About the Career

Drill deeper into science with COM geology and environmental science courses.

Fields such as geoscience are projected to grow 10 percent by 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

  • Geoscientist

    Geoscientists study the physical properties of the earth to explore its past and future. They earn $89,780 and have at least a bachelor’s degree.

  • Hydrologist

    Hydrologists study water supply, quality and availability through collecting water samples and analyzing computer data. They have a bachelor’s degree at least and earn $80,480.

  • Environmental Scientist

    Environmental scientists work to reduce industry waste, advise lawmakers and protect the environment. They have at least a bachelor’s degree and earn a median salary of $68,910. The field is growing faster than average.

  • Mining and Geological Engineer

    Mining and geological engineers design safe mines to collect minerals. They have a bachelor’s degree and a median salary of $93,720.

  • Petroleum Engineer

    Petroleum engineers discover ways to extract oil and gas from beneath the earth’s surface and from wells. Positions usually require at least a bachelor’s degree and pay a median salary of $128,230. The field is growing faster than average.

  • Environmental Engineer

    Environmental engineers develop solutions to environmental problems and work to improve water and air quality and reduce waste. They need a bachelor’s degree and earn a median salary of $84,890. The field is expanding faster than average.

For additional information search the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/ooh.

About the Program

Students can earn an Associate of Science in natural science, which prepares them to transfer to a university to major in a scientific field.

Students explore through labs, hands-on classes and extracurricular opportunities, such as the COM Science Club.

College of the Mainland has a range of geology courses for science majors and non-majors. Students can select from Physical Geology, Historical Geology, Environmental Science, Oceanography and Meteorology.

Students gain marketable skills in:

  • Critical Thinking
  • Communication
  • Empirical and Quantitative Skills
  • Teamwork

How to Begin

  1. Apply to COM at www.com.edu/apply.
  2. First-time college students: Attend a New Student Orientation before registering. Transfer students: Meet with an advisor before registering.
  3. Register for classes at www.com.edu/register.