Skip to main content

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

  • Environmental scientist

  • Field or exploration geologist

  • Geoscience technician

  • Hydrologist

  • Marine geologist

  • Mine site geologist

  • Palaeontologist

  • Petroleum geologist

  • Stratigrapher

  • Structural geologist

Discover related science degrees

University of New England

Diploma in Science

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
Macquarie University

Bachelor of Science

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.
University of Tasmania

Set yourself up for success with tertiary study in science

This diploma is a great option if you know what you want to study but need a more supportive approach. Learn key skills and build knowledge in the field of science. Get credits for the subjects you take if you go on to study a bachelor degree.

Study method
100% online
Duration
1 year full time or part time equivalent
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Edith Cowan University

Become an environmental decision-maker

Would you like to lead an organisation towards better decisions for the environment? This course will show you how. Consider the greater context of ecosystems as you make choices based on impact and risk using management systems and auditing. 

Study method
100% online
Duration
1 year full time or part time equivalent
Explore science courses

Discover related science subjects

La Trobe University
Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 2 Mar 2026
University of New England

Introductory Physics

UndergraduateUNE-PHYS100

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 23 Feb 2026, 19 Oct 2026
University of Tasmania

Introduction to Chemistry

UndergraduateTAS-KRA161

Study method
Online & on-campus
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 23 Feb 2026, 6 Jul 2026
La Trobe University
Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 2 Mar 2026

Need help making study choices for your career?

Student advisor working on a laptop in OUA’s bright and modern office atrium
Matthew is part of our team of student advisors here to answer your questions.

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.