MS in Geology
The MS in Geology offers two pathways designed to meet different professional goals.
Thesis Option
30 credit hours
The thesis option is designed for students seeking intensive research training. Students work closely with a faculty adviser to design and complete an original research project culminating in a written thesis and oral defense.
Non-Thesis Option
40 credit hours
The non-thesis option is designed for students focused on professional practice or applied training. This pathway emphasizes advanced coursework and may include a directed study or capstone project.
Both options provide strong preparation in geological theory, quantitative analysis and field methods.
Curriculum Requirements
Thesis Option Requirements
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21 hours of graduate-level geology courses, including GEOL 7100 Geocommunication
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3 to 5 hours of approved 6000- or 7000-level electives
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4 to 6 hours of research and thesis credit
Students must successfully complete a comprehensive oral examination and defend their thesis.
Non-Thesis Option Requirements
- 36 hours of graduate-level geology courses, including GEOL 7100 Geocommunication
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4 hours of approved electives or directed study credit
Students complete a comprehensive examination or approved culminating experience.
Areas of Study
Students work with faculty across a range of geological specialties, including:
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Sedimentology and stratigraphy
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Paleontology
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Structural geology
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Geochemistry
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Hydrogeology
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Environmental geology
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Geophysics
Research often integrates laboratory analysis, quantitative modeling and field investigation.
Field training is a core component of the program. Students must complete an approved summer field course or comparable field experience prior to beginning their second year.
All students must demonstrate working knowledge of a computer language or a computer-based geographic information system before graduation.
These requirements ensure graduates leave with both theoretical knowledge and practical technical skills.
Graduates of the program will be able to:
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Apply advanced geological principles to analyze Earth processes
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Design and conduct independent research
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Interpret geological data from field and laboratory settings
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Communicate scientific findings clearly in written and oral formats
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Use quantitative and computational tools to solve geological problems
Graduate students participate in active research programs within the Department of Geosciences. Projects may involve field investigations, laboratory analysis, geospatial data modeling or interdisciplinary collaboration.
Students present research at professional meetings and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
Graduates pursue careers in:
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Energy and natural resource industries
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Environmental and engineering consulting
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Government agencies and geological surveys
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Academic and research institutions
The program also provides strong preparation for doctoral study.
Applicants must:
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Hold a bachelor’s degree in geology or a related field
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Meet Auburn University Graduate School admission standards
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Submit transcripts, three letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose
Competitive applicants typically have completed foundational coursework in geology, chemistry, physics and mathematics.
For fall admission with priority consideration for assistantships, applications should be submitted by Jan. 15.
Prospective students are encouraged to contact faculty members whose research aligns with their interests prior to applying.
Ready to advance your training in geology?
Apply through the Auburn University Graduate School and begin building the skills to understand and shape the future of Earth science.
