Abstract

Geology majors participate in a wide-range of activities associated with their future degree through the course GEOL 2389 (Geologic Research Cooperative) offered at Del Mar College (DMC) in Corpus Christi, Texas. This course also helps to prepare the students for the rigors of the four-year university geological curriculum.

Classroom and field activities are stressed along with research, communications and writing. Students that successfully complete GEOL 2389 are among the top performing students at the four year universities. Students of this course are commonly awarded Corpus Christi Geological Society (CCGS) scholarships.

Introduction to field safety procedures, over five field trips, along with many out of the classroom activities that are part of GEOL 2389 help students determine early in their college studies if they want to continue to pursue a geological career. The testimonies of former students now at Texas A&M University—Kingsville (TAMUK) affirm the value of this course.

Because GEOL 2389 will be the only sophomore level geology class allowed to be officially taught in Texas community colleges after Spring 2017, collaboration between college and industry is important to ensure students are well-prepared for internships going into their junior and senior years.