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Requirements for Graduate Admission

The admission into the graduate programs in the Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences is competitive. The admission is based upon applicant's academic records and supporting documents received. Early application is encouraged so that each application is carefully considered in the annual review cycle.  Although the majority of students begin their graduate program in the fall quarter, the department considers applications for admission on a case-by-case basis throughout the year.

The applicant seeking admission into the MS Program must have a strong foundation in sciences or mathematics or engineering.  Applicants with undergraduate background in Earth Sciences and Environmental Sciences are encouraged to apply. The minimum requirement for admission include one year (2 semesters, or 3 quarters, or equivalent) of undergraduate coursework in at least 3 of the following subjects:

  1. Physics,
  2. Chemistry,
  3. Mathematics/Statistics,
  4. Biology, and
  5. Geology or Earth Sciences

Students lacking the minimum undergraduate coursework may be accepted into the MS program with "deficiencies", but they must complete the deficiency coursework prior to graduation from the MS program. Upon admission, the graduate studies committee will review the undergraduate transcripts, and recommend a list of courses to be completed. A student may submit a petition to the department for exception(s) to the above requirements.

Please also review the following information: