What skills do you need to become a geologist?

Answer 1

A bachelor's degree is adequate for a few entry-level positions, but most geoscientists need at least a master's degree in general geology or earth science. A master's degree also is the minimum educational requirement for most entry-level research positions in private industry, Federal agencies, and State geological surveys. A Ph.D. degree is necessary for most high-level research and college teaching positions.

Many colleges and universities offer a bachelor's or higher degree in a geoscience. In 2005, more than 100 universities offered accredited bachelor's degree programs in geoscience, about 80 universities had master's degree programs, and about 60 offered doctoral degree programs.

Traditional geoscience courses emphasizing classical geologic methods and topics (such as mineralogy, petrology, Paleontology, stratigraphy, and structural geology) are important for all geoscientists. Persons studying physics, chemistry, Biology, mathematics, engineering, or computer science may also qualify for some geoscience positions if their course work includes study in geology or natural sciences.

Computer skills are essential for prospective geoscientists; students who have experience with computer modeling, data analysis and integration, digital mapping, remote sensing, and geographic information systems will be the most prepared entering the job market. A knowledge of the Global Information System (GIS) and Global Positioning System (GPS)-a locator system that uses satellites-has also become essential. Some employers seek applicants with field experience, so a summer internship may be beneficial to prospective geoscientists.

Geoscientists must have excellent interpersonal skills, because they usually work as part of a team with other geoscientists and with environmental scientists, engineers, and technicians. Strong oral and written communication skills also are important, because writing technical reports and research proposals, as well as communicating research results to others, are important aspects of the work. Because many jobs require foreign travel, knowledge of a second language is becoming an important attribute to employers. Geoscientists must be inquisitive, be able to think logically, and be capable of complex analytical thinking, including spatial visualization and the ability to develop comprehensive conclusions often from sparse data. Those involved in fieldwork must have physical stamina.

Geoscientists often begin their careers in field exploration or as research assistants or technicians in laboratories or offices. They are given more difficult assignments as they gain experience. Eventually, they may be promoted to project leader, program manager, or some other management or research position.

Answer 2

To be a Geologist, one must take at least 4 years of post-secondary education. During these four years, it would be best to take courses in the following: Calculus I, Calculus II, Intro Statistics Chemistry, Physics Scientific Writing or other Introductory English Courses As well as topic specific courses such as: Understanding the Earth Environmental Geology Oceanography Structural Geology Minerology Sedimentology Petrography Metamorphic and Igneous Petrology Stratigraphy Isotope Geology Hydrogeology Limnology Volcanology Basin Analysis etc. Experience is also one of the most important factors in becoming a good Geologist. Experience using microscopes and other machines is also a skill learned. To be a Geologist, one must take at least 4 years of post-secondary education. During these four years, it would be best to take courses in the following: Calculus I, Calculus II, Intro Statistics Chemistry, Physics Scientific Writing or other Introductory English Courses As well as topic specific courses such as: Understanding the Earth Environmental Geology Oceanography Structural Geology Minerology Sedimentology Petrography Metamorphic and Igneous Petrology Stratigraphy Isotope Geology Hydrogeology Limnology Volcanology Basin Analysis etc. Experience is also one of the most important factors in becoming a good Geologist. Experience using microscopes and other machines is also a skill learned.

Answer 3

You need to know a lot about the earth and its forms such as rivers,soils,rocks, and oceans....

Answer 4

All you need is to know mathmatics, science, geology and maybe some biology!

Answer 5

earth science, computer, chemistry, math, and physical science classes should be your classes you are concentrating on

Answer 6

Earth Science