GEOPHYSICS IS THE STUDY OF THE earth's physical properties and processes acting upon, above, and within the earth. Geophysicists are scientists who apply the principles of physics, mathematics, chemistry, and engineering to study the earth and its environment. The studies are not limited to the earth's crust, but also include its internal composition, ground and surface waters, atmosphere, and various forces such as magnetism, electricity, and gravity. Geophysicists use sophisticated equipment to take measurements of physical properties such as seismic waves, temperatures, natural electrical current, and gravity and magnetic fields. They collect data and samples in the field, and then work on computers, performing controlled experiments and analyzing samples. Many geophysicists are involved in geophysical exploration. They work for companies that utilize natural resources, such as oil and minerals. The work involves surveying areas where they suspect resources may exist, then producing reports that their employers can use to determine if an investment in further exploration is worthwhile. Geophysicists also work for various private companies and consulting firms, environmental protection groups, and academic institutions. Some geophysicists are self-employed, working as independent consultants to assorted clients. Within the major discipline of geophysics are numerous specialty fields, such as geodesy, seismology, atmospheric science, and oceanography. Geodesists look at the big picture, studying the planet's size, shape, gravitational field, tides, polar motion, and rotation. Seismologists endeavor to detect earthquakes and locate earthquake-related faults. Atmospheric science is devoted to the gaseous envelope surrounding the earth, including such phenomena as weather and climate. Some specialties are further broken down into different areas. Oceanographers, for example, generally study the world's oceans and coastal waters, but there are also physical oceanographers who focus solely on the relationships between the sea, weather, land, and climate. The abundance of possible specialties has helped create an excellent job outlook. In recent years, geophysicists have created and developed profound technical innovations. Some advances have essentially changed natural resources exploration and production. Many geophysicists are involved in hardware and software development. These professionals have pushed the boundaries of specialized computer applications, resulting in cutting-edge technology capable of processing huge 3-dimensional surveys. Geophysics professionals work both indoors and outdoors. Some geophysicists are field oriented, some laboratory oriented, some theoretical, and some combine these areas. Some spend the majority of their time in a lab, but most divide their time between fieldwork and the lab. Work at remote sites is common. To become a geophysicist, you must have a curious mind, a fascination with natural phenomena, and an aptitude for math and science. A bachelor's degree is the basic educational requirement for an entry-level position, but most employers prefer a master's degree in geophysics. A PhD is necessary for most high-level research and university teaching positions. The education required to enter this career will be challenging, but the effort will pay off. The starting pay is excellent, even for new graduates, and it gets better with time. The outlook for job growth is also good, with new jobs opening up at a faster pace than for most other occupations. If you are imaginative, good at math and science, a critical thinker, comfortable with computers, and have a strong interest in what makes our planet tick, read on. A career in geophysics may be a good fit for you.