The Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering offers research-oriented M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in geology, geophysics, and geological engineering as well as two interdisciplinary programs in hydrologic sciences.
Geology, Ph.D. and M.S.
Explore earth-science research areas such as geodynamics, volcanology, geochemistry and petrology, earth and planetary surface processes, earthquakes and seismology, and mineral and energy resources with expert faculty.
Geological Engineering, M.S.
Apply physics, chemistry, meteorology, hydrology, biology, geology and engineering science to understanding the Earth, recognizing and coping with environmental hazards, exploiting natural resources while preserving the environment, and exploring Earth's context in the solar system. Although often equated with geotechnical engineering, a discipline closely aligned with civil engineering, geological engineering is more correctly characterized as a program focused on geologic hazards mitigation and natural resource characterization. In one sense, geological engineering is a form of environmental engineering.
Geophysics, Ph.D. and M.S.
Armed with an array of cutting-edge technologies and tactics, the Βι¶ΉΣ³» geophysics program prides itself on bringing traditional classroom subjects, such as mathematics and physics, into the great outdoors. Hence its motto: "The earth is our laboratory."
Graduate-level study in geophysics explores the global properties of the earth (gravity, magnetic field, crustal motions, interior dynamics) and the determination of near-surface and interior properties through the use of seismology, electromagnetics, potential fields, remote sensing, geodesy and Global Positioning Systems (GPS).
Interdisciplinary programs in hydrologic sciences
Interdisciplinary with the , The Graduate Program in Hydrologic Sciences offers M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in both Hydrology and Hydrogeology. The program focuses on studies of water in the environment including its role in geologic and biogeochemical processes, ecosystem functions, and climate science.