How to become a geologist or geophysicist
Study the nature and composition of the physical attributes of Earth.
What does a geologist or geophysicist do?
Geologists and geophysicists study the layers of Earth’s surface and below, providing advice on mining and extraction of minerals, water, and other substances. They might also work in weather, seismic, and oceanographic forecasting.
Duties and tasks
Research aspects of Earth's physical surface for publishing in academic journals and research circles.
Sample rocks and other physical specimens for information on the constitution and composition of the surface of Earth.
Study fossils and other materials to add to the body of knowledge on evolution.
Survey specific locations for the presence of minerals, water, and petroleum.
Forecast earthquakes, tsunamis, and other natural phenomena.
Teach college and university courses.
Industry bodies
Related jobs
Archaeologist
Environmental geologist
Field or exploration geologist
Geoscience technician
Marine geologist
Mine site geologist
Palaeontologist
Petroleum geologist
Stratigrapher
Structural geologist
Discover related science degrees
UndergraduateUNE-DSC-DIP
Discover the basic methods, techniques, and tools of science
Engage your curiosity about the natural world with this online science course. Build a solid and broad foundation of scientific knowledge, starting with core subjects including physics and chemistry. Focus on a specialisation such as maths or biology.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 1 year full time or part time equivalent
UndergraduateMAQ-BSC-DEG
Learn from international leaders in science
Benefit from the guidance of teachers whose research findings are known on a global scale. Use this research to conduct case studies. Take a hands-on approach with a lab component. Specialise in biology, including genetics, genes and life processes.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 3 years full time or part time equivalent
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Undergraduate Certificate in Agriculture
UndergraduateLAT-AGR-CTF
Kick-start your future in sustainable agriculture
Get a practical intro to modern farming and agribusiness. Explore agriscience topics including animals and plants. Think about broader subjects like trade and climate change. Build skills for agriculture roles and further studies.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 6 months full time or part time equivalent
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
UndergraduateSCU-SCI-DIP
A pathway to the lab or further science studies
An online science course with specialisations in forestry, marine, or Earth and environmental systems. You’ll explore chemistry, physics, biology and geology. Think about the role science plays solving big issues like climate change and pollution.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 1 year full time or part time equivalent
Discover related science subjects
UndergraduateTAS-KPZ006
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 6 Jul 2026, 2 Nov 2026
UndergraduateTAS-ZAS117
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
UndergraduateCUR-HUMB1000
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 31 Aug 2026
UndergraduateUNE-GEOL210
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 19 Oct 2026

Need help making study choices for your career?
Our student advisors will turn your aspirations into a clear study path.
They'll help you with:
Choosing and enrolling in the right course for your desired career, including pathway options.
Mapping a study plan that allows you to balance work and home commitments.
Understanding eligibility for funding, including HECS-HELP loans.
Get unbiased advice at no cost today.
Looking for other ways to start the conversation? Contact us
Step up your career with these resources

8 subjects you’ve never heard about (but should have)
Break away from the well-trodden path and find a course as unique as you are. From uncovering your inner palaeontologist, to studying the intricacies of Japanese culture, these eight subjects offer something a little different.

Regional high-schooler takes online uni subjects to jump-start her future
In a small South Australian town miles from any university campus, lives a 17-year old high schooler with a passion for science, a compound microscope, and a dream of working in a lab and discovering something interesting one day.

What are the best jobs for introverts?
Looking for a career where you can spend a lot of time alone, focusing on what you're good at? These roles will let your quiet, reflective qualities shine.

4 science careers you didn't know existed
So you want to be a scientist… From exploring parts of the invisible sky, to fabricating new food flavours, here are some of the more unusual careers in science.