Paleontology. An instructional program that describes the scientific study of extinct life forms and associated fossil remains, and the reconstruction and analysis of ancient life forms, ecosystems, and geologic processes. Includes instruction in sedimentation and fossilization processes, fossil chemistry, evolutionary biology and paleobiology, field research methods, and laboratory research and conservation methods; as well as studies of specific subjects such as paleoecology, paleoclimatology, trace fossils, micropaleontology, invertebrate paleontology, vertebrate paleontology, paleobotany, and paleoceanography.
| Occupation | Employment Average | Wage | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 Estimated | 2010 Projected |
Annual Avg Openings |
Long-term Outlook |
Mean | Entry | Experienced | |
| Natural Sciences Managers | 870 | 890 | 16 | Caution | $38.79 | $23.87 | $46.25 |
| Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers | 160 | 190 | 8 | Caution | $21.20 | $15.05 | $24.28 |