Why study geology?

All geologists tend to be curious about how the Earth evolved, and the nature of geologic processes and features. Some have therefore pursued careers in research that allow them to explore and investigate geologic phenomena in greater detail. Others are involved in more practical aspects of the science. Exploration geologists discover and develop new mineral and energy resources. Engineering geologists insure the safe construction and use of highways, railways, dams, and buildings. Environmental geologists are concerned with predicting, preventing, and/or lessening the impact of natural disasters such as landslides, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. Recently, however, environmental geologists are more likely to be engaged in monitoring and remediating ground- and surface-water pollution, or site selection for the disposal of hazardous waste.

Regardless of their specific motivations, many geologists and geology students migrated towards the science because of its interdisciplinary nature and because geological study often involves a substantial component of field work. Here at UMM, we emphasize the interdiscplinary nature of geology through both formal and informal teaching and research collaboration with complimentary disciplines housed in the Division of Science and Mathematics and with other scientists locally, regionally, nationally, and globally. We are also a field-based department in both teaching and research.