The BA degree is designed for students preparing to incorporate geosciences into careers that involve science communication such as teaching, educational outreach, resource management, environmental planning, business, or law. It is the appropriate major for students seeking an endorsement in teaching high school Earth science. The BA degree may also be appropriate preparation for some graduate programs.
The BA in geology pairs well with minors or double majors in communication, computer science, energy studies, environmental sciences, museum studies (anthropology), science education K-8, and any other study that requires fundamental scientific skills with an emphasis on communication.
This major may be taken as a stand-alone program (without a teacher certification program). However, this major, when combined with the STEM Teaching or Secondary Education programs, is the most efficient pathway for students seeking teaching endorsement in Earth and space science.
Teaching Endorsement
This major partially satisfies the criteria for a teaching endorsement in Earth Science (5-12), qualifying students to teach Earth science at the high school, middle, or junior high levels. Students who successfully complete the Geology BA and STEM Teaching Program (an alternative to the Professional Education Program) are eligible to apply for Washington State teacher certification. Teacher certification candidates must receive a C grade or higher in all major and STEM Teaching Program courses, have a GPA of at least 3.0 for either the last 45 graded quarter credits or overall CWU/transfer cumulative, and meet all Washington State teacher certification requirements. See the geology/Earth science teaching advisor as soon as possible to develop a course of study.
Program Learner Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
- describe and justify appropriate methods to collect and analyze data to address questions about the Earth system;
- apply understanding of Earth processes to develop sustainable solutions to societal issues; and
- use appropriate communication strategies to reach an intended audience.