Graduate Degrees in Geology

Geology

The Department of Geological Sciences offers Master of Science and doctoral degree programs. Our research-oriented department is affiliated with a number of research institutes and research centers, empowering students to advance their unique research interests.

The �鶹��Ƶ is ideally suited to the study of geological sciences. At the junction of the high plains and the Rocky Mountains, the Boulder area represents a natural outdoor laboratory where you can study geological features of all ages in diverse settings and observe earth processes firsthand. Fieldwork in the Rocky Mountain region is an essential part of instruction and research.

Degree Types

MS ᐧ PhD

CU Boulder is ranked the No. 3 university in the world for geoscience (U.S. News & World Report, 2023)

Students work with faculty who support a wide range of interdisciplinary research programs in biochemistry, economic resources, geodynamics, geophysics, glaciology, global climate change, hydrogeology, paleontology and surficial processes.

Research institute and center affiliates include the Cooperative Institute for Environmental Research (CIRES), the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP), the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR), the Center for Astrobiology, the Energy and Minerals Applied Research Center (EMARC), and the CU Boulder Museum of Natural History.

Degree Options & Application Requirements

Geology

Master of Science

30 credit hours
Thesis and nonthesis options
Each student acquires a primary advisor and an advisory committee that provides guidance throughout the degree program.

Application Deadlines & Requirements

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

For program details, review the .

Doctor of Philosophy

30 credit hours of coursework
30 credit hours of doctoral dissertation

Application Deadlines & Requirements

To learn about the upcoming term application deadlines, please visit the Graduate School website.

For program details, review the .

Research Areas

Cosmochemistry & Planetary Geology
Earth Science Education
Economic & Energy Resources
Geobiology & Astrobiology
Geochemistry
Geochronology, Thermochronology, Geologic Time
Geodynamics, Geophysics, Remote Sensing
Geomorphology & Cryosphere
Global Change
Hydrology
Natural Hazards
Paleoclimate & Paleoceanography
Paleontology & Paleobiology
Petrology & Mineralogy
Sedimentology & Stratigraphy
Structure & Tectonics

Funding Opportunities

We understand funding opportunities play a major role in helping you to decide whether a program is right for you. At CU Boulder, PhD students are supported through research and teaching assistantships. Students are also encouraged to apply for their own sources of funding.

Explore General Funding Explore Department-Specific Funding

Graduate Student Resources

Student success is best met with holistic support and resources. CU Boulder offers robust resources, programming and opportunities to help students establish meaningful connections, adjust to graduate student life and find assistance when they need it. Whether it’s academic, social, or health and wellness support, the university provides an array of resources to meet the diverse needs of our students.

Graduate Student Organizations