GENERAL INFORMATION

The Geology Department at Cuesta College has a complete collection of maps, mineral and rock samples fossils, microscopes and sample preparation equipment needed for a through introduction to the science of geology. Field trips to local areas and to distant locals within California are integrated into our program. We maintain close relations with local industry and universities with geology programs and our faculty are active in professional organizations such as the Geological Society of America and the National Association of Geoscience Teachers. Alumni of Cuesta’s geology program occupy important industry and research positions throughout the country.

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Introductory and Transfer level geology courses.

GEOLOGY 10 AND 10L: Physical Geology and Laboratory

Presents an introduction to geology and geology laboratory techniques and field methods. This course is structured to cover earth materials (minerals and rocks), surface processes (hydrology, weathering, landslides etc.) and internal processes (igneous activity, earthquakes etc.). Plate tectonic theory is discussed in detail and provides a foundation for other topics throughout the course. No previous course work in geology is required but Math 23 is a prerequisite and students should be eligible for English 56. Laboratory must be taken concurrently with lecture. 3 hours lecture and 3 hours laboratory. 4.0 units of credit.

Presents an introduction to the origin and evolution of the earth and its life forms with an emphasis on the evolution of North America. Requires a prior course in Physical Geology and Math 23. Students should be eligible for English 1A. 3 hours lecture and 3 hours of laboratory. 4.0 units of credit.

GEOLOGY 12: Geologic Hazards, Man and the Environment

An introduction to geologic hazards as they relate to human interaction with the environment. Emphasizes the analysis of earthquakes, flooding, landslides, volcanism, and subsidence. No prerequisite is required, but students are advised to be eligible for English 56. 3 hours lecture. No laboratory. 3.0 units of credit.

GEOLOGY 20: Geology of California

This course presents an introduction to the geology of California including its minerals and rocks, geomorphic provinces, tectonic processes and an overview of the tectonic evolution of the state. No prerequisite is required, but students are advised to be eligible for English 56 or 65. 3 hours lecture. No laboratory. 3.0 units of credit.

Two field courses that present an introduction to the geology of Yosemite and the Eastern Sierra Nevada (fall) and Death Valley region (spring). Each trip is four days in length and involves camping and dormitory style accommodations. Trip dates are set in October and April and typically run from Wednesday through Saturday. Students must make arrangements with other instructors for missed classes. Attendance is required at a pre-trip meeting two weeks prior to the field trip. Completion or concurrent enrollment in Geology 10 or 20 (or equivalent) is required. 1.0 unit of laboratory credit.

Geology 10 and 10L will transfer as Geology 201 and 241 at Cal Poly and to other UC, CSU campuses.
Geology 11 will transfer as elective credit to Cal Poly and other UC, CSU campuses.
Geology 12 will transfer to Cal Poly and other UC, CSU campuses.
Geology 20 will transfer to Cal Poly and to other UC, CSU campuses.
Geology 29 A and B will transfer as Geology 206 at Cal Poly and to other UC, CSU campuses.

For additional information, please contact:

Instructor Paul Bauer at: pgbauer@cuesta.edu
Instructor Jeff Grover at: jgrover@cuesta.edu