Dec 21, 2024  
2013-2015 Undergraduate and Graduate Academic Catalog 
    
2013-2015 Undergraduate and Graduate Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Geology, M.S.


CIP Code: 8410 (400601-01)

The program of study leading to the degree of Master of Science in Geology provides coursework which will prepare the student to enter the professional field or continue studies toward a more advanced degree. The following fields are emphasized in terms of course and research opportunities: Computer Applications, Environmental Geology, Geomagnetism, Geochemistry, Geophysics including 3D seismic visualization, Hydrology, Micropaleontology, Petroleum Geology, Petrology, Remote Sensing, Sedimentology, Stratigraphy, Structural Geology, and Volcanology.

Prerequisites


To be admitted in regular status a student must have a degree in geology or a related field from an accredited university and meet the minimal GPA and GRE scores established by the department. A student who has not done so prior to entering the graduate program must complete certain undergraduate geology courses as determined by the Geology Graduate Committee. The student should have knowledge of other related science and mathematics courses; the specific courses needed to satisfy this requirement will be determined by the Geology Graduate Committee when the student is accepted into the program.

Course Requirements


The usual program requires 30 semester hours of graduate credit work, which comprises 6 hours of thesis credit and 24 hours of course credit. The 24 hours of course credit must include a minimum of 15 hours of graduate credit courses in geology. In addition, course level requirements for graduate work require 12 hours of 500 level courses, at least 9 of which must be in geology. Supportive graduate courses in a related field such as biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, petroleum engineering, physics, or statistics are encouraged. Except under special circumstances, a thesis is required. If the thesis requirement is waived, permission of the head of the department and substitution of suitable course work of not less than 12 semester hours are required.