Doctor of Philosophy in Marine, Atmospheric, and Sustainability Sciences

The Ph.D. program is designed to prepare students to independently identify and attack oceanographic and atmospheric problems. It builds on a series of core required courses (taken by both PhD and M.S. students), and allows students to create their own course of advanced study, helping them to become effective, independent problem solvers. The Ph.D. in Marine and Atmospheric Sciences prepares students to compete effectively for academic positions, direct research programs at government or private laboratories, and direct research and assessment programs at non-governmental organizations. A M.S. degree is not required for admission to the Ph.D. program. Most students take 5 to 6 years to complete their Ph.D.

All students must meet the general requirements of the Graduate School which include:

A. Completion of a B.A. or B.S. with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 (B);

B. Acceptable scores on the TOEFL (paper: 600, computer: 230, iBT: 90) or IELTS (6.5) for foreign students;

C. Three letters of recommendation;

D. Official transcript(s);

All applications should be submitted electronically through the Graduate School.

For admission to the M.A. program, students must have completed at least 4 semesters of college courses in math or science, including at least one course in biology. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required for admission to the M.A. program.

For admission to either the M.S. or Ph.D. graduate program, the following are normally required:

A. B.A. or B.S. degree in a discipline related to the intended field of study, or coursework equivalent to such a degree;

B. At least eight semesters total of some combination of introductory coursework in mathematics, biology, chemistry, geology, physics, sustainability, and/or related disciplines, with more advanced work in at least one of these disciplines;

C. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required; however, we will accept and consider scores for applicants who feel it strengthens their application.