Program Description
Geoscientists investigate questions about Earth processes, from plate tectonics and mountain building to erosion and the deposition of sediments. That understanding of Earth is used to address critical societal issues such as locating and sustainably developing energy, water and mineral resources; preparing for and mitigating the risk from natural hazards and climate change; and stewardship of the environment. Because of the complex and interdisciplinary nature of Earth system interactions, a degree in the geological sciences can be beneficial for any career that involves problem-solving in complex systems.
Likely Career Paths
Our graduates are employed in a wide variety of career paths in the geosciences, including geotechnical consulting, resource exploration, environmental consulting and water resources. The program also prepares you to be a licensed professional geologist in Washington, or to continue on to graduate school. Students who successfully complete the Geology BA and STEM Teaching Program are eligible to apply for Washington State teacher certification.
Key Considerations
- Cost: University-wide costs (cwu.edu/financial-aid/cost-attendance). Total course fees for labs and field trips range from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on the major and the courses taken.
- Location: Ellensburg
- Primary contact: Anne Egger | anne.egger@cwu.edu | 509-963-2870 | https://www.geology.cwu.edu/
Course Planning
| CWU Course # | CWU Course Name | Transfer Course # |
|---|---|---|
| GEOL 101 | Introduction to Geology | GEOL& 101 |
| MATH 154 | Pre-Calculus Mathematics II | MATH& 142 |
| CHEM 181 + CHEM 181 lab | General Chemistry I | CHEM& 161 |
| CHEM 182 + CHEM 182 lab | General Chemistry II | CHEM& 162 |
| PHYS 181 with Laboratory | General Physics I | PHYS& 221 |
| PHYS 182 with Laboratory | General Physics II | PHYS& 222 |
| Also recommended: | ||
| MATH 172 | Calculus I | MATH& 151 |
| MATH 173 | Calculus II | MATH& 152 |
| or MATH 211 | Statistical Concepts and Methods | MATH& 146 |
The Transfer Equivalency Site (TES) provides CWU equivalencies for courses at other colleges and universities.
Advising Notes
- We offer three degrees (BS in Geological Sciences; BA in Geological Sciences, BS in Environmental Geological Sciences) and a minor in Geological Sciences.
- An Associate in Science-Transfer Degree Track 1 (AS-Track 1) degree is recommended, but not required. Transfers with an AS-Track 1 degree can complete any major within two years; however, general education requirements still need to be fulfilled.
- Transfers with an AA-DTA degree might take longer than two years if they have not completed Physics, Math, and Chemistry.
- Any Washington state DTA (Direct Transfer Agreement) degree will satisfy all general education requirements.
- Major requirements may change over time; students will be expected to meet the catalog requirements in place at the time they are admitted to the major. Current catalog: https://catalog.acalog.cwu.edu/
Other Resources
Admissions: 509-963-1211 | admissions@cwu.edu | cwu.edu/admissions
Financial Aid: 509-963-1611 | FinancialAid@cwu.edu | cwu.edu/financial-aid
Scholarship Information: 509-963-1611 | Scholarships@cwu.edu | cwu.edu/scholarships/
Transfer Center: 509-963-1390 | transfer@cwu.edu | cwu.edu/transfer
Veterans: 509-963-3028 | VA@cwu.edu | cwu.edu/veterans
International: +1-509-963-3612 | intladm@cwu.edu | cwu.edu/programs/international-student-admissions