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The graduate program in Geology offers two tracks to a Master of Science degree in Geology: a thesis-based option in which students pursue a research project and a non-thesis option that culminates in a comprehensive examination. Students who successfully complete the program will upgrade their educational qualifications and be able to advance to doctoral programs or professional positions that require an in-depth knowledge of geologic topics such as tectonics, hydrogeology, environmental geology, and geologic hazards. The University's location in the state capital provides direct access to many local, federal, and state agencies through internship and fieldwork opportunities.

Each student should plan their program according to their background, interests and objectives, in consultation with a faculty academic advisor. Students who are interested in pursuing the thesis-based option should contact potential advisors prior to application to the program. All students enter the program in the non-thesis option and those interested in a thesis must apply to switch to the thesis-based option with the agreement of a faculty advisor.

Graduate students who want to engage in teaching can request an appointment as a Graduate Teaching Associate. Graduate Teaching Associates have the opportunity to teach one to two lower division laboratory courses per semester and are paid at a rate commensurate with their teaching load.

All work toward the degree must be completed within a seven-year period. The general University requirements for graduate degrees are explained in the "Graduate Studies" section of this Catalog or visit the Geology Department's website.

The MS in Geology program offers evening classes with a small faculty to student ratio and is designed to allow students to work during the day while pursuing their degree.

The degree has two formats: 1) the thesis track and 2) the non-thesis track (see descriptions below and course requirements in ).

• Thesis track: Students complete 24 units of coursework and 6 units of Master’s Thesis. The culminating experience is a Master’s Thesis: an independent research project that generates new scientific knowledge. Completing a thesis project can benefit students in all careers because it promotes the development of many transferrable skills, including: critical thinking, troubleshooting, project management, data analysis, and scientific communication. The thesis project is guided by a faculty advisor and two additional committee members.  Typical time to degree: 2-3 years.
• Non-thesis track: Students complete 30 units of coursework. The culminating experience is a comprehensive exam to demonstrate mastery of topics covered by courses taken during the program. Typical time to degree: 2-2.5 years. 2.5 years if student takes the typical load of 2 courses (6 units) per semester.