Geologists are involved in the exploration, development, and conservation of diminishing, nonrenewable water, energy, and mineral resources. More and more geologists are becoming involved in studies of eliminating geologic hazards (such as flooding, landslides, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions) and in providing methods of disposing of chemical and nuclear waste materials. The reduction of marine erosion in coastal areas, soil conservation techniques, and pollution in soil and water are but a few problems being studied by geologists.
A career in Geology offers great challenges, excellent job opportunities, and personally satisfying rewards. Geoscientists gather and interpret data to understand the Earth and other planets. They use their knowledge to increase our understanding of earth processes and resources to improve the quality of human life. Their work and career paths vary widely because the geosciences cover a broad range of topics including the formation of mountains, the cause of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, climate change, water quality and supply, energy resources, and the evolution of the earth and the life on earth.
The employment outlook in the geosciences - as in any profession - varies with the economic climate of the country. The long-range outlook is good at this time. Dwindling energy, mineral, and water resources along with increasing concerns about the environment and natural hazards present new challenges to geoscientists. Current hot areas of employment in the geosciences include oil and gas exploration, climate change, geohydrology, and environmental geology.