Geology, Career Choices in Geology, geologist, study of earth, Mineralogy, structural geology , geomorphology, paleontology, geological engineering, jobs geology, environmental geology, geologists , department geology, geology earth science, job opportunities in geology

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Career Choices in Geology

The science that deals with the study of earth, its history, environment, minerals etc. is called Geology. Mineralogy, structural geology, geomorphology, paleontology, geological engineering etc. are all branches of Geology.

Geologists play an important role in exploring the mineral wealth and natural resources. As a Geologist, your main functions would be to assess natural disasters, its effects on environment, to explore the areas where mineral fields, oil and natural gas fields etc. are found, under-water resources etc. You have to assess whether the conditions in particular areas are suitable for laying railway lines, construction of roads, bridges, buildings etc. Geologists have to explore natural resources deep in the sea. Their services are also important for oil explorations. They have to assess the quality of soil by conducting geo-physical and geo-chemical tests. Construction of reservoirs, roads, bridges, underground tunnels etc. is based on the report of the geologist about the density of the earth.

Job Opportunities
Those who study Geology, can become Geologists/ Geographers/ Meteorologists/ Oceanographers. As Geologists play a vital role in the exploration of valuable mineral resources, there are numerous avenues for them both in the public and private sectors. The Union Public Service Commission conducts tests for placements in Central Government Agencies like the Geological Survey of India and the Central Ground water Board. Similarly, Coal India, Mineral Exploration Authority, Oil & Natural Gas Corporation, Hindustan Zinc and several other organisations engaged in mineral explorations utilize the services of Geologists. Geology is also a popular choice in Civil Services and Forest Service Examinations conducted by the UPSC. Private sector also offers tremendous opportunities for jobs in the field of oil exploration and other activities. One can also join academics by pursuing a PhD or M.Phil in Geology and passing the National Education Test Conducted by University Grants Commission.

Educational Qualifications
The minimum qualification to make a career in the field is an engineering degree in petroleum engineering or a post graduate degree in geology. IITs as well as various Universities offer these courses to students. Candidates can also pursue research in the field to make more choices in the career.

Compensation Packages
Salaries in Government sector for geologists offer a decent living style as well as prestige of job. Public sector organizations such as ONGC, HPCL, IOC etc. offer very good perks as well as working conditions to geologists. Salaries in private sectors are extremely high and commensurate with qualifications and experience. A fresh geologist can expect to start with anything between 15000/- to 25000/- per month which can shoot up with right experience and talent.

If you find the prospect of working on a wide range of earth-related issues, from resource management to environmental protection to the exciting field of mineral and oil exploration then Geology is the wise career choice for you. The career also allows to explore new and virgin places and offers outdoor and adventure options to those who are drawn to those aspects.