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The New Way Of Thinking
Geologist
As a small child, did you ever like to throw rocks? Ever noticed or wondered about the different types of rocks you picked up, about how they had come to be different colors, shapes, and sizes? Of those who have wondered, very few have answers. If you would like to have those answers by becoming an expert in all things rocks and earth and if you love Math and Science, particularly Earth Science, then you should become a Geologist.
Geologists are Scientists who study the composition, structure, and history of the earth's crust, examine rocks, minerals, and fossil remains to identify and determine the sequence of processes that affected the earth's development, and apply knowledge of Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Mathematics to explain these phenomena and to locate mineral and petroleum deposits and underground water resources. They research the formation, dissolution, and content of rock layers and the effects of internal pressures, heat, water, pollution, and erosion. Geologists also study variations in rock formations and densities to identify new mineral deposits, to estimate the depth, quality, and vastness of the deposits, and to test mineral quality and purity to determine the feasibility of mining. Their findings are used in construction, planning environmental protection measures, and exploring new natural gas, oil, and mineral ores.
The duties of a Geologist include but are not limited to: identifying and assessing location, quantity, and quality of mineral deposits and underground water resources; conducting field studies, sample collection, and drilling and testing programs to collect research data; creating geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, and reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, and resource management; assessing ground and surface water movement to provide advice on waste management, route and site selection, and restoration of contaminated sites; identifying extraction risks and risks for natural disasters (mud slides, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, etc.) and providing preventive measures; conducting studies for geological suitability (soil, rock, groundwater) of selected sites prior to regional development and major public works projects (dam, pipeline, bridge, tunnel, water-supply scheme, road construction); analyzing sites and designs for environmentally-sensitive developments (landfills, etc.); collaborating with other Geologists, Engineers, Metallurgists, and Mine Workers; testing industrial diamonds and abrasives, soil, and rocks; developing software for analysis of geological data; conducting and staying current with geological research; and teaching at universities.
High school students interested in becoming a Geologist benefit from taking Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, Trigonometry, Biology, Earth Science, Physical Science, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, and Computer Applications. Students entering Geology Bachelor's of Science programs from high school with no previous Geology training should expect a period of 4 years to complete said program.
Specialties in Geology include: Mineralogists (rocks, minerals, precious stones), Paleontologists (fossils and rock layers), Exploration Geologists (find new sources of minerals and ores), Engineering Geologists (determine where to construct dams, lay pipelines, and build roads). Some Geologists study Ecology to incorporate the protection of the environment in their work, while others work with Geophysicists to predict earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Those in education teach Earth Science and General Science in schools or Geology, Ecology, and Environmental Studies courses at universities.
Due to evidence of global warming, to the growing worldwide need for energy, environmental protection, and responsible land and resource management, and to countries undertaking more major public works projects, employment of Geologists is projected to grow by 21 percent over the next decade. The demand for Geologists will only strengthen as environmental-friendly energy sources become more prevalent.
Job Description
Median Salary & Range
Median Salary: $90,890
Salary Range: ~$48,270 - $130,330+
College Majors & Attainment Routes
The normal routes to becoming a Geologist have been to major in Geology, Geoscience, Hydrology, Earth Science, Physics (Environmental Geophysics concentration), Environmental Studies, Soil Science, Water Resource Management, Environmental Engineering, and Geomatics.
Geologists work for private companies/firms, the federal government, colleges and universities, museums, and high schools. Firms and government agencies typically seek advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Geology for jobs in research, and a Ph.D. is generally required of those who teach at universities, which requires four more years of college after earning a Bachelor's degree.
Colleges That Provide Above Majors
Colleges and universities that have Geology and related majors are: Elizabeth City State University (Elizabeth City, North Carolina); Central State University (Wilberforce, Ohio); Jackson State University (Jackson, Mississippi); North Carolina A&T State University (Greensboro, North Carolina); Lincoln University (Lincoln University, Pennsylvania); North Carolina Central University (Durham, North Carolina); Benedict College (Columbia, South Carolina); and Claflin University (Orangeburg, South Carolina).
Available Scholarships
