Geology, Secondary Education
What Can I Do In My Major?
Background
North Carolina has a shortage of earth science teachers as well as a shortage of comprehensive science teachers. Since geology is an earth science, the teaching job prospects with the Geology (BS) - Earth/Environmental Science, Secondary Education degree are high. Based on the reputation of the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences and Appalachian’s Reich College of Education teacher preparation program, students majoring in often find they can work at the school of their choice.
As with other Geology degrees from Appalachian, study in the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences prepares you to understand diverse topics such as evolution and plate tectonics, sedimentation and sea-level change, water resources and groundwater contamination, and much more. Appalachian Geology graduates have the field skills, core geologic knowledge and credentials to obtain a Professional Geologist license (PG), an essential certification for many jobs in the field of geology, especially those in the environmental industry.
Related Careers
Adult Education Teacher
Curriculum Specialist*
Environmental Consultant
Geology Educational Researcher*
Grant Writer*
Instructor, College/University*
Parks and Natural Resource Manager
Park Ranger
Park Naturalist
Peace Corps Worker
Recruiter*
Resource Teacher
Science Writer*
Tutor
Vocational Instructor
*additional experience or advanced degree may be required
Related Major Skills
Ability to teach students with different learning levels
Computer skills
Creativity
Dealing with parents or guardians
Decision making
Explaining ideas clearly Flexibility
Lesson planning
Organization Planning
Summarizing ideas
Team player
Writing and presenting information
Professional Organizations and Associations
Geological Society of America www.geosociety.org
Earth Science Teachers' Association www.esta-uk.net.
Preparing for Your Career
• Develop excellent interpersonal skills to work with diverse populations
• Look for internships and jobs in to gain knowledge and experience
• Participation in internships and summer jobs in a relevant setting
How can I know if a Geology, Secondary Education degree is right for me?
• Complete a self-assessment inventory at the Career Exploration Office in the Student Union to see how your interests, values, and personality match this major and related career fields.
• Schedule an appointment with a career counselor on careers.appstate.edu/Handshake
• Obtain direct experience by doing a job shadow
• Conduct an informational interview with a professional in the field
For more information on careers & job outlook: onetonline.org