Most students go into the General Geology option which offers flexibility in the curriculum at the upper division level and encourages undergraduate research. A student who completes any of the geology options is employable in a variety of fields and is well prepared for graduate work in geology. Expect to Take Chemistry, physics, computer science, calculus, statistics, field courses, and field trips. High School Track Chemistry, physics, mathematics, and outdoor-oriented activities. General Interest Areas Geologists do just about anything and everything involving the earth.
Geology can be a good background for persons in business, law, and medicine.
Career Possibilities Many geologists work for petroleum or mining companies. Others work for state or federal agencies, such as the U.S. Geological Survey, Bureau of Land Management, Soil Conservation Service, National Park Service, Department of Energy, and Forest Service. Another option is working for engineering companies. Research labs and universities hire geologists as teachers and researchers. For many, but not all of these career possibilities, M.S. or Ph.D. degrees are often required.