Earth Systems Science & Policy, B.S.~ Recommended Preparation

To be well prepared for entry into the Earth Systems Science & Policy B.S. degree program, we recommend the following coursework:

High School Preparation
  • Precalculus
  • Calculus
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Biology
Preparation for Community College Transfer Students
  • Area A: Written and Oral Communication, Critical Thinking, 9 units
     
  • Area B: Natural Science and Mathematics, 22-32 units
     
    Math: Complete Precalculus (CAN MATH 16) and Calculus (either CAN MATH 18 or 30), 6-10 units
     
    Chemistry: Complete CAN CHEM Sequence A, entire sequence, 8-10 units
     
    Biology: Recommendations depend upon your chosen ESSP concentration:

Marine & Coastal Ecology, Pre-Med, Marine Mammals, Biology Teacher Preparation: Complete CAN BIOL Sequence A, entire sequence, 12 units

Watershed Systems, Science & Social Justice, Informal Education, Environmental Policy: Complete CAN BIOL 4 + 6 (Plant Diversity and Animal Diversity ) or a course in ecology, biodiversity, and evolution, 8 units)

  • Area C: Humanities and fine arts (2 different disciplines), 9 units
     
  • Area D: Social Sciences (3 different disciplines), including US History, Constitution and American Ideals, and California state and local government, 9  units
     
  • Area E: Vibrancy: 1 course in personal development theory and 1 activity course, 4 units
CSUMB Lower-Division

If you enter CSUMB as a freshman and are considering being an ESSP major, we recommend that you begin taking MATH and ESSP courses during your first year. You may declare ESSP as your major at any time in your college career, and should contact an ESSP advisor as soon as you do. Please see the Requirements and Pathways information for required lower-division coursework and recommended course sequencing.

 

Revised 4/27/05