Geology - PhD

The Doctor of Philosophy degree in Geology requires original research in a specific area or areas of the geosciences. The successful candidate must demonstrate a breadth of understanding in the geosciences, as well as a depth of understanding in the chosen areas of emphases. Potential students must show an ability to complete coursework and demonstrate competence in independent research. Thus, each successful PhD candidate will produce a significant piece of original research, presented in a written dissertation and defended in an oral examination. This work should be of such scope and quality that more than one peer-reviewed publication can be derived from it.

Program Contacts:

Tammy Rittenour, PhD
Professor, Graduate Director
Tammy.rittenour@usu.edu 

Kelly Bradbury, PhD, PEG
Professional Practice Associate Professor, Graduate Program Coordinator
Kelly.bradbury@usu.edu

Program Description

The Doctor of Philosophy in Geology requires original research in a specific area of geology, and demonstration of broad knowledge in the field of geology.

Requirements include: 1) completing 72 credits beyond a BS 2) or completing 42 credits beyond your MS; 2) passing a set of comprehensive examinations showing depth and breadth of knowledge in geology and the student’s area(s) of emphasis; 3) completing a Dissertation research proposal; and 4) completing and defending a written Dissertation, which may consist of manuscripts submitted for publication. Graduate assistantships are based upon a three-to-four-year PhD program.

• Admission requirements can be found on the USU School of Graduate Studies website (gradschool.usu.edu/admissions/policies) and the Department of Geosciences ‘Apply to our Program’ page: https://qanr.usu.edu/geo/graduate-program/future-graduates

• Students may need to complete specific undergraduate coursework to prepare them for their graduate program. Seven preparatory core undergraduate courses are recommended by the Department of Geosciences: Physical Geology, Minerals and Rocks (Earth Materials, Mineralogy), Earth through Time (Historical Geology), Sedimentation and Stratigraphy, Geomorphology, Structural Geology, and Field Methods or experience. Graduate students are generally expected to have taken a minimum of four of the seven core courses, including a field course; however, this depends on each student’s background and planned research topic.

• Decisions about any exceptions to these potential prerequisites in a student’s graduate program are made by a student's Advisory Committee in their first meeting, and in consultation with the Graduate Director.

• Students are expected to be admitted to the Graduate program as matriculated students before taking coursework leading to the degree.

Additional information about the PhD Geoscience program may be obtained by contacting the Department of Geosciences or by visiting the program website at https://qanr.usu.edu/geo/graduate-program/degree-and-information.