Applied Environmental Geoscience - MS

S.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Agriculture & Natural Resources

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.

REQUEST INFORMATION
ADVISING

At a Glance

College: S.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Agriculture & Natural Resources

Department: Geosciences Department

USU Locations:

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

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION AND ADVISING

Advising

Dennis Newell

Graduate Director
Email: dennis.newell@usu.edu
Office: GEOL 210
Phone: (435) 797-0479

I am not a current USU student

I have not applied or been admitted, even if I've taken a USU Concurrent Enrollment course

I am a current USU student

I have been admitted and plan to attend, or continue attending USU

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.