Earth Science

Why Earth Science?

If you're interested in how the planet works, earth science is a great area of study. Learn about predicting weather by studying meteorology, warn others of earthquakes by studying seismology, or work on locating useful minerals by studying geology. By successfully completing an associate degree with an emphasis in Earth science you will: 

  • understand how Earth's history is reflected in landforms, strata & fossil records
  • analyze processes that operate in Earth's atmosphere 
  • recognize the variables that contribute to weather forecasting 
  • examine physical processes that operate on and beneath Earth's surface 

You'll also learn to critically evaluate and analyze information and to communicate scientific ideas and solutions both verbally and in writing.

Program Details

Associate in Science

Format
On Campus, Online, Hybrid
In-District Tuition
$169/credit hour
Out-of-District Tuition
$337/credit hour
Degree
View Degree
Average Time to Complete
2 years
Financial Options
Financial Aid is available.

Program Highlights

If you plan to complete the first two years of study at Heartland and then continue your studies as an earth science major at a four-year institution in Illinois, the Associate in Science (AS) transfer preparation program is the path for you.

As a program graduate, you can transfer to a four-year institution to continue your studies and prepare for a wide variety of career opportunities such as a(n): 

  • Petroleum Geologist 
  • Meteorologist 
  • Cartographer 
  • Surveyor 
  • Volcanologist 
  • Educator 
  • Consultant 
Apply Now Request Info Faculty Directory

Courses

Degree

Within our Associate in Science degree, there may be specific courses that are recommended for your major at your chosen transfer school. It’s important to meet with an academic advisor each semester to ensure that the correct coursework is taken, while earning your degree.

Even if your specific concentration or major is not listed on our application or program pages, academic advisors can help ensure you are taking the right coursework for your chosen major.

Learn more about the general education requirements for an Associate in Science. 

Transfer Guide

Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) 

Heartland Community College is a participant in the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI), a statewide transfer agreement among more than 100 colleges and universities in Illinois. IAI courses have been approved for transfer to an Illinois public university. For more information about the Illinois Articulation Initiative, please visit the IAI website. 

General Education Core Curriculum Requirement

For the completion of the Associate in Science degree, you will need to complete a minimum of 41 general education core hours as part of the 60-credit hour degree. The remaining credit hours are electives. Please click on the category to view what courses Heartland has to offer within each of the required categories.

View what courses Heartland has to offer within each of the required categories:
Communications 
Fine Arts 
Humanities 
Life Sciences 
Mathematics 
Physical Sciences 
Social & Behavioral Sciences

  • $0

    Application Fee

  • 70+

    Programs of Study

  • 19

    Average Class Size

Careers in Earth Science

Employment of geoscientists is projected to grow 5% from 2021 to 2031. The need for energy, environmental protection, and responsible land and resource management is expected to spur future demand for geoscientists.*

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Geoscientists,
at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/geoscientists.htm.

 

The U.S. Department of Education's gainful employment regulations require disclosure of certain program information to students and prospective students.

Please review the employment information pertaining to your degree or certificate by selecting your intended program at the Heartland Community College Career Coach.

For more information about graduation rates, loan repayment rates, and post-enrollment earnings about this institution and other postsecondary institutions visit the U.S Department of Education College Scorecard site.

Contact Information

Science Department

ICB 2400
1500 W Raab Road
Normal, IL 61761
Phone: 
Fax:

Christy Fornero 

Associate Director, Science Laboratories 
Email: Christy.Fornero@heartland.edu

Phone: (309) 268-8519

STEM & Business Contacts

 

Jennifer Antonini 

Coordinator – STEM & Business
Email: Jennifer.Antonini@heartland.edu
Phone: (309) 268-8651

STEM & Business Leadership

Jeremy McClure

Dean – STEM & Business
Email: Jeremy.McClure@heartland.edu 
Phone: (309) 268-8655

Brian Brennan

Associate Dean, STEM & Business
Email: Brian.Brennan@heartland.edu
Phone: (309) 268-8639