Back to Graduate Academic Programs

    Earth Sciences, PhD

    Program Description

    The Department of Earth Sciences offers programs of graduate study leading to master of science (MS), master of arts (MA), and doctor of philosophy (PhD) degrees with opportunity for research in a wide variety of specialty fields.

    Course work is designed to meet individual needs. Students may pursue independent research in:

    Climate Science
    Geobiology
    Geochemistry
    Geodesy
    Geomechanics
    Geomorphology
    Geophysics
    Ice physics
    Coastal oceanography
    Mineralogy
    Petrology
    Volcanology
    Paleontology
    Seismology
    Stratigraphy
    Sedimentary petrology
    Structural geology
    Soil geochemistry
    Planetary science
    Ore deposit geology
    The master's degree program requires two years or more for completion.

    Admission to the graduate program is very competitive and based on academic records and letters of recommendation.

    Applications are welcome from students who are interested in using their background in related fields, such as physics, chemistry, and biology, to solve geologic or geophysical problems.

    Graduate students are advised by a guidance committee consisting of three faculty members. This committee meets with each student shortly after they arrive on campus and as often thereafter as necessary for planning purposes.

    Application at a Glance

    Detailed instructions are available on the program’s website. The following are required for your application:


    Program-Specific Application Requirements:
    Letters of Recommendation
    Statement of Purpose

    Meet the Faculty
    Visit the Website
    College of Arts and Sciences
    Campus: Eugene
    Fall 2025
    Final Deadline - December 26, 2024 

    Applications must be submitted and paid for by 11:59 PM Pacific Time on the specified deadline date to be considered eligible.