Environmental Science: AS-T Degree

The Associate in Science in Environmental Science for Transfer is an interdisciplinary program that includes courses in geology, chemistry, math, physics, biology, and economics. Students develop a critical understanding of how the natural world works, how humans interact and impact the environment, and how to develop sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. 

The Associate in Science in Environmental Science for Transfer is designed to provide a clear pathway to a CSU institution for students who plan to transfer and complete a CSU major or baccalaureate degree in Environmental Science. California Community College students who are awarded an Associate in Science in Environmental Science for Transfer are guaranteed admission with junior standing somewhere in the CSU system and given priority admission consideration to their local CSU institution or to a program that is deemed similar to their community college major. This priority does not guarantee admission to specific majors or institutions. 

To fulfill the requirements for this degree, students will complete the required and elective courses in the area of emphasis and Cal-GETC pattern requirements totaling no more than 60 semester CSU-transferable units. 

Additional NVC graduation requirements do not apply to this degree. Students must successfully pass all courses in the area of emphasis with a minimum of “C” (or “P”) and maintain an overall minimum 2.0 GPA. Additionally, students pursuing this degree option must work with a counselor and faculty advisor to ensure appropriate elective course selections for their intended area of emphasis for the baccalaureate degree. 

 
Program Learning Outcomes
  1. Apply the principles of physical sciences, natural sciences, and technology with research to address current environmental issues through the process of Scientific Method.
  2. Analyze the interactivity between physical, natural, and social systems and the impact on environmental policies, sustainable development, environmental justice, and racial justice.
  3. Demonstrate proficiency in research, analytical, and communication skills necessary to present critical analysis of the human-environment relationship and responses to environmental challenges.
Degree Requirements
Required Core Courses (32 units)
BIOL-120General Biology4
CHEM-120General Chemistry 15
CHEM-121General Chemistry 25
ECON-101Principles of Microeconomics3
ENVS-115Introduction to Environmental Science3
GEOL-110Physical Geology3
GEOL-111Physical Geology Laboratory1
MATH-120Calculus I5
STAT-C1000Introduction to Statistics3
Physics Sequence (8 units)
Complete one sequence of PHYS courses for a total of 2 courses from the following:8
Physics for Scientists & Engineers 1
and Physics for Scientists & Engineers 2
OR
General Physics 1
and General Physics 2
Total Units40

To receive an Associate Degree for Transfer, students must complete 60 CSU transferable semester units with a grade point average of at least 2.0, and the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) beginning  fall 2025. Consultation with a Counselor is highly encouraged to ensure all requirements are met.