COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Geology requires students to complete a minimum of 30 graduate credits, of which at least 10 must be at the 600 level, with restrictions allowing no more than two credits in research problems and six credits in thesis research. In all M.S. programs, except Engineering Geology, at least 22 graduate credits must be in geology courses. Admission typically requires a strong undergraduate background, including a six-credit geology field camp, and coursework in mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, sedimentology/stratigraphy, plus two additional upper-level geology courses. Students are also expected to have completed foundational courses in chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics, including at least one semester each of calculus, physics, and chemistry, all taught for science or engineering majors. A proficiency exam is administered in the first semester to assess knowledge related to the student’s intended thesis area, and those demonstrating deficiencies may be required to take additional courses. Formal thesis work, including the proposal and thesis research, may not begin until the proficiency exam is successfully completed. The program includes core requirements such as GEOL 680 Seminar in Geology and GEOL 699 Master’s Thesis, totaling eight credits. While graduate-level field camp can be taken for credit, it does not count toward the 30-credit requirement. This structure ensures students develop both the breadth and depth necessary for professional or academic careers in geology.