A degree in Geosciences can lead to a wide range of careers — right here in Wisconsin or around the world. Scroll down to hear directly from UWM graduates about their careers. Graduates from our program have gone on to work in
- environmental consulting
- geotechnical fields
- local, state, and federal agencies
- petroleum and mining companies
- non-profit environmental groups
- schools and universities
- museums and research institutions
The Geosciences workforce is expected to grow by 7% between 2020-2030, and Geoscientists are in high demand. Median starting salaries in Geosciences fields are $30,000 – $50,000 with a B.S. degree and $40,000-$60,000 with a M.S. degree1. Median salaries in 2021 for all Geoscientists (regardless of degree or career stage) are about $60,000 – $75,000 in Wisconsin and $87,000 – $104,000 nationwide.
Read More About Geosciences Careers
- American Geosciences Institute career resources page
- American Geosciences Institute Career Compasses — read more about different types of careers, along with tips and suggestions for obtaining critical skills and experiences.
- Geological Society of America career resources page
Listen to UWM Geosciences grads talk about their careers
Three UWM Geosciences graduates talk about their careers, a “day in the life” at their job, and what led them on the path to Geosciences.
These were recorded early in the pandemic, so some of their answers reflect that. Stay tuned for new “episodes” of Meet a Geoscientist!
- Me’le’sa Greene, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
- Mike DeVasto, Environmental Consulting
- Natassja Sook, Environmental Consulting
1 Wilson (2019). Status of the Geosciences Workforce 2018, American Geosciences Institute.