Program Overview

Geology Graduate Major (MA, MS, PhD) Overview

The Geology Graduate Major is a comprehensive program that encompasses the study of the materials, processes, and history of the solid Earth and its fluid envelopes. Geology is an integrative field that draws on mathematics, chemistry, physics, and biology to understand the interactions of the lithosphere, biosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere. Studies in geology commonly combine observations and measurements from field, laboratory, and computational studies.

Program Description

Geology plays a crucial role in decisions about resource use, slope stability, and the safety of building projects, natural hazards standards, mineral exploration and extraction, the basic workings of the Earth, and the understanding of the effects and rates of natural and human-induced change in the environment. Students who seek training in a combination of field and laboratory techniques applying a variety of scientific problems will find numerous opportunities and facilities available.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will meet the following learning outcomes:

• MA:
  • Conduct research or produce some other form of creative work.
  • Demonstrate mastery of subject material.
  • Conduct scholarly or professional activities in an ethical manner.
• MS:
  • Conduct research or produce some other form of creative work.
  • Demonstrate mastery of subject material.
  • Conduct scholarly or professional activities in an ethical manner.
  • Demonstrate ability to effectively communicate geological information.
• PhD:
  • Produce and defend an original significant contribution to knowledge.
  • Demonstrate mastery of subject material.
  • Conduct scholarly activities in an ethical manner.
  • Produce and defend an original body of work.
  • Demonstrate ability to effectively communicate geological information.

Degree Requirements

Master of Science (MS) and Master of Arts (MA) Degrees

The master's degree requires successful completion of at least 45 credits of appropriate courses, including a thesis. The thesis presents a written summary of research findings and conclusions. All master's programs include a final oral examination. Each graduate program is supervised by a committee of at least three members of the graduate faculty who collaborate with the student in developing a program of study and research leading to the final oral examination.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degree

The doctor of philosophy (PhD) degree is granted for proven ability in research and mastery of an area within the discipline of geology. This is demonstrated through successful performance in at least 108 credits of appropriate coursework and research. The pursuit of the PhD also requires passing qualifying exams that advance a student to candidacy. The doctoral program includes original research in a major topic in one of the department's areas of specialization submitted as a dissertation that is presented and defended orally.

Graduate Minor

Advanced degree programs in geology may include an optional minor subject area. It may be in a single discipline or an integrated grouping of courses organized around a theme. In developing minors, students commonly combine courses from several campus departments.