Welcome to the Department of Geological Sciences


The Department of Geological Sciences is a community of faculty, staff, undergraduate students, and graduate students engaged in learning more about the planet we live on and how we interact with it.

About the Geological Sciences Dept.


Our faculty members inspire and guide students through active learning in the classroom, field, and lab, helping students develop as geoscientists who provide critical insight into societal issues related to energy, water, climate, mineral resources, natural hazards, and sustainability. Join us at CWU and be at the center of a better future.

Why CWU Geology

There are many reasons to come to CWU to study Geological Sciences as an undergraduate and graduate student

Read more about "Why CWU Geology"

Academic Programs

Learn about our undergraduate and graduate degree programs

Read more about "Academic Programs"

Student Resources

Information for current students and prospective transfers about advising, courses, research opportunities, scholarships, and

Read more about "Student Resources"

People

The Department of Geological Sciences is a community engaged in learning more about the planet we live on

Read more about "People"

Outreach

Department outreach to the campus, the local community, and beyond

Read more about "Outreach"

Facilities

Department facilities for classes, research, and campus and community enrichment

Read more about "Facilities"

Support Us

Your support can help our students conduct research, get into the field, and succeed as the next generation of geoscientists.

Read more about "Support Us"

Why Study Geology at CWU?  

CWU is located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, offering access to diverse geological settings, including the Cascade volcanoes and glaciers, the Yakima River system, and the landscape of the ice-age floods. We take advantage of our setting by going out into the field to learn about Earth processes, bringing back observations and samples to analyze in our labs and classrooms. We offer research opportunities, connect you with alumni to learn about careers, and are committed to helping students develop skills that lead to meaningful careers in geosciences and beyond.   

Degree Options 

You belong here, and we can’t wait to show you all that a degree in Geology can offer you.

  • Undergraduate
    • Geology, BS
    • Geology, BA
    • Environmental Geological Sciences, BS 
  • Graduate 
    • Geological Sciences, MS 
  • Minors and Certificates 
    • Geology Minor 

Learn more about our degree options through our Program Finder.    

Admissions 

For general university admissions information, contact the Office of Admissions. For advising information, contact the Academic Advising Center. 

Are you a graduate student? Contact the School of Graduate Studies and Research for admissions information.   

Highlights 

The Discovery Hall Rock Garden consists of boulders sited around the building that were selected to encompass a range of Washington State geology. They are available for viewing and study by the general public, and also used as instructional tools in CWU Geological Sciences classes. Details about each of the boulders are available on our Interactive Interface.

The Murdock Research Laboratory hosts multiple advanced instruments and expertise in a range of analytical techniques. Our expert academic, technical and professional staff support the facility users from initial contact and project development, through to sample preparation, instrument training, data processing and interpretation for publication. Learn more about the Murdock Research Lab.

Questions? Contact Us


Geological Sciences

Discovery Hall
Giselle Kauer, Rm 129

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