Geology
The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences offers BA and BS degrees, as well as a MS and a PhD Geology. Geology at KU is a wide ranging field, with specific research areas in Geobiology, Geochemistry, Geophysics, Hydrogeology, Paleontology, Sedimentary Geology and Tectonics. Geologists conduct basic and applied research in the geological sciences and provide professional service to society. Geologists interact with many different sciences and professions in order to understand and solve the problems our planet is experiencing.
Popular Career Paths
Petroleum, Gas, Minerals and Mining: Geologists use data gathering skills and knowledge of earth systems and resources in their work to explore, discover, efficiently produce and manage energy and mineral resources. Geologists in these industries also have skills in engineering, geophysics, project management, lab work and computer modeling.
Environmental Geology: Geologists use research and data gathering skills to identify sources of contamination and pollution. Their work in the conversation and environmental protection fields is key in understanding the proper management and use of earth's resources. Part of their work in this field involves field work and site investigation.
Geologic Mapping: Geologists collect, analyze and create earth science information through geologic maps. Specific skills in GIS, mapping and modeling are important in this field.
Geophysics: Geologists apply knowledge of Physics to discover properties relating to the earth. Work in this field is varied, ranging from seismology (earthquakes), Volcanology, hydrology (ground and surface water), and geochronology (dating of earth history).
Museums: Geologists work in natural history museums involves work in the collection, preparation, archival, conservation and interpretation of mineral, rock and fossil specimens. They fill roles in research, curators, archivists, collections managers, exhibit designers, education and administration.
Explore More Career Paths
- American Geologic Society - descriptions of career paths and opportunities within Geosciences.
- Society of Petroleum Engineers - career resources, salary surveys and information on further training
Jobs to Consider
- Archivist
- Collection Manager
- Construction Consultant
- Educator
- Environmental Geochemist
- Environmental Geologist
- Environmental Scientist
- Exhibit Designer
- Field Equipment Specialist
- Geographic Information Systems Specialist
- Geologist
- Geophysicist
- Hydrogeologist
- Hydrologist
- Mineralogist
- Oceanographer
- Paleontologist
- Petrologist
- Planetary Geologist
- Research Scientist
- Seismologist
- Soil Scientist
- Special Librarian
- Stratigrapher
- Technical Writer
- Volcanologist
- Water Quality Control Technician
Places to Seek Employment
- College and Universities
- Department of Defense
- Energy industry (Petroleum, gas, minerals, alternative)
- Environmental Consulting
- Firms
- Museums
- Instrument Manufacturing Companies
- Mining Companies
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Companies
- U.S. Geological Survey
- Research Institutes
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Job and Internship Search Resources
- Geologic Society of America - Free job and resume posting service
- Geologist Jobs - job postings, links to field schools, descriptions of career paths
- National Science Foundation - Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) in Earth Sciences
- Society of Exploration Geophysicists - Click on Careers for information on Careers in Geophysics and links to job opportunities