Program highlights
- State-of-the-art research facilities and labs. Expansive laboratory facilities for students earning a master’s degree in geology include:
- GeoInformatics Laboratory (GIL)
- G-ECO Remote Sensing Lab
- Paleontology laboratory (with 120k+ fossil specimens for teaching and research)
- Geochemistry laboratory
- High temperature and pressure mineral synthesis laboratory
- Sedimentary processes laboratory
- Sediment core lab
- Rock preparation facilities
- Faculty with expansive experience and connections. Our geology professors bring decades of industry and research experienced into the classroom. They’ve led geological surveys in remote regions, consulted on major engineering projects and published groundbreaking research. Many maintain active connections with employers seeking talented graduates.
- Research and teaching assistantships. Qualified students with a 3.0+ GPA can obtain financial support as they work toward their master’s degree in geology in the form of teaching or research assistantships (up to four semesters). These include living stipends and tuition scholarships. Summer assistantships may also be available. Graduate student research projects may also be supported by external funding sources.
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Career opportunities
Blend science, adventure and real-world impact with a master’s degree in geology from BGSU that will open doors to successful careers and leadership roles in research, teaching and industry.
Geology is a dynamic blend of fieldwork, lab research and data analysis that fuels breakthroughs in energy, sustainability and environmental protection. Geologists work in many sectors, including environmental consulting, energy, government agencies, mining and exploration, natural hazard assessment and research and academia.
On any given day, the work of a geologist might involve:
- Hiking through remote terrain, collecting samples and mapping formations
- Using sophisticated laboratory equipment to analyze mineral compositions
- Creating detailed 3D models of subsurface structures using advanced software
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, clients, policymakers and/or community stakeholders
A geology master’s degree from BGSU provides the expertise and hands-on experience to make an impact in industry, research and society – whether you’re analyzing fossil records, studying groundwater systems, assessing natural hazards or working in energy exploration. Your work as a geologist has the potential to contribute directly to public safety, economic stability and environmental sustainability.
Career paths
- Environmental consultant
- Government geoscientist
- Hydrogeologist
- Mining geologist
- Natural hazard specialist
- Paleontologist
- Petroleum geologist
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Curriculum
This master’s degree in geology is designed to give students a foundation of knowledge in geology and related fields. Students must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours and maintain a 3.0 GPA.
Upon graduation of the geology master’s program, students can:
- Explain broad ideas and concepts in several aspects of geology, and in-depth ideas and concepts in an area of specialization.
- Design and conduct an original geoscience research project, using appropriate scientific methods, sampling and analytical methodologies.
- Defend and communicate the results and interpretations of an original research project.
Sample courses
- Advanced Field Geology
- Economic Geology
- Environmental Geophysics
- Groundwater Hydrology
- Paleoclimate
- Sedimentary Environments
- Surface Water Hydrogeology
- Volcanology
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Geospatial technology certificate
Are you looking to integrate geospatial technology into your field of study? The geospatial technology certificate program at BGSU provides valuable skills that are increasingly in high demand across multiple industries.
The graduate certificate equips students with a strong theoretical foundation in geospatial technology while providing hands-on experience in GIS, remote sensing and GPS applications.
With a focus on research design and problem-solving, this certificate enhances students’ ability to analyze spatial data and apply geospatial tools to real-world challenges in environmental science, urban planning, resource management and beyond.
Admission requirements
In general, the M.S. in geology at BGSU is open to applicants who successfully complete an undergraduate degree in geology or a related area.
Students with undergraduate degrees outside of geology/earth science are encouraged to apply but will be required to demonstrate competence by completing Advanced Field Geology (a six-hour, summer field camp) OR choosing one course from each of the area competencies (earth materials, surface/near surface processes and deep earth processes).
Applicants must also submit:
- BGSU Graduate College online application
- Transcripts from all colleges attended
- Three letters of reference
- Short statement of purpose (include area of geology research interest)
GRE scores can be submitted but are not required.
The Master of Science in geology is in the School of Earth, Environment and Society in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Updated: 07/31/2025 11:55AM