How do I Become an Environmental Geologist?

An environmental geologist is a scientist who studies the manner in which people interact with the environment as well as the consequences of those interactions. A person who wants to become an environmental geologist usually has to earn a degree in preparation for this career. He may start out with a bachelor of science degree, for example, and land a job in this field. Some, however, may opt to pursue advanced-level degrees, which may provide them with more job opportunities, positions of greater responsibility, and more room for advancement.

An environmental geologist works to analyze man’s interactions with the environment. He may, for example, assess how human use of natural resources such as water and minerals affects the environment. He may also help with restoring land that has been impacted negatively and providing valuable data for use in lessening negative impacts. In fact, an environmental geologist may also work to design and implement systems and processes that protect the environment.

A person who wants to become an environmental geologist usually earns a high school diploma in preparation for pursuing a college degree. In most cases, a person who wants to become an environmental geologist works toward at least a bachelor’s degree in geology to prepare for a career in this field. Some interested in this job may pursue bachelor’s degrees in environmental science instead.

In some cases, a person who wants to become an environmental geologist may decide to pursue an advanced degree. For example, a person interested in this job may complete a master’s degree in environmental geology or even go on to earn a doctoral degree. These degrees may offer aspiring geologists more opportunities and fulfill requirements for those who hope to become professors or find work as environmental geology researchers.

After gaining experience in this field, an environmental geologist may find he has many choices available to him. Some may crave involvement with larger projects, for example, and have opportunities to pursue such endeavors after gaining significant experience. Some in this field may move into supervisory positions in which they manage other geologists and even supervise students. An individual in this field may prefer the advocacy side of things and work as an advocate with a non-profit agency or decide to serve as an environmental geology consultant. An environmental geologist may even become an expediter, working to ensure that expeditions have the tools and supplies they need.