Seismologists work behind the scenes at universities and labs, studying shifts in the earth's surface and determining the chances for earthquakes in certain regions. While many aspects of earthquakes remain a mystery, seismologists and geophysicists develop methods for recording earthquakes and other seismic activity. Earth science and geophysics students are prime candidates for a career in seismology. Follow the tips below to become a seismologist.
Instructions
1. Prepare for college-level geophysics and seismology study by taking earth science and math courses in high school. Take field trips to earthquake-prone areas and study the different types of fault lines such as normal, reverse and strike-slip.
2. Pursue an undergraduate degree in geophysics or seismology to become a seismologist. Some colleges offer a seismology major, but others only include it as part of an earth science or geophysics curriculum.
3. Study different aspects of earthquake formation, such as "ground-motion seismology," which is used to predict shaking caused by large earthquakes. Seismologists observe earthquake patterns and try to accurately predict the time and location of future earthquakes.
4. Know that seismologists also use their knowledge of earthquake waves and faults to aid in the mapping of land for the petrolatum industry.
5. Earn a Master of Science degree if you want to work in an industrial or educational capacity as a seismologist. Apply for a graduate research teaching or research assistantship and lead exploratory field expeditions. Learn about tomography, rock physics and other fields related to seismology.
6. Accept the fact that you will work in high-pressure situations from time to time, particularly if your job is located in an earthquake prone region like California or Washington state.
Tags: become seismologist, earth science, geophysics seismology, science geophysics
