How To Become A Geologist In South Africa

A geologist is a scientist who studies the solid, liquid, and gaseous matter that constitutes the Earth and other terrestrial planets, as well as the processes that shape them.

Is geology a Hard major?

Students interested in geology can prepare by taking basic courses in math, science and geography. Geology is not any more difficult or easy to learn than any other academic subject. It is however a science and requires time and dedication if you want to achieve success in the subject.

Why is geology so hard?

The math and physics required plus taking classes like dynamics, synoptic, and phys met make it a very heavy and hard course load. Working side by side with some geologists I think geology is similar with some difficult classes plus a lot of labs.

Is geology major Easy?

Most high schools and colleges offer courses or majors in geology. Students interested in geology can prepare by taking basic courses in math, science and geography. Geology is not any more difficult or easy to learn than any other academic subject.

How To Become A Geologist In South Africa

Personal requirements for a Geologist

Enjoy technical and scientific activities

Willing to adhere to safety requirements

Able to work independently or as part of a team

Able to prepare accurate records and reports

Able to cope with the physical demands of the job

Prepared to work outdoors in a range of environments and on irregular schedules

Education & Training for a Geologist

To become a geologist you usually have to complete a degree in science or applied science with a major in geology, geoscience, applied geology, geophysics or earth sciences.

To get into these courses you usually need to gain your Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, chemistry, earth and environmental science, physics and biology are normally required.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.

Additional information

Formal training is followed by continuous vocational training throughout your working life to enhance skills in business, computing, management and technical knowledge .

After a qualifying period, graduates may be eligible for membership of the Geological Society of Australia, Australian Institute of Geoscientists and/or the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.

Where can I study geology in South Africa?

Best Global Universities for Geosciences in South Africa

University of Cape Town.

University of Johannesburg.

University of Witwatersrand

What subjects are needed to become a geologist?

You will need to have taken the following subjects at high school:

English (Home Language or First Additional Language)

Pure Mathematics.

Physical Science.

Life Sciences.

Is there a demand for geologists in South Africa?

As things stand, geologists are listed as one of the scarce skills in South Africa, and there is a high demand for qualified geologists to join various industries, including the mining sector. If you are considering a career in geology within the mining industry, you will need a degree.

Is Geologist a good career?

A career in geology is well compensated, with a variety of different career paths and job titles. The main types of careers for geologists are in academia, working for the government (USGS), environmental consulting, oil and gas industry, or mining industry. There is great employment growth for geologists.

Is there a demand for geologists?

Are geologists in demand? Despite the downturn in the mineral resources sector, the long-term job outlook for geologists is positive. Demand in the field is cyclical and mirrors the price of geological commodities such as fuels, metals, and construction materials.

How hard is it to get a job in geology?

Getting a job as a geologist is actually easier than you might think, if you know some effective ways to go about it that is. Geology is a wide field and there are many jobs available for geologists, even outside the mineral resource sector. Being competent in the field of geology plays a key role to landing a job.

Is geology a Hard major?

Students interested in geology can prepare by taking basic courses in math, science and geography. Geology is not any more difficult or easy to learn than any other academic subject. It is however a science and requires time and dedication if you want to achieve success in the subject.

Is geology major Easy?

Most high schools and colleges offer courses or majors in geology. Students interested in geology can prepare by taking basic courses in math, science and geography. Geology is not any more difficult or easy to learn than any other academic subject.

Why is geology so hard?

The math and physics required plus taking classes like dynamics, synoptic, and phys met make it a very heavy and hard course load. Working side by side with some geologists I think geology is similar with some difficult classes plus a lot of labs.