The world is changing. Geoscientists ask why and how. They study how humans and the Earth interact. They move away from taking resources and are managing them instead.
The demand for geoscientists is growing. You have the chance to work with people to protect and understand Earth’s systems. Your career path as a geoscientist is in caring for the Earth. Safe water, clean energy, and climate health are ahead.
When Earth Shifts, So Does Science
Earth science isn’t about collecting rocks. It is about testing rocks because they hold important information. That information is used to predict change and find resources.
- In the past, the goal was to find oil and minerals.
- Today, you focus on the planet’s health.
Instead of collecting dirt, you collect facts. You will use:
- GIS: Like Google Maps, but with facts about the Earth.
- 3D Modeling: Building virtual worlds to see underground.
- Drones: Mapping dangerous or remote areas from the sky.
- Coding and Math: Studying the Earth with calculus and computers.
With these tools and facts, you will:
- Discover minerals and map the Earth.
- Clean up pollution and protect nature.
- Manage and protect our water supply.
- Build safe foundations for bridges and skyscrapers.
Finding Success After Graduation
Most graduates start in consulting firms. Think of a consultant as a science advisor. In this role, you’ll:
- Navigate the Rules: Help clients follow safety laws.
- Assess Risk: Study the land to see if it’s safe to build on.
- Solve Problems: Find ways to clean up pollution and prevent it.
- Lead Sustainability: Help companies create plans that protect the Earth.
Success in the field is based on what you can do. When you pair your skills with modern tools, you multiply your talent and lead the field. Key skills that employers in the environmental sector look for include:
- Scientific Writing: Turn complex science into easy-to-understand content.
- Example: Writing a report for a city council explaining why an area is at risk for landslides.
- Project Coordination: Lead projects from the first outline to handing off control.
- Example: Managing a team to ensure a project stays on schedule and within budget.
- Safety Certification: Meet and follow safety standards.
- Example: Leading a safety meeting at a work site to ensure everyone is following rules.
- Software Competence: Master digital tools that study the Earth in new ways.
- Example: Using mapping tools with satellite images to find the best spot for a new farm.
A Note on Licensing:
To lead big projects, you will want to become a Licensed Professional Geologist (P.G.).
- Step 1: Pass the "Fundamentals of Geology" (F.G.) exam after you graduate.
- Step 2: Work for five years, then take the "Practice of Geology" (P.G.) exam.
Both degrees prepare you to become a Licensed Professional Geologist.
- Geology majors meet the requirements automatically.
- Environmental Geoscience majors need to take extra electives to qualify.
Entry-level jobs almost always require certification. This is known as HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response).
- Step 1: Take the 40-hour online training.
- Step 2: Do 1 full day of in-person training with tools.
- Step 3: Perform 3 days of supervised field work.
Note: To keep it active, you must complete a refresher course every year.
Have questions? Talk to your Faculty Advisor or visit the Academic Discovery Center to plan your perfect schedule.
The Footprint of Earth Science
Earth Science is changing the way we relate to Earth. As you use Earth Science to protect the planet, you’ll leave your impact on the future.
Public Safety & Disaster Resilience
Firefighters and rescue workers respond to natural disasters when they occur. Earth Scientists prepare to prevent natural disasters before they happen.
- Hazard Watch: Mapping fractures and active parts of Earth’s crust to decide where it is safe to build.
- Erosion Control: Designing systems to prevent soil loss, which protects land and the soil beneath our crops and homes.
The Invisible Clean Up
Our food and water are clean, but what happens if they get contaminated? Earth Scientists work to ensure public health is protected.
- Aquifer Protection: Ensuring that water sources aren’t mixed with toxins like gas leaks or pollution.
- Waste Management: Designing systems that separate waste from food and water sources.
The Green Transition
Today, the climate might seem fine, but what about tomorrow? Toxic emissions today could lead to bad air tomorrow. Earth Scientists work to find resources that keep the climate healthy.
- Critical Minerals: Ensuring we collect resources with the smallest environmental footprint possible.
- Carbon Capture: Finding places to store toxic emissions to help cool the planet.
The Bottom Line
You’ll learn how the Earth changes and how we can change with it. As an Earth Scientist, you’ll lead the future of cooperation between people and the planet.
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