Excellent Location


Central Washington University is ideally situated in an area of diverse geology. The university lies on the margin of Columbia River Basalt plateau, adjacent to the crystalline core of the Stuart Range and the majestic volcanoes of the Cascade Mountains. Seismicity and active volcanism of the Cascadia subduction zone, periodic regional flooding, highly deformed rocks of northern Washington and British Columbia, the largest concentration of glaciers in the lower 48 states, and a water- and natural-resource based economy in central Washington provide ideal opportunities to study a wide variety of geologic problems and the mitigation of geologic hazards.

For more on the local geology, check out our very own Nick Zentner's videos!

Nick on the Rocks

YouTube Channel

Nick on the Rocks Episodes

CWU News

Portrait of Jennifer Serne

Professor Jennifer Serne’s curiosity guides her pursuit of success

April 1, 2026 by

Architectural rendering of the NAC

NAC nearing completion as faculty, staff prepare for fall opening

April 1, 2026 by

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