Graduate research within our program ranges over a variety of geologic subdisciplines, including: seismology, geophysical exploration,
hazards and environmental assessments, paleomagnetism, rock magnetism, geodesy, planetary sciences, and remote sensing
Students work with a faculty member to choose an appropriate course of study for their academic or career goals. Graduate students conduct research within the Department and in association with the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology and the Nevada Seismological Laboratory.
Both regional and international research programs are available. Field-related studies and research are among the strengths of our programs. The University of Nevada, Reno is located near the boundary between the Great Basin and Sierra Nevada physiographic provinces, and is near many world-class localities for field studies, ranging from glaciated high country to high desert environments. Lake Tahoe and Yosemite, Great Basin, and Lassen Volcanic national parks are all within easy reach of Reno. We have state-of-the-art instrumentation for geologic, temperature, seismic, gravity, magnetic, electrical, geodetic, petrologic, and rock property studies. We also have one of the world's largest regional seismic networks and host the world's largest GPS analysis center.
The student learning outcomes include:
To read and critically evaluate relevant scientific literature in the specific topic area of the advanced geology/geological engineering/geophysics sub discipline studied.
To demonstrate an advanced level of competency and mastery in the specific topic area of their thesis.
To discuss the relationship of the specialized area of geology/geological engineering/geophysics studied in their thesis in the broader context of the field and Earth Sciences in general.
To produce and communicate professional products, reports, and presentations that address the chosen topic or research in the specific topic area of their thesis.
