WWU Geology Program - Worth It?

I'm looking into studying geology and I've seen that Western Washington University has a program. Can anyone give me some feedback on the program? How's the course load, faculty, and overall experience there?

The geology program at Western Washington University (WWU) is known to be an excellent option for students interested in the field. Allow me to share some information that may help you decide if it's a good fit for you.

Course Load: The geology program at WWU is comprehensive and provides a solid foundation in the discipline. You'll study a mix of core courses and electives, which will allow you to explore various subfields within geology. The course load can be demanding at times, but that is the case for most science programs. It's important to stay organized and proactive with your studies to manage the workload effectively.

Faculty: The faculty is often praised for their expertise and commitment to teaching. They bring diverse backgrounds and research interests, which can enrich your learning experience. Many students find the professors to be approachable and willing to help with any questions or concerns. Additionally, the faculty are often actively engaged in research, which may provide opportunities for you to become involved in projects, gain hands-on experience with the concepts you're learning in class, and make connections within the field of geology.

Overall Experience: The geology program at WWU benefits from a unique location that offers a variety of geologically interesting field sites. For example, the Cascade Mountains are only about an hour drive away, and there is a major fault line between the Juan de Fuca Plate and North American plate just off the coast of Washington State. You'll have ample opportunities for hands-on learning through field trips and research projects in one of the most geologically interesting parts of the country. The program provides access to various resources, such as labs and equipment, which help facilitate your learning.

The school's community is often described as welcoming, supportive, and intellectually quirky, so you'll definitely be able to form connections with other students studying geology, as well as find opportunities to pursue your own niche interests. This camaraderie can be instrumental to enhancing your experience and facilitating collaboration on projects and coursework.

To get a better feel of the program, I recommend reaching out to current or former students if possible. They can give you insight into their personal experiences and help you make a more well-informed decision. It's also a good idea to visit the campus if you can and talk to the faculty to ask any questions you may have about the program and the school in general, to verify that WWU is a place where you'll thrive personally as well as academically.

Overall, the geology program at WWU is a strong choice for those interested in the subject. The combination of experienced faculty, a comprehensive curriculum, and the unique location provides an excellent foundation for launching a successful career in geology. Best of luck with your geologic pursuits!