The study of change through time is the forte of geologists. Geologists discovered the existence of extreme time - Earth's history covers over 4.5 billion years. They are also the discoverers of the means by which materials and processes are ordered through time. Changes in life through time, changes in character of the Earth, its oceans, and its atmosphere are all encompassed by the science of geology. The education of a geologist has some commonalities with that of other scientists and also with engineers.
Geologists obtain their education within accredited colleges and universities.
Most geologists now take courses in calculus, physics, computer science, statistics, chemistry, and biology. They also take a minimum of 36 semester credits of course work in geology geophysics, geochemistry, engineering geology, hydrology, mineralogy, and specialty fields such as petroleum geology. To specialize within a particular area of geology and to pursue further study in graduate school is common for geologists. Members listed in this directory are persons who have passed this peer review process. Despite the importance of geology, both geology and geologists are not well understood by the public.