University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The programme offers a combination of core discipline training, elective specialisation and independent research. Typical course topics include structural geology, sedimentology and stratigraphy, igneous and metamorphic petrology, mineralogy, geochemistry and isotope systems, geochronology, geophysics and seismology, hydrogeology and environmental geology, paleontology and basin analysis. Skills training emphasises field methods, mapping, rock and mineral analysis, geochemical laboratory techniques, remote sensing and GIS, and quantitative data analysis.

Students normally choose between a thesis (research) track and a non-thesis (coursework or project) track. The curriculum generally comprises advanced seminars, core and elective coursework, a research seminar series, and substantial hands-on components such as multi-day field courses in the Rocky Mountains and other local terrains. Research projects are typically supervised by faculty across departmental research groups, covering areas such as tectonics and structural geology, volcanology, low-temperature geochemistry, sedimentary systems, paleoclimate, glaciology and applied environmental geology.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree in geology, Earth sciences or a closely related physical science or engineering field. A strong undergraduate record in foundational courses (e.g., mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, geochemistry, calculus and physics) is expected. Admission is competitive and typically requires:

• Official transcripts showing a solid academic record (competitive applicants usually have the equivalent of an upper second‑class honours or a comparable GPA).
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests and fit with faculty and laboratories.
• Two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s potential for graduate research.
• If applicable, evidence of English language proficiency (for international applicants), such as recognised test scores or institutional exemptions.
• Some applicants submit GRE scores where relevant or requested; check the department’s admissions guidance for current testing policies.

Relevant research or field experience, undergraduate research projects, and demonstration of quantitative and computing skills strengthen an application. Prospective students are encouraged to contact potential faculty supervisors to discuss research alignment before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of career paths in both public and private sectors. Common destinations include:

• Energy and natural resources: roles in exploration geology, reservoir characterisation, mining geology and petroleum geoscience.
• Environmental and engineering consulting: hydrogeology, contaminated-site assessment, geotechnical analysis and environmental impact studies.
• Government and public agencies: positions with geological surveys, environmental protection agencies, water resource management and hazard assessment units.
• Research and academia: progression to PhD study, university teaching and academic research positions.
• Geospatial and data science roles: applied GIS, remote sensing, geospatial modelling and earth-system data analysis in private industry and non-profit organisations.

Graduates typically possess fieldwork experience, laboratory and analytical skills, and quantitative competency that are valued by employers in industry, consulting and government. Teaching and research assistantships while enrolled also provide professional development and teaching experience.

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder has a long-established Earth sciences community with a strong research culture and extensive field opportunities. The department’s location near the Rocky Mountains provides immediate access to diverse and accessible field sites for mapping, stratigraphic studies and tectonic investigations. Students benefit from well-equipped laboratories (including geochemistry and geochronology facilities), high-performance computing resources, and collaborations with nearby federal research centres and national laboratories.

Interdisciplinary links across campus—such as with atmospheric science, hydrology, engineering and environmental studies—create opportunities for cross-cutting research on climate, water resources, natural hazards and sustainability. The department’s active seminar series, student groups and outreach programmes help build professional networks, while teaching and research assistantship opportunities support practical experience and career development.