Geologists are directly involved in the monitoring, prediction and assessment of hazards such as volcanoes, earthquakes, landslides and tsunamis. The geologist has an important role in land planning processes and in assessing environmental impact.
Geologists have developed one of the most exciting new scientific theories of the twentieth century ? plate tectonics ? which explains the origin and locations of all the major geological features and Earth building processes of the planet. Geologists also search for the natural resources which sustain our technological society, not least of all, water. The construction of buildings, bridges, roads, dams and reservoirs requires geological expertise.
Career opportunities
A career in Geology offers a very wide spectrum of work environments and employment opportunities. Geology graduates find positions as research scientists, policy analysts, exploration geophysicists, mining and exploration geologists, practitioner engineering geologist with consultancies, natural hazard analysts and consultants, coal and petroleum geologists, teachers, GIS specialists, environmental impact officers and consultants, hydro-geologists, seismic interpreters, resource advisors, research technicians, soil technicians and research assistants, museum curators, and more.