Geologists study the Earth and how its various environments and components change and interact. These professionals also research the organisms that inhabit this planet and how they have coexisted and continue to, even in today's world. There are very specific educational requirements needed to become a geologist. Much of this education forms the foundation of knowledge necessary to understand the inner workings of this career choice.
High School
The path to this career choice starts for some as early as in high school. Classes in the core sciences -- chemistry, biology and Earth science -- are key to providing a foundation for geology principles. Physics and environmental science are also key to this field, so those should be taken if offered. According to the Degree Directory website, computer courses are also important, since much of this field is computer-based.
College (General Education Requirements)
General education requirements should be fulfilled on the road to a geology career, including as many science classes as possible. Geologists incorporate numerous other sciences into their work, so a basic understanding of how various sciences -- from astronomy to biology -- interact is important for a total understanding of the geological field as a whole.
College (Major Requirements)
Specific courses for a geology major include hydrogeology, planetary geology, earth resources, marine geology and paleoecology, according to the Degree Directory site. Mineralogy, paleontology and volcanology are also key courses for a geology major. If possible, part of her education should include a hands-on internship with a geologist or geology firm to have a better understanding of real-life geological work.
Continuing Education
The field of geology is always changing because the Earth -- which is the focal point of a geologist's career -- is constantly changing. Continuing education credits may be obtained from industrywide seminars and conferences, as well as via professional associations. Geologists also work in other countries, so refresher courses in language, mapping systems, geographical information systems and modeling are important even for the most seasoned geology professionals.
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