Geology Major - considering a Geomatics & Spatial Analysis major

In summary: Geography is a huge component of Spatial Analysis and it is very important for those in the industry. GIS software can be really useful in the field, but is not always a prerequisite for those in the industry.
  • #1
Transient
3
0
I have recently switched into an Honours B.Sc. in Geology. I would like to get a second opinion on the potential applicability of studying Geomatics & Spatial Analysis in conjunction with the Geology specialization.

I was previously enrolled in a chemistry degree so a great deal of my courses transfer to my new geology specialization. I have every required first year course except for "Introduction to Earth Materials". This has created a bottleneck in my course progression, figuratively speaking. I have room to fit another major into my degree. My tentative plan is to get a joint honours degree with a specialization in Geology and a major in Geomatics & Spatial Analysis.

Geology Specialization:
http://www.science.uottawa.ca/students-etudiants/ugrad/sequences/bsc-honours-spec-geology-120cr.html
Geomatics & Spatial Analysis Major:
http://www.uottawa.ca/academic/info/regist/calendars/programs/1062.html

I've heard that GIS are applied in a variety of industries involving geology and that many geologists are expected to know how to use the software. Would learning about GIS be worthwhile for a geologist? Would a Geomatics major make me seem unfocused? Should I just go for a minor in the subject instead?

I would greatly appreciate advice regarding this prospect.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I'm certainly in no position to give advice on this matter but I have heard that GIS is typically not prerequisite knowledge for companies hiring in the area. Apparently they will teach you everything you need to know on the job... But I'm sure it couldn't hurt to be comfortable.
 
  • #3
Thanks for your input.

I have also been considering a minor in statistics, or a minor in physics. Would one of those disciplines be more appropriate?
 
  • #4
Without knowing your career goals, I don't believe anyone here can tell you if one minor would be better than another.
 
  • #5
I am focusing my geology electives on hydrology. I am interested in water resource management and environmental toxicology. Unfortunately I don't have an exact career in mind. It is true that my choice of minor is subjective based upon my desired career path.

My main questions here are: How useful are GIS to geological industries?
Is learning about GIS software advantageous for acquiring employment as a geologist?
 
  • #6
Hey Transient and welcome to the forums.

If you are getting into Geology and Spatial Analysis, I definitely recommend you picking up statistics and possibly some kind of longitudinal or specialist geology statistics courses along the way.
 

1. What is a Geology major?

A Geology major is a field of study that focuses on the Earth's physical structure, processes, and history. It involves the study of rocks, minerals, fossils, and how they are formed. Geology majors also learn about the Earth's surface and how it has changed over time.

2. What is Geomatics and Spatial Analysis?

Geomatics and Spatial Analysis is a subfield of Geology that uses technology and data analysis to study the Earth's surface and its features. This includes using tools like GPS, GIS, and remote sensing to collect and analyze data about the Earth's topography, land use, and natural resources.

3. What career opportunities are available for Geology majors with a Geomatics and Spatial Analysis concentration?

Graduates with a Geomatics and Spatial Analysis concentration can pursue a variety of careers in industries such as environmental consulting, urban planning, natural resource management, and cartography. They may also work for government agencies, private companies, or research institutions.

4. What skills are important for a Geology major with a Geomatics and Spatial Analysis concentration?

Some important skills for Geology majors with a Geomatics and Spatial Analysis concentration include strong analytical and critical thinking skills, proficiency in data analysis and spatial technology, and the ability to work with different types of data and software. Communication and teamwork skills are also important for collaborating with other professionals in the field.

5. What are some potential challenges in pursuing a Geology major with a Geomatics and Spatial Analysis concentration?

Some potential challenges may include the need for a strong background in math and computer science, as well as the ability to work with complex data and software. Additionally, the field of Geomatics and Spatial Analysis is constantly evolving, so staying updated on new technologies and methods may be necessary for success in this field.

Similar threads

Programs Advice for majoring in theoretical physics
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
13
Views
2K
Admissions I Need some advice about my physics undergraduate options
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
11
Views
664
Programs Geology major, thinking of going for MS geophysics, advice?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
6
Views
9K
Programs Masters in physics after geology degree?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
9
Views
3K
Programs How many REUs should I apply to? (sophomore Physics/Astro double major)
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
3
Views
2K
Should I skip labs/experiments for Mathematical Physics program?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
6
Views
959
Studying Self-Studying Scientific Computing for future graduate study
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
7
Views
2K
Programs Should I continue on with a physics major?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
6
Views
928
Programs Crazy for not double majoring in math?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
6
Views
3K
Courses Complex Analysis Courses or Complex Variable Courses?
    • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
18
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top