welcome!
The Earth Science Department at Southern offers a solid foundation in earth sciences, combined with specialized programs in geology, oceanography, meteorology, and environmental earth science. Students benefit from rigorous academic training and extensive hands-on field experience, gaining the scientific knowledge for careers or graduate study.
welcome!
The Earth Science Department at Southern offers a solid foundation in earth sciences, combined with specialized programs in geology, oceanography, meteorology, and environmental earth science. Students benefit from rigorous academic training and extensive hands-on field experience, gaining the scientific knowledge for careers or graduate study.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Science Pre-Major Associate of Science (AS) degree program prepares students for transfer to science programs
at four-year colleges and universities and will give students basic skills needed by scientists studying fields such as
Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geology, and Earth Science. Students study basic mathematical and
scientific principles with an emphasis on problem solving and critical thinking. Additionally, the program provides
students with extensive laboratory experience. The curriculum also develops other job related skills such as
communications, human relations and technical report writing. Credits earned with the AS degree at South Seattle
Community College can be applied toward the first two years of a four-year bachelor’s degree in sciences such as
Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geology, and Earth Science.
PROGRAM OUTCOMES
Students who successfully complete this program will show:
• An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics and scientific principles to scientific problems.
• An ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data.
• An ability to think critically in evaluating information, solving problems and making decisions.
• An ability to function on diverse, multi-disciplinary teams.
• An ability to access and evaluate information from a variety of sources including the Internet.
• An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility.
• An ability to communicate effectively with written, oral, and visual means.
• The broad education necessary to understand the impact of scientific solutions in a global and societal context.
• A recognition of the need for and an ability to engage in life-long learning.
• An ability to use modern scientific techniques, skills, and technology including computing and laboratory
tools necessary for scientific practice.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
The employment outlook for scientists is very good. Graduates can be employed in private industry as well as various
governmental departments, consulting services, education, and technical sales. Starting salaries for graduates with a
Bachelor’s degree in the sciences varies from $30,000 to $53,000 depending on the field studied.