There are many career opportunities for graduates of geology programs.
Whether exploring the depths of the oceans, combing the desert in search of alien rocks or simply teaching others about the mechanics of planet earth, a person with a geology degree has a range of possible career choices. Careers in geology are best suited for those who work well with others and do not mind getting their feet dirty as jobs typically require significant time in the field followed by long hours in the lab.
Consultants
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 25 percent of geologists are employed as consultants to environmental, architectural and engineering firms. As environmental degradation increases and regulation becomes more stringent, the services of consultants will remain in strong demand. Many states have professional license programs that can make a geologist more credible to firms searching for a consultant, but these program vary by state and are not always required for work.
Natural Resource Explorer
The American Geological Institute (AGI) notes that employment in this field fluctuates greatly depending on availability and demand for natural resources, especially in the petroleum and gas industry. The demand for geologists who can find new resource deposits is expected to grow, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Do not, however, expect to get a high-paying job in resource exploration right out of college. Typically, several years of field experience in the industry is required by most companies to compensate for lack of an advanced degree, according to the AGI.
Researcher/Lab Technician
Many geology graduates can find work as researchers or lab technicians for special projects with international organizations, private institutions and federal and state agencies. The demand for trained geologists to aid in research that aims to alleviate many environmental pressures facing societies today is expected to grow as impacts from climate change become more visible around the world, according to the AGI.
Teacher
As a degree in geology requires one to study the foundational sciences, graduates are well qualified to teach general science at a range of institutions, from museums to public high schools. Often, a teaching license is required to teach in public schools in addition to holding a bachelor's degree (depending on the state), but the opportunities to teach in the field or in the classroom abound for geologists interested in education.
