What Are Professional Learning Pathways?

Professional Learning Pathways are curated tracks that organize sessions, short courses, and field experiences into cohesive, workforce-aligned themes. They provide a structured way to engage in professional development beyond individual talks or posters, helping participants build knowledge and skills in high-demand areas of geoscience. Participants can earn: Verified Continuing Education Units (CEUs) A digital badge recognizing pathway completion Documented recognition of structured, competency-based learning For select pathways, progress that may support future GSA Certificate opportunities These pathways are designed to complement - not replace - professional licensure and certification, offering documented continuing education and competency-focused professional development.

Register for a GSA Section Meeting, GSA Connects, and other qualifying GSA event(s). Participate in sessions, field trips, and/or short courses aligned with a designated Professional Learning Pathway and complete the required learning components. Earn CEUs, receive a digital badge, and obtain documentation of pathway completion. For eligible tracks, continue building toward a GSA Certificate through additional programming at future GSA meetings and events. Pathways offer stackable CEUs across events, allowing you to build your professional learning over time and qualify for higher achievement.

Submitting Pathway Activities

After participating in sessions, field trips, or short courses aligned with a Professional Learning Pathway at an event, you can submit your activities to document your progress and verify your CEUs. To earn pathway recognition, complete at least 1.0 CEU (10 contact hours) of aligned programming, including participation across at least two program formats (for example, a technical session plus a field trip or short course) . Prepare to provide: a list of the sessions, courses, and field trips you completed within the pathway; a brief reflection on the technical sessions you attended; and your total CEUs earned. Submit your pathway activities within 30 days of the meeting. Your submission allows GSA to verify CEUs, confirm pathway recognition at the meeting, and track progress toward future GSA Certificate opportunities where available. SUBMIT: https://geosociety.typeform.com/to/EodrqWBr#location=triple Once submitted, the GSA team will review your materials and notify you of your pathway progress within 7–10 business days.

Current Pathway Themes

Geologic Mapping & Digital Field Methods Critical Minerals Geoheritage Participation in these pathways may serve as early progress toward future advanced credentialing opportunities at GSA Connects and beyond. Track options were determined by surveying GSA division/section leaders and workforce-related studies, identifying potential professional development needs in the geosciences Go to your Section Meeting's website to learn about additional, meeting-specific track options and how to complete pathways and obtain documentation: Cordilleran Section Meeting North-Central Section Meeting Northeastern Section Meeting Rocky Mountain Section Meeting South-Central Section Meeting Southeastern Section Meeting

Professional Learning Pathways: strengthen applied skill development; provide structured continuing education; align with employer-relevant competencies; and support continuing education reporting for licensure, where applicable. Whether you are early-career, mid-career, or maintaining licensure, these pathways offer a clear, organized way to document your professional development.

Professional Ecosystem

Professional Learning Pathways and GSA Certificates recognize structured continuing education and applied learning. They are distinct from professional licensure and certification programs offered by GSA’s Associated Societies. Visit the Association of State Boards of Geology (ASBOG®) for more information on licensure as a Professional Geologist (PG), and the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) for information about professional certification such as Certified Professional Geologist (CPG).

Contact us at education@geosociety.org .

Professional Learning Pathways

Explore structured tracks that align sessions, courses, and field experiences into workforce-focused themes. Earn verified CEUs, digital badges, and more while advancing geoscience skills.

Member Success Stories

Discover how GSA Professional Learning Pathways help members build skills, earn CEUs, and gain hands-on experience through field programs and professional engagement opportunities.

“GSA meetings and volunteer opportunities have helped me build authentic connections, mentorships, and collaborations. It is my intellectual home, and I value helping others find similar professional growth here.”

Bill Lukens

Ph.D., James Madison University

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