To work as a geologist or geophysicist, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• have at least a bachelor's degree in geology or geophysics.

Education after high school

A bachelor's degree is usually enough for an entry-level job in this field. Although the trend in the field is for workers to have a master's degree. In geology programs, you study mineralogy, paleontology, and structural geology. You also learn about environmental laws, mapping, and hazardous waste management.

You need a doctoral degree (PhD) to lead research projects or teach at a college or university. When working on a doctoral degree you can focus on an area of study such as geophysical engineering.

Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's degree programs in geology. Fewer offer geophysics degrees.

Work experience

After completing a doctoral degree, some geologists work as postdoctoral fellows (postdocs). These university positions last for several years. Postdocs get extensive field experience. This research can lead to a teaching or research job at a university.

Military training

The military does not provide initial training in this field. However, the military may provide work experience to geologists or geophysicists who have a master's degree or higher.