<p>I am currently working towards a BA in mathematics. I am increasingly leaning towards planning to get a graduate education to work in the oil industry. I've heard that petroleum geology is a very lucrative career, and upon further inspection, something I may be very interested in. My question is, what is the best MS to get to get into the industry? Geology or geophysics? Would one be recommended over the other? I think I would be more interested in geophysics, but do they lead into the same job prospects once the degree is completed?</p>
<p>Andrassy- I just graduated with an undergraduate degree in Geology and for a while I thought about going into the oil industry. The people I spoke with said that people with degrees in both geology and geophysics were highly sought after. The difference comes in to play once you are hired - geophysicists work more with models and seismic waves whereas geologists would be looking more at the stratigraphy and the rock types. If you do an MS in geology, you should specialize in sedimentology/stratigraphy. When you go to apply to an oil company they will ask you your specialization (be it geophysics or geology) - I think the salaries are roughly the same. If you prefer geophysics, I would do your degree in that as your work is more likely to pertain to your interests. Also, just a tip about applying to oil companies - you almost have to work for one as an intern before they will hire you full time. </p>
<p>Good luck!</p>