Department of Geology
Also known as geoscience, geology is the primary Earth science that looks at the structure and composition of the Earth, the processes that act upon it, and the history of the Earth throughout the course of its life. By studying this, we can unlock information about the Earth's past and anticipate its future.
Let us prepare you for a career in Earth and Environmental Sciences
What do we do? Geology is the study of the Earth. Geologists are interested in a wide range of topics, including the materials that make up the Earth, processes that affect those materials, and the history of the Earth.
Our majors use their training to work on some of society’s most important problems, including issues related to water, sustainability, and production of energy and mineral resources. Geology is a great choice if you want to be a part of the solution to these challenges!
What tools will you gain from geology? Our degrees help students learn about the Earth and sharpen skills that employers seek. As you develop an in-depth knowledge of the Earth, you will gain hands-in experience with geoscience laboratory techniques, field methods, and modeling techniques used to analyze Earth processes.
How are the job prospects? The job outlook for our majors is excellent. Between 2019 and 2029, US Bureau of Labor Statistics workforce projections predict a 5% growth in geoscience jobs, higher than average for all occupations. And geoscientists are well paid. In 2019, the median salary for geoscientists was $92,040, higher than the median for all physical scientists.
Geology is one of the most interdisciplinary sciences. So, there are a lot of ways that geology majors can apply their degrees. For more information, please see our Careers page.
Our People Leading the Way
The Department of Geology at Kansas State University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Hydrogeology, beginning August 2025.
A postdoctoral research position focused on soil and groundwater biogeochemistry is available in the Department of Geology at Kansas State University.
Microcredentials showcase the knowledge you've acquired on the road to mastering skills in your area of interest. Smaller than a minor, certificate or degree program, microcredentials equip learners with digital badges that showcase achievement and demonstrated skills.
Matthew Kirk, associate professor, has been named a fellow of the Geological Society of America, or GSA, a global professional organization with more than 26,000 members in 115 countries.
The Department of Geology at Kansas State University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Hydrogeology, beginning August 2025.
A postdoctoral research position focused on soil and groundwater biogeochemistry is available in the Department of Geology at Kansas State University.
Microcredentials showcase the knowledge you've acquired on the road to mastering skills in your area of interest. Smaller than a minor, certificate or degree program, microcredentials equip learners with digital badges that showcase achievement and demonstrated skills.
Matthew Kirk, associate professor, has been named a fellow of the Geological Society of America, or GSA, a global professional organization with more than 26,000 members in 115 countries.