Geosciences (GS)
Information for the Geosciences PhD program and Master's degree programs
Geosciences emphasize the application of general principles of geology, geochemistry, cosmochemistry, and geophysics to problems in the marine and terrestrial environments of the Earth and to other planetary bodies. Graduate students routinely participate in expeditions at sea and on land and many doctoral theses evolve from these experiences.
Research areas in geological sciences include:
Requirements for Admission
In addition to the general requirements for admission to the PhD program listed here, a major in one of the earth sciences including undergraduate coursework in physical chemistry and calculus are required. Preparation beyond the minimum requirements in mathematics, physics, and chemistry is strongly recommended.
GS Applicant evaluation Criteria
Admissions applications are reviewed using a rubric that includes the criteria: (1) Academic preparation, (2) Scholarly potential, (3) Potential relative to opportunities, (4) Diversity, Equity and Inclusion contributions, (5) Alignment with the SIO Program, (6) Self Appraisal, (7) Long term goals. Hence, students are encouraged to address these themes in their research statement or other aspects of their application. The GRE is not required and is not used in the application evaluation. Applications are reviewed by an admission committee, the prospective advisor(s) and a Diversity Admissions Committee. Finalists are invited to the SIO open house, typically held in late January to mid-February.
Research areas in geological sciences include:
- The origin and evolution of the ocean-atmosphere system, global climate, and biosphere
- Geology, geochemistry, and geophysics of oceanic crustal rocks and near-shore environments
- Tectonic and structural evolution of the oceans, plate margins, and back-arc basins
- The role of fluids in the crust
- Chemistry of rare gases and stable and radiogenic isotopes in active volcanoes and magmatism
- Cosmochemistry
- The use of natural nuclear processes for understanding physical and chemical processes in the Earth
- Paleomagnetic applications in geology and geophysics
- Interaction of humans with their natural environment
Requirements for Admission
In addition to the general requirements for admission to the PhD program listed here, a major in one of the earth sciences including undergraduate coursework in physical chemistry and calculus are required. Preparation beyond the minimum requirements in mathematics, physics, and chemistry is strongly recommended.
GS Applicant evaluation Criteria
Admissions applications are reviewed using a rubric that includes the criteria: (1) Academic preparation, (2) Scholarly potential, (3) Potential relative to opportunities, (4) Diversity, Equity and Inclusion contributions, (5) Alignment with the SIO Program, (6) Self Appraisal, (7) Long term goals. Hence, students are encouraged to address these themes in their research statement or other aspects of their application. The GRE is not required and is not used in the application evaluation. Applications are reviewed by an admission committee, the prospective advisor(s) and a Diversity Admissions Committee. Finalists are invited to the SIO open house, typically held in late January to mid-February.