However, due to advancing technology and an increase in licensing standards, formal education requirements are increasing. Most States at the present time require some formal post-high school education coursework and 10 to 12 years of surveying experience to gain licensure. However, requirements vary among the States. An increasing number of States require a bachelor's degree in surveying or in a closely related field, such as civil engineering or forestry, with courses in surveying. High school students interested in surveying should take courses in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, drafting, mechanical drawing, and computer science.
High school graduates with no formal training in surveying usually start as an apprentice.
Beginners with postsecondary school training in surveying can generally start as technicians or assistants. The American Congress on Surveying and Mapping has a voluntary certification program for survey technicians. Technicians are certified at four levels that require progressive amounts of experience and passing written examinations. Although not required for State licensure, many employers require certification for promotion to positions with greater responsibilities. Cartographers and photogrammetrists usually have a bachelor's degree in engineering or a physical science.