Geology careers deal with earth issues.
It is a widely held misconception that all geology majors become teachers. Geology includes several areas of specialization. While some geology majors work with volcanoes, others learn about the history of the world or help protect the environment. Geology majors can consider one of these four non-teaching geology careers.
Hydrologist
Hydrologists use science and math to solve problems related to water. Issues concerning hydrologists include the availability of water and its cleanliness and quantity. Tasks related to this field include controlling flooding and soil erosion. Hydrologists also are concerned with the environment. Preventing pollution and finding proper locations for hazardous waste disposal often falls to hydrologists.
Hydrologists often travel all over the United States and abroad. Fieldwork involves testing water quality, collecting data and overseeing field crews working in the field. Some hydrologists work indoors interpreting and analyzing data. Environmental agencies, state and city governments work with hydrologists. Colleges and universities with geology departments prepare students for hydrologist careers. In addition to geology classes, students study topics such as soil science and meteorology.
Paleontologist
Paleontologists are concerned with the history of earth’s development. Professionals in this field study fossils to learn about the fossils' original environment. According to the Science Education Research Center at Carleton College, paleontologists also must know when it is legal and ethical to remove a fossil from the ground.
Students interested in paleontology often earn a double major in geology and biology. Related courses include topics such as zoology and genetics. Oil companies, museums, colleges and universities employ paleontologists.
Volcanologist
Volcanologists work with volcanoes. This field involves the study of dormant, active and dead volcanoes to determine why and how eruptions happen. Volcanologists seek to predict eruptions in order to avoid loss of life.
According to Oregon State University, students interested in volcanology should major in geology. Courses should include topics such as petrology, remote sensing, geochemistry and geomorphology. Volcanologists often work with research organizations, universities, colleges and government agencies.
Planetary Geologist
Planetary geologists study the structure, processes and composition of planetary bodies in the solar system. According to the Science Encyclopedia website, planetary geologists often work in laboratories using data and imagery returned by spacecraft. Planetary geologists often work in space science in conjunction with government groups such as NASA. Students specializing in this field study topics such as astrobiology and remote sensing within geology programs.
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