Ph.D. in Marine, Atmospheric, and Sustainability Sciences

The Ph.D. program offered by SoMAS is designed to prepare students to independently identify and approach problems in marine sciences, atmospheric sciences, and sustainability. It builds on a series of core required courses by allowing students to create their own plan of advanced study, helping them to become independent problem solvers. The Ph.D. in Marine, Atmospheric, and Sustainability Sciences prepares students to compete effectively for academic positions or to direct research and assessment programs at government, private, or nongovernmental organizations. An 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: Completion of a B.A. or B.S. with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 (B); Three letters of recommendation; Official transcript(s); All applications should be submitted electronically through the Graduate School. For admission to either the Ph.D. program, the following are normally required: B.A. or B.S. degree in a discipline related to the intended field of study, or coursework equivalent to such a degree; 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; The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required; however, we will accept and consider scores for applicants who feel it strengthens their application.