Why Study Geology?

Geology is the study of the Earth - our only home. It is a fascinating and important subject because nearly all the materials that our society needs (oil, gas, metals, building materials, agricultural fertilizers, etc.) have to be discovered by geologists. All of the history of life, continental drift, and past climate and environmental change comes from the geologic record. The site of every building, road, or home that is built has to be evaluated for geologic stability and potential hazards. Environmental protection, remediation, and preservation of clean water supplies are all geologic issues. Because of all of these needs, there are an abundance of well-paying, professional jobs for graduates in the geosciences. Nearly all of our students receive job offers before or shortly after graduation.

If you like the outdoors, if you like to travel, if you want to understand the truth about natural resources and environmental change, if you want to help people by providing energy, resources, safe homes, and a clean environment, if you love the natural world... then a major and career in geology might just be right for you.

Interested? Contact the Department of Geological Sciences. Ask for the Undergraduate Advisor.