Overview

The Earth Sciences Master of Science at the University of Minnesota offers a comprehensive research-driven curriculum designed to meet the specific interests of each student. This advanced degree focuses on developing high-level proficiency in core geological topics and field methodologies through rigorous academic study and practical data collection. Students benefit from a collaborative environment that bridges theoretical knowledge with hands-on scientific investigation.

Why Earth Sciences at University of Minnesota?

The department maintains active research programmes across a vast range of specialisms, including basin analysis, ecohydrology, and planetary geology. Students have the unique opportunity to collaborate with prestigious institutions such as the Large Lakes Observatory, the Natural Resources Research Institute, and the Precambrian Research Center. The natural environment surrounding Duluth serves as an exceptional outdoor laboratory for studying regional geology.

The programme emphasises professional readiness, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the skills necessary for scholarly independence and collaboration. Students are encouraged to participate in international workshops and meetings, fostering connections with global experts. The curriculum is designed to enhance written and oral communication skills, preparing students to present complex scientific findings to both professional audiences and the general public.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 35162 per year
National fee: USD 35162 per year
Local fee: USD 22890 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around original research and advanced coursework. Modules and research areas may include:

Isotope Geochemistry
Fluvial Geomorphology
Economic Geology
Paleoclimatology
Structural Geology
Sedimentology
Tectonics
Geophysics
Limnology

Careers with Earth Sciences

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for a variety of professional pathways in the geological sciences. The training provided supports careers in the private industry, where experts are needed for resource management and environmental consultancy. Additionally, the degree serves as a strong foundation for roles within government agencies and educational institutions.

Many students also choose to pursue further academic study, such as doctoral programmes, following their research at the university. The focus on transferable skills, including data processing and project design, ensures that alumni can adapt to the evolving demands of the global earth system workforce.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

The department has active research programs in:

Basin analysis

Ecohydrology

Economic geology

Fluvial Geomorphology

Glacial geology

Hydrology

Isotope geochemistry

Geophysics

Limnology

Paleoclimatology

Petrology

Planetary geology

Sedimentology

Structural geology

Tectonics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Duluth, United States

Disciplines

Earth Sciences View 158 other Masters in Earth Sciences in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

A four-year B.S. degree in geology or a related field in engineering, basic science, or mathematics is required. A grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is preferred.

Personal Statement

Diversity Statement

Writing Sample (Optional)

Resume / CV

Unofficial Transcript

Financial Support

3 Recommendation Letters

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

35162 USD / year

≈ 35162 USD / year
Out-of-State

35162 USD / year

≈ 35162 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

22890 USD / year

≈ 22890 USD / year

Living costs

Duluth

United States

965 - 1380 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Earth Sciences.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Duluth

Financing

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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