Volcanologist
15AI EXPOSURE TODAY15
20-YEAR SCENARIO
NOT A FORECAST60%
NOT A FORECAST60%
THE DOOR · ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAYB
STARTING PAY£25,000 - £30,000
NO MOATNo physical, legal or personal barrier protects this work from software.
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CAREERMASH (EN)FROM GEOGRAPHY AND EARTH SCIENCES →
Volcanologist
Ever dreamt of exploring the fiery heart of our planet? As a volcanologist, you'll study volcanoes, their eruptions, and the impact they have on our world. This thrilling career combines adventure with science, allowing you to uncover the mysteries of Earth's most powerful forces!
THE DOOR: ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAY, graded A (easy) to E (extremely hard). A Careermash rule-of-thumb index built from our AI exposure index and the job's moat class. It is not a forecast and not a count of job openings.
AI EXPOSURE TODAY is a Careermash index from 0 to 100 of how exposed this job's everyday tasks are to AI today. We estimate it by matching published research on how people use AI to this job, usually by keyword or subject area, and we lower it where the work is protected (for example by physical, personal or legal requirements). It is not a direct measurement of how much people in this job use AI.
AI helps here, but has not taken over
AI exposure for this job is below 50 on our index, and the day-to-day work still leans on a person to decide, check and take responsibility. Nothing formally protects this job though, so the safest move is to keep building the judgement AI cannot yet copy.
Career progression path
Is this the only route?
This is the standard academic trajectory, but modern careers are highly flexible. You can often skip stagesby entering the industry with an advanced qualification (like a Master's or PhD), or pivot sideways from a related discipline.
0ACADEMIC FOUNDATIONUniversity DegreeUsually 3 to 4 years of full-time academic study, explicitly preparing you for the theoretical realities of the industry. Requires A-Levels, BTECs, or equivalent Level 3.-£67,350Avg. UK tuition & living
1FIRST STEPJunior VolcanologistIn this role, you'll assist senior volcanologists in field studies, collect samples, and help analyze data. It's your chance to get hands-on experience and learn the ropes of volcanic research.£25,000 - £30,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEVolcanologistAs a volcanologist, you'll conduct independent research, monitor volcanic activity, and contribute to safety assessments. You'll be at the forefront of understanding eruptions and their effects on communities.£35,000 - £50,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Volcanologist/Research LeaderAt the peak of your career, you'll lead research projects, collaborate with international teams, and influence policy on volcanic hazards. Your expertise will be crucial in safeguarding lives and understanding our planet.£60,000+
The degree route
Courses in this career's subject area, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.
🎓Earth Sciences (International Programme)University College London · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
🎓Geography and Economics (Regional Science) with Professional ExperienceThe University of Reading · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
🎓Geography and Middle East StudiesUniversity of St Andrews · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£28,000 median
All Geography and Earth Sciences courses as cards →
There is more than one way in
You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely.
Degree subjects that lead this way
Courses in this career's subject area, from the same register that priced the degree above. Subject-matched, not a guaranteed qualifying route: check each course's own entry requirements and any professional accreditation before you rely on it.
GeologyUniversity of Exeter · DegreeOceanographyUniversity of Southampton · DegreeEarth Sciences (International Programme)University College London · DegreeGeographyBangor University · DegreeGeography and Economics (Regional Science) with Professional ExperienceThe University of Reading · DegreeGeography and Middle East StudiesUniversity of St Andrews · Degree