PhD - Doctor of Philosophy in Geosciences

The PhD geosciences degree program provides a curriculum that is designed to be relevant to many of today’s career prospects, as well as the opportunity to interact in a research context with faculty. Students can benefit from select research programs — some of which involve faculty researchers from other institutions if students are interested in analytical approaches in the geosciences — and a recently renovated space. Geosciences is a long-established program at the University and traces its deep roots to the early 1960s.

The PhD in geosciences degree emphasizes research in distinct specialties in the geosciences and is designed to prepare students for positions in the energy or environmental professions in industry or government, or for positions in academia. The department requires that a PhD dissertation will consist of a number of independent research contributions, most of which will be published in peer-reviewed geoscience journals.

Entering students are expected to have completed the equivalent of the University's BS degree in Geosciences, including courses in physics, mathematics and chemistry. Students whose undergraduate training is in a science other than geology or geophysics are admitted to the program when their previous course work complements or supports their intended research interests. Deficiencies in the undergraduate background of admitted students will be addressed through a sequence of four required graduate courses. It is understood that the minimum course requirements for the intended degree, as specified below, apply to well-prepared students.

English proficiency requirements

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT (Internet-based test) Minimum score: 80

TOEFL PBT (paper-based test) Minimum score: 550

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Minimum score: 6.5

Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE) Minimum score: 67

Completion of Level 112 at an ELS Language Center

Duolingo English Test Minimum score: 105

Application Deadlines: Fall term - January 15 (Early), May 1 (Regular); Spring term - May 15 (Early), October 1 (Regular).