Program Overview

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Geological Engineering, MS

The graduate program offers training leading to the master of science and the doctor of philosophy degrees in geological engineering. Geological engineering is a rapidly growing field of study that integrates the two disciplines of geology and engineering. Geological engineers help find the best ways to use the earth's resources for solving technical problems while protecting the environment.

Program Description

The need for graduate education in geological engineering has been brought about by modern developments and activities in science and industry that have an impact on earth materials including soil, rock, water, and air. The area of study combines research and application methodologies of geology and of several engineering disciplines to address engineering problems in which the geologic nature of a site or geologic processes constitute major design objectives or constraints.

Emphasis

Emphasis in the program is on development of the student's ability to originate and perform analytical, numerical, and/or laboratory analysis techniques to address new and challenging earth-related problems associated with modern land-use practices, earthen construction, energy and mineral extraction, and environmental pollution control and remediation.

Areas of Interest

The program is expected to be of interest to students in engineering (particularly mining, civil, environmental, and mechanical) and physical sciences (particularly geology, geophysics, and geography). Students select their research topics from such areas as:

• Geotechnical and geo-environmental engineering
• Applied geophysics
• Hydrology and hydrogeology
• Numerical modeling of rock masses
• Remote sensing
• Rock mechanics
• Soil and rock engineering

Facilities

Modern facilities include:

• Soil and rock mechanics laboratories
• Drilling equipment and instrumentation for rock and soil mechanics field testing
• Soils, geosynthetics, and geo-environmental laboratories

Funding

Research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowships are available to qualified applicants either upon admission or one to two semesters after entering the program.

Admissions

Requirements

Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s).

Deadlines

• Fall Deadline: December 15
• Spring Deadline: September 1
• Summer Deadline: December 15

Tests

• GRE (Graduate Record Examinations): Not required
• English Proficiency Test: Refer to the Graduate School's policy
• Other Test(s) (e.g., GMAT, MCAT): Not applicable

Letters of Recommendation

• 3 letters of recommendation are required

Application Process

All applicants must meet the Graduate School's admission requirements to be considered for admission. Departmental admission is by committee review.

Grades

• A minimum undergraduate grade-point average (GPA) of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) on the equivalent of the last 60 semester hours (approximately two years of work) or a masters degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 is required.

Degree

• A bachelor's degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program or from a recognized international institution is preferred or bachelors degree in physical sciences.

Funding Opportunities

Financial support is available through:

• Fellowships
• Project/program assistantships (PA)
• Research assistantships (RA)
• Teaching assistantships (TA)

Requirements

Mode of Instruction

• Face to Face: Yes
• Evening/Weekend: No
• Online: No
• Hybrid: No
• Accelerated: No

Curricular Requirements

• Minimum Credit Requirement: 30 credits
• Minimum Residence Credit Requirement: 16 credits
• Minimum Graduate Coursework Requirement:
  • Thesis Pathway: 16 credits must be graduate-level coursework
  • Independent Study Pathway: 21 credits must be graduate-level coursework
• Overall Graduate GPA Requirement: 3.00 GPA required

Required Courses

MS degree candidates may choose from two options for their program of study:

Thesis Pathway

• Graduate-Level Coursework: 16 credits
• Seminar: 2 credits
• Research or Thesis: 6 credits
• Additional Coursework: 6 credits

Independent Study Pathway

• Graduate-Level Coursework: 21 credits
• Seminar: 2 credits
• Independent Work: 3 credits
• Additional Coursework: 4 credits

Policies

Prior Coursework

Refer to the Graduate School's policy on transfer credits for prior coursework.

Probation

Refer to the Graduate School's policy on probation.

Advisor / Committee

Refer to the Graduate School's policies on advisor and committees.

Credits Per Term Allowed

15 credit maximum.

Time Limits

Refer to the Graduate School's policy on time limits.

Grievances and Appeals

Students who feel that they have been treated unfairly have the right to a prompt hearing of their grievance.

Professional Development

Take advantage of the Graduate School's professional development resources to build skills, thrive academically, and launch your career.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate a strong understanding of mathematical, scientific, and engineering principles in the field.
2. Demonstrate an ability to formulate, analyze, and solve advanced engineering problems.
3. Demonstrate creative, independent problem-solving skills.
4. Apply the latest scientific and technological advancements, advanced techniques, and modern engineering tools to these problems.
5. Recognize and apply principles of ethical and professional conduct.