PhD Degree in Geology

It is quite difficult to get a PhD in geology. There are few programs which offer such a degree, and even those that are available should be put under the subject of the usual tests in odred to determine if they are really accredited and useful programs. Some degrees don’t adapt well to online studies, that are generally limited to studying from books or studying from a visual perspective. Geology PhD is one of those, where at times, more of the senses than sound and sight must be used to learn new material.

This, however, doesn’t mean that there aren’t some PhD geology studies, but these are generally not offered for credit. At the same time, those passionate about this science could take open coursework from universities like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), that is offering classes on structural geology. This course could continue to fuel interest in the subject.

Doctorate Programs in Earth Sciences or Geology

PhD in Geology

As previously stated, however, there are a few programs in earth sciences or geology which may be offered at universities. Any undergraduate programs are generally offered with more of a teaching focus if people want to pursue a junior high teaching or high school credential. A handful of graduate programs may be offered at an online geology degree at the master’s level, but study of geology at the PhD level might lean heavily on laboratory studies or fieldwork, and that is much harder to accomplish.

Students should remember that they don’t even need to begin most degree studies until they have finished the first two years of college, and met all requirements for being promoted to junior year.

Even though there are a limited number of schools which are offering a PhD program in geology, choosing the best one is a very important subject when considering where to apply. While costs and location are important considerations, selecting the strongest program is going to help you no matter what you want to do – go into research, field work or teaching once you graduate.

Schools Offering PhD in Geology

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona, according to U.S. News and World Report, is offering the best PhD program in geology in the country. The University’s research based, four year program is created for students who want to work for the government, in either industry or academia. According to the school’s Department of Geosciences, majority of students will get financial help in the form of assistantships or fellowships. PhD students at the University of Arizona are required to complete not only sixty three units of study and a comprehensive exam, but also write and defend a dissertation

University of Arizona

Department of Geosciences

1040 E. Fourth Street

Tucson, AZ 85721

520-621-6004

geo.arizona.edu

University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan–Ann Arbor is also one of the country’s best schools for a PhD in geology. They seek students who come from a strong scientific background, can work independently and are highly motivated, according to the school’s site. While coursework is required, the University stresses the research component of the degree. Past projects have included research on the history of sedimentary basins, tectonic plate movement and magma. Students at the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor are also required to write and defend a dissertation as well as sit for a comprehensive final exam.

University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

Department of Geological Sciences

1100 N. University Avenue

Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1005

734-764-1435

lsa.umich.edu

Penn State University

Penn State’s Department of Geosciences, which was established in 1913, is yet another top place where you can get your PhD in geology, according to U.S. News and World Report. It is home to close to ifty faculty members and enrolls about one hundred graduate students at one time. The school has a specialty in the study of ore, as well as numerous other sub specialties in other areas of geology. The PhD program, according to the school’s site, generally takes four years to complete.

Pennsylvania State University–University Park

Department of Geosciences

507 Deike Building

University Park, PA 16802

814-865-7394

geosc.psu.edu