MS Earth and Environmental Sciences(opens in new window)
The MS program in Earth and Environmental Sciences is designed for students who wish to transition from an undergraduate degree to the workforce in professional science, or for students who desire additional research experience before entering a Ph.D. program. The program consists of 30 units of advanced coursework and directed individual study. It is possible to focus your studies in one of several areas, including geology, hydrology, atmospheric sciences and applied ecology. The curriculum is composed of several core courses within a discipline followed by courses selected by the student’s individual needs or interest.
Two tracks of study are available including thesis-based and course-based curricula. In the thesis-based track, students carry out an independent research project culminating in a thesis which is presented during an oral defense. In the course-based track, students complete an Earth or environmental science-related internship during their final semester, which will be their culminating experience in the program.
Our faculty conducts active research in applied ecology, geochemistry, hydrology, atmospheric science, volcanology, paleontology, sedimentary geology, igneous petrology and economic geology. To be accepted into the research-based track, you must have the support of a faculty mentor before applying.
The department maintains high expectations and standards for professional conduct and productivity which prepare students to meet their specific goals.
Mission Statement
The Master’s Degree Program offered by the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at CSU Chico is designed to help students prepare for a professional career in science or for a doctoral program. Professional preparation is developed through coursework and a culminating internship experience. Training in research expertise is emphasized through a field-based, laboratory-based or interdisciplinary research project.
Program Goals
By the end of the program, students should be able to:
- Articulate how their research/project question fits within a larger framework of scientific knowledge and investigation.
- Critically evaluate their own data/observations and draw appropriate interpretations and conclusions.
- Perform independent collection, analysis and interpretation of data.
- Write in a technical and scientific manner, as appropriate to their discipline.
- Present their project orally in an appropriate manner for the audience.
Links
Information for Current Graduate Students
For more information, contact:
Graduate Program Coordinator: Dr. Hannah Aird