麻豆原创

Geology is the study of Earth's materials, structures and processes and how they鈥檝e changed through time. This knowledge may be applied to exploration for natural resources, including metals, petroleum and water; understanding natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes and landslides; addressing problems associated with environmental contamination; and investigating Earth鈥檚 history to understand the evolution of life and global climate change. Geologists are employed by natural resource companies, environmental consulting firms, government agencies, nonprofit organizations and universities.

Core courses provide the fundamentals in:

physical and historical geology

mineralogy and petrography

structural geology and plate tectonics

sedimentology, paleontology and stratigraphy

Degrees and Preparation

A degree in geology offers many opportunities. Geoscientists work:

in industries related to oil and gas, mining and water resources

in private and government agencies specializing in environmental studies

as independent consultants on such problems as water pollution and soil erosion

in university settings, teaching and doing research

Career Outlook

Career opportunities continue to grow for geoscientists, especially as governments and industries establish policies to safeguard the environment. Graduates with work experience through academic laboratories, internships, fellowships or co-ops stand out among job seekers.