Geology is a fascinating area of study whether you’re a professional geoscientist or an amateur rock hound. We’ve compiled some online resources to assist you with your continuing education as an Applied Geologist, to explore your interest as a potential future geologist or simply to expand your understanding of this compelling subject for personal enrichment.
Virtual Geology Resources are for Everyone
Despite some progress, in the United States the geosciences have remained one of the least-diverse among science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields in terms of racial representation. A recent study showed that almost 90% of doctoral degrees were awarded to white people, and faculty of color hold only 3.8% of tenured or tenure track positions in the top 100 geoscience departments in the U.S.
While significant gains have been made in terms of greater gender equality within the geosciences field, racial and ethnic diversity hasn’t seen much improvement.
The geosciences (or Earth sciences) are comprised of scientific studies of the planet Earth. These include atmospheric sciences, environmental sciences, soil sciences, glaciology, geography, geology, geophysics, hydrology, oceanography, limnology, and space sciences.
Within the geosciences, there are numerous subdisciplines. For instance, as an Environmental or Engineering Geologist, you could specialize in groundwater, environmental (contaminant) remediation, geologic hazards, dam and tunnel design, coastal erosion, land-use planning, environmental impacts and mitigation, disaster management plans and policies, and a variety of associated disciplines. For a detailed list of many of the sub-disciplines within applied geoscience, visit this extensive list on the PROGRESS website .
If you are currently in college, taking courses and studying with the goal of becoming an Applied Geologist, your instructors may or may not be preparing you toward becoming licensed as a Professional Geologist (P.G.). Since licensure is not required for academia to teach geosciences, not all professors and faculty are familiar with the licensing requirements that you, as an Applied Geologist in a consulting, industry or governmental capacity, will need to attain.
What is a geoscientist? Geoscientists (also often called geologists or geophysicists) study the physical aspects of the earth to inform practical applications in engineering, energy production, water conservation, hazards and more. They may work to find and preserve natural resources like groundwater, metals, and petroleum. Geoscientists often perform laboratory and field tests to monitor the environment and investigate sources of pollution, including those that affect health.
Some qualities that are essential for a career in geosciences include:
