Hi Marc – so glad to hear you are enjoying the blog! Do you mean how to interact geology with landslide investigation, or interact geology with investigations in general such as contamination assessments?

Hi George – just came across your post. Mine is actually the other way round. My love for rocks, folds and stages of deformation drew me to do my M.Phil in ‘Structural
Geology’ in crystalline rocks after my Master in Geology. I joined the profession as a hydrogeologist afterwards and have been working in the field for the last twenty-six years and enjoying my job immensely, especially during the exploration of ground water in crystalline formations as the knowledge of rock and structures play a highly significant role in delineating the fracture zones.

Yes, hydrogeology per se doesn’t constitute very significant part of geology. But then, that’s whta it would be what once you specialise in certain aspect of the subject.

I understand, this doesn’t answer your query, but perhaps at some level, might usher in some sense of clarity in chucking out your career plan in earth science.

Thanks

Hi George – thank you for writing me. Perhaps continue your hydrogeology degree and take some extra classes in hard rock geology so you can say you have a minor in it? That way you’ll have the flexibility to go either way. I don’t know any geologists who started as a hydrogeologist and moved onto hard rock geology work, but I’m sure there are some out there. For me, I graduated with a strong hard rock geology degree, but ended up as a hydrogeologist. After working in it, I ended up taking a few more classes later to supplement my understanding of groundwater flow. Sounds like a hard decision ahead of you – good luck with whatever you choose! Sandie

After graduating from a bachelor in Geology, I’m currently doing a Master in hydrogeology. But I’m starting to regret that choice, I’m missing everything about rocks, ductility, fold and more generaly : taking my hammer and doing real geology field work. I’m doing and internship (consulting engineering hydrogeologist) and the geology part is realy insignificant.

So do you think that I should start my master again (but that’s already my second master and I’m old), or do you think that I sould continue this master in hydrogeology and try to find my way later in my career to maximise my work with geology ?

Do you know anyone (included you of course, I read your story) who started with hydrogeology and became a geologist after some years of experiences.

Thank you so much for your answer, and of course : excuse my bad english 😉

George

Hi Mahidev – you may find this book series helpful – it’s free – http://gotbooks.miracosta.edu. Make sure you have a good background in algebra, calculus, chemistry, physics and basic geology courses such as structural geology, mineralogy, sedimentology, hydrogeology, etc. It’s good to also take courses in GIS, statistics, geophysics and modeling. Go on as many field trips as you can. You could also follow websites like http://www.geology.com and geosociety.org. Not sure where you’re from, but you would want to start looking at the environmental protection agency’s webpage near you. If you’re on Twitter, start following the community of geologists on there and network with them. It will take a while to build the network, but it’ll be worth it. I’m @RockHeadScience on Twitter. Hope this helps! Sandie

Hi Cecilia – I had a similar situation. I took a physical geology course and really liked it to the point I kept thinking about it. I was working in the medical industry and had a 2 and 3 year old when I switched from a business major to a geology major. I was mainly concerned that I wouldn’t be able to find a job but I loved the curriculum. I was lucky enough to get a job in the environmental consulting industry but I did sacrifice time with my kids as I did have to travel at times. My husband and family were instrumental in helping with the boys. There are jobs in geology that do not require travel. What comes to mind is groundwater modeling or some other modeling and data management like a data analyst. Also you could try to find work with your local city or county government where travel is usually limited. Another idea is a GIS analyst. If you can, go on as many trips/fieldwork you can at college to build your resume. These are usually short and will give you field experience. Hope this helps. Lots of luck to you! Sandie

Thank you so much for your blog. I was wondering if you could give me a bit of advice. I am currently an elementary school teacher but am seeking to transition to a different career. When I think about my options, geology comes to my mind simply because I took a course in geology and absolutely loved it. I had never felt so passionate about a course subject before and unfortunately never pursued it any further. I plan on taking a few classes now to see if I am still interested, but I am a bit fearful of the change. Is this something I could pursue even though I don’t have much of a background in it? I also have a young daughter and plan on growing my family. Are there any areas in geology that would allow me to stay local and only travel a little bit? Are there many women in the field of geology? Any advise would be greatly appreciated.