Master of Science in Geosciences

Program Overview

UMass Amherst's Master of Science in Geosciences program fosters research excellence, trains students for industry, academia, and government careers, and emphasizes collaboration and professional development. Graduates acquire skills in field, laboratory, and numerical approaches, positioning them for leadership roles and careers in environmental consulting, energy exploration, academia, and government agencies.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Science in Geosciences program at UMass Amherst aims to:

• Establish graduate training and research: The department strives to be among the top Earth and environmental science research departments in the country, conducting nationally and internationally recognized research across various geoscience disciplines.
• Train students for productive careers: The program provides innovative teaching and mentoring, opportunities for participation in cutting-edge research activities, and prepares students for careers in industry, academia, and government.
• Connect with the broader UMass and scientific community: The department fosters research collaborations and communication regarding Earth processes, global change, and human geography.
The department emphasizes a collegial environment without an imposing hierarchy, strong career placement, faculty mentoring, and professional development. Students have access to a wide range of field, laboratory, and numerical approaches for training. Many graduate students and postdocs take on leadership roles in planning and organization. The department also emphasizes science communication and outreach.

Careers:

The program prepares students for careers in:

• Industry: The program provides skills and knowledge relevant to various industries, such as environmental consulting, energy exploration, and resource management.
• Academia: Graduates are equipped for research positions in universities and research institutions.
• Government: The program prepares students for roles in government agencies focused on environmental protection, resource management, and scientific research.

Other:

• The department has a strong track record of career placement, faculty mentoring, and professional development.
• Students have training opportunities in a wide range of field, laboratory, and numerical approaches.
• Many of our graduate students and postdocs take on leadership roles in planning and organization.
• Across the department, an emphasis is placed on science communication and outreach.