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
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Overview:
University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is a public research university located in the heart of Las Vegas, Nevada. It is known for its diverse student body, innovative academic programs, and its unique location in a vibrant and dynamic city.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
UNLV offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect to find a welcoming community with a strong sense of belonging. The university boasts a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities, catering to various interests. UNLV also emphasizes the importance of community engagement and provides opportunities for students to connect with the local community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Diverse and Inclusive Environment:
UNLV prides itself on its diverse student body, with one-third of students being first-generation college attendees. This creates a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from various backgrounds.Unique Location:
Situated in Las Vegas, UNLV offers students access to a vibrant city with numerous cultural, entertainment, and professional opportunities.Innovative Academics:
UNLV offers a wide range of academic programs, including 78 majors, 84 minors, and over 197 graduate degree and certificate programs. The university also boasts its own law, medicine, and dental medicine schools.Strong Community Engagement:
UNLV encourages students to engage with the local community and provides opportunities for service learning and volunteer work.Academic Programs:
UNLV offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Sciences:
Humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics.Business:
Accounting, finance, marketing, management, and entrepreneurship.Education:
Teacher education, educational leadership, and special education.Engineering:
Civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering.Health Sciences:
Nursing, medicine, dentistry, public health, and biomedical sciences.Hospitality:
Hospitality management, tourism management, and culinary arts.Law:
Juris Doctor (JD) degree.Fine Arts:
Music, theatre, dance, and visual arts.Other:
UNLV is a relatively young university, established in 1957. It has grown significantly over the years and is now one of the largest universities in Nevada. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, focusing on areas such as healthcare, technology, and sustainability.
Entry Requirements:
- A Bachelor's degree in Geoscience or an appropriate related field.
- A successful applicant should have an overall grade point average (GPA) higher than 3.0, unless other evidence indicates that the applicant will be successful in the graduate program.
- For international applicants whose native language is not English, a proof of English proficiency is required.
