DISCIPLINES

Geological Engineering

Geological engineering is a branch of engineering that deals with the earth. A geological engineer can work in a number of different professional environments, including exploration for natural resources, mining, petroleum, civil engineering, groundwater, geology, waste management, and anywhere that an understanding of the behavior of earth materials is essential.

Geological engineering is a branch of engineering that grew out of the interaction of the geotechnical areas of civil engineering and the science of geology. The profession is related to the exploration, management and utilization of materials of the earth's crust. Geological engineering is often related to the early development of project foundations, mineral quantities and qualities, and environmental impact assessment. Geological engineers apply the principles of earth sciences and engineering to find and extract earth-bound energy such as oil, natural gas, and coal sources and mineral wealth and metal resources. They also aid other engineering disciplines in designing foundations of major structures for various types of loads and in designing waste repository systems to protect the earth and its inhabitants from environmental pollution.

Geological engineers frequently work with geologists and civil engineers and play important roles in the study of the interaction between the earth and engineered facilities. They are involved in planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of public works and industrial projects. Examples of engineering works with significant geological engineering components include: mines, bridges, highways, airports, landfill sites, hydro-electric dams, water and sewage facilities, port facilities and buildings.