Kent State University

What you'll study

This master's programme combines core geoscience foundations, specialised electives and hands-on field and laboratory experience. Students typically follow either a thesis (research) or non-thesis (coursework and capstone) pathway, allowing focus on academic research or professional skills.

• Core topics: advanced mineralogy and petrology, sedimentology and stratigraphy, structural geology and tectonics, geochemistry and isotope geochemistry, and geophysics.
• Applied and elective subjects: hydrogeology and contaminant transport, environmental geology, remote sensing and GIS, paleontology and basin analysis, engineering geology and geotechnical methods.
• Research and practicum: supervised thesis research or a professional practicum/capstone project; regular field courses that focus on regional geology, mapping and stratigraphic interpretation.
• Laboratory skills: hands-on training with common analytical techniques and instruments used in academic and industry settings, data analysis and interpretation, and scientific communication.
• Programme length and structure: full-time students generally complete the degree in two years; part-time options and flexible schedules are often available to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree in geology, earth science or a related discipline. Strong candidates will have completed undergraduate coursework in mineralogy, petrology, sedimentology/stratigraphy, calculus and introductory geochemistry or geophysics.

• Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA consistent with graduate-level study (programme may specify a preferred GPA range).
• Statement of purpose outlining research or career goals and areas of interest within earth sciences.
• Two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant's preparedness for graduate research or advanced coursework.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé summarising academic background, field and laboratory experience, and relevant employment.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests, unless exempt by prior study in English.
• Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate or make up specific undergraduate prerequisites before or during the early stages of the programme; GRE requirement varies by intake and should be checked with the department.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme move into a wide range of roles across industry, government and academia. The degree prepares students for both technical positions and further research training.

• Environmental and engineering consulting, including site assessment, remediation and regulatory compliance.
• Hydrogeology and water-resource management for public agencies and private firms.
• Energy-sector roles such as subsurface characterisation and reservoir evaluation for oil, gas and geothermal projects.
• Mining and mineral exploration, including resource evaluation and environmental permitting.
• Geotechnical and construction geology advising for infrastructure projects.
• Positions in government geological surveys and environmental protection agencies.
• Academic and research careers, including progression to PhD study and teaching at higher-education institutions.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State's earth science programmes emphasise field-based learning, applied research and close faculty mentorship. The university's location offers direct access to diverse regional geology, including Appalachian structures and Great Lakes sedimentary systems, which are incorporated into field courses and student research projects.

• Faculty with active research programmes across sedimentology, stratigraphy, geochemistry, hydrogeology and related areas, offering opportunities for thesis supervision and collaborative projects.
• Hands-on training in field mapping, stratigraphic analysis and laboratory techniques, preparing graduates for practical roles in industry and government.
• Opportunities for internships, industry partnerships and placements with regional consulting firms, government agencies and research institutions.
• A public university environment that supports interdisciplinary collaboration and professional development, with resources to help students present research and pursue external funding.