Paleontologists study fossils to understand ancient prehistoric life and past environments. To become a paleontologist, you need a bachelor’s degree in science, followed by graduate programs in paleontology or geology. You must conduct research, gain fieldwork experience, and work with museum collections or academic institutions to grow your expertise.
What Paleontologists Actually Do
Paleontologists work with fossils to study how plants, animals, and ecosystems evolved. They conduct research, manage museum collections, and write scientific papers.
Example: A professional paleontologist working at a natural history museum might clean dinosaur bones, record fossil data, and write about species changes over time.
Paleontologists specialize in:
- Vertebrate paleontology (e.g., dinosaur bones)
- Invertebrate paleontology (e.g., coral fossils)
- Paleobotany (e.g., plant fossils)
- Phylogenetic systematics
- Sedimentary petrology
Start With the Right Education
A bachelor’s degree in geology, biology, or earth science is the first step. Many universities also offer minors in paleontology or fossil-based science subjects.
Important undergraduate courses:
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Anthropology
- Paleontology courses
- Liberal arts courses (to build writing skills)
Fact: Most aspiring paleontologists complete their undergraduate degree in four years.
Choose the Best Graduate Programs
Most jobs in paleontology require graduate school—either a master’s degree or a PhD level degree. Look for programs in geology departments or at paleontological research institutions.
Top courses in graduate programs:
- Comparative anatomy
- Evolutionary biology
- Historical geology
- Data analysis for fossil interpretation
- Research opportunities in dig sites or labs
Gain Field and Research Experience
Research projects and fieldwork are essential. These activities teach how to collect samples, map fossil sites, and interpret fossil layers.
Example: Students often gain research experience by volunteering at a local museum or working with professors during summer fossil digs.
Get hands-on by:
- Joining museum field crews
- Assisting with fossil collection
- Attending field schools hosted by universities
- Publishing data from fossil digs
Career Paths in Paleontology
You can work as a paleontologist in:
- Museums and archives
- Universities (as a professor or lecturer)
- Energy and oil companies
- Federal or state geological surveys
- Freelance or self-employed as a science writer
Common Career Paths and Settings for Paleontologists
Paleontologist Salary Ranges (USD)
| Role | Typical Setting | Education Required | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Museum Curator | Natural history museum | Master’s or PhD | Collection & public exhibits |
| University Professor | University | PhD | Teaching & research |
| Field Researcher | Government / Academia | Master’s or PhD | Collect samples, fossil digs |
| Science Communicator | Self-employed / Media | Bachelor’s or higher | Public speaking, writing |
| Oil & Energy Paleontologist | Oil Companies | Master’s | Subsurface fossil analysis |
Source: Society of Vertebrate Paleontology, USGS Data 2024
Museums Are Vital for Paleontologists
Museums help store and study fossils. Most paleontologists work with or in museums, whether curating, managing data, or teaching the public.
Top U.S. institutions:
- Smithsonian Natural History Museum
- American Museum of Natural History
- Field Museum
- Local museums and university collections
Many offer volunteer opportunities or internships for students interested in studying paleontology.
Skills You Need for Paleontology
You must learn science and field skills to become a paleontologist.
Key skills:
- Data analysis
- Strong public speaking
- Field tools and mapping
- Fossil handling and prep
- Reading foreign languages (e.g., German, for old fossil papers)
Academic skills:
- Writing for research
- Understanding biology, chemistry, and physics
- Interpreting evolutionary biology findings
How to Get Involved Early
You can start your path in high school.
Tips for beginners:
- Take science subjects (especially biology and geology)
- Volunteer at a local museum
- Explore online resources like university field guides
- Attend museum lectures about dinosaurs
- Join professional organizations like the Paleontological Society
What It’s Really Like to Work as a Paleontologist
A day in the life involves long hours of fieldwork, lab work, or writing.
Example: Dr. Andrew Li spends his summers in Wyoming leading fossil digs. In winter, he analyzes bone fragments and publishes studies. He also teaches university students and mentors graduate school interns.
Job Outlook and Salaries
Job growth is steady but competitive. According to BLS data:
- Entry-level paleontologists: $45,000–$65,000
- Museum curators: $60,000–$90,000
- University professors: $80,000–$120,000
- Oil and energy specialists: Up to $130,000
Many work in grant-based positions or self-employed roles.
Career Advice for Aspiring Paleontologists
To succeed:
- Complete a strong bachelor’s degree in science
- Attend a competitive graduate school
- Get early experience through volunteer opportunities
- Build connections through professional organizations
- Gain teaching and writing skills
Most Popular Questions About Becoming a Paleontologist
These are the questions we get asked the most often about how to become a paleontologist.
What degree do you need to become a paleontologist?
You need a bachelor’s degree in geology, biology, or science, followed by a master’s degree or PhD in paleontology.
What skills are required in paleontology?
You need skills in research, fossil collection, data analysis, and public speaking. Knowledge of science subjects like evolutionary biology helps a lot.
Where do paleontologists work?
Paleontologists work in museums, universities, oil companies, and government labs. Some are self-employed science communicators.
How do I start studying paleontology?
Take science and history classes in high school. Volunteer at a local museum and use online resources from universities.
Is paleontology hard to get into?
It can be competitive. Publishing research, gaining field experience, and joining professional organizations will help you stand out.
