The Master of Arts in Geology

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Master of Arts in Geology at Southern Illinois University is designed for post-baccalaureate students eager to deepen their expertise in geological sciences through specialized training and advanced coursework. You will expand your knowledge in critical areas such as environmental geology or geospatial analysis, preparing you for complex challenges in earth science. This non-thesis program focuses on developing practical skills and specialized understanding, making it ideal for those seeking to advance their careers or pursue further research in the dynamic field of geology.

This postgraduate degree is studied full-time on campus over two years, allowing you to immerse yourself in geological topics tailored to your interests. You will work closely with a three-person program advisory committee to select courses, including a minimum of three credit hours of GEOL 591, Individual Research in Geology. Through focused study and research, you will develop advanced competencies in areas like hydrogeology, GIS, or geochemistry, graduating with the specialized knowledge and research experience sought by employers in environmental consulting, resource management, and government agencies.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Geology program offers specialized concentrations in Environmental Geology and Geospatial Analysis. The Environmental Geology track delves into areas such as advanced GIS, isotope geochemistry, hydrogeology, and geomorphology, preparing students for diverse environmental roles. The Geospatial Analysis concentration focuses on advanced GIS, solid-earth geophysics, tectonics, and remote sensing, equipping graduates with skills for spatial data interpretation and analysis in geological contexts.

1 Recommended Courses for the Environmental Geology Concentration

Advanced GIS Studies
Isotope Geochemistry
Petroleum Geology
Organic Geochemistry
Paleoecology & Environments of Deposition
Hydrogeology
Hydrogeology Laboratory
Geomorphology
Quaternary Geology
Sedimentary Basin Analysis
Geologic Remote Sensing
Advanced Topics in Geochemistry
Advanced Topics in Applied Paleoecology
Micropaleontology
Advanced Topics in Surficial Geology
Fluvial Geomorphology
Individual Research in Geology

2 Recommended Courses for the Geospatial Analysis Concentration

Advanced GIS Studies
Petroleum Geology
Paleoecology and Environments of Deposition
Solid-Earth Geophysics
Tectonics
Geomorphology
Quaternary Geology
Sedimentary Basin Analysis
Geologic Remote Sensing
Advanced Topics in Applied Paleoecology
Advanced Topics in Geophysics
Earthquake Seismology
Advanced Topics in Surficial Geology
Fluvial Geomorphology
Individual Research in Geology

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 56,340.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,950.00 - USD 2,250.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Carbondale campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

53%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Alternative Aviation Fuel & SustainabilityAviation Maintenance & RepairCoal & Consumable FuelsEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionForestry & LoggingLean Manufacturing & Process ImprovementOil & Gas Exploration & ProductionProduction & Operations ManagementResidential ConstructionSupply Chain & Commodity Trading

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Boeing

Caterpillar

Cummins Inc.

Lockheed Martin

Northrop Grumman

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS)

Why Study The Master of Arts in Geology at Southern Illinois University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Southern Illinois University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Southern Illinois University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about The Master of Arts in Geology at Southern Illinois University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work doesn't require a separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English test requirements: Duolingo (overall 115), TOEFL (overall 80), IELTS (overall 6.5), or PTE (overall 64). Ensure you achieve these scores to be eligible.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Environmental Consultants, Resource Managers, or Geospatial Analysts.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program offers specialized training in subjects like environmental geology and geospatial analysis. It is designed for full-time students to develop practical skills and knowledge over two years.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Arts in Geology program has two intake months: January and August. Make sure to apply ahead of these dates to secure your spot.
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