About This Degree
The MS in applied environmental geoscience emphasizes interdisciplinary coursework and thought, as well as flexibility in tailoring coursework to your interests. This terminal degree program requires a combination of advanced courses selected from geoscience offerings, as well as additional courses from other units on campus, enabling students to complement traditional geology courses. This degree is for students interested in knowing core geoscience principles while also having a multidisciplinary degree for careers in wide variety of fields.
The Department of Geosciences is one of the oldest departments at Utah State. It fosters a friendly environment where students are able to interact with faculty and receive specialized attention and opportunities for research.
Because USU’s applied environmental geoscience program is designated as a Western Regional Graduate Program, students from participating western states qualify for in-state tuition. For more information, visit http://wrgp.wiche.edu.
ADVISING
At a Glance
College: College of Science
Department: Geosciences Department
USU Locations:
- Logan campus
- Statewide campuses
Faculty: View profiles of faculty members on the department directory.
Program Requirements
Career And Outcomes
Career Opportunities
Graduates in applied environmental geoscience can pursue a wide variety of careers, given the program’s flexibility in tailoring coursework. In general, geoscientists commonly have careers in:
- Government agencies (regulation and land management)
- Environmental consulting
- Natural hazards assessment (earthquakes, landslides, etc.)
- Critical-mineral exploration
- Sustainable energy
Job Outlook
USU Locations
LOGAN CAMPUS
*This degree is available at various USU locations.
Admission
Admission Requirements
Students must have a bachelor's degree in geology, earth science, or any related science discipline. Occasionally, students may need to take one or two prerequisite courses to make up for deficiencies in their undergraduate transcripts. These courses, if needed, will be decided upon by the advisor and graduate committee of the student.
Application Requirements:
- Complete the online application
- Pay the $55 application fee
- Score at or above the 40th percentile on in the GRE
- Have a 3.0 or higher GPA on your last 60 semester or 90 quarter credits
- Provide transcripts of all college/university credits
- Provide three contacts for letters of recommendation
International students have additional admissions requirements.
Deadlines
Applications for the MS are due by:
- Fall semester - January 7
Plan Options
Students receive the MS by pursuing the following plan option:
- The Plan B option, which requires the production of a paper or creative work of art and is expected to reflect equivalent scholarship standards as a thesis.
Financial Aid
Students in this coursework-focused program are generally not eligible for departmental assistantship support. Small student scholarships are available through the Geosciences Department and awarded in Spring semesters. Other funding opportunities are available to graduate students through the School of Graduate Studies and the College of Science.
Take The Next Step
How to Apply
View our step-by-step guide on how to become an Aggie.
Request Information
Contact the School of Graduate Studies to ask questions or receive more information.
Cost and Funding
Calculate the cost of graduate school and learn about funding opportunities.
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