Earth Science — Elementary, BAE

Department of Geology, College of Science and Engineering

54-62 credits

Introduction

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.

This major satisfies the academic major requirement for teacher certification with an endorsement in elementary education and must be accompanied by the professional preparation program in Elementary Education offered through Woodring College of Education.

Why Consider an Earth Science - Elementary 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 may be the career for you.

Contact Information

Geology Department Chair Bernie Housen Environmental Studies 240A 360-650-3581 Bernard.Housen@wwu.edu	Geology Undergraduate Advisor Hye In Park Environmental Studies 240 360-650-6516 Parkh23@wwu.edu	Earth Science Education Advisor Susan DeBari Environmental Studies 237 360-650-3588 Susan.DeBari@wwu.edu
Earth Science Education Advisor Robyn Dahl Environmental Studies 340 360-650-7207 Dahlr4@wwu.edu	Teacher Education Admissions Miller Hall 150 360-650-3313 wce.wwu.edu/admission	Elementary Education Program Manager Miller Hall 301D 360-650-7948

Sample Careers

Elementary Teacher

Major/Career Resources

www.wwu.edu/careers/students_choosingamajor.shtml

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

This major satisfies the academic major requirement for teacher certification with an endorsement in elementary education and must be accompanied by the professional preparation program in elementary education. See the Elementary Education  section of this catalog for program admission, completion, and teacher certification requirements. This major does not lead to an endorsement in Earth & Space Science.

For more information on the Geology Department go to geology.wwu.edu/declaring-your-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

Students must earn a grade of C (2.0) or better in the elementary education professional program and in all courses required for the endorsement.