Overview

The Earth Sciences M.Sc. programme at Simon Fraser University provides a comprehensive platform for investigating the complex processes that govern the formation and evolution of our planet. This degree integrates rigorous academic coursework with high-level original research, ensuring students develop the technical expertise required for the modern geoscience sector. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, the curriculum prepares graduates for diverse roles in both pure and applied research environments.

Why Earth Sciences at Simon Fraser University?

Studying at this institution offers students access to a dedicated Department of Earth Sciences within the Faculty of Science. The programme is specifically designed to acquaint new graduate students with extensive research facilities both within the university and its surrounding vicinity. Students benefit from a structured environment that emphasises the preparation, conduct, and professional presentation of thesis research, supported by a community of active researchers and experts.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: CAD 2150 per semester
National fee: CAD 2150 per semester

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

Syllabus

The curriculum requires a minimum of 30 units, including a significant research thesis and specific graduate-level instruction. Modules may include:

Graduate Studies
MSc Thesis Proposal
MSc Thesis

In addition to these core components, students must complete a minimum of 12 units of graduate-level courses. These elective modules are selected to reflect the specific research interests of the student and are chosen under the guidance of a faculty supervisor to ensure academic depth.

Careers with Earth Sciences

Graduates of this programme are equipped for a broad range of professional careers within the geosciences. The training provided supports entry into roles involving environmental consultancy, resource management, and geological surveying. By completing original research and a defended thesis, students demonstrate the analytical and communication skills necessary for positions in government agencies, private sector firms, and academic research institutions.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Graduate Studies

graduate courses (or related graduate courses from other departments with the graduate program chair's approval)

MSc Thesis Proposal

MSc Thesis

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-04 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-01 00:00:00

More details

Applicants wishing to commence their programs in the summer or fall semesters should complete their applications by March.

Language

English

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Credits

30 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Burnaby, Canada

Disciplines

Earth Sciences View 30 other Masters in Earth Sciences in Canada

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

a bachelor’s degree from SFU or its equivalent from a recognized institution

a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.33 scale, or 3.33 on a 4.33 scale (B+) based on the last 60 credits of undergraduate courses. All graduate work is also considered.

submitted evidence, usually references from qualified referees, of the applicant’s ability to undertake advanced studies in the area of interest.

proof of English Language proficiency

In exceptional circumstances, a student may be admitted with lower formal qualifications when there is significant experience relevant to the proposed area of scholarship.

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Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Simon Fraser 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

4300 CAD / year

≈ 4300 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

4300 CAD / year

≈ 4300 CAD / year

Living costs

Burnaby

Canada

1600 - 2700 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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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

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

Burnaby

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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