PHSC 2 - Introduction to the Earth Science

    Recent Professors
    Lisa Schmidt, Ashley Vizenor
    Recent Semesters
    Fall 2026, Summer 2026, Spring 2026, Fall 2025
    Class Size
    30 students
    Credits
    4
    Fall 2026 Sections
    View Fall 2026 sections of PHSC 2
    Transfers To
    UC and CSUCal-GETC Area 5A · Cal-GETC Area 5C · IGETC Area 5A · IGETC Area 5C · CSU GE Area B1 · CSU GE Area B3
    Description
    This is an inquiry-based Earth Science course that fulfills general education requirements, especially for students aspiring to become elementary school teachers. Students will develop a meaningful understanding of the geosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere and solar system through lecture and laboratory activities. An earth-system approach will be emphasized to explain natural phenomenon that impact human societies. Focusing on the interactions between physical and chemical systems of the Earth such as the tectonic cycle, rock cycle, hydrologic cycle, weather and climate, the course will cover the breadth and depth of Earth Science topics covered in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Included with the class is a required field trip to acquaint the student with field examples of topics covered in the class.