<p>What are the main differences between geology and geological engineering? I have tried searching for comparisons of the two, but all I get are very brief descriptions, no details. What I have found seems to suggest that geological engineers can pretty much do what geologists can, but geological engineers seem to have greater employment potential. By the descriptions that I have found of geological engineering, it seems that it is a superior major to geology as far as employment goes for anyone interested in geology. Can anyone offer some information about geology vs geological engineering as a major?</p>
<p>I am taking a stab here; I think Geology majors study what causes earthquakes and Engineering Geology majors study how to construct buildings that will not collapse when there is an earthquake.</p>
<p>The Missouri University of Science and Technology offers Geology and Geological Engineering degrees, and their website says, “A geologist studies the Earth, the materials of which it is made, the structure of those materials, and the processes acting upon them. A geological engineer takes this knowledge and applies the principles of engineering (dynamics, mechanical properties, etc.) to asses risks posed by site conditions, design structures and foundations, conduct site reviews, and develop solutions to problems in the environment. Both are exciting careers that are similar, but still quite different.”</p>
<p>Have you posed this question in the Engineering forum? I could give you a basic answer here, but I think you’ll find a more in-depth response over there.</p>