| A geologist is an earth scientist that studies the | | | | physical structures and processes of the earth. A |
| physical workings of the earth, and sometimes | | | | geologist often spends periods of time in the field |
| even of other planets in our solar system. | | | | taking samples and making observations for |
| Geology is a broad field, and includes areas of | | | | scientific analysis. Geologists must have good |
| specialty in hydrogeology (the study of water), | | | | quantitative analysis skills in order to analyze and |
| sedimentology (the study of rocks and sediment), | | | | report on measurements taken in the field, and |
| mineralogy (the study of minerals), and | | | | must also be able to communicate effectively to |
| paleontology (the study of prehistoric life), to | | | | serve as consultants to businesses, organizations, |
| name just a few areas of specialization. | | | | and government agencies. If you enjoy a |
| The career outlook for a geologist is good. They | | | | combination of innovative scientific discovery, |
| make on average $38-$48 thousand a year. | | | | evaluating the impact of human behavior on the |
| Geology is a growing field and should continue to | | | | environment, working to come up with creative |
| be popular in the coming years. | | | | solutions, and working closely with clients to make |
| A geologist may apply studies in one or more of | | | | recommendations and explain the environmental |
| these areas to a variety of environmentally | | | | impact of proposed projects, then you may |
| related issues. | | | | enjoy a career as a geologist. |
| Some ways that geologists help in building a more | | | | Most geologists complete advanced studies in a |
| sustainable environment include studying and | | | | specific area of specialization within geology. |
| protecting groundwater resources, investigating | | | | Because geology is such a complex field, a |
| marine geology conditions that affect aquatic life, | | | | master's degree or higher is typically required for |
| and studying the impact of human activities on | | | | geologist positions. Introductory courses in |
| natural resources. | | | | mathematics, statistics, physics, mechanics, |
| There are many ways that geologists can used | | | | geology, oceanography, and related subjects may |
| their specialized training to understand the | | | | be helpful in preparing for undergraduate and |
| workings of the physical environment and prevent | | | | graduate level study in geology. During the course |
| or minimize the impact of human activities on the | | | | of advanced geology studies, most students will |
| environment. | | | | study these subjects in greater detail and |
| Geology is a fascinating field that is ideal for | | | | received advanced training in a focused area of |
| someone who loves spending time doing field | | | | specialization. |
| research and is interested in learning about the | | | | |