The long-range outlook is good at this time. Dwindling energy, mineral and water resources, increasing environmental concerns, global issues such as rising sea levels, and hazard assessment present new challenges to geoscientists. Career opportunities are increasing in environmental science and hydrogeology with the growing need to maintain Earth's natural environments and meet society's demands for Earth materials. According to the American Geological Institute's Geoscientific Employment and Hiring Survey - 1991, about 85,000 geoscientists work in the United States. Most geologists are employed by industries related to oil and gas, mining and minerals and water resources.
Many geologists are self-employed as geological consultants or work with consulting firms.
Most consulting geologists have had extensive professional experience in industry, teaching, or research. Also, many geologists work for the federal or state government. Salary scales vary from employer to employer depending on the career path, location, qualifications of the geologist and, of course, the economy. The most important prerequisites are interest and thorough academic training. Northern Illinois University is an equal opportunity institution and does not discrimimate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, handicap, status as a disabled or Vietnam-era veteran, or marital status.