Geological Sciences, M.S.
College of Arts and Sciences
Join a close-knit program to dig deeper into Earth sciences and advance your career in fields such as energy, climate, conservation research and more.
Study Earth’s dynamics and history, its composition and the chemical, physical and biological changes that it undergoes. Complete research and a thesis with mentorship from our faculty, who span the entire breadth of the geoscience disciplines. Financial support is available, and the program has a strong graduate student association.
Program Highlights
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Field Experience
Gain an abundance of hands-on experience in laboratory, computational and/or field methods.
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Teaching & Education
Inspire the next generation of scientists thanks to unique coursework and research opportunities in geoscience education.
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Leading Labs
Join cutting-edge research using plasma-source mass spectrometers at the Center for Elemental Mass Spectrometry.
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A Supportive Faculty
Learn from our large and diverse faculty, which boasts broad scientific expertise in a variety of specializations.
Building Skills
Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.
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Analytical Reasoning
Breaking down complex problems or situations to identify patterns, connections and solutions
Data Analysis
Examining and interpreting information to uncover insights and inform decision making
Scientific Writing
Communicating scientific research and findings in a clear, accurate and compelling manner
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Presentation Skills
Preparing and delivering effective and engaging presentations to inform, persuade or inspire
Laboratory Research
Conducting experiments and analyzing data to gain new knowledge and insights in a scientific field
Research
Gathering and analyzing information to increase knowledge or solve problems
Using your degree
Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.
Learn how alumni use degrees with outcome data from Gamecock GradStats, a service of the University of South Carolina Career Center.
Potential Careers
- Geologist
- Educator
- Researcher
- Consultant
Job Titles of Alumni
- Geologist
- Senior Geologist
- Marine Geologist
- Hydrogeologist
Average Alumni Salary
Five to 10 years after graduation without additional education $71,725
Workplace Settings
- Government (federal, state, and local)
- Critical Minerals Industry
- Energy Sector
- Research Laboratories
- Environmental Consulting
- Geotechnical Industry
Employers of Alumni
- S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control
- University of South Carolina
- Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
- Schlumberger
