How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You could do a higher national diploma, foundation degree or degree in a relevant subject like:
- geoscience
- geology
- environmental science
- Earth sciences
- mineral or mining engineering
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. Relevant subjects include:
- geology
- applied science
- laboratory technical skills
- laboratory and associated technical activities
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to apply to do a Laboratory Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
You could also apply to do a Geoscientist Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship, if you have the right entry requirements.
Entry requirements
To get onto an apprenticeship, you'll find it useful to have:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
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Work
You may be able to start as an assistant technician with a company and work your way up through training and promotion.
To do this, you'll need a minimum of 5 GCSEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), and 2 A levels, including maths and sciences. Equivalent qualifications may be accepted like the Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science.
Volunteering
Work experience in the field or a laboratory could give you an advantage when applying for courses and jobs. For example, you could join your local geological group or contact companies listed in The Geologist Directory to find out about potential work placements.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join The Geological Society for professional development opportunities and to make contacts in the industry.
Further information
You can get more advice about careers and training in geoscience from The Geological Society.