Geology
Associate in Science (Transfer)
Geology is the science that lets you examine processes that can be glacially slow or volcanic and sudden. Dig into Earth’s structure and evolution with ICC’s experienced instructors. What you learn about magma, minerals, oil and soil will be a great foundation for your life and work.
24/7
support in the ICC Academic Support Center
The Geology area of study at Illinois Central College is designed for students planning to transfer to a senior college or university for completion of a baccalaureate degree. During the two years at Illinois Central College, the student concentrates on building a strong foundation in the sciences and mathematics, and meets the requirements for the Associate in Science degree. The Geology curriculum is designed to prepare the student for a wide range of career opportunities.
Admissions Office
Faculty who are experts in their fields teach all ICC courses. They are 100% committed to teaching so you’re ready to transfer to a university or move into your career.
As a member of the Student Association for the Environment (SAFE) you’ll put your environmental knowledge, skills, and interest to practice in our local ecosystem while fostering friendships among like-minded classmates.
Geologist, Paleontologist, Hydrologist, Volcanologist, Soil Scientist, Planetary Geologist, U.S. Geologic Survey, National Park Service, Coast and Geodetic Survey, Bureau of Mines, environmental agencies, museums, industrial firms
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
If full time
4 terms if full-time (15-16 credits / term)
What if I attend part-time?
Our program can be completed at your pace; just plan for a longer time-to-degree.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,920
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2022-23
What financial assistance can I receive?
Our STEM programs qualify for financial aid. That might include scholarships, grants and loans. Learn more about financial assistance at ICC.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
15
Students per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
Will I be ready to transfer?
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
I’m proud to continue the tradition of field-based learning provided at Illinois Central College. Our field course has been offered since 1977 and provides hands-on experience to learn the concepts of geology.
Cheryl Resnick, Professor, Math, Science, Engineering
How Do I Get Into the Geology Program?
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 600 scholarships.
What Can I Expect as a Geology Student?
How Am I Going to Manage This?
-
What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
-
What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.