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Alum Success

Nicole Anderson

Exposure to different experiences at Lake Superior State University helped me to learn and decide what I wanted to do with my life. There were many opportunities to help my learning experience, including day and weekend trips to various geological sites. It wasn’t all travel though; there was lots of hands-on experience that helped demonstrate what we learned in lectures.

Nicole Anderson
Geologist
NAEVA Geophysics, Inc.

Geology

Interpret the movements of the continents; understand the formation of mineral deposits, oil gas and coal; attempt to predict natural disasters

Many colleges and universities will tell you they offer hands-on experiences, but our students work in unique geologic environments around the world! Lake Superior State University's ideal location along the northern edge of the Michigan Basin, with classic Pre-Cambrian exposures of the Canadian Shield, affords our students the opportunity of exploring geology that is unique to this region.

More than just rocks...

Degrees

Geology deals with the dynamic Earth and its physical, chemical and biologic history. It involves the study of changes in the land, some of which are still taking place, and the forces that cause these changes. For example, geologists interpret the movements of the continents over geologic time and the formation of mountains, volcanoes and other features of the Earth's surface. Geologists attempt to understand our physical environment from which we derive most of the natural resources essential to civilization.

Russell White pulls a lava sample for analysis

Geologists investigate the processes that led to the formation of mineral deposits, oil, gas and coal. They also study how changes to the Earth and the development of life are related. Geologists attempt to predict natural disasters, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides. They study groundwater flow to develop water reserves for municipalities and to protect the water from contamination. Geologists study the constraints imposed by nature and apply their knowledge in an attempt to achieve harmony between the human race and its environment.

Average Starting Salary

$35,000
$60,000

Note: These figures include students in graduate school.

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Russell White
Geology

"Professor Kelso had no qualms in throwing me into stuff that’s usually done for senior research," White says. "It was an opportunity that was instrumental to my success as a student and a pivotal moment in my life." [ more ]