Program

Associate of Applied Science in GeoEnvironmental Science

The GeoEnvironmental Science program prepares you to enter the ranks of the technicians, scientists, project managers, planners, and regulators who work daily to preserve and restore the quality of our natural environment. Start a geoenvironmental career as a field and/or laboratory technician by securing one of the over 15,000 new, fulltime, permanent jobs projected for the period 2006-2016 by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. Then, build on the solid foundation you laid at Hocking College to advance your position or further your education.

GeoEnvironmental Science is an interdisciplinary field that applies geoscience such as geology, hydrology, and soil science, knowledge and techniques to assessing, monitoring, and remediating environmental problems that result from the intersection of Earth’s natural processes and human endeavors. GeoEnvironmental specialists apply their knowledge and skills to a broad array of environmental issues and problems. For example:

• They are pollution detectives who locate and track the spread of contamination threatening safe drinking water supplies, and then pinpoint the nature and source of contamination;
• They protect and restore some of our most critical natural resources by evaluating and monitoring groundwater, surface water and soil contamination, and designing and implementing corrective strategies;
• They limit the proliferation and expansion of industrial pollution by reclaiming contaminated industrial sites, “brownfields”, for commercial redevelopment; and,
• They evaluate rock, soil, and sediment to determine suitability and guide engineering and design approaches to reduce the environmental damage and hazards that accompany construction and improper siting of man-made structures such as highways, landfills, bridges, dams, large buildings, and mines.

The GeoEnvironmental Science curriculum is exceptional and unique. It was developed in concert with potential industry and government employers and is taught by experienced professionals. The curriculum is built around three core areas: geoscience, geoenvironmental techniques, and environmental policy and safety. It is distinguished by many unique and specialized courses that teach critical concepts and hands-on skills.

Program Outcomes

The following outcomes are knowledge, skills, behaviors, and attitudes cultivated in students seeking the Associate of Applied Science in GeoEnvironmental Science:

• Demonstrate knowledge of regional geology of Ohio and Midwest;
• Read and interpret project documents such as maps, specifications, and scope of work;
• Review guidance documents and comply with procedures, policies, and laws;
• Compile historic and field data to assist in development of reports;
• Collect representative surface water and groundwater samples and implement groundwater monitoring plans;
• Select, operate, calibrate, and maintain field and lab equipment;
• Conduct hydrogeological testing for quality and quantity;
• Collect, identify, and describe soil, rock, and sediment samples;
• Perform geotechnical testing and evaluate parameters;
• Maintain quality control of field samples;
• Operate or assist with subsurface drilling and sampling equipment;
• Collect survey and/or Global Positioning System (GPS) data for Computer Aided Design (CAD) and/or Global Information Systems (GIS) applications; and,
• Utilize word processing, spreadsheet, and mapping software.

Curriculum

• 2011 Transition
• 2012 Curriculum

Career Opportunities

Potential Job Titles:

• Environmental Monitoring
• Technician/Specialist, Environmental Science
• Environmental Field Technician, Environmental Cleanup
• Environmental Equipment Technician
• Environmental Inspector
• Geotechnical Specialist, Mining and Reclamation Inspector
• Oil/Gas Well Inspector
• Environmental Lab Technician, Drilling Inspector
• Soils Technician, Geophysical Technician

Importantly, employment in these technical specialties is traditionally full-time and permanent. Most of these positions are with environmental consulting firms, geotechnical engineering companies and government agencies. There are several hundred prospective employers across Ohio and the Midwest and many employers have offices in other regions and other countries.

Occupation Profile

Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health

Hocking College Career Services