Degrees Options and Philosophy of the Graduate Program

The Graduate Program in Geological Sciences offers three main options as well as special certificate programs within the degree options that emphasize concentrated areas of study. 

Degree Options of the Graduate Program
•  Ph.D.
•  M.S. with thesis
•  M.S. – Environmental Geosciences (EGS) option

Specialized Certificate Programs within these degree options include:
•  Quaternary Studies
•  Engineering Geophysics

Philosophy of the Graduate Program
The Doctorate of Philosophy in Geological Sciences has a primary objective to demonstrate that the successful recipient can initiate, plan/propose, and implement original research. The Ph.D. requires imagination, not just technical prowess.  Ph.D. studies focus on the Dissertation Proposal as the key distinguishing characteristic.  In the proposal, students articulate their ideas of the cutting-edge of science and provide concrete plans to address testable hypotheses.

The Masters of Science in Geological Sciences degree is one of technical proficiency.  The recipient must display proficiency in: 1) collection, analysis, and interpretation of geological or geophysical data; and 2) the ability to communicate effectively these results and interpretations in both oral and written form.  The M.S. requires a thesis, a departmental presentation and oral defense of the thesis.

The Environmental Geosciences (EGS) Option of the M.S. degree is designed to train the graduate students in geosciences who intend on seeking employment with state and regional geoscientist employers such as environmental research and environmental regulatory agencies, such as the NJ Geological Survey and NJ Department of Environmental Protection, respectively, the thriving environmental consulting industry.