Graduate Programs

Explore our Graduate Programs

The Department of Earth Sciences offers programs of graduate study leading to PhD and master’s degrees with opportunities for research in a wide variety of specialty fields. The goal of these programs is to prepare students for careers in academia, applied research, employment with state and federal agencies, and positions with private consulting organizations.


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Master’s Degree in Earth Sciences

Our master's program provides rigorous training in all aspects of scientific research, including the formulation and testing of hypotheses, acquiring skills needed for a chosen project, collection and interpretation of original data, and writing up the results as a set of published papers.  

Master’s Requirements


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Doctorate Degree in Earth Sciences

Earth sciences doctoral candidates gain extensive experience designing and carrying out independent research on a focused topic. At the PhD level, the advisor provides guidance and input, but the student is expected to take the lead in designing, executing, and writing up the results of the work.

PhD Requirements


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Prepare for the Professional World

Whether you are interested in pursuing a career in or outside of academia, the University of Oregon offers a multitude of professional development resources for graduate students. 

Career and Professional Development


Graduate Courses in Earth Sciences

Graduate-level coursework is designed to meet individual needs, and students may pursue independent research in geobiology, geochemistry, geodesy, geomechanics, geomorphology, geophysics, mineralogy, petrology, volcanology, paleontology, stratigraphy, sedimentary petrology, structural geology, and ore deposit geology.

Courses


Funding your Graduate Studies

Our students typically receive graduate employee fellowships that provide tuition waivers, health insurance, and a stipend.

Funding and Research Support


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Our Graduate Students

Connect with other graduate students and provide support for undergraduates and peers in IgDEAS, a group focused on inclusion and diversity within our department.

Resources for the Graduate Community


Events

UO Cinema Studies Alumni Gathering: Los Angeles
Aug17
UO Cinema Studies Alumni Gathering: Los Angeles Aug 17 Everson Royce Bar
Graduate Student Welcome Lunch and Resource Fair
Sep23
Graduate Student Welcome Lunch and Resource Fair Sep 23 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Grad Student & Postdoc Industry Recruitment Event
Oct23
Grad Student & Postdoc Industry Recruitment Event Oct 23
What is Research? (2026)
Apr23
What is Research? (2026) Apr 23 University of Oregon Portland
What is Research? (2026)
Apr24
What is Research? (2026) Apr 24 University of Oregon Portland
What is Research? (2026)
Apr25
What is Research? (2026) Apr 25 University of Oregon Portland