Geologists glean information about the earth's history by studying fossils and rock formations.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that individuals with master's degrees in geology can expect excellent job opportunities through the year 2018. Geologists study rock formations and fossils of plants and animals to glean information about evolution and the earth's history. Master's degrees in geology are preferred for many jobs in the field; job opportunities are especially good in the gas industry and in consulting. A number of schools throughout the United States offer master's degree programs in geology.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
The master's degree program in geology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison typically can be completed in two years. Students select a faculty advisor during the first semester and a thesis advisor during the second semester of study. A master's thesis is required for graduation from the master's degree program; students present their research results to a faculty committee and to students in the geology department. Degree candidates select from graduate-level courses covering topics in geochemistry, structural geology, geophysics and marine science. The university notes on its website that oil companies recruit on campus for internship positions for geology students.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Department of Geoscience
1215 West Dayton Street
Madison, WI 53706
608-262-8960
geology.wisc.edu
West Virginia University
Students enrolled in the master's degree program in geology at West Virginia University can select from a research track or professional track. The research track requires submission of a thesis and is ideal for students who intend to continue on with Ph.D.-level study or pursue a career in research. The professional track involves completion of two projects and prepares students for geological careers. Students can select from several specializations including energy exploration and hydroscience.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for master's degree students; an undergraduate geology degree is not required for admission, but applicants with degrees in other fields need to make up undergraduate math and science courses. Graduate geology courses cover topics including mineral resources, geochemistry and groundwater modeling.
West Virginia University
Department of Geology Geography
330 Brooks Hall
Morgantown, WV 26506
304-293-5603
geo.wvu.edu
California State University East Bay
Geology master's degree students at Cal State University East Bay can take courses on a full-time or part-time basis, making the degree attainable for students who work full-time. Graduates of the program often go on to careers as government geologists, consultants and researchers, while some continue on to doctoral programs.
The 45-credit master's degree program requires candidates to complete a research project or master's thesis; an environmental geology track is available to students who wish to complete a thesis with an environmental theme. Geology students can choose from courses covering topics including groundwater, engineering geology and seismic exploration.
Department of Earth Environmental Sciences
California State University, East Bay
25800 Carlos Bee Boulevard
Hayward, CA 94542-3088
510-885-3486
sci.csueastbay.edu
