Geology

1. You are interested in the processes that shape the earth- A geologist not only studies rocks and minerals but also studies how certain factors like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods can help shape the surface of the Earth as well.
2. You can help prepare people for natural disasters- Many Geologists work to study areas that are prone to flooding and volcanic eruptions, thereby alerting people when these natural disasters are about to occur. Geologists have saved many lives this way.
3. Your interested in the mining process- A Geologist studies rocks that can possess valuable minerals and even coordinate and plan the mines that produce those rocks. In addition, a Geologist might work to locate other natural resources such as groundwater, oil, and natural gases.
4. A variety of job settings are available- Geologists work in a variety of job settings, from government agencies to non-profit organizations and environmental consulting companies.
5. You get to be out in the field- Although some Geologists work as teachers and laboratory scientists, there is still a fair amount of time spent out in the field, conducting research. This can be an incentive if you enjoy working outdoors.
6. You enjoy technological work- Regardless as to where they work, all Geologists spend time using computer software programs to compile reports, analyze research findings, and perform calculations.
7. You can specialize in different areas- After you obtain your B.A. Degree; you can go on to earn your M.A. Or Doctorate in a specialised area of studies such as mineralogy, volcanology, hydrology, or even palaeontology.
8. Room for career advancement- With a higher education, a Geologist can have the opportunity for career advancement within their company. Some go on to become supervisors or managers while others teach classes at universities.
9. Good career outlook- It is expected that in the near future there will be more jobs available in the geology field than there are Geologists to fill them. This is great news for those seeking entry-level jobs, career advancements, and job stability in general.
10. Job versatility- Some geologists study rock formations on the surface of the Earth while others actually study rocks and minerals found on other planets. Still, others research rocks and minerals found under the sea.

Government and non-profit careers options will be available.
These jobs include basic field research for purposes ranging from the assessment of contaminated waste sites to the viability of future waste sites to the stability of road cuts and bridge pilings. They also include library and field research aimed at developing policy papers or undertaking basic outreach and public education. You could end up working for various environmental organizations, natural science museums, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Park Service, regional and city planning agencies, and other such agencies that need geological expertise. Government jobs also include the United States Geological Survey, which has divisions that cover basic geology, water resources, and volcanic and earthquake hazards.
You can make a careers in teaching. A geology degree provides a broad scientific background for those wishing to teach science in a primary or secondary school. You should consult with the School of Education at Pitt for more information regarding the requirements for teaching various Earth science-related courses in public or private schools.
Academic Careers: To become a professor you will have to get a Ph.D. Be aware that the academic career track is highly competitive. Getting into a good Ph.D program is relatively easy, getting a postdoctoral position is somewhat challenging, getting a tenure-track position is quite challenging, and earning tenure is sometimes even more challenging. Be prepared for stress the whole way. While it is most difficult to obtain and keep a position at a major research university, even four- year liberal arts colleges generally expect enough research and grant money to make tenure a challenge. In general, the pursuit of an academic career requires enough love of research and teaching that you do not mind the years of hard work and stress.