Question:
I have a BS in physics with a minor in geology and I am wondering if I
should pursue a masters or doctorate in geology.
My main considerations are whether there are jobs and how well they pay. I
have already discovered that that are no jobs for someone with a BS in
physics.
If I do go into geology, I am also wondering which area would have the most
job opportunities. Would it be best for me to go into geophysics, hydrology,
geochemistry, or environmentalism? I would appreciate any advice that people
could give. I would prefer that only geologists or people who are intimate
with the job situation reply.
Answer:
I only speak for myself, but if it were me, I would be looking
elsewhere. I have a BS in Geology (honors), a MSc in Geophysics, 20+
years experience, over 100 successful discoveries and have been out of
work for several years. It's not a field I would recommend.
Well, during my studies in Geophysics, I used to be told
that I was doing them only to get a University degree and
find a good job in another field. Most of the students
who were with me are not in Geology today.
Only a handful of them have found a job in two areas:
- Oil prospection
- Mining
Of course mining is on the decline, as most ore products today
are very cheap on the market.
Both fields are struggling anyway and it doesn't mean that
if you get a job in one of those fields, it would last for
ever!
I guess that the other field that may expand in the future,
is the one linked to natural disasters.
Of course, governments are not investing in this for now,
but in the future, who knows? Flooding, droughts, earthquakes
and volcanoes are threatening a bit more everyday since populations
tend to grow in dangerous areas.
If you could search in that direction, that could be a way.
Anyway, do not hesitate to accept a job abroad!
Of course, if you want to have a house, a swiming pool and a
Mercedes... geology is NOT the way to go!
If you want to do something intersting though...
Personnaly, I work, for a living, in computer sciences (developper)
and I work on volcanic and seismic risks as a volunteer (for
free) with the Swiss Disaster Relief Unit (I'm Swiss). This is
a nice way to have a job that can feed me, and geology as an
activity that is also helpful to others!
So... we went out and found our own, and got control of the mineral rights.
Now to find a partner with some $$$, in this mining climate. But at least
I've been able to stay in the game for 40 years without having to go to an
alternate career.
