Geology Introduction
Students study the Earth’s structure and the physical, chemical, biological, and geological processes that have operated on it throughout geologic time. They study the genesis of rocks and minerals, the basis of Earth’s mineral, water, and energy resources. Processes that cause hazards such as earthquakes, floods, landslides, and volcanic eruptions are also studied.
Geologists make a difference on the job and in their communities as they look for ways to manage Earth’s limited resources and mitigate geologic hazards. Geologists are employed by resource development industries such as petroleum and mining, by federal and state government agencies, and by water and environmental consulting firms. Students are prepared for employment as an entry-level geologic technician or for graduate studies in geology.
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BYU-Idaho Graduate Salaries
Graduates enter a high-earning field with starting salaries typically ranging from $51,000 to $70,000, with specialized roles in petroleum and mining geology reaching median salaries between $134,000 and $140,000. This major offers an exceptional return on investment, providing a path toward some of the highest-paying positions in the scientific community.
Common Career Paths
You will be prepared for adventurous careers in energy exploration, mineral mining, and environmental consulting, often involving national and international travel. Through extensive field experiences and a professional-level capstone course, you will master the subsurface exploration and spatial analysis skills required to lead in industry, government, or academia.
Preparation for Grad School
This program serves as a premier foundation for pursuing a Master’s or Doctorate degree in specialized areas such as energy resources (e.g. oil and gas), mining, hydrology, petrology and volcanology, invertebrate paleontology, and structural geology. You will graduate with the rigorous academic credentials and hands-on field training necessary to excel in advanced research and professional programs at top-tier universities.
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