Is it hard to become a paleontologist?

Is it hard to become a paleontologist?

It is not "easier" than the more traditional "core" science disciplines of physics, chemistry, biology, or geology. In many ways, paleontology is more difficult than any other science — because to be a good paleontologist you must know a great deal about all of these fields.

What qualifications do you need to be a paleontologist?

Earn a bachelor's degree in biology or geology. Many of the major sciences will work, but geology, biology, geography, and environmental studies are what paleontologists mainly work in. It's important to have a strong background in the sciences, and therefore concentrate in both geology and biology.

How much does a paleontologist make a year?

Salary and Qualifications The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics categorizes paleontologists as geoscientists, which also includes geologists, geochemists and seismologists. They earned average annual salaries of $106,780 as of May 2012, according to the BLS. The top 25 percent made over $130,330 annually.

How many years do you have to go to school to be a paleontologist?

approximately six yearsEducation Information Some schools offer a combined M.S. and Ph. D. in Paleontology, which takes approximately six years to complete. Other schools offer paleontology as a concentration within geology, anthropology, biology or geography degree programs.