Geology is the study of the Earth: What Earth is made of, how it works, and what has happened on Earth over the course of its long history.  Geoscientists use information from biology, chemistry, physics, and other disciplines to inform their research, which can take place out in the world or inside a laboratory.  The end goal of a geological study is to enhance the human condition.  Geoscientists protect people from natural disasters like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and flooding and protect everyone’s health through understanding and reducing the impact of pollution and climate change.  Geoscientists also use their knowledge of the Earth to help us better extract and make use of the natural resources we rely on, like copper, oil, and alternative energy sources, and to engineer stronger, better buildings, bridges, and dams.  Geoscientists also spark curiosity and imagination by exploring topics like dinosaurs, the deep ocean, and other planets.  Geology is science for anyone who is interested in understanding the Earth and in helping the people who live here.

Geoscientists are in demand! Geoscientists work for government organizations, for private companies, and independently.  The American Geosciences Institute (AGI) predicts a shortage of 135,000 geoscientists in the U.S. over the next decade, as many practicing geologists retire. Job opportunities in the field are rapidly expanding (as are the salaries for these positions). 

Geology students at Wake Tech may qualify for paid internships at NCSU and the NC Museum of Natural Sciences {link to Geology internship page}. Additionally, for those interested in further study, many North Carolina colleges and universities offer four-year degrees (and advanced degrees as well) in geology and related fields.