Geology and Geophysics

The Geology and Geophysics Career View

The information on this page is based on the Geology and Geophysics issue of Career View. The issues are more detailed and include profiles of graduates who now work in the industry.

Download the Geology and Geophysics CareerView ( 160KB PDF) or browse the whole series.

Why Study Geology and Geophysics?

Geology and geophysics are subjects that are fundamental to our understanding of the Earth's history, structure, resources, and processes, and together they underpin some of the major issues of our times. These include climate change, environmental management, the use of natural resources like minerals, wind and water, and the prediction of natural hazards such as earthquakes, floods, and volcanoes. They observe, measure and monitor; they calculate and predict; they hypothesise and maybe try again; they scrutinise the rocks beneath their feet and the air above their heads; they are both rigorous and creative.

Where do Geology and Geophysics Graduates Work?

• Research Institutions. In general, research institutions consider a Bachelors degree appropriate for technician and science roles, while BSc Hons, Masters and PhD degrees are required for research work. However there are many exceptions.
• Universities. They are research institutions in their own right and have strong collaborative relationships with other research institutions, such as Crown Research Institutes. If considering an academic career, which will involve both research and teaching, you would need a PhD and a record of publication.
• State-Owned Enterprises
• Ministry of Economic Development
• Local Authorities
• Consultancies and Private Companies

Skills

Geology and Geophysics are multidisciplinary areas of study and their graduates are typically multiskilled.

• Analytical and abstract reasoning skills
• Intellectual clarity and logical thinking skills
• Observation skills
• Communication skills
• Relationship management skills
• Research skills
• Computer skills

Further information about Geology and Geophysics can be found in the Geology and Geophysics Career View ( 160KB PDF)