Geological Sciences
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
Transferring to CWU Geology
Information for students considering transferring to CWU Geological Sciences
Scholarships
Information about scholarships offered by the Department of Geological Sciences
Advising
Get advising on your schedule, your major, details about our classes, and much, much more
People
The Department of Geological Sciences is a community engaged in learning more about the planet we live on
Outreach
Department outreach to the campus, the local community, and beyond
Facilities
Department facilities for classes, research, and campus and community enrichment
Support Us
Your support can help our students conduct research, get into the field, and succeed as the next generation of geoscientists.
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.
CWU News
CWU selects new executive director of Institutional Effectiveness
September 21, 2023
by University Relations
State of the University address scheduled for September 29
September 20, 2023
by University Relations
New exhibit to open September 28 at Sarah Spurgeon Gallery
September 18, 2023
by Heather Johnson