Among other things, geologists study rocks.
A geologist is a scientist who studies the composition, processes and history of the earth. For example, geologists study earth processes such as landslides, earthquakes, floods and volcanic eruptions. Geologists study earth materials such as oil, metals, rocks and water. Geologists study earth history, including the history of climate change and the evolution of life. Although the minimum requirement for some entry-level position is a bachelor's degree, most geologist positions require at least a master's degree.
Degree Requirements
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most research positions in private industry, federal agencies and state geological surveys prefer a geologist with a master's degree. Most high-level research and college teaching positions require a Ph.D.
High School Preparation
High school students interested in getting a geology or related degree need to take college preparatory courses, especially in math, science and writing. Other valuable high school courses include computers, geography and communication.
College Courses
Although a geology degree is the obvious choice for someone wanting to become a geologist, related degrees (such as earth or environmental science) can lead to a career in geology. Exact course requirements vary by degree type and school but are likely to include physics, chemistry, mathematics through calculus and many geology courses (such as mineralogy, crystallography, igneous and sedimentary petrology and structural geology).
Graduate Study
Graduate study is usually where geology students specialize in a specific area. Options include petroleum geology, which involves mapping the subsurface of the ocean or land as part of oil and gas exploration, and engineering geology, which applies the principles of geology to civil and environmental engineering. Students can also study areas such as mineralogy, sedimentology (study of sediments, such as sand, silt and mud), paleontology (study of fossils in geological formations), stratigraphy (study of the formation and layering of rocks) and volcanology (study of volcanoes).
Licensing
Many states require geologists who offer their services directly to the public to have a state license. Although requirements vary by state, they typically include education, experience and passing an examination.
