Geology is the study of the earth’s history as well as the processes that continue to shape the earth today. Geologists view the earth as a place where physical and chemical processes interact within the atmospheric, ocean, and land systems. Understanding these systems allows geologists to protect and develop ground-water and surface-water resources, develop wise land-use practices, search for natural resources such as oil, gas, or metals, and evaluate potential risks associated with volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and landslides. Students at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire can choose a comprehensive geology major with a general geology emphasis, a hygrogeology and water chemistry emphasis, an environmental science emphasis, or a marine geology emphasis. Also available are the liberal arts geology major and minor.
What will I learn from studying Geology?
Knowledge:
Geology majors acquire knowledge having to do with the processes of the earth such as the formation of rocks, mountains and volcanoes, the shaping of the land by wind, water, gravity and ice, the formation of soils and caves, and the motion of ground water. They also become familiar with environmental regulations and laws. In addition, Geology majors learn about origins of ore bodies and petroleum – information that is becoming increasingly vital.
Skills:
- Defining research problems
- Developing appropriate research methods
- Carefully observing the landscape
- Reading maps and aerial photographs
- Identifying rocks and minerals
- Analyzing numerical and chemical data
- Using computers to analyze data sets and make predictions
What are some typical interests/characteristics of Geology majors?
- Strong interest and aptitude in the sciences
- Enjoy the outdoors (hiking, camping, traveling)
- Interested in the environment
- Apply classroom knowledge to field situations
- Think in three dimensions
- Use computers to solve problems
What are related student and professional organizations?
Student:
- Geology Club
- The Conservationists
- Hobnailers Club
- Sigma Gamma Epsilon, a national honor society for students in earth sciences
Professional:
- American Association of Petroleum Geologists
- American Geophysical Union (AGU)
- Association for Women Geoscientists
- The Geological Society of America (GSA)
- U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
What career fields are related to the Geology Degree?
Potential Employers:
Many professional geology positions require a master’s degree. However, students with UW – Eau Claire undergraduate geology degrees have been very successful obtaining jobs with environmental consulting firms, state environmental regulatory agencies, and county land conservation departments. A graduate or professional degree prepares students for additional careers with energy companies (oil, gas, coal), mining companies, geological surveys, or in environmental law.
Potential Job Titles: ( * requires a graduate degree)
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Lawyer*
- Geological Engineer*
- Geophysicist*
- GIS specialist
- Hydrogeologist
- Mining Geologist*
- Petroleum Geologist*
- Physical Oceanographer*
- Volcanologist*
What are some entry-level jobs held by UW – Eau Claire Geology graduates?
- Environmental Technician, S.E.H., Inc. in Chippewa Falls, WI
- Hydrogeologist, Meridian Alliance Group, Eau Claire, WI
- Hydrologist, Wisconsin DNR
- Environmental Lawyer, Denver, CO
- Petroleum Logging Engineer, Pathfinder Energy in Lafayette, LA
- Pollution Control Specialist, Minnesota Dept. of Transportation in Oakdale, MN
- Research Scientist, U.S. EPA
How can I learn more about Geology?
Department
- Contact someone in UW – Eau Claire’s Dept. of Geology
- Phillips 154, 836-3732
Career Services:
- Meet with a career counselor
- Take interest inventories and self-assessment tests
- Ask An Alum & Friends, a database of UW – Eau Claire Alumni & Friends available for informational interviewing
Career Discovery Center:
- Careers for Environmental Types & Others Who Respect the Earth, Jane Kinney
- Careers in Science, Thomas A. Easton
- Careers in the Environment, Michael Fasulo and Paul Walker
- 100 Jobs in the Environment , Macmillan
- Great Jobs for Geology Majors, Blythe Camenson
Internet:
What are some opportunities for experiential learning in Geology?
Internship
Internships are a way to gain hands-on experience in a position that interests you as a potential career. To find an internship in Geology that suites your interests, visit Career Services (Schofield 230) and speak with a Career Associate about the many available internships.
Directed Studies or Independent Study Class
By participating in an Independent or Directed Studies course, students will be able to research an area that they find particularly interesting. Contact your advisor about enrolling in GEOL 395, 399 or 499.
Research
There are many opportunities for students to participate in Research Experience for Undergraduates ( REUs) to enhance the breadth of knowledge learned in the classroom. For additional information about REU’s for undergraduates, go to Career Services (Schofield 230) and speak to a Career Associate or visit the website: www.nsf.gov/crssprgm/reu/reu_search.cfm. For additional information about research at UW – Eau Claire, contact the Department of Geology.