What should you do when an earthquake hits? Here are some simple safety steps to follow when the next tremor rolls in.
Read more about Stay Safe During an EarthquakeGeosciences
Integrated, Hands-On Studies Preparing You for a Career or to Transfer On
Program Overview
Interested in the study of Earth and its complex systems? College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Geosciences program, incorporating essential aspects of geology, offers a comprehensive exploration of Earth’s processes, materials, and history. This Associate of Science degree lays a strong foundation in geology and other scientific disciplines like mathematics, chemistry, physics, and biology, essential for understanding the dynamic interactions within Earth's systems. Perfect for those drawn to earth science, the program leads you through various aspects of geology, environmental science, and natural resource management, preparing you for advanced studies at a four-year university.
Your journey will include studying rock formations, geological structures, and mineral resources, alongside key environmental and sustainability issues. Through engaging coursework and practical fieldwork, you will develop a deeper understanding of geologic processes, from plate tectonics to erosion, and how they shape our world. Graduates find opportunities in diverse fields, including the oil and gas industry, mining, environmental consulting, and government sectors.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Science
Cost
Additional cost may apply.
Time to Complete
2 years
Primary Locations
Learning Opportunities
- Integrated Study of Geology and GIS: Gain valuable geology insights while learning Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a critical tool in modern geoscience.
- Hands-On Geological Fieldwork: Participate in field trips and labs for practical experience in geological mapping, rock and mineral identification, and data analysis.
- Environmental and Geologic Processes: Understand key environmental challenges and the geological processes that impact our planet.
- Diverse Geoscience Careers: Explore career paths in geology, environmental science, natural resource management, and beyond.
- Preparation for Advanced Geological Studies: Equip yourself for seamless transfer to pursue a bachelor's degree in geology or related fields.
Area of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Geosciences – Associate of Science Degree
Degree Requirements
Cost: $8,615
Career Opportunities
Postsecondary Teachers
1434
Annual Openings*
$35.69
Hourly Median Wage*
$74,235
Annual Median Salary
45.6%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Geosciences as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
Related Programs
News
Join University of Idaho professor, Jason Barnes, April 13 to learn more about the Dragonfly space mission, a project to explore Titan, Saturn’s largest moon.
Read more about Visiting Scientist Series Welcomes Jason Barnes
CWI's Common Read Series invites you to join them for an informative panel discussion all about science featuring CWI faculty.
Read more about Common Read Series: Communicating Scientifically
“CWI empowered me to believe in myself and in a better future.”
Read more about Leading by Example
CWI student, Westin Juarez, teams up with CWI professor, Ander Sundell, and the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology to design a new exhibit.
Read more about Geology Student Designs Museum Exhibit
Seismic waves from an earthquake in Honduras on Jan. 9 were detected at College of Western Idaho, 2,500 miles away!
Read more about Seismic Waves Travel to Nampa
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics programs are excited to share new episodes of the video blog series, Science is a Verb. CWI faculty share some...
Read more about Science is a Verb: Detecting Touch
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Biology 2 (Biodiversity & Evolution) class is going native! Join other adventurous students for a three week immersion experience studying the biodiversity and...
Read more about CWI Biology is Takin’ It Outside!
A group of CWI students had the chance to engage with Idaho State University graduate students on a field trip to investigate and map rocks.
Read more about Geology Trip Provides Connections for CWI Students
On Oct. 1, CWI students and faculty joined a group of citizen scientists gathered at the confluence of the Snake and Boise Rivers to monitor water quality.
Read more about CWI Faculty and Students Join Watershed Watch
The seasons have changed and it is time for the annual migration of monarch butterflies. After traveling hundreds of miles from their natal grounds, most of the monarchs living in the Western United...
Read more about More to Monarchs than Meets the Eye
Who would have thought that science really had so much to do with aging? Not me, until I read this article from sciencenews.org. They explain that while there is still a hearty debate regarding what...
Read more about What I Learned in MicrobiologyRequest More Information
Interested in learning more about this program or getting started? Fill out the information below to be contacted by a member of our team.
Connect With Us
Ready to get started? Our team looks forward to assisting you!