How a Geology Major Prepares You for the Job Market
Geology majors have acquired the educational skills to begin a career within the geosciences, energy, mineral resource fields and other science industries. With a predominately science and math background, geology students can adapt to a number of careers and offer something unique to each occupation. Geology majors have studied both basic science and mathematics, as well as physics, chemistry and biology. Their main focus in geology is studying the Earth and all of its materials and intricate systems. Students also learn about natural resource and environmental issues affecting Earth. The majority of geology involves studying rocks and their cycle of change over time. To better investigate the relationship between rocks and their geological representation of the Earth, many geology students participate in fossil hunts and geological digs that give them hands-on experience for relative and absolute dating of geological events. Geology students have demonstrated detailed analyses of rocks and other geological materials, while conducting scientific experiments to better understand the planet and its physical properties.

Best Career Paths for Geology Majors
Geology is an evolving field that needs trained geologists, who can offer a vast amount of knowledge and data findings to this area of science. The best career paths for geology majors are:

• Geologist. Geologists are scientists who study the Earth's composition, formations and history. They analyze rock formations and how they have eroded and crystallized over time. Geologists are trained to give precise dates to geological events through various dating methods. Some field methods include measuring isotope ratios in rock formations, geological mapping and geophysical methods. Geologists also study plate tectonics, Earth structures and the geological evolution of specific areas. They may investigate evolved animal and plant life and fossils, as well as modern rivers, soils and glaciers. Geologists spend much of their time doing research, planning projects and conducting experiments. The majority of geologists hold faculty positions at universities, while others work for government agencies, architectural and engineering services and oil and gas extraction companies. Geologists mad an average salary of $79,160 in 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• Hydrologist. Hydrologists also study the overall structure and elements of the Earth, but focus primarily on the quantity, distribution and properties of water and the water cycle. Hydrologists are concerned with the use of natural resources, such as groundwater, minerals and petroleum. They can specialize in working with and preserving underground water or surface water. Hydrologists study the pathway of precipitation, from its absorption into soil, how it is moved throughout Earth and how it is returned to the ocean and atmosphere. Hydrologists are trained in specialized technology and use modernized techniques to monitor regional and global water cycles and precipitation pathways. They often test water quality to ensure its safety for people and animals to consume or use. Like other geoscientists, many hydrologists teach at colleges, work for the government mostly within the U.S. Department of the Interior for the U.S. Geological Survey and in the U.S. Department of Defense. Hydrologist made an average salary of $$71,450 in 2008, according to the Bureau.

How to Market Your Geology Degree
In order to effectively market your geology degree, you should promote the highly technical skills you've acquired, such as using sophisticated techniques and equipment to measure water cycles, as well as performing seismic experiments to search for oil and gas and better understand the Earth's surface. Geology majors obtain such a hands-on education, with various experiments, research and discoveries that deserve to be talked about. With your schooling and experimental training, you can bring a wealth of knowledge to any career field that needs a scientist.