In order to safeguard life, health, and property and to promote the public welfare, the profession of geology is declared to be subject to regulation in the public interest. It is unlawful for any person to (1) practice or offer to practice geology in this state, (2) use in connection with his or her name or otherwise assume the title professional geologist, or (3) advertise any title or description tending to convey the impression that he or she is a licensed geologist, unless the person is duly licensed or exempt from licensure under the Geologists Regulation Act. The practice of geology and use of the title geologist is a privilege granted by the state.