Geology

back to Careers & KU Majors

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.

Geology Department website

Sample of Related Skills

• Coming soon!

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

Places to Seek Employment

View specific employers by state.

Employment Strategies

1. Identify areas of interest in Geology so you can focus your academics and experiences toward these fields.
2. Become familiar with the required professional qualifications associated with careers that interest you (i.e., advanced degrees, licensure and/or certifications).
3. Gain direct experience within the areas that interest you most through research projects, independent study, internships, part-time jobs, student organization involvement, or volunteering.
4. Register for HireJayhawks.com and subscribe to the Internship Newsletter to receive automated weekly emails with specific internship information.
5. Consider joining a professional organization related to your area of interest in Geology, and, if possible, attend local and/or regional conferences to make connections with professionals working in your field.
6. Earn a minor or take additional coursework outside your major when relevant.
7. Complete an undergraduate research experience to gain advanced research skills.
8. Maintain a strong GPA if you are considering pursuing graduate or professional education.
9. Consider getting involved with a student organization at KU related to your area of interest, such as the American Association of Petroleum Geology Student Chapter, Environs, or Student Environmental Advisory Board.
10. Develop your resume and tailor it to your area(s) of interest: sample resume 1 (pdf), sample resume 2 (pdf), sample resume 3 (pdf).

Job and Internship Search Resources

• American Geophysical Association - job postings
• Earth Magazine Classified pages - job postings in Geology
• Geologic Society of America - Free job and resume posting service
• Geologist Jobs - job postings, links to field schools, descriptions of career paths
• Environmental Sciences page - includes more career.ku.edu resources
• Internships-USA - includes The Big Green Internship Book
• 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
• US Geological Survey - descriptions and links to student employment and internship opportunities