The objective of geology is to study the rocks and subsoil of the planet from every angle in order to understand how they function. A science whose practical applications are often ignored. Without geologists, there would be no raw materials to make your smartphone, no resources to produce energy, no drinking water from groundwater...
At UniLaSalle, the two courses dedicated to geology, Earth Sciences and Environment Engineer and Bachelor in Geosciences and Environment, lead to four major families of professions:
- Mines and quarries
- Energy resources
- Hydrogeology and industrial risks
- Geotechnics and natural hazards
In the first two sectors, Geology engineers and technicians use their knowledge to find and optimize deposits of ores, minerals or hydrocarbons. These raw materials are then useful for many sectors, from energy production to the manufacturing industry, including the production of construction materials.
In hydrogeology, they are interested in groundwater, which is a major source of drinking water. In addition to the search for water resources, they will work to protect existing water catchments, in particular by preventing the pollution of the subsoil surrounding these water resources by industrial activities.
In geotechnics, they analyze the subsoil and possibly propose corrective solutions to guarantee the stability of future buildings or other structures. They participate in the management of natural risks of a geological nature: seismicity, volcanism, shrinkage-swelling of clays for example.
Lovers of rocks, fossils and minerals will find their place perfectly in a geology course. UniLaSalle's courses give a large place to the field. And for those who are keen on new technologies, the GeoLab allows you to do 3D modeling applied to geosciences thanks to its state-of-the-art equipment.
What is the difference between an engineer and a technician?
The technician finds his or her happiness in the field and is able to handle the tools and analyze the data collected on the sites. They often work under the responsibility of an engineer, who, in addition to scientific and technical skills, also masters solid project management and commercial techniques.
And the research?
The Basins-Reservoirs-Resources (B2R) research unit - UniLaSalle - UPJV - studies the evolution of sedimentary basins, reservoirs and sources of fossil and renewable energy (hydrocarbons, geothermal energy, water).
Teacher-researchers from the Geosciences college also participate in the work of the Aghyle research unit by working hand in hand with agroecology specialists, taking advantage of the complementary nature of the skills at UniLaSalle to participate in the understanding of the biological and physico-chemical phenomena that impact the critical zone sphere.