Graduate Programs

Graduate studies in the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences (GES) involve academic course work and independent research. Students are prepared for careers as professional scientists in research or the application of the earth sciences to mineral, energy, and water resources. Programs lead to the M.S., Engineer, and Ph.D. degrees. Course programs in the areas of faculty interest are tailored to the student's needs and interests with the aid of his or her research adviser. Students are encouraged to include in their program courses offered in other departments in the School of Earth Sciences as well as in other departments in the University. Diplomas designate degrees in Geological and Environmental Sciences and may also indicate the following specialized fields of study: Geostatistics and Hydrogeology.

For admission to graduate work in the department, the applicant must have taken the Aptitude Test (verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing assessment) of the Graduate Record Examination. In keeping with University policy, applicants whose first language is not English must submit TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores from a test taken within the last 18 months. Individuals who have completed a B.S. or two-year M.S. program in the U.S. or other English-speaking country are not required to submit TOEFL scores. Previously admitted students who wish to change their degree objective from M.S. to Ph.D. must petition the GES Admissions Committee.

For more information, please see our Graduate Admission page.

Fields with Diploma Designation

Hydrogeology

The Hydrogeology program, which leads to an M.S., Engineer, or Ph.D. degree in GES, balances research in the purely scientific and applied aspects of groundwater resources and near-surface processes The program requires students to obtain a broad background in earth sciences and engineering. Students in the program must have a strong general scientific background in basic physics, chemistry, computer science, and mathematics, and a demonstrated aptitude for solving quantitative problems. They must complete a core curriculum involving courses in fluid mechanics, hydrogeology, hydrology, and water quality. A list of required and recommended courses is supplied upon request.

Geostatistics

The Geostatistics program leads to an M.S. or Ph.D. degree in GES. Strong interactions have been developed with faculty and students in the departments of Geophysics and Petroleum Engineering. The program requires a geological background and a fair level of calculus and programming (Fortran and/or C++). Recent graduates have found jobs in the extractive (mining, oil) and environmental (EPA) fields.

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