Geology Master's Degree
Master of Science (MS) in Geology Program
From West Texas to the World: Geology Starts Here
Students in the Master of Science in Geology program at UT Permian Basin gain advanced knowledge while learning in one of the nation’s most dynamic geological regions. You’ll build a strong foundation in geoscience fundamentals and expand your expertise across multiple subdisciplines. Whether your goal is a career in the geoscience industry or further study at the doctoral level, you’ll graduate ready to take the next step.
Take the Next Step in Your Journey
Learn about scholarship opportunities available to help fund your graduate education at UTPB.
Apply to Graduate School
Find application requirements, deadlines, and everything you need to start your graduate journey at UTPB.
Graduate Admission Criteria for Geology
Explore the full list of courses, credit hours, and research components needed to complete the MS Geology at UTPB.
Degree Requirements
To earn a Master of Science in Geology at UT Permian Basin, students must complete 30 semester credit hours, along with one of the following academic pathways:
Thesis Option:
- Complete at least 6 credit hours of original research (GEOL 6399 - Master's Thesis)
- Submit a written thesis approved by your graduate committee
- Deliver a public seminar and defend the thesis in an oral examination
Non-Thesis Option:
- Complete 30 credit hours of graduate-level coursework
- Fulfill additional requirements as determined by your graduate advisor
- Minimum GPA: Students must maintain 3.0 GPA throughout the program
For the most current and detailed information, please refer to the official UTPB Graduate Catalog.
Career Opportunities for MS in Geology
A degree in Geology will set you on the path for many career opportunities, including:
- Hydrologist
- Geotechnical Engineer
- Geophysicist
- Engineering Geologist
Degree Roadmap
Get all the details on our Geology program, including admission requirements, financial considerations, class requirements, and more.
View Academic Catalog
| Criteria | Regular Admission | Conditional Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | Required (geosciences or closely related field from an accredited college or university) | Required (geosciences or related field from an accredited college or university) |
| Cumulative GPA | 3.0 or higher | 2.75 – 2.99 overall or in the last 60 credit hours |
| Letters of Recommendation | Two (2) required: one academic and one from a supervisor or professional source | Two (2) required: one academic and one from a supervisor or professional source |
| Statement of Intent | Required: 1-page summary outlining your interests in geosciences and interdisciplinary studies | Required: 1-page summary outlining your interests in geosciences and interdisciplinary studies |
| Relevant Background | Undergraduate coursework aligned with a standard geology curriculum | May require leveling courses to meet core geology foundations |
| Additional Evidence | Not applicable | Applicants with GPA below 2.75 may be considered with 3+ years of geoscience work experience or other supporting evidence as approved by the graduate program head |
| Academic Expectation | Maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher throughout the program | Must earn a B or better in the first 12 credit hours of graduate coursework |
More from the Department of Geology
Explore everything Geology has to offer at UTPB!
Geology Program
