General Information about Careers in the Geological Sciences

By Dr. Richard Kyle

Bachelor's degree sufficient for many entry-level industry positions.
Graduate degrees preferred for advancement in industry and government.
Ph. D. required for most college/university teaching and advanced research positions.
A love of the outdoors, interest in natural processes, and enjoyment of travel serves well in many geoscience careers.
Physical stamina is desirable to complete research and work assignments in remote areas under various conditions.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential in most positions.
Experience with computer hardware and software related to industry or research applications are valuable skills.
Student associations and professional organizations related to interest area(s) can provide valuable career-long contacts.
Foreign language proficiency increases one's ability to accept work assignments in other countries.
Proficiency in two subject areas can increase employability, for example, geology and physics for geophysics, geology and chemistry for geochemistry, geology and foreign language for overseas assignments, etc.
Experience obtained by volunteer, part-time, summer, internship, and/or co-op work may be valuable in securing entry-level employment. Contact local geologists, geophysicists, geochemists, hydrologists, oceanographers, urban planners, surveyors, and civil engineers for possibilities.