Geoscience is the study of the physical properties of our planet. This includes the composition and structure of the planet as well as the rocks and water found on it. Those pursuing a geoscience career are interested in studying the geologic past and present of the Earth using a number of different specialized instruments.
The goal of many geoscientists is to discover natural sources of certain metals, groundwater, and petroleum. Others work side-by-side with environmental scientists with the goal of cleaning up and preserving the Earth.
Those pursuing a geoscience career may choose from a number of different specialty areas within the field, including geology, geophysics, petroleum geology, engineering geology, a mineralogy, sedimentology, stratigraphy, paleontology, volcanology, and glacial geology.
Geologists study the composition and processes of the Earth as well as the Earth's history. In order to study the Earth's history, they must try to determine how rocks were formed and what changes have occurred since the rocks were formed. In addition, they study how life on Earth evolved by analyzing animal and plant fossils. A geophysicist, on the other hand, utilizes mathematics in order to study the surface of the Earth as well as its internal composition. He or she may also study the Earth's atmosphere, or forces that affect the Earth, including electrical, magnetic, and gravitational forces.
As would be expected, a petroleum geologist is responsible for searching for gas deposits on the Earth, including in the oceans and in the land. In order to find these deposits, they must use sophisticated computers and instruments that are capable of interpreting geological formations. Engineering geologists, on the other hand, combine their knowledge of civil and environmental engineering in order to provide advice about major construction projects to help reduce the environmentally hazardous effects.
The training required for a geoscience career depends upon the specific field. In order to gain most entry-level positions, however, a person interested in a geoscience career will need at least a bachelor's. Those wishing to work for a federal agency, private industry, or a state geological survey generally will need to have a master's degree in order to obtain an entry-level position. Most high-level research positions and college-level teaching positions require a PhD.
It is possible to obtain a bachelor's degree in geosciences at a number of different colleges and universities throughout the country. The coursework required for one of these degrees usually includes studying classical geoscience topics such as petrology, mineralogy, paleontology, and structural geology. Coursework also typically includes classes in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology.
