, social interactions, policies, and laws affect human activity within the environment. Develop the skills to research environmental topics, conduct and analyze experimental data, and communicate findings with their peers. Students who complete the degree will be prepared for admission to California State University/University of California schools in environmental science.