<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 started my education as a geologist with possibly the background everyone knows. When I started my geological engineering Ph.D. program at Colorado School of mines I had to study courses in soil mechanics, rock mechanics and engineering geology in addition to other geology and hydrogeology courses. A geological engineer can perform a site investigation program of a major structure taking in consideration the possible geological defects. He can investigate, evaluate and recommend solutions for any geological hazard. In general the geological engineer can understand the language of both the geotechnical and mining engineers, communicate with them, and team with them in any project.</p>