Earth Science - Secondary Western Washington University

Overview

The Earth Science - Secondary programme at Western Washington University offers a robust pathway for students aiming to educate the next generation about our planet. This degree integrates diverse scientific disciplines to prepare graduates for successful teaching careers in middle and secondary education settings.

Geoscience is a multifaceted field that combines elements of physics, chemistry, biology, and natural history to address complex environmental challenges. Students explore the forces that have shaped the Earth over millennia, gaining the insights necessary to reconstruct the past and predict future geological trends. This academic journey ensures that future educators can provide society with vital information regarding resource management and public safety.

Why Earth Science - Secondary at Western Washington University?

The Department of Geology is situated within the College of Science and Engineering, providing students with access to award-winning teachers and active scholars. These faculty members are dedicated to modern active-learning pedagogies, ensuring that the teaching methods used in the programme are as innovative as the scientific content itself. The department is known for its supportive atmosphere and helpful staff who assist in the educational mission.

A significant strength of the institution is its commitment to diversity and representation in the sciences. With 30% of the faculty and half of the student body being women, the department provides excellent role models for underrepresented groups in STEM. This inclusive environment is paired with a reputable, high-quality curriculum that integrates unique field experiences and modern technology to enhance the learning process.

Students also benefit from being part of a department with a higher percentage of licensed geologists than any other university in the state. The success rate of students on national fundamental exams is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting the high standard of instruction. Furthermore, the university's location offers a natural laboratory with access to mountains, forests, and coastal environments.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 27690 per year
• National fee: USD 27690 per year
• Local fee: USD 8523 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Geology
• Earth Science
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Natural History
• Earth and Space Science

Careers with Earth Science - Secondary

Graduates from this programme primarily pursue careers as educators within the secondary school system. By obtaining a teaching endorsement in Earth and Space Science, they are qualified to teach in middle and high schools across the region. The demand for skilled science educators remains high, providing stable career prospects for those entering the teaching profession.

Beyond the classroom, the skills acquired during the degree allow graduates to work in various geoscience fields. Some alumni choose to progress to graduate school to further their research or specialise in specific areas of geology. Others find opportunities as professional geologists in industries focused on environmental protection, public health, and resource management, where their scientific expertise is highly valued.