Geology is the study of the earth, its materials and the processes acting upon them. As a geology student, you'll study topics that include paleontology, volcanology, earthquake seismology, plate tectonics and groundwater flow. You also might work alongside faculty who trek across the globe conducting some of the most important research of our time. Within the major, you can choose from three emphases, including one for students seeking to become high school science teachers-jobs that are in high demand. Other graduates work in a wide variety of positions in research, industry, government, academia and nonprofit organizations. Because the geology and geosciences encompass the entire Earth, it's important to get a solid education in as many aspects of the field as possible while focusing on the area you're most interested in. Our B.S. in Geology and Environmental Geosciences offers three emphasis areas to help you maximize opportunities: Geology: Your in-depth studies in earth sciences includes a required six-week field course in Wyoming or South Dakota. This is a great emphasis to prepare you for graduate studies. You'll also have the background the U.S. Geological Survey requires for its hydrogeologist positions. Environmental Geosciences: If you have an interest beyond earth science, this tract allows you to also study chemistry, anthropology, biology, geography or some other science in addition to earth science. This also gives you the opportunity to gain Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) that is valued by environmental consulting employers. Earth and Space Science Education: When you graduate with this emphasis, you'll be prepared to teach regular high school biology, chemistry and physics as well as either and space science at both regular and honors levels in Illinois.