Geology often draws students with interests in the outdoors, travel, concern for environmental and energy issues and those pursuing careers in geosciences-related industries. Geology applies chemistry, physics, mathematics and sometimes biology to understanding earth processes, so students take a broad array of ancillary science classes. Additionally, majors train in the specialized laboratory and field skills required by professional geologists.

Special Opportunities

The Department supports two student chapters of professional organizations, the American Institute of Professional Geologists and the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, both of which offer frequent career-development opportunities. The Department also hosts the Geology Club and a chapter of Sigma Gamma Epsilon, the national honor society for Earth Sciences, in which students participate in educational, social, and community service activities, often including field trips. All undergraduates are strongly encouraged to conduct laboratory and field research under the direction of faculty and earn course credit through internships working with professional geoscientists.

Career Opportunities

Geologists have broad career options. Common fields of employment include environmental assessment and remediation, water resources, geotechnical consulting, energy, earth materials, hazard assessments, academic research, and education. Some examples of employers would be environmental and geotechnical firms, energy and mining companies, public utilities, building material suppliers, and state and federal government.