Doctor of Philosophy in Geosciences

Geoscientists use a variety of interdisciplinary methods including fieldwork, remote sensing, and mathematical modeling to assess the spatial patterns of humans, animals, and plants in nature and the dynamics of their interactions. Geoscientists are particularly interested in understanding the past, present, and future impact of human settlement on the physical and living systems in nature.

The Department of Geosciences at Florida Atlantic University offers advanced graduate training leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Geosciences. This professionally oriented program combines department specialties in geography and geology with other cognate areas in the College and the University through an innovative curriculum that includes ecology and conservation biology, chemistry, anthropology, civil engineering, ocean engineering and urban and regional planning. The program provides advanced research and technical training to allow its graduates to find solutions to problems. While the main focus of the degree is on traditional, full-time students, the degree program also welcomes part-time students who wish to maintain their professional employment while earning their doctoral degree.

Individuals will be admitted to the doctoral program in Geosciences based on the following requirements:

Minimum of a bachelor's degree in a field of geosciences or related area. Students who have already earned a master's degree or equivalent in geography, geology or related field may be admitted to the doctoral program and may be awarded up to 30 credits toward the Ph.D. in Geosciences. Geosciences-related areas include anthropology, biology, chemistry, civil engineering, environmental science, public administration and urban and regional planning.
International students whose native language is not English must score at least 550 on the paper-based TOEFL or at least 79-80 on the computer-based test or a score of 6 or higher on the IELTS.
A Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score of 150 or higher on the verbal portion and 150 or higher on the quantitative portion, and a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 in the applicant's last degree program.
Three satisfactory professional and/or academic letters of reference.
A written letter of support from a Geosciences faculty member with doctoral faculty status at FAU or an approved cognate faculty member with doctoral faculty status at FAU indicating a willingness to supervise the applicant's doctoral research.