Master of Science in Geosciences

The Department of Geosciences offers a Masters of Science (M.S.) degree and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree. Completion of a graduate degree is excellent preparation for a career in governmental agencies, private industry, teaching, or research. The strong placement record and extensive alumni network attest to the high quality of our graduate program.

Each graduate student follows a custom-tailored program of coursework and research developed with their advisor and graduate committee. Strengths of the department include diverse field-driven scientific specializations, an interdisciplinary approach to addressing earth resource education and professional preparation, global research interests, cutting edge analytical, field, and computational facilities, and close student/faculty working relationships.

An official transcript of all collegiate work completed along with a certified translation into English.
An undergraduate grade point average of 3.000 (A = 4.000) is required by CSU regulation for admission.
Minimum TOEFL score for admission without condition is 550 (paper based), or 80 (internet based).
Minimum IELTS score for admission without condition is 6.5.
Statement of research interest
3-Letters of recommendation
Transcripts with a recommended minimum GPA of 3.3
Curriculum vitae or resume
Identify potential faculty advisor
Writing sample (optional but encouraged)
Three letters of recommendation.
Using the online system, applicants must provide contact information for three individuals who have agreed to write a letter of recommendation. These individuals will be contacted (via secure email) with instructions for submitting their letter. Please do not have your recommenders mail their letter directly to the department. Recommenders can include:
o A faculty member at a previous or current institution who is familiar with your academic work and potential for graduate-level research
o A previous or current relevant professional supervisor who can comment on your skills, professionalism, and workplace contributions
o Observers other than supervisors who can verify your experience, capabilities, and work ethic

2. Statement of Research Interest
The Statement of Purpose serves as an academic writing sample for the faculty to learn more about you and ascertain how your goals align with the program. Please consider addressing the following in your statement:
Describe your research or professional interests and motivation for attending graduate school. What are your goals that motivate you to pursue an advanced degree in Geosciences?
o Describe how your academic background and other previous experiences have prepared you for graduate study in the Department of Geosciences.
o Provide an example(s) where you engaged in creative problem solving, collaborative work, leadership, and/or an instance where you persevered to overcome challenges.
3. One official copy of transcripts sent by every institution you have attended. This includes institutions where coursework was brief and/or seemingly unrelated to the program(s) you wish to pursue in Geosciences (e.g. community college classes). Exception – for coursework
completed at Colorado State University, official transcripts are not necessary. All transcripts not in
English must include a certified translation into English. CSU institution code is 4075
4. Curriculum Vitae.
A CV or resume outlining all relevant academic, research, and professional experience.
5. Writing Sample.
An optional writing sample can be uploaded with your application. Please consider submitting one
supplemental writing sample. Examples of representative writing samples include a senior class
project report, an undergraduate or graduate thesis, a research paper or poster, or other evidence
of previous academic writing.
International Student Applicants – additional requirements:
1. An official report of TOEFL or IELTS scores is required for all international applicants from nonEnglish speaking countries unless a degree from a U.S. institution has been awarded. CSU requires a minimum TOEFL score of 213 (computer based), 550 (paper based), or 80 (internet based) or an IELTS score of 6.5 or better for conditional admission.