Beyond the Classroom: Geological Sciences
Key Resources
Academic Advisors
Visit the NatSci Advising page for contact information and instructions for scheduling an appointment
Department Website
Visit the department website for important updates and information
Major Requirements
Visit the Office of the Registrar's website for detailed information about requirements
Students gain knowledge of Earth’s physical systems and natural processes with applications to understanding and predicting geohazards (earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, etc.) natural resources exploration and development, or Earth and planetary evolution.
Skills and Competencies
- Scientific Analysis – Understand Earth's physical systems and processes, analyze geological data, and predict geohazards
- Problem-solving – Gain expertise in geophysical methods, geochemistry, and field geology. Use advanced tools for data analysis
- Communication – Communicate complex scientific information effectively and work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams
This Major Could Be For You If:
- You are fascinated by Earth's physical systems, natural processes, and history
- You are interested in exploring topics like geohazards, natural resources, and planetary evolution
- You want hands-on fieldwork, including field trips and summer field camp
Common Questions
Is Geological Sciences just about rocks?
No. While studying rocks is an essential part of geology, it also includes understanding
Earth's physical systems, geohazards like earthquakes and volcanoes, natural resources,
and even planetary evolution. The major integrates aspects of physics, chemistry,
and geology to
provide a comprehensive understanding of Earth’s processes.
What makes this major unique?
This major integrates multiple scientific disciplines. It provides practical experience through field camps and hands-on training in modern geophysical and geochemical techniques.
Skill Development
Building your skills takes exploration and experience. These opportunities below are options you may be interested in. These are ideas to get you started; you have the freedom to find what aligns with your goals.
Research Opportunities
- Consider faculty-directed research or off-campus summer programs
- Connect with the Undergraduate Research Office for assistance
Work-Based Learning
- Develop professional skills through on- or off- campus work or internships with the help of the Career Services Network
- Gain experience through volunteer work via the Center for Community Engaged Learning
Career Growth
- Engage with NatSci’s Career Exploration workshops and resources
Campus Involvement
- Connect with other students in clubs like the Geology Club
Education Abroad Ideas
University of New South Wales
- 12-15 weeks | Fall/Spring
- Direct Enroll
UniLaSalle Summer Geological Program
- 4 weeks | Summer
- Direct Enroll
To get started with Education Abroad and to explore other programs that suit your goals, check out the MSU Education Abroad website or visit the Education Abroad Advising Center.
Career Exploration
Career exploration is all about discovering the paths that align with your interests, personality, lifestyle, values and skills. Remember, your major doesn’t define your career, and the career cluster examples provided are just a starting point—not an exhaustive list. Explore widely, and keep an open mind as you shape your future!
Academia & Research
Careers
- University Professor
- Research Scientist
- Paleontologist
- Geochemist
- Planetary Geologist
Key Employers
- Colleges and universities
- Research institutions
- Museums and natural history centers
- Government research agencies
- Space agencies (e.g., NASA)
- Non-profit research organizations
Strategies
- Plan to gain related part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer experiences
- Maintain grades and get to know your faculty
- Pursue graduate studies to specialize and increase opportunities
- Engage in undergraduate research
Energy & Natural Resources
Careers
- Petroleum Geologist
- Mining Geologist
- Exploration Geologist
- Geophysicist
- Reservoir Engineer
Key Employers
- Oil and gas companies
- Mining companies
- Energy consulting firms
- Government geological surveys
- Natural resource management agencies
- Energy technology companies
Strategies
- Consider taking coursework related to petroleum geology, mineralogy, and geophysics
- Join professional organizations and attend industry conferences
for networking opportunities - Obtain leadership experience through campus organizations and work experiences for project management positions
- Gain experience with computer modeling and Global Positioning
System (GPS). Both are used to locate deposits
Environmental & Geological Consulting
Careers
- Environmental Geologist
- Hydrogeologist
- Engineering Geologist
- Environmental Consultant
- Soil Scientist
Key Employers
- Environmental consulting firms
- Engineering firms
- Government agencies (e.g., EPA, state environmental agencies)
- Non-profit environmental organizations
- Water resource management agencies
Strategies
- Obtain lab experience through coursework, research with
professors, and internship programs related to environmental science - Consider additional environmental courses to specialize
- Develop excellent written and speaking skills, particularly for interest in public policy
Looking for more options?