Overview

The Earth Sciences programme at Carleton University is delivered through the prestigious Ottawa-Carleton Geoscience Centre, a collaborative initiative with the University of Ottawa. This partnership allows students to access a vast pool of academic expertise and modern instrumental facilities across both institutions. Candidates benefit from a comprehensive research environment that covers nearly every major sub-discipline within the geosciences.

Why Earth Sciences at Carleton University?

Students gain a significant "Capital Advantage" due to the university's strategic location in Ottawa. This proximity facilitates close collaborative research with major national organisations, including the Geological Survey of Canada and the Canadian Museum of Nature. Furthermore, the programme maintains strong links with local geophysics and mining companies, providing students with unique networking and professional opportunities.

The research environment is exceptionally diverse, featuring high-impact projects such as the study of meteorite impacts, the evolution of dinosaurs, and the geochemistry of large igneous provinces. Students also investigate critical environmental hazards, such as soil shaking during earthquakes. The programme offers experiential learning through field courses and co-op placements, ensuring graduates possess practical, hands-on skills.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: CAD 20256 per year
National fee: CAD 8097 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed around a thesis-based pathway, allowing for deep specialisation in chosen research areas. Modules and research focuses may include:

Geochemistry
Mineral Potential of Large Igneous Provinces
Metamorphism
Dating Garnet Crystals
Meteorite Impacts
Extinction Events
Evolution of Dinosaurs
Soil Shaking Hazards
Geophysics

Careers with Earth Sciences

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse roles within the global energy, mining, and environmental sectors. The programme's focus on advanced research and technical proficiency prepares students for positions in geological surveys, natural resource management, and environmental consultancy. Many alumni also pursue further academic research or secure technical roles within geophysics firms and national museums.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Seminars in Earth Sciences

Mineralogy

Thermodynamics, Kinetic Theory, and Metamorphic Petrology

Advanced Igneous Petrology

Geology and Geochemistry of Ore Deposits

Hydrothermal Ore Deposits

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-04 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-05-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-15 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-01 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

5 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Ottawa, Canada

Disciplines

Earth Sciences View 30 other Masters in Earth Sciences in Canada

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Academic requirements

GPA

B+

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

An honours BSc degree, with at least a B+ in geology or a related discipline.

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Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Carleton University and/or in Canada, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

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

20256 CAD / year

≈ 20256 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

8097 CAD / year

≈ 8097 CAD / year

Additional Details

Ontario Tuition Fee: 6719 CAD per year

Living costs

Ottawa

Canada

1168 - 1925 CAD / month

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

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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