Program Overview

Introduction to the Geology Program

The Geology program at Western Washington University is designed for students who are passionate about understanding 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.

Why Consider a Geology Major?

The BA degree in geology is designed for students who want to study geology but 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.

Program Requirements

The program requires 76-85 credits, including:

• One course from:
  • CHEM 161 - General Chemistry I
  • or CHEM 175 - General Chemistry I, Honors
• Choose one of the following options:
  • Option 1: GEOL 211 - Physical Geology
  • Option 2: GEOL 101 - Introduction to Geology and GEOL 211A - Physical Geology Review
  • Option 3: HNRS 212 - Colloquium in Geology
  • Option 4: SCED 202 - Matter and Energy in Earth Systems and GEOL 211A - Physical Geology Review
• GEOL 212 - Historical Geology
• GEOL 213 - GIS in Geology or ENVS 320 - GIS I: Introduction to Geographic Information Science
• GEOL 311 - Earth Materials or GEOL 306 - Mineralogy and GEOL 406 - Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
• GEOL 310 - Geomorphology
• GEOL 314 - Engineering Geology
• GEOL 316 - Paleontology
• GEOL 318 - Structural Geology
• GEOL 415 - Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
• MATH 124 - Calculus and Analytic Geometry I or MATH 240 - Introduction to Statistics
• At least 10 credits under advisement from geology courses 300 level or above
• Choose either:
  • PHYS 114 - Principles of Physics I and PHYS 115 - Principles of Physics II
  • or PHYS 161 - Physics with Calculus I and PHYS 162 - Physics with Calculus II
• Two additional courses from the following:
  • MATH 125 - Calculus and Analytic Geometry II
  • CHEM 162 - General Chemistry II
  • CHEM 163 - General Chemistry III
  • BIOL 204 - Introduction to Evolution, Ecology and Biodiversity w/lab
  • PHYS 116 - Principles of Physics III
  • PHYS 163 - Physics with Calculus III
  • ASTR 315 - The Solar System
  • ENRG 330 - Energy from the Earth
  • ENVS 327 - The Soil Environment
  • CSCI 140 - Programming Fundamentals in C++
  • CSCI 141 - Computer Programming I

Departmental Honors and Distinctions

BA or BS students and students in the University Honors College who have completed at least 4 credits of GEOL 490 and have a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or higher meet the requirements for departmental honors. Those students who have completed at least 4 credits of GEOL 490 and have a cumulative GPA higher than 3.20 meet the requirements for departmental distinction.

University Graduation Requirements

General University Requirements include:

• Writing Proficiency Requirement (WP)
• 180 Minimum Total Credits
• 60 Minimum Upper Division Credits
• Residency Requirement
• Minimum Grade Requirements
• Final Quarter Requirement

Conclusion

The Geology program at Western Washington University offers a comprehensive education in geology, preparing students for a variety of careers in the field. With a strong foundation in the sciences and a flexible curriculum, students can tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Whether you're interested in pursuing a career in geology or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of the Earth's physical makeup and history, the Geology program at Western Washington University is an excellent choice.