Geology is the science of the Earth. In its broadest sense, geology concerns itself with planetary formation and subsequent modification, with emphasis on the study of planet Earth. Geologists study Earth's internal and surficial structure and materials, the chemical and physical processes acting within and on the Earth, and utilize the principles of mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology to understand our planet and its environments. The Geology Department at Orange Coast College is committed to excellence in both teaching and research. Courses taught by our faculty cover a variety of topics within this exciting field. Our goal is to offer the highest possible quality education in the geological sciences at the undergraduate level. The mission of our department is to serve two main populations: undergraduate geology majors who will eventually transfer to a four-year institution and undergraduates from other departments for their general education courses. For all of these students, we strive to create excitement about discovery and the process of geologic inquiry.  We want to develop in all students an appreciation of how geological processes affect the earth and impact society so that they will be environmentally-responsible, scientifically-literate citizens. We strive to produce majors with an interdisciplinary content background in geology and the physical sciences who are competent in the field, and who can work collaboratively, conduct original research, and effectively communicate their results.

Department Contact Information

Dr. Christopher Berg
cberg5@occ.cccd.edu

Geology Department Website

Credit Courses