Program Overview
The Master of Science in Geoscience at UNLV provides a comprehensive foundation for careers in government, consulting, and industry. Students specialize in areas such as petrology, volcanology, and hydrology through original research under expert faculty guidance. The program culminates in a thesis defense, demonstrating strong content knowledge in the chosen area of emphasis. Graduates are well-prepared for further graduate studies or challenging careers in the geoscience field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Master of Science - Geoscience
The Master of Science degree in Geoscience at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) aims to equip students with a comprehensive knowledge base for a wide range of challenging careers in sectors including government service, private consulting, and various industries. This thesis-based program serves as a foundation for individuals pursuing further graduate studies at the Doctoral level. Students engage in original research under the guidance of expert faculty, specializing in areas such as petrology, volcanology, economic geology, structural geology, sedimentary geology, geochemistry, hydrology, soil science, climate change, petroleum geology, and paleontology. Graduates demonstrate strong content knowledge in their chosen areas of emphasis, culminating in the submission and defense of their original thesis research.
Outline:
Course Requirements
- Required Courses (4 credits)
- GEOL 701 - Research Methods in Geoscience
- GEOL 795 - Poster Presentation and Time Management
- Elective Courses (20 credits)
- 20 credits of 600- or 700-level GEOL courses or advisor-approved courses.
- Thesis (6 credits)
- GEOL 797 - Thesis
Assessment:
Satisfactory academic progress is essential for all students in the program, including maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.00 in graduate-level coursework. No more than two grades of B- are permitted, while one grade of C+ or lower will result in academic probation even if the overall GPA remains above 3.0.
Careers:
The Master of Science in Geoscience degree prepares graduates for various career opportunities, including:
- Government service
- Private consulting
- Petroleum industry
