As old as time, and always relevant
As a geology major at Iowa State, you will gain an understanding of geological processes at work over billions of years that have produced Earth’s landscapes and features we see today. Geologists help make the unseen and subsurface workings of the planet visible and understandable.
The Earth contains mineral, water, and energy resources that sustain modern life. Geologists work to understand how and where these resources form. Your hands-on training will provide real-world experience and in-demand skills to identify, quantify, and assess geological resources.
A degree born from experience
Whether you work with state and local government to manage geological resources, consult with cities or companies on hazard assessment and mitigation, or explore new or renewable energy resources, you can turn your passion into a profession and make a positive difference.
Employers in energy, mining, government, technology, and business are hiring geologists in jobs such as:
- Environmental Consultant
- Hydrogeologist
- Geophysicist
- Geotechnical Engineer
- Geochemist
- Surveyor
You can also prepare for research careers at National Laboratories, the United States Geological Survey, or state-level agencies, to name a few places.
Your geological expertise will help society identify, access, and sustainably develop natural geological resources. Get to know the LAS career services team to help you explore the many career opportunities a degree in geology can open for you.
A cyclone in the making
Geology majors at ISU are part of a close-knit community of students and faculty who are passionate about understanding how the Earth works. A culmination of the curriculum is a 6-week field course at our ISU Geology Field Station in the Bighorn Basin of Wyoming. Generous scholarships are available to financially support students as they progress through the geology program, including attending the field camp.
Work with expert faculty and staff mentors on the cutting edge of geology and earth sciences. You will benefit from research and field opportunities inside and outside the classroom, and you can even make undergraduate research your campus job. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) Dean’s High Impact Awards for Undergraduate Research support student researchers financially, and the Department offers Geology Undergraduate Research Grants (GeoURG).
You will also connect with a network of alumni who are leaders in Iowa and beyond while you pursue your major and after you graduate.