How to become a geologist or geophysicist
Study the nature and composition of the physical attributes of Earth.
What does a geologist or geophysicist do?
Geologists and geophysicists study the layers of Earth’s surface and below, providing advice on mining and extraction of minerals, water, and other substances. They might also work in weather, seismic, and oceanographic forecasting.
Duties and tasks
- Research aspects of Earth's physical surface for publishing in academic journals and research circles.
- Sample rocks and other physical specimens for information on the constitution and composition of the surface of Earth.
- Study fossils and other materials to add to the body of knowledge on evolution.
- Survey specific locations for the presence of minerals, water, and petroleum.
- Forecast earthquakes, tsunamis, and other natural phenomena.
- Teach college and university courses.
Industry bodies
- Australian Institute of Geoscientists
- The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM)
- Geological Society of Australia
Related jobs
- Archaeologist
- Environmental geologist
- Environmental scientist
- Field or exploration geologist
- Geoscience technician
- Hydrologist
- Marine geologist
- Mine site geologist
- Palaeontologist
- Petroleum geologist
- Stratigrapher
- Structural geologist
Discover related science degrees
Undergraduate UNE-DSC-DIP
Undergraduate MAQ-BSC-DEG
Available majors
- Core Zone: Major in Biology
Undergraduate SCU-EMS-DEG
Bachelor of Science (Earth and Environmental Systems and Marine Systems)
Discover related science subjects
Undergraduate UNE-PHYS100
Related degrees
Undergraduate TAS-KRA161
Undergraduate UNE-SCI100
Related degrees
Undergraduate UND-MATH1030
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