This category includes geochemists, geophysicists, hydrologists, mineralogists, oceanographers, seismologists-everyone who works with any aspect pof the earth's crust, including the oceans. As a geologist, your work would probably vary between field work such as mapping,soil and rock assessment and exploration, and office work or research. If you work in industry your activities might include examining oil and gas finds, mapping company claims or planning drilling projects. In government you might be more involved in the gathering and assessing of general information about oil and gas resources. After gaining experience in industry or government you might become a private consultant.

WHAT YOU NEED:

A broad formal education base is necessary to become a geologist; you need good grades in high school math, physics and chemistry before being accepted in an undergraduate program in geology or a related field such as geophysics or mining engineering. Most universities offer four-year degree programs in geology, many of which are part of a CO-OP program combining study with work. A master's or a doctorate degree would greatly improve your career prospects in this field.

SALARY:
$65,000 to $74,000