Geology is the study of the Earth, its materials, and its processes. It concerns itself with solving basic scientific problems and utilizing knowledge of the Earth for the benefit of society. Its concerns include but are not limited to soil preservation, water production and quality, hazards mitigation, resource exploration and production, engineering of structures large and small, climate change, and the history of life on Earth and the search for life on other planets.Training in geology requires knowledge of fundamental sciences (chemistry, math, and physics) combined with Geology coursework that applies these sciences to the study of earth's composition and structure. Geology training places an emphasis on the characterization of earth materials (minerals, rocks, sediment, soil, and water) with techniques ranging from basic visual description to cutting-edge laboratory analysis. Geology students also take coursework in Geographic Information Systems, mapping with GPS, and the like to better understand spatial relationships and surficial processes. Upper-division Geology coursework focuses on applying a wide range of approaches to scientific and societally-important problems in the large, complex, and dynamic environments that characterize our planet.Students earning a B.S. in Geology are prepared for entry-level employment in the environmental consulting field, or positions related to natural resource protection. Entry-level employment in the energy- and mineral-resource job sectors is also attainable with a Geology degree. Graduate study in Geology or closely related discipline (e.g. Environmental Science, Water Resources) may be pursued.A student earning a BS in Geology is eligible to pursue a Professional Geologist (PG) license which provides additional opportunities for career advancement and enhanced earning potential particularly in the environmental consulting job sector. Students interested in obtaining a PG are strongly encouraged to take the Fundamentals of Geology (FG) exam near the time they compete their degree. Completion of the Geology B.S. in combination with passing of the FG exam advances you to Geologist in Training (GIT) status. Following 5-years of Geology-related work experience, the GIT is qualified to take the Practice of Geology exam and become a fully licensed PG