Earth Sciences
Department of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Arts & Science
Patti Nakai-Lajoie is not only a Geologist, she's also an Earth Sciences grad.
Patti Nakai-Lajoie started her career in the Yukon as a Geologist working on advanced stage exploration programs. She has gained experience working on gold, silver, uranium and base metal projects in Canada, the United States, South America and Africa. Read more about Patti on LinkedIn.
What skills can Earth Sciences graduates use in their careers?
Within two years of entering the labour market, 78% with undergraduate degrees in this area of study are employed with a median salary of $74,454/year.
66% of those graduates go on to pursue further education. (Sources: Statistics Canada Employment Income and Further Education Data from Class of 2020.)
Industry Pathways
Alumni with a degree in Earth Sciences have often pursued these industries:
- Environmental Science & Sustainability
- Renewable Energy & Climate Policy
- Civil, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering
- Laboratory & Field Research
- Urban Planning & Public Affairs
- Research & Development (STEM)
- Postsecondary Education (Colleges & Universities)
- Public Administration
Further Education Pathways
Alumni with a degree in Earth Sciences have often pursued these further education options:
- Master of Science (MSc)
- Master of Environmental Studies (MES)
- Master of Engineering (MEng)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Master of Urban Planning (MUP)
- Master of Data Science / Analytics
- Postgraduate Certificate
- Graduate Diploma
Exploring connections between your degree and career
Learn about yourself
Register for Job Shadowing to connect with professionals in your field of interest through a half- or full-day placement that helps clarify your goals and explore career paths.
Attend an In the Field program to meet professionals working in various roles within one organization.
Find a Work Study Position to apply your academic skills in paid, on-campus roles that offer hands-on experience and insight into career possibilities.
Join a career workshop or small group conversation to explore options, understand your strengths, and plan for your future. Visit the Career and Co-Curricular Learning Network (CLNx) for more information.
Build Your Network
Find the University of Toronto on LinkedIn and connect with peers, professionals, and alumni who can support your career journey.
Access U of T's Hub on Ten Thousand Coffees —an online networking platform with over 12,000 students and alumni—to exchange career advice, attend webinars, and explore career paths through one-on-one conversations.
Join networking events, panels, and career fairs through CLNx to connect with employers and alumni for career advice, informational interviews, and referrals.
Volunteer opportunities are a great ways to expand your connections and gain industry insight.
Explore identity-focused mentorship opportunities—such as the Black Alumni Mentorship Program—to connect with mentors who share your lived experiences and can support your personal, academic, and professional growth. If you have questions about the program, connect with Modele Kuforiji at mod.kuforiji@utoronto.ca.
Student Life’s Mentorship & Peer Programs also provide engagement opportunities for African Black Caribbean, Latin American, Southeast Asian, and First-Generation students, helping to promote academic and career wellness while fostering belonging and community. If you have questions about this programming, contact Adonica Huggins at adonica.huggins@utoronto.ca.
Explore Your Program
Explore your area of study by connecting with faculty and peers and finding opportunities that enrich your academic and professional journey.
Talk to professors to better understand your discipline and identify meaningful learning experiences.
Get involved in student groups and leadership roles to spark new ideas, expand your perspective, and open unexpected opportunities.
Take advantage of faculty advising and support services, and explore internships through professional associations to gain hands-on experience in your field.
Take advantage of geologist certification support and training.
Build your network and understand your possibilities at an information night, career night or the Prospectors and Developers Conference.
Get involved with student chapters of professional associations including the OGS to increase transferable skills.
Volunteer at the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada Annual Conference.
Get hands on research experience through international field courses and by working with professors.
