Geological Engineering Ph.D.

The Geological Engineering Ph.D. program at the University of North Dakota is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in geological engineering, preparing them for careers in research, teaching, and advanced professional practice.

Program Overview

The program is a doctoral degree that can be completed in 3-5 years, requiring 90 credit hours. It is offered on campus, providing students with the opportunity to work closely with faculty and researchers in multiple disciplines.

Program Requirements

The program requires students to complete two consecutive semesters in residence, pass a written and oral exam, complete oral progress reports detailing their research, and complete and defend a dissertation.

Why Earn a Ph.D. in Geological Engineering?

The program provides students with the technical prowess to offer significant solutions to 21st-century challenges, while also gaining broad knowledge in related areas. Students will work with faculty and researchers in multiple disciplines, preparing them for careers in:

• Advanced professional practice
• Teaching
• Careers in research
• Creative activity in engineering or a related field

Application Deadlines

The application deadlines for the program are:

• Fall: March 1 (priority deadline) and August 1
• Spring: September 1 (priority deadline) and December 1

Geological Engineering Ph.D. at UND

The program at UND offers students the opportunity to:

• Work side-by-side with faculty who have active research grants totaling more than $8 million
• Access the Willard M. Laird Core and Sample Library, a vast resource containing 40,000 cores from nearly every oil well drilled in North Dakota
• Utilize the F.D. Holland Jr. Geology Library, one of the largest geoscience libraries in the upper Midwest
• Benefit from extensive state and industry support bolstering UND facilities and faculty
• Enhance their professional skills at 60+ free workshops offered through the UND School of Graduate Studies

Geological Engineering Ph.D. Careers

Graduates of the program play critical roles in many industries, including:

• Environmental engineering
• Geological engineering
• Petroleum geologist
• Hydrogeology
• Remote sensing/GIS
• Mining
• Mapping and surveying
• Teaching

The median annual salary for mining and geological engineers is $101,000 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024).

Geological Engineering Ph.D. Skills

A doctorate in Geological Engineering provides students with strategic skills, including:

• Geology
• Geographic Information Systems
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Soil Science
• Geologic Mapping
• ArcGIS (GIS Software)

UND Geological Engineering Alumni

Alumni of the program have gone on to successful careers with companies such as:

• American Engineering Test, Inc.
• Barr Engineering Co.
• Center for Energy and Environment
• Alaska Department of Fish and Game
• Archaeological Research, Inc.
• BJ Services Company

Geological Engineering Ph.D. Courses

The program offers a range of courses, including:

• Advanced Rock Mechanics (GEOE 555)
• Advanced Subsurface Energy Recovery in Engineering (GEOE 591)
• Hydrogeology (GEOE 417)
• Advanced Paleontology (GEOL 515)

University of North Dakota: A Summary

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Overview:

The University of North Dakota (UND) is the state's oldest and largest university, offering over 225 accredited on-campus and online degrees. It is known for its commitment to student leadership and fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.

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Services Offered:

UND provides a range of support services for students, including:

Diversity and Inclusion:

UND values diverse perspectives and actively promotes a sense of belonging for all students.

TRIO Programs:

Support for first-generation and Pell-eligible students to help them succeed at UND.

Pride Center:

Resources and support for the LGBTQ+ community on campus.

Disability Resources:

Equal opportunities for qualified students with disabilities to participate in all UND activities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UND emphasizes student leadership and provides opportunities for students to make a positive impact. The campus offers a vibrant community with various student organizations and activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

UND offers a wide range of highly accredited programs, including specialized fields like Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations, Data Science, and Forensic Science.

Affordability:

UND consistently ranks among the best for educational quality and affordability.

Career Outcomes:

UND prepares students for successful careers with strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world experience.

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Academic Programs:

UND offers a diverse range of academic programs, with notable strengths in:

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations:

A cutting-edge program in a rapidly growing industry.

Data Science:

A high-demand field with strong career prospects.

Economics:

A solid foundation for careers in law, business, and other fields.

Forensic Science:

Immersive program with hands-on experience in forensic labs.