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Geology Careers for 2025: Degree Requirements, Cost & Salary

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

We have compiled a list of potential geology careers for you to utilize as a jumping-off point in your job search if you have just graduated from geology school and are now looking for employment in the field. You may even utilize our list to begin applying for employment during the last semester of your degree program if you are still in the process of earning your degree.The majority of geologist entry-level jobs demand simply a bachelor’s degree from its candidates. Fieldwork, doing research and investigations outside, and other similar activities are typical components of a geologist’s workday, but the precise duties of the job will, of course, differ from one company to the next. Geologists may also be required to travel often and do their profession in isolated areas.
Geology Careers Table of Contents

  1. What Is Geology?
  2. Key Geology Statistics
  3. What are the Requirements to Study Geology?
  4. How Much Does It Cost to Study Geology?
  5. How Long Does It Take to Become an Accredited Geologist?
  6. The Best Universities to Study Geology
  7. How Much Do Geologists Earn?
  8. Possible Careers for Geology Majors for 2025
  9. What are the alternative career paths for geology majors?
  10. How is technology shaping modern geology careers?
  11. Famous People Who Studied Geology
  12. How Can Professional Certifications Strengthen Your Geology Career?
  13. How Can Internships and Real-World Experience Accelerate Your Geology Career?
  14. Can Accelerated Education Fast-Track Your Geology Career?
  15. What Financial Aid Options Can Support Your Geology Education?
  16. Advancing Your Career Through Specialized Geology Programs
  17. The Impact of Climate Change on Geology Careers
  18. How Can Advanced Research Degrees Propel Your Geology Career?
  19. Can Affordable Online Education Accelerate Your Entry into Geology?

Even before entering college, many geology students already possess substantial nonacademic experiences that fuel their interest in geology. The role of the family, engagement in outdoor recreation, and personal experiences with local geology are the three key components to interest development (LaDue & Pacheco, 2013).

However, personal interest is just the start. Geology students also need to have more than average skills in science and mathematics. It is also important for them to possess excellent writing, public speaking, active listening, and reading comprehension skills. And perhaps, what is not often pointed out is that geologists also need to work on certain social skills to become effective professionals in this field. Coordination, persuasion, negotiation, instructing, service orientation, and social perceptiveness all score high on the value chart (DataUSA, n.d.).

1. What Is Geology?

Geology is the study of the Earth’s physical structure and the materials that it is made of. It also studies the forces that act on these materials and how they bring about changes to the Earth’s surface and structure.

Geology helps us understand the history of the Earth, how it was formed, and what structural changes are presently happening. In defining what is a geologist, think of all the physical and chemical processes that occur in our planet. By studying rocks, tectonic plates, the evolution of life, and past climates the Earth has experienced, geologists can more accurately predict what problems the planet and humans may face in the future.

Knowledge in geology can be applied to a wide range of pursuits that are valuable to the protection of the planet and its inhabitants. For example, many classically-educated geologists have found employment as engineering geologists or hydrogeologists (Santi & Higgins, 2005). Similar to environmental careers, they evaluate water resources, predict natural disasters, perform mineral and hydrocarbon exploration, and find solutions to environmental problems, just to name a few.

2. Key Geology Statistics

The closest comparable data for geologist employment is from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ 2018 employment estimate for geoscientists, which is one of geology major jobs. Geoscientists (excluding hydrologists and geographers) held 29,260 jobs.

The industry that had the highest level of employment for geoscientists was Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services with 8,470 jobs, Oil and Gas Extraction with 4,670, and Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services with 4,080 jobs. The top-paying states for geoscientists are Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Louisiana, and Hawaii with an annual mean wage of $150,140, $123,230, $111,130, $109,700, and $109,530 respectively (BLS, 2020).

When it comes to institutions of higher education that have the highest number of degrees awarded in Geological and Earth Sciences, Pennsylvania State University is the top university with 204 degrees awarded in 2017. It is followed by Texas A&M University with 196 degrees, and the University of Houston with 159 (DataUSA, n.d.)

3. What are the Requirements to Study Geology?

The training and education on how to become a geologist can start as early as high school. Students who have good high school GPA and who perform well in subjects like mathematics, physics, biology, and science can increase their chances of getting accepted in geology programs in prestigious universities. As pointed out in a study, students who pursue science majors in college had higher levels of achievement in high school and completed higher-level science and math courses in high school (Dabney et al., 2012, Wang, 2013, cited in Sexton et al., 2018). Similarly, those who have taken STEM-related courses in alternative institutions, such as online community colleges, can consider a study path in geology.

What do geology degree students study in college? What does a geologist do? They vary depending on the program, but most programs offer fundamental courses in mathematics and science. Molinary (2003, cited in Santi & Higgins, 2005) said that broad-based education in geologic fundamentals is necessary, (and) should include crucial technical areas such as topics in hydrogeology, geomorphology, geographic information systems (GIS), imagery interpretation, field methods and mapping, hazard identification and interpretation, and technical communication skills, especially writing. There are also laboratory courses that may focus on analyzing rocks, fossils, sediments, etc.

4. How Much Does It Cost to Study Geology?

The amount you spend on your geology education will vary depending on where you live and the university you choose. The US, for example, has the highest average cost of tuition among 35 Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries (OECD, 2017). Bachelor’s programs at American public institutions average $8,202 annually, while in other countries, the average is less than $4,000.

In the US, the most common increases in the cost of college were in the areas of student services, academic support, institutional support, and instruction costs (CATEF, 2020). To know more about the net prices in American colleges and universities, you can visit the College Affordability and Transparency Center. The site has an online calculator and other pertinent information on the cost of programs in different institutions.

5. How Long Does It Take to Become an Accredited Geologist?

Though you do not need accreditation to have a geologist career in the US, there 31 states that license geologists when they offer services to the public. These include activities or job responsibilities associated with environmental protection, regulatory compliance, and civil engineering projects. States that license geologists use the National Association of State Boards of Geology (ASBOG), Fundamentals of Geology Exam (FGE).

You can also get a professional certification from The American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG). AIPG is the largest geosciences association in the US promoting geology as a profession and certifying geologists based on their competence, integrity, and ethics. You can become an AIPG member to build your professional network. Their membership is categorized into Certified Professional Geologist, Professional, Early Career Professional, Associate, and Student.

6. The Best Universities to Study Geology

The list below is based on The 2020 Times Higher Education World University Rankings for physical sciences. Physical sciences include earth and marine sciences, geology, chemistry, physics and astronomy, and mathematics and statistics.

Princeton University is the top institution in the 2020 ranking. Founded in 1746 and located in New Jersey, USA, it is a leading research institute that today offers undergraduate and graduate education in natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and engineering.

ETH Zurich is the only European university outside of the United Kingdom to make it into the top 10 of the ranking. ETH is a public research university founded in 1855 in Zurich, Switzerland. It is one of the world’s top institutions for science and technology and has 16 departments conducting research from chemistry to architecture, physics, and engineering.

Peking University is one of the oldest universities in China founded in 1898. It has consistently ranked as a top academic institution in the country and a leading university for scientific research and teaching.

National University of Singapore (NUS) was established in 1905 and supports research themes that include environmental and urban sustainability, energy, and prevention and treatment of common diseases among Asians.

Other universities included in the top 10 are California Institute of Technology, University of Cambridge, Stanford University, Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Oxford, University of California, Berkeley, and University of Chicago.

7. How Much Do Geologists Earn?

Geologists fall under the occupation Geoscientist. In May 2019, the median annual salary for geoscientists was $92,040 with an hourly pay of $44.25 (BLS, 2020).

Aside from salary, remember that there are other factors you should consider when evaluating a job offer. Your location, for example, has an impact on whether a geology salary offer can be considered good compensation. The highest salaries in the US are in San Jose, San Francisco, and several large metros in California. But when adjusted for cost of living, the highest salaries were in small-city metros like BrownsvilleHarlingen, Texas; Forth Smith in the Arkansas-Oklahoma border, and Huntington-Ashland in the tri-state of West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio (Kolko, 2019).

8. Possible Careers for Geology Majors for 2025

Most jobs you can get with a geology degree fall under the occupation geoscientist. The job outlook for geoscientists is projected to grow 6% from 2018 to 2028. This growth is mainly driven by the need to responsibly manage resources, protect the environment, the need to look for alternative energy resources such as wind and geothermal energy (BLS, 2020). Furthermore, they also possess skills outside geology, such as project management, public works, and more.

Different types of geoscientists:

Engineering Geologists

Engineering geologists combine their knowledge of geology with civil and environmental engineering. They work with other professionals mainly on construction projects and public works. They provide their expert advice on the environmental hazards and safety issues related to a project. For example, engineering geologists check flood risk in an area or assess the quality of a site to ensure that it can support heavy structures. They usually undergo additional training in fields like public policy, civil engineering, and more.

Hydrogeologist

Hydrogeologists study groundwater and the processes involved as it interacts with surrounding rocks and soil. Their expertise can be applied to a wide range of practical uses such as constructing water wells for drinking water supply or irrigation schemes for farmlands.

Hydrogeologists are also experts when it comes to investigating the quality of water, its available supply, and how to design schemes in order to clean up polluted groundwater. Their services are also valuable to geothermal power companies because they can help harness geothermal energy via groundwater-based heat pumps.

Geophysicist

Another type of geology degree jobs is that of geophysicists which combine the principles of physics, geology, and advanced mathematics to study the Earth’s composition. Many geophysicists often start their career path outside geology, such as a physics degree. Some geophysicists choose to focus their studies on the properties of Earth’s gravitational, magnetic, and electric fields. They develop methods and techniques on how to better monitor and predict earthquakes. The oil and gas extraction, engineering, and architecture industries are the top employers of geophysicists.

Geochemist

Combining geology and chemistry careers, geochemists study natural resources such as natural gas and oil and minerals. They also study the chemical elements found in rocks and minerals and how these elements move into soil and water systems. A geochemist’s expertise can be helpful in reducing pollutants in water; thus, increasing water quality in natural reservoirs.

Most geochemists work for environmental agencies, oil companies, and government agencies. They can also be employed at colleges and universities or research facilities.

Oceanographers

Oceanographers explore the ocean floor and study the physical and chemical properties of the ocean. They examine processes that affect ocean waves and currents, coastal areas, weather, and climate. They also study the history of plate tectonics and seafloor spreading, hydrothermal circulation, hydrothermal circulation, magma genesis, mantle circulation, and crustal formation. Oceanographers help us understand how ocean basins are created and the interactions of the ocean and the seafloor.

Since the primary work of oceanographers is research, they often work for research institutions or universities and colleges where they lecture about the ocean and the changes it is undergoing that have an impact on the global environment and the overall health of the planet.

Seismologists

Seismologists study earthquakes and their results such as landslides and tsunamis. They also monitor volcanoes and volcanic eruptions and can also monitor seismic waves to search for underground deposits of natural gas and petroleum.

Most seismologists find employment in observatories or research centers run by national governments. Because of the monitoring aspect of their job, seismologists may need to work long and irregular hours or during public emergencies.

Paleontologists

Paleontologists study the history of life on Earth through fossil remains of plants and animals found in geological formations. These fossil remains can provide valuable information about an organism’s behavior and environment, and its life and evolution.

Paleontologists can work at museums and manage historical exhibits. They can also work for research institutions, universities, oil and gas companies, and mining companies. They can also work as consultants or be employed by the government to create maps and investigate geological issues.

Petroleum geologists

A petroleum geologist’s main job responsibility is to prospect for fossil fuels. They do this by using all the tools and resources available to them to identify and explore sites and test them for the presence of gas and oil. They are also responsible for estimating the size of oil and gas deposits.

Petroleum geologists, naturally, work directly in the oil and gas industry but they can also be employed by mining companies or engineering companies where they provide technical or management consulting services.

9. What are the alternative career paths for geology majors?

Geology majors can explore various alternative career paths beyond traditional roles in the field. One such option is pursuing a career in real estate, where geologists can apply their knowledge of environmental factors and spatial analysis to inform property development and management decisions. For those interested in this career path, earning a real estate degree online can provide a comprehensive foundation in the principles of real estate and prepare them for roles such as property assessors, urban planners, or environmental consultants. By leveraging their geology background and acquiring new skills in real estate, individuals can transition into a fulfilling and challenging career that combines elements of geology, business, and environmental stewardship.

10. How is technology shaping modern geology careers?

Technology has significantly transformed the field of geology, opening new avenues for research, data collection, and analysis. Geologists now use a variety of advanced tools and software to improve the accuracy of their work and streamline their processes.

  1. Geographic Information Systems (GIS): GIS technology is essential for mapping and analyzing geological data. By layering various data sets—such as topography, geology, and resource distribution—GIS allows geologists to visualize complex information and make informed decisions about resource management, hazard assessment, and environmental protection.
  2. Remote Sensing and Drones: Remote sensing technologies, including satellite imagery and drones, enable geologists to study areas that are difficult to reach or dangerous to explore. These tools provide detailed aerial images and topographical data that are crucial for studying large-scale geological formations, such as volcanoes, fault lines, and mining sites.
  3. Modeling and Simulation Software: Geologists also rely on modeling software to simulate geological processes, such as seismic activity or groundwater movement. This helps predict natural disasters, manage resources, and design infrastructure projects that can withstand geological hazards.

As technology continues to advance, geologists will need to stay updated on the latest tools and techniques to remain competitive in the field. Aspirants should also take an accredited online bachelor degree in geology that accounts for used tech in its curriculum.

Incorporating these technologies into your skill set will enhance your career prospects and provide you with more opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking geological research. 

11. Famous People Who Studied Geology

Charles Darwin, James Hutton, Charles Lyell, and Alfred Wegener are just some of the influential figures in the history of geology. Darwin is most cited for his contributions in the science of evolution, while Hutton is considered the father of modern geology. Meanwhile, Lyell is a proponent of Hutton’s idea of uniformitarianism, and Wegener is a geophysicist and meteorologist who is the originator of the theory of continental drift.

Interestingly, though he is more widely known as a great painter, Leonardo da Vinci is also a genius who closely studied erosion, sediment, fossils, and stratification of the mountains of northern Italy. He was ahead of the scientists of the 18th and 19th centuries and already guessed through his studies that the Earth is far older than what the book of Genesis claimed (Jones, 2011).

There are also famous contemporary figures who majored in geology and went on to contribute their knowledge to their chosen profession. American politician and retired US Army general, Colin Powell, received his geologist degree from the City College of New York in 1958. Kathryn Dwyer Sullivan, former NASA astronaut and the first American woman to walk in space, and freshwater environmentalist, Sandra Postell, are also geologists.

How Can Professional Certifications Strengthen Your Geology Career?

Professional certifications validate your specialized skills and commitment to ongoing learning, making you a more attractive candidate in the competitive geology field. Gaining industry-recognized credentials can bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical expertise, enabling you to navigate evolving environmental challenges and emerging technologies with confidence. Certified professionals often experience better job security and enhanced prospects for career advancement, as employers value proven proficiency in niche technical areas. Moreover, supplementing your academic achievements with targeted certifications can streamline your transition into specialized roles, especially when pursuing online certificate programs that focus on up-to-date industry practices.

How Can Internships and Real-World Experience Accelerate Your Geology Career?

Internships and field placements serve as a critical bridge between academic knowledge and industry expectations in the field of geology. They offer hands-on exposure to advanced tools, real-time data analysis, and project management in settings ranging from environmental consulting to energy exploration. Practical experience not only refines technical competencies but also expands professional networks and enhances problem-solving skills, making candidates more attractive to employers. Furthermore, targeted training programs that integrate classroom learning with practical assignments, such as those offered by easy degrees that pay well, help streamline the transition into the workforce while reinforcing industry best practices.

Can Accelerated Education Fast-Track Your Geology Career?

Accelerated education programs offer a strategic path for early career professionals to build essential skills rapidly and meet industry demands. By choosing nontraditional learning pathways, such as complete courses delivered via an accelerated associates degree online, aspiring geologists can gain focused training in technical and practical areas without compromising on quality. These programs emphasize core competencies and timely, hands-on experiences that align with current market trends, providing a competitive edge in a fast-evolving field.  

What Financial Aid Options Can Support Your Geology Education?

For prospective geologists, tapping into diverse financial aid resources is essential to mitigate the cost of education. Explore scholarships offered by professional associations, state agencies, and specialized foundations dedicated to supporting STEM and Earth sciences. In addition to merit-based awards, consider need-based grants and federal aid programs that can significantly lower tuition expenses. Some institutions also recommend leveraging modern educational pathways, such as an online accelerated bachelor degree, to fast‐track your studies while managing costs efficiently. Evaluating these options early in your academic planning can optimize your investment in a geology career.

Advancing Your Career Through Specialized Geology Programs

For aspiring geologists, pursuing advanced education can be a strategic way to enhance career prospects while delving deeper into specialized topics within the field. As the demands on geoscientists grow—thanks to climate change, renewable energy exploration, and advanced geological research—earning a graduate degree has become a pivotal step for professionals aiming to distinguish themselves in this competitive landscape.

One effective option for those pressed for time or balancing work commitments is enrolling in a one year masters degree online. These accelerated programs allow professionals to expand their knowledge of technical skills like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), geochemistry, and hydrogeology while maintaining the flexibility to meet professional and personal obligations. The compact structure of such programs ensures that students acquire specialized expertise in areas such as sustainable earth resources or environmental impact analysis, preparing them for higher-level roles in consulting, academia, or government agencies.

The evolving demands of geology careers often mean the difference between staying relevant in the industry and lagging behind is the ability to adapt and upgrade your skills. Committing to advanced education through streamlined avenues, like an online master’s program, can open the door to leadership roles and broaden the scope of your professional impact in addressing both contemporary and future challenges.

The Impact of Climate Change on Geology Careers

With climate change becoming one of the most pressing issues of our time, the field of geology is at the forefront of efforts to understand, mitigate, and adapt to environmental impacts. Geologists play a vital role in addressing climate-related challenges, from assessing natural resource sustainability to developing models that predict geological hazards influenced by climate shifts. Here’s how climate change is shaping geology careers:

  • Sustainable Resource Management: As demands for renewable energy sources grow, geologists specializing in hydrogeology, mineralogy, and resource conservation are essential for managing resources like groundwater, minerals, and fossil fuels responsibly. Hydrogeologists, for example, assess water availability and quality, which is increasingly critical in areas affected by drought and changing precipitation patterns.
  • Environmental Remediation: Climate change exacerbates environmental risks such as soil degradation, water contamination, and habitat loss. Environmental geologists are now more involved in projects that restore ecosystems and reduce industrial pollution. By analyzing soil and water samples, geologists identify contaminants and devise methods to rehabilitate affected areas.
  • Hazard Assessment and Mitigation: Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and increased seismic activity are reshaping landscapes and increasing geological risks. Geologists contribute by mapping fault lines, evaluating landslide-prone areas, and assessing volcanic activity—all essential for developing climate-resilient infrastructure and community planning.
  • Renewable Energy Exploration: As the world shifts towards renewable energy, geologists are instrumental in exploring and harnessing geothermal energy and assessing the environmental impact of wind and solar farms. This work involves site selection, impact studies, and ongoing assessments to ensure minimal disruption to local ecosystems.

Geology careers today offer more than traditional roles in oil and gas; they also include pioneering positions that address the environmental implications of a changing climate. By choosing a career path that intersects with climate science, geologists not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also play a crucial role in helping communities adapt to future challenges.

How Can Advanced Research Degrees Propel Your Geology Career?

Pursuing advanced research degrees can broaden your technical expertise and add significant credibility to your professional profile. Many professionals enhance their practical experience by engaging in rigorous research that addresses emerging challenges in resource management, environmental sustainability, and innovative exploration techniques. Integrating academic inquiry with industry practices enables geologists to develop data-driven solutions and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving sector. Consider exploring online PhDs that emphasize interdisciplinary research and state-of-the-art methodologies to further elevate your career.

Can Affordable Online Education Accelerate Your Entry into Geology?

Affordable online education options offer a pragmatic pathway for those seeking to gain necessary geological expertise while controlling costs. This avenue supports the development of essential theoretical and technical skills through flexible, remote coursework designed to meet industry demands. By investing in programs that balance quality and affordability—such as the online bachelor's degree cheapest—aspiring geologists can secure a strong educational foundation and enhance their competitive edge in an ever-evolving marketplace.

Starting Your Geology Career

Geoscience industry leaders have identified an impending workforce crisis as a result of baby boomers nearing retirement (LaDue & Pacheco, 2013), and the Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects a 6% job growth in the geosciences (BLS, 2020) from 2018 to 2028. This means, if you are searching for careers in geology now, you might just be entering this occupation at a very opportune time.

As we have mentioned, there are several industries that employ the highest number of geoscientists, so the key is to figure out which one best fits your career goals. Now that you know what can you do with a geology degree, and how to start searching for jobs, do not forget to network with people in the industry. Attend lectures and conferences on topics you find interesting. Contacts you make during these events can lead you to your new job considering that 50% of job seekers find out about vacancies from friends, while 37% learn about them from their professional network (Jobvite, 2019). Your network will be your trusted source of jobs for geology majors.

Finally, understand that there is a chance that you will end up not liking your first job—and that is totally fine! The goal is to literally just get your geology career started by getting a first hand experience of where do geologists work. You might not be tasked to manage important projects or the most challenging endeavors where you can apply your geology knowledge. Nevertheless, be conscientious in your work as it can help you gain valuable experiences you can include on your resume.

Key Insights

  • Broad Career Opportunities: A geology degree offers a diverse range of career paths, including roles as engineering geologists, hydrogeologists, geophysicists, geochemists, oceanographers, seismologists, paleontologists, and petroleum geologists.
  • High Demand for Geoscientists: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% job growth for geoscientists from 2018 to 2028, driven by the need for responsible resource management and environmental protection.
  • Lucrative Salaries: Geoscientists, particularly those in the oil and gas industries, can expect high salaries. Top-paying states include Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Louisiana, and Hawaii, with annual mean wages exceeding $100,000.
  • Diverse Skill Set Required: Geologists need strong backgrounds in science and mathematics, along with excellent writing, public speaking, and social skills such as coordination, persuasion, and negotiation.
  • Educational Pathways: Most geology careers require at least a bachelor’s degree, with many professionals pursuing advanced degrees for higher positions and specialized roles. Accreditation and certification can further enhance career prospects.
  • Top Institutions for Geology: Prestigious universities such as Princeton, ETH Zurich, and Peking University offer top-ranked geology programs. U.S. universities like Pennsylvania State University and Texas A&M also lead in awarding geology degrees.
  • Fieldwork and Travel: Geologists often engage in fieldwork, research, and investigations in remote areas, requiring travel and adaptability to various environments.
  • Impact of Baby Boomer Retirement: The impending retirement of baby boomers in the geoscience field presents opportunities for new graduates to enter and advance in the profession.

FAQ

  1. What is geology? Geology is the study of the Earth’s physical structure, materials, and processes. It involves understanding the history of the Earth, how it was formed, and the ongoing structural changes. Geologists study rocks, tectonic plates, fossils, and past climates to predict future geological and environmental challenges.
  2. What are the key requirements to study geology? Students need a strong foundation in science and mathematics, including subjects like physics, biology, and chemistry. Good writing, public speaking, active listening, and social skills are also essential for a successful career in geology.
  3. How much does it cost to study geology? The cost of studying geology varies by location and institution. In the U.S., public institutions average $8,202 annually for a bachelor’s program. Costs can be higher at private institutions and in countries with different tuition structures.
  4. How long does it take to become an accredited geologist? While accreditation is not mandatory in all states, becoming a licensed geologist typically involves earning a bachelor’s degree, gaining work experience, and passing exams such as the ASBOG Fundamentals of Geology Exam. Accreditation can enhance career prospects and is required in 31 states for certain public services.
  5. What are some top universities for studying geology? Top universities for geology include Princeton University, ETH Zurich, Peking University, California Institute of Technology, and Stanford University. These institutions are renowned for their research and comprehensive geology programs.
  6. How much do geologists earn? The median annual salary for geoscientists was $92,040 in 2019. Salaries vary by location and industry, with the highest-paying jobs found in the oil and gas industries and states like Texas, Oklahoma, and Colorado.
  7. What are some possible careers for geology majors? Geology majors can pursue careers as engineering geologists, hydrogeologists, geophysicists, geochemists, oceanographers, seismologists, paleontologists, and petroleum geologists. Each role has specific responsibilities and may require additional training or certification.
  8. Can I start my geology career while still in college? Yes, students can start applying for geology jobs during their last semester or gain practical experience through internships and fieldwork opportunities. Networking and attending industry events can also help secure a job after graduation.
  9. What skills are essential for a successful career in geology? Geologists need a strong understanding of scientific principles, excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Strong communication, project management, and social skills are also crucial.
  10. How can I advance my career in geology? Advancing in a geology career often involves pursuing advanced degrees, gaining specialized certifications, and building a strong professional network. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest research and technological advancements in the field are also important.

References:

  • LaDue, N., and Pacheco, H. (2013). Critical Experiences for Geologists: Emergent Themes in Interest Development. Journal of Geoscience Education, 61 (4), 428-436. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.5408/12-375.1
  • DataUSA (2020) Geological and earth sciences. DataUSA.
  • Santi, P., Higgins, J. (2005). Preparing geologists for careers in engineering geology and hydrogeology. Journal of Geoscience Education, 53 (5), 513-521. https://doi.org/10.5408/1089-9995-53.5.513
  • Sexton, J., Pugh, K., Bergstrom, C., Riggs, E. (2018). Reasons undergraduate students majored in geology across six universities: The Importance of gender and department. Journal of Geoscience Education, 66 (4), 319-336. https://doi.org/10.1080/10899995.2018.1507546
  • OECD (2017). Estimated annual average tuition fees charged by tertiary educational institutions. Education at a Glance 2017: OECD Indicators. https://dx.doi.org/10.1787/eag-2017-en
  • College Affordability and Transparency Explanation Form (CATEF) (2020, May). College Affordability and Transparency Report under Section 132(e)(2) of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended. Washington, DC: US Department of Education.
  • Times Higher Education (2020). World University Rankings 2020 by subject: physical sciences. THE World University Rankings.
  • Kolko, J. (2019, August 27). Where Salaries Go Furthest in 2019: The Small-City Advantage. Indeed Hiring Lab.
  • BLS (2020, April 10). Geoscientists. Washington, DC: US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
  • Jones, J. (2011, November 23). Leonardo da Vinci’s earth-shattering insights about geology. The Guardian.
  • Jobvite (2019). Job Seeker National Survey. San Mateo, CA: Jobvite.

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