Geosciences, Thesis Option, M.S.

Program Overview

This two-year geosciences program equips students with advanced knowledge, technical skills, and research methodologies. Through coursework, research, and professional development, graduates develop expertise in various domains of geosciences, preparing them for careers as researchers, scientists, and professionals in government, academia, and the private sector.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview:
• This program provides students with advanced content knowledge, technical skills, and research methodologies to become experts in geosciences.
• Objectives:
• Graduates will:
• Evaluate and critique Earth system models showcasing advanced understanding.
• Develop and defend research topics and plans.
• Execute research plans with defendable results.
• Create written and presented works showcasing proficiency in Earth-system data analysis, research design, and research communication.
• Develop a professional profile in geosciences, incorporating professional development.
• Program Description:
• This two-year, full-time or part-time program focuses on advanced topics of Earth sciences, enabling students to specialize or broaden their expertise in various domains of geosciences through course-work, research-related activities, professional skill development programs and workshops.
Throughout the program, students are guided to critically analyze and interpret scientific literature, evaluate geological data from diverse sources, conduct independent research under faculty mentorship, and communicate research outcomes to scientific communities through presentations and written reports.

Outline:

• Content and Structure:
• The curriculum encompasses a blend of required courses and electives in geosciences and supporting subjects, including physical geology, geological engineering, geochemistry, geophysics, and environmental studies.
• Students collaborate with their advisors to tailor their coursework to suit their individual interests and career goals.
• Schedule and Modules:
• The curriculum consists of approximately 12 courses (36 credit hours), typically completed within two years of full-time study (or within three years of part-time study), which includes research work.
• Required modules may include topics like advanced field methods in geology, advanced geochemical modeling techniques, and advanced geophysical data interpretation.

Assessment:

• Grading System:
• Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA and earn passing (Satisfactory) grades in their thesis/report coursework to remain in the program.
• Thesis/Report Assessment:
• The thesis or report serves as the primary assessment method for the program and is evaluated by the student's thesis committee.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methodologies:
• Courses emphasize a mix of lecture-style, collaborative discussions, project-based assignments, field trips and laboratory experiments to foster a comprehensive learning experience.
• Faculty Expertise:
• The program is led by a dedicated team of faculty members who bring diverse research specializations, such as geophysics, geochemistry, sedimentology, stratigraphy, paleontology, geohydrology, and planetary sciences.
• Professional Development:
• Students actively engage in professional skill-development programs and workshops, which are designed to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, leadership skills and ethics, which contribute to their preparation for successful careers.

Careers:

• Career Paths and Opportunities:
• Graduates are prepared for diverse professions, including roles as researchers and scientists in government agencies, academia, and the private sector (i.e., energy industry, environmental consulting and management, geotechnical firms)