Baron presentation for 2014 ITG Broadening Access

1. Dirk Baron
Department of Geology
California State
University,
Bakersfield
Dual-Credit Geology Classes at
High Schools as a Recruiting
Tool for University Geoscience
Programs

2. The Problem
• Due to the lack of Geology or Earth Science AP classes, few rigorous classes
in these fields are taught at high schools.
• If Earth Science is taught, it is usually not taken by college-bound students.
• High school students are therefore rarely aware of the geosciences and the
career opportunities in the field.

3. One Solution – Dual-Credit Classes
• Universities support geology classes at high schools and give students university credit.
• The opportunity to earn university credit attracts college-bound seniors.
• Schools benefit through expanded opportunities for students and professional development for
teachers.
• Students benefit through exposure to a field that offers excellent career opportunities and
through transferable college credit.
• Universities benefit through increased enrollment and recruiting opportunities.

4. CSU Bakersfield – Kern High School
District– Dual-Credit Geology Program
• Started 15 years ago with one school, entirely on a volunteer basis.
• Expanded to six schools in 2012 with funding from the NSF and Chevron.
About 350 high school seniors now complete the classes annually.
• Cost for students is $21 for 5 units of transferable college credit for our
introductory Physical Geology class.

5. Enrollment Growth in CSUB Geology
Programs
2006 - Present

6. Lower Division FTES

7. More Information:
Topical Session at
2013 GSA Meeting

8. Acknowledgements
• National Science Foundation, Opportunities for Enhancing
Diversity in the Geosciences program
• Chevron
• Kern High School District