Doctor of Philosophy in Geoscience
Program Overview
The Doctor of Philosophy in Geoscience program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas prepares students for research-oriented careers in academia, government, consulting, and industry. Students focus on original research in geology, hydrology, or soil science, and are expected to develop original lines of research leading to peer-reviewed publications. The program emphasizes strong content knowledge, scientific ethics, and the ability to conduct independent research. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as research scientists, professors, environmental consultants, hydrologists, geologists, and soil scientists.
Program Outline
Outline:
The Doctor of Philosophy in Geoscience program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas is designed to prepare students for demanding research-oriented careers in academia, government service, private consulting, and industry. Working closely with their advisors, students focus on original research in one of three emphasis areas: geology, hydrology, or soil science. Research expectations are high; students are expected to develop original lines of research that will lead to three or more original manuscripts that are suitable for submission to a refereed scientific journal. Students are expected to have strong content knowledge in their area of emphasis and three additional sub-disciplines of the geological sciences. Fundamental knowledge levels are tested first in a diagnostic exam that is used to guide coursework taken by the student, and then later in a comprehensive exam.
Assessment:
Students are assessed on their ability to:
- Define a research problem by identifying questions and formulating tests of hypotheses
- Demonstrate an understanding of scientific ethics
- Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of scientific literature for work relevant to research projects
- Conduct field and laboratory research related to dissertation projects
- Demonstrate a broad knowledge on the subjects closely related to the field of specialization
- Demonstrate the ability to do original and creative research
- Design and carry out a substantial independent research project through to completion
- Present scientific results to the audience of the scientific community and the general public
- Prepare publications and submit them to peer-reviewed journals
- Demonstrate an excellent knowledge of at least one field of specialization
Teaching:
The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research. The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, and research projects. Students are also encouraged to participate in research conferences and to publish their work in peer-reviewed journals.
Careers:
Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of careers in academia, government service, private consulting, and industry. Some of the most common career paths include:
- Research scientist
- Professor
- Environmental consultant
- Hydrologist
- Geologist
- Soil scientist
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Overview:
University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is a public research university located in the heart of Las Vegas, Nevada. It is known for its diverse student body, innovative academic programs, and its unique location in a vibrant and dynamic city.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
UNLV offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect to find a welcoming community with a strong sense of belonging. The university boasts a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities, catering to various interests. UNLV also emphasizes the importance of community engagement and provides opportunities for students to connect with the local community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Diverse and Inclusive Environment:
UNLV prides itself on its diverse student body, with one-third of students being first-generation college attendees. This creates a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from various backgrounds.Unique Location:
Situated in Las Vegas, UNLV offers students access to a vibrant city with numerous cultural, entertainment, and professional opportunities.Innovative Academics:
UNLV offers a wide range of academic programs, including 78 majors, 84 minors, and over 197 graduate degree and certificate programs. The university also boasts its own law, medicine, and dental medicine schools.Strong Community Engagement:
UNLV encourages students to engage with the local community and provides opportunities for service learning and volunteer work.Academic Programs:
UNLV offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Sciences:
Humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics.Business:
Accounting, finance, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship.Education:
Teacher education, educational leadership, and special education.Engineering:
Civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering.Health Sciences:
Nursing, medicine, dentistry, public health, and biomedical sciences.Hospitality:
Hospitality management, tourism management, and culinary arts.Law:
Juris Doctor (JD) degree.Fine Arts:
Music, theatre, dance, and visual arts.Other:
UNLV is a relatively young university, established in 1957. It has grown significantly over the years and is now one of the largest universities in Nevada. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, focusing on areas such as healthcare, technology, and sustainability.
Entry Requirements:
- A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geoscience or an appropriate related field.
- A successful applicant should have overall grade point average (GPA) higher than 3.0, unless other evidence indicates that the applicant will be successful in the graduate program.
- For international applicants whose native language is not English, a proof of English proficiency is required.
