Geology, BA

Department of Geology, College of Sciences and Technology

75 credits

Introduction/What is the Study of Geology?

A Geoscientist is someone who studies the Earth’s physical makeup and history. Geology is the science that provides the key to finding new sources of useful Earth materials and to understanding Earth processes that affect our lives. Geoscientists provide basic information to society for solving problems and establishing policy for resource management, environmental protection, public health, safety and welfare.

Geoscientists are curious about the Earth. How was it formed? How is it changing? What effects will shrinking glaciers have on the oceans and climate? How do islands form? What makes a continent move? Why did the dinosaurs become extinct? What makes a mountain?

Geoscientists are concerned about the Earth. Is there a global warming trend? How and where should we dispose industrial wastes? How can we fill society’s growing demands for energy and conserve natural resources for future generations?

Geoscientists enjoy the Earth. It is an outdoor laboratory filled with opportunities to observe Earth processes in action. By applying knowledge of forces that shape the Earth, Geoscientists seek to reconstruct the past and anticipate the future.

Why Consider a Geology Major? 

Do you like to know why and how things work? Do you enjoy the outdoors? Are you concerned about the environment? Are you interested in travel? Do you like to analyze things? Are science and nature among your favorite subjects? Have you ever wondered why the Earth appears as it does? If you answer “yes” to most of these questions the geosciences could offer a good career for you.

The BA degree in geology is designed for students who want to study geology, but who are not intending to work as professional geologists. This degree is appropriate for someone interested in pursuing a liberal arts education with a less rigorous course of study in geology and supporting sciences than students in the BS degree. Thus students are allowed more flexibility for additional courses that complement their goals. An accompanying minor in one of the sciences or in mathematics is recommended.

Contact Information

Department Chair Bernie Housen Environmental Studies 240A 360-650-3581 Bernie.Housen@wwu.edu

Undergraduate Advisor Theresa Tripp Environmental Studies 240 360-650-3582 Theresa.Tripp@wwu.edu

Sample Careers

U.S. Geological Survey | Department of Natural Resources | Oil and Mining Companies | NASA | U.S. Forest Service | U.S. Army Corps of Engineers | Explorations Geologist | Museum Curator | Climate Change Scientist | Earthquake or Volcano Monitor | Engineering Geologist

Major/Career Resources

http://www.wwu.edu/careers/students_choosingamajor.shtml

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

For more information on the Geology Department go to Declaration of Major.

Some 300-level geology courses give preference to majors during Phase I of registration, so it is important to declare a major as early as possible.

Students are admitted to the BA or BS major once they have completed GEOL 211. (NOTE: Grades of D-, D, or D+ are not acceptable for major and supporting courses.) Students must apply to the department for admission to the major.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.