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Earth & Planetary Sciences (PhD)

Program description.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Earth and Planetary Sciences offered by the Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences in the Faculty of Science is a research-intensive program that emphasizes demanding and interdisciplinary learning opportunities. The program's objective is to equip students with skills in critical thinking, information synthesis, and scientific communication to pursue professional opportunities in academia or industry.

Keywords: geology, geochemistry, geophysics, hydrology, glaciology, volcanology, seismology, environment, sustainability, climate change.

Unique Program Features

  • Students receive funding from a combination of tuition subsidies, research stipend, expected salary from employment (e.g., Teaching Assistantship),
  • external or internal scholarships/awards (if applicable);
  • Students benefit from access facilities which include an Electron Microprobe Microanalytical Facility, an Atomic Absorption Lab, an Inductively-Coupled Plasma (ICP) Lab, and a Stable Isotope Laboratory;
  • Faculty members conduct research in: the geochemistry of the mantle; the nature of processes concentrating metals in hydrothermal mineral deposits; the controls of viscosity in magmas and the mechanisms of volcanic eruption; the fate of carbon and trace metals in marine sediments; the nature of changes in atmospheric and oceanic chemistry during Earth’s history; earthquakes and fault mechanisms; geomicrobiology; the movement of water and nutrients within complex ecohydrological systems; wetland hydrogeology; interactions between the cryosphere, solid Earth, and climate systems; global human processes and their relationship to planetary boundaries;
  • Graduates pursue careers in the public sector (e.g., universities and government-funded research institutes) and in the private sector (e.g., mineral-exploration and petroleum industries).

University-Level Admission Requirements

  • An eligible Bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA out of a possible 4.0 GPA
  • English-language proficiency

Each program has specific admission requirements including required application documents. Please visit the program website for more details.

Visit our Educational credentials and grade equivalencies and English language proficiency webpages for additional information.

Program Website

PhD in Earth and Planetary Sciences website

Department Contact

Graduate Program grad.eps [at] mcgill.ca (subject: PhD%20in%20Earth%20%26%20Planetary%20Sciences) (email)

Available Intakes

Application deadlines.

Intake Applications Open Application Deadline - International Application Deadline - Domestic (Canadian, Permanent Resident of Canada)
FALL September 15 January 15 January 15
WINTER February 15 August 1 August 1
SUMMER N/A N/A N/A

Note : Application deadlines are subject to change without notice. Please check the application portal for the most up-to-date information.

Application Resources

  • Application Steps webpage
  • Submit Your Application webpage
  • Connecting with a supervisor webpage
  • Graduate Funding webpage

Application Workshops

Consult our full list of our virtual application-focused workshops on the Events webpage.

Department and University Information

Graduate and postdoctoral studies.

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University of Manitoba

University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada, R3T 2N2

Earth Sciences (PhD)

The Department of Earth Sciences in the Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources is recognized worldwide as one of Canada's leading geoscience departments. Our faculty members have garnered numerous university, national, and international awards in recognition of their research contributions, excellence in teaching, outreach activities and commitment to the geoscientific community.

Program details

  • Admission requirements 

A researcher stands at a work site with his coworkers.

• Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources • Faculty of Graduate Studies

• Doctor of Philosophy

Expected duration

 • 4 years 

Graduate students in the Department of Earth Sciences enter a vibrant scientific culture and find themselves in a department with a strong sense of identity and community.

Research topics include:

  • Mineralogy and crystallography
  • Environmental mineralogy and geochemistry
  • Sedimentology and quaternary studies
  • Invertebrate paleontology
  • Crustal and mantle geophysics
  • Applied/environmental geophysics; petrology and tectonics
  • Mineral deposits
  • Arctic, marine and freshwater systems

Research facilities

Extensive analytical laboratories with state of the art equipment—all conveniently located in one building:

  • Stable Isotopes for Innovative Research Lab
  • Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer (SIMS) Laboratory
  • ICP Mass Spectrometer Laboratory
  • Microprobe and SEM Research Facility
  • Argon Argon Mass Spectrometer Laboratory (under construction)
  • X-Ray Diffraction and Mössbauer Laboratories
  • Sedimentology Laboratories
  • Invertebrate Paleontology Laboratory
  • Geophysical Laboratories
  • Nellie Cournoyea Arctic Research Facility 

Expected duration: four years

Tuition and fees:  Tuition fees are charged for terms one and two and terms four and five. A continuing fee is paid for term three, term six and each subsequent term. (Refer to Graduate tuition and fees .)

Coursework is normally completed in the first two years, and thesis is normally completed in years four to five. Adjustments may be made with the supervisor’s consultation and approval.

Thesis proposal

Students are required to complete a PhD thesis proposal, normally within 12 months of start of program. The proposal must include an introduction with citation of relevant literature, research objectives, proposed methodology including a timetable, anticipated significant of the research and references. A proposed budget must be appended to the proposal.

Students are required to submit a progress report to the department head on or before February 1 annually.

Thesis 

Students must produce a thesis that is appropriate for the PhD degree being sought and must successfully defend their thesis as determined by the assigned examining committee.

Sample course offerings

  • GEOL 7200: Earth Systems of Central Canada
  • GEOL 7230: Geophysics of the Earth's Crust and Mantle
  • GEOL 7350: Remote Sensing in the Earth and Planetary Sciences
  • GEOL 7470: Advanced Petroleum Geology and Geochemistry
  • GEOL 7480: Advanced Seismology 1
  • GEOL 7540: Isotope Geology and Geochronology
  • GEOL 7550: Hydrothermal Petrochemistry
  • GEOL 7590: Advanced Paleontology 1
  • GEOL 7700: Advanced Clastic Sedimentology
  • GEOL 7720: Geophysical Imaging and Data Processing
  • GEOL 7740: Workshop in the Geological Sciences 1
  • GEOL 7780: Advanced Carbonate Sedimentology
  • GEOL 7790: Advanced Instrumental Techniques in Geology
  • GEOL 7810: Electromagnetic Methods in Geophysics
  • GEOL 7820: Environmental Geophysics

For full course descriptions, please visit the Academic Calendar .

Admission requirements

The following are minimum requirements for entry into the earth sciences PhD program. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

The normal entry requirement is the equivalent of an MSc in earth sciences. Students with MSc degrees in related fields may be accepted by the Graduate Admissions Committee providing their planned degree program involves studies in the earth sciences.

Direct entry into the PhD program from an honours bachelor’s degree is permitted only for outstanding students (GPA well above 3.0 in the last two full years of undergraduate study). This route is at the discretion of the Graduate Admissions Committee and is intended only for those students that the committee considers adequately prepared for immediate PhD-level studies.

Students applying should have a GPA of 3.0 (B or equivalent) in the last two full years (60 credit hours) of study

In addition to the admission requirements described here, all applicants must meet the minimum admission and English language proficiency requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

How to apply

Applications are submitted online and must include the following before they will be reviewed by the admissions committee: 

  • Application fee (non-refundable)
  • Statement of intent 
  • Statement of funding 
  • GRE (optional) 
  • The name of your preferred supervisor
  • Three letters of recommendation from academic sources different from advisor

Please read the  Faculty of Graduate Studies online application instructions  before beginning your application.

Statement of intent

The statement of intent should be between one and two pages and will briefly describe your intended research project, including your previous research or experience, the proposed topic, preferred methods and potential contributions.

Letters written in the format of a research proposal are strongly preferred. Applicants are encouraged to consult the graduate scholarship application instructions of their appropriate Tricouncil Agency ( NSERC , SSHRC , CIHR ) for guidance.

Statement of funding

A brief statement to indicate that you have a major external grant or scholarship support or that you require departmental financial assistance.

Finding an advisor

We encourage you to contact a potential thesis advisor before submitting an application to ensure that there are openings for new graduate students on specific research projects and funding available for research support. Students who have contacted a prospective supervisor and who have received an encouraging response increase their chances of a successful application.

Guidance for prospective graduate students (PDF)

Application deadlines

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Architecture reviews applications in March.

Applications open up to 18 months prior to start term.

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) January 15
Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) December 1

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated.

Start or continue your application

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for City Planning reviews applications in March.

Winter applications are accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Design and Planning reviews applications in March.

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) January 10

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Interior Design reviews applications in March.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Landscape Architecture reviews applications in March.

Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) January 15

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Anthropology reviews applications in March/April.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Please contact the department for admission committee review timelines.

Applications open September 1 of year prior to start term.

Applications open   up to 18 months prior  to start term.

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) May 1
Winter (January) September 1
Term Annual application deadline
Winter (January) June 1
Fall (September) January 15
Term Annual application deadline
Winter (January) June 1
Fall (September) January 15

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for History reviews applications in February.

Applications are reviewed on a  rolling basis .

Applications open July 1 of year prior to start term.

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) March 15
Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) February 1

Applications are reviewed on a  Committee basis . The Committee for German and Slavic Studies reviews applications in February/March.

Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) May 1
Winter (January) September 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Winter (January) June 1
Fall (September) February 1

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis .

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) May 1
Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) March 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) May 1
Winter (January) October 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) March 1
Winter (January) July 1

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Management reviews applications in February / March.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Physical Therapy reviews applications in April / May.

Applications open  August 1 of the year prior to start term.

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (August) November 15
Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) June 1
Winter (January) October 1
Summer (May) February1
Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) March 1
Winter (January) July 1
Summer (May) November 1

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . Please contact the department for admission committee review timelines.

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) June 1
Winter (January) October 1
Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) March 1
Winter (January) July 1
Term Annual application deadline
Summer (July) September 1

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Orthodontics reviews applications in August/September and holds interviews in September/October.

Term Annual application deadline
Summer (June) August 1

Program currently undergoing review, applications will not be opening at this time.

Term Annual application deadline
Summer (July) August 15

Select Preventive Dental Science in the Program drop-down on the application form.

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (August) June 1 (year prior to start term)
Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) August 1

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Educational Administration, Foundations and Psychology reviews applications in March / April.

Canadian and US applicants
TermAnnual application deadline
Fall (September)January 8
Summer (May)January 8
International applicants
TermAnnual application deadline
Fall (September)January 8

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Education reviews applications in February / March.

Canadian, US and International applicants
TermAnnual application deadline
Fall (September)December 1
Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) May 1
Winter (January) September 1
Summer (May) January 4
Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) February 1
Winter (January) June 1
Summer (May) October 1

Applications are reviewed after the deadline, with decisions issued in March - April.

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) June 1
Winter (January) October 1
Summer (May) February 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) June 1
Winter (January) October 1
Summer (May) February 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) March 1
Winter (January) July 1
Summer (May) November 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) May 1
Winter (January) September 1
Summer (May) January 4
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) February 1
Winter (January) June 1
Summer (May) October 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) May 1
Winter (January) September 1
Summer (May) January 15

Currently not accepting applications to this program.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Please contact the department for admission committee review timelines.

Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) March 1
Winter (January) June 1

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. Applications received by the March 1 deadline for a September start-date will receive first consideration for any available funding. Late applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis for any available funding, please contact the department for further information.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Human Rights reviews applications in January - March.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Law reviews applications in January - March.

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) December 15

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Nursing (MN) reviews applications in April / May.

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) November 1

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Nursing PhD reviews applications in February / March.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee reviews applications as per the timelines noted below each table.

Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) May 15
Winter (January) September 15
Summer (May) January 15

Winter applications reviewed in October Summer applications reviewed in February Fall applications reviewed in June

Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) January 15
Winter (January) May 15
Summer (May) September 15

Winter applications reviewed in June Summer applications reviewed in October Fall applications reviewed in February

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. This includes having the support of a faculty supervisor before you apply.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Natural Resources Management reviews applications in March - June.

Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) June 1

After the annual application deadline (see below), applications are reviewed on a committee basis by the Faculty of Social Work internal admissions committee. Once this process is complete, decisions are sent to all applicants in March / April. 

Applications open  July 1 of year prior to start term.

Term Applications open Annual application deadline
Fall (September) July 1 December 1

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Social Work reviews applications in March / April.

Term Applications open Annual application deadline
Fall (September) July 1 January 15
Term Applications open Annual application deadline
Fall (September) July 1 October 15

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Music reviews Fall term applications in December / January, and Winter term applications in July.

Term Annual application deadlines Audition dates
Fall (September) December 1 January 22-27, 2024
Winter (January) Winter intake currently suspended  
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) June 1
Winter (January) October 1

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Occupational Therapy reviews applications in May / June.

Master of Occupational Therapy regular program  applications open September 15 of the year prior to deadline .

Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (August) February 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (August) January 15

Master of Occupational Therapy accelerated program  applications open October 1  of the year prior to deadline .

Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (August) May 1
Winter (January) October 1

The name of your confirmed supervisor is required at the time of application. To identify a prospective thesis research supervisor on your application, please  contact Immunology Faculty members .

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Community Health Sciences reviews applications in March / April.

Canadian, US and International applicants

TermAnnual application deadline
Fall (September)January 10

The name of your preferred supervisor is required at time of application.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Students selected for in-person interview will be notified in February.

Term Applications open Annual application deadline
Fall (September) November 15  January 11

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Physician Assistant Studies reviews applications in April.

Offers of admission will be released to successful applicants on May 17, 2024 from the University of Manitoba Master of Physician Assistant Studies, the same day as the University of Toronto BScPA Program and McMaster University Physician Assistant Education Program. The three institutions are pleased to provide applicants their offers on the same day to help with the decision-making process.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Pharmacology and Therapeutics reviews applications one month after the application deadline.

Applications for Pathology MSc are reviewed on a  rolling basis .

Applications for Pathologist Assistant are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Pathologist Assistant reviews applications in April / May. 

The Pathologist Assistant program only admits Canadian and US students every two years. The next intake is tentatively scheduled for Fall 2026.

Canadian and US applicants

TermApplications openAnnual application deadlines
Fall (September)April 1 (Pathology MSc)
October 1 (Pathologist Assistant)
March 31 (Pathologist Assistant)
June 1 (Pathology MSc)

International applicants

TermApplications openAnnual application deadlines
Fall (September)April 1March 1 (Pathology MSc)
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) February 1
Winter (January) May 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) February 1
Winter (January) June 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Summer (May) February 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) February 15
Winter (January) June 15
Summer (May) October 15

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Statistics reviews applications in March / April.

Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) February 1
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) February 15
Winter (January) Winter intake currently suspended.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Biological Sciences reviews applications one month after deadline.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Indigenous Studies reviews applications in February and June.

Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) January 15
(for scholarship consideration)

May 15

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. For those who wish to be considered for scholarships, applications must be received by January 15 of the year in which you're seeking admission.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions Committee for Applied Human Nutrition reviews applications in February.

Term Applications open Annual application deadline
Fall (September) October 1 January 6
Term Annual application deadlines
Fall (September) March 1
Winter (January) July 1
Term Annual application deadline
Fall (September) February 15

Les demandes d’admission sont évaluées par un comité . Le comité d’admission évalu les demandes durant les mois de Mars et Avril.  

Les demandes peut être surmise jusqu’à concurrence de 18 mois avant le début de premier trimestre.

Session

date limite

automne (septembre) 1 juin
hiver (janvier) 1 octobre
été (mai) 1 février
Session date limite
automne (septembre) 1 mars
hiver (janvier) 1 juillet
été (mai) 1 novembre

Toute demande d’admission en ligne doit être déposée, avec documents à l’appui, au plus tard aux dates indiquées.

Soumettre ou continuer votre application

Centre for Earth Observation Science

World-leading environment and climate change research right here at UM.

Academic advisors

Book an appointment with one of our academic advisors.

Tuition and fees

Learn about the tuition and fee requirements associated with graduate studies at UM.

Explore program requirements and detailed descriptions for required and elective courses throughout the PhD in earth sciences.

Two large skeletons of a turtle and dinosaur at the Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth and resources.

Explore the Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources

The Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources was established nearly 20 years ago to combine the resources of Earth, Environment, and Resources studies, with a strong focus on research. In addition to the environment, climate change and resource development, the faculty is focused on geography and earth sciences, as well as environmental science and environmental studies.

  • Programs of study
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  • Community and partners

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Explore the Faculty of Graduate Studies

Discovery happens here. Join the graduate students and researchers who come here from every corner of the world. They are drawn to the University of Manitoba because it offers the opportunity to do transformational research.

  • Funding, awards and financial aid
  • Graduate student experience

Keep exploring

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Discover more programs

With over 140 programs across multiple faculties, schools and colleges, the University of Manitoba offers more learning, teaching and research opportunities than any other post-secondary institution in the province.

  • Geography (MA)
  • Geography (PhD)
  • Earth Sciences (MSc)
  • Master of Natural Resources Management (MNRM)
  • Natural Resources and Environmental Management (PhD)

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Join the students and researchers who come here from every corner of the world.

What it's like to be a UM student

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Be adventurous, challenge yourself and make a difference.

Opportunities for Indigenous students

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Experience a world-class education in the heart of Canada.

Why international students study with us

The University Of Manitoba Fort Garry campus.

We offer state of the art facilities with 140 years of history.

Admission and application inquiries

Faculty of Graduate Studies Room 500 UMSU University Centre 65 Chancellors Circle University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus) Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada

[email protected] Phone: 204-474-9377

Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program Inquiries

Celia Mellinger Graduate Program and Alumni Coordinator Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources Room 440 Wallace Building 125 Dysart Rd Winnipeg, MB R3T 2M6 University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)

[email protected] 204-474-6183

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Graduate Studies

  • Prospective Students

Why Grad Studies at Queen's

Our graduate programs offer extensive fieldwork programs on six continents, generous student stipends, world class research facilities, and in many cases, industry collaboration.

Award Winning Faculty

Meet our world-renowned faculty.

State of the Art Facilities

The department is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including an X-ray Diffraction and Clay Mineral Lab, a Computational Geomechanics Lab, and Stable Isotope and ICP/MS Lab to name a few.

Industry Collaboration

Industry collaboration in many studies.

Queen's is one of Canada's oldest and highest-ranked universities where you can work with world-renowned scientists and engineers. 

Degree programs.

The department offers the following degree programs:

  • M.S.c. in Applied Geology

Master of Science

The program consists of four term-length courses plus a thesis

Master of Science in Engineering

Master of Science in Applied Geology - (non research pattern II)

The Master of Science in Applied Geology is a one-year , course-based program leading to enhanced knowledge in mineral exploration/resource geology (Stream A) or geological engineering (Stream B). The program normally commences in September and can be completed by the end of April of the following year.

More information can be found here: Master of Science in Applied Geology (Non-Research PATTERN II)(PDF, 207KB)

Doctor of Philosophy

In the doctoral program, students are required to pass a comprehensive qualifying examination in the geological sciences. The PhD program can be under the Engineering Council or the Science Council. The Engineering program consists of four term-length courses plus a thesis. The Science program consists of a thesis only as Science Council does not specify any course requirements, although the supervisor or comprehensive exam committee may specify certain mandatory courses in support of the thesis.

Professional Master of Earth and Energy Resources Leadership

A Professional Master’s degree that is training future leaders for the mineral and energy sectors. MEERL is an interdisciplinary program that teaches decision making tools, with core courses in resource life cycle, business strategy, economics, law and policy, stakeholder engagement, and innovation and technology. The program is part-time and primarily online so you can work while you are learning.

More information can be found here: Master of Earth Energy Resources Leadership

Dynamic Career Opportunities

Here is a sampling of the career possibilites with a graduate degree from Queen's University Department of Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering:

Career Examples

  • Industry : petroleum technologist, mining advisory position, research, economic geologist, applied geochemist, applied geophysicist, applied mineralogist, financial consultant to mineral exploration, environmental consultant, stock market consultant, field geologist
  • Government : mapping, consultant, research, advisory position, environmental regulator
  • Academia : postdoctoral fellowship, professor, college instructor, adjunct teaching position

See Why Our Students Chose Grad Studies at Queen's

Check out our student spotlights to see what students past and present have had to say about their experience in Queen's Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering.

Our graduate students organize and participate in a number of social events throughout the year through the graduate student council, known as the Jolliffe Club.

Financial Support

Minimum funding levels.

The Department of Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering is committed to supporting graduate students with a minimum of $21,000/year for Master's students and $23,000/year for Ph.D. students.

These amounts include Teaching Assistantships which are $5,500 (approximately for both the Fall and Winter terms) depending on the requirements of the particular course the student is demonstrating. Master's and Ph.D. students are also eligible for Research Fellowships which are in consultation with the student's supervisor. Students should also consult the NSERC website for the current levels of support this agency provides.

Financial support is naturally conditional on a student's continued satisfactory progress, and those students who obtain scholarship funding external to the University (e.g. NSERC) usually do not receive internal scholarship money. They remain, however, eligible for teaching and research assistantships.

$21,000/year - MSc/MASc domestic for 6 terms (2 yrs)

$28,000/year - MSc/MASc international for 6 terms (2 yrs) 

$23,000/year - PhD domestic for 12 terms (4 yrs)

$23,000/year - PhD domestic and international for 12 terms (4 yrs)  Please note: - Minimum funding levels apply to all research students within terms of support (M.Sc. and Ph.D.), except the one year (coursework only) M.Sc. students who are completely self funded

Additional Funding Opportunities

  • External Scholarships - NSERC Postgraduate Scholarships , Ontario Graduate Scholarships , Industry and Private Scholarships
  • Departmental Scholarships - Queen's Graduate Awards , Reinhardt, Bowen and Bruce Scholarships
  • Departmental Teaching Assistantships
  • Research Assistantships - Awarded by Supervisors from their Research Funds

Departmental funding is currently provided to full-time 2 year research MSc/MASc and 4 year Ph.D. students who are within terms of support. After the student's terms of support have been completed the supervisor(s) may choose to continue funding in the form of a research fellowship.

International Students

Additional financial support to international students may be awarded to exceptional candidates. These additional awards are granted on a competitive basis. Students should consult the School of Graduate Studies website for more information.

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As an international student although the majority of the requirements to apply and to register are the same as domestic students, there are some additional considerations you need to be aware of. Please read the international student handbook (Pdf - 1.05MB) carefully.

Visiting Researchers, Exchange Programs and Cotutelles

Did you know that Queen's has many international partnerships and exchange opportunities for international students.

  • Visiting Research students
  • International Exchange programs

Cotutelle Program

Visiting Research Students

A student who is registered in a graduate level program at their home university may register at Queen's for non-degree study and/or to join a research group for a period of up to one year. Interested students are required to complete an application that includes a recommendation from the research supervisor and from the Department Head. A Visiting Research Student may be assessed student activity fees but not tuition fees and may not enroll in courses. They must be insured under UHIP (if international). Contact the SGS office for further information and the application documents for the VRS program. Please contact Darlene Homer at the SGS Office if you have any queries.

International Student Exchanges

International student exchanges are managed through a database of universities with whom Queen's has an exchange agreement. These agreements are often the result of a signed Memorandum of Agreement between two institutions and appendices to these agreements include details such as the length of study, fees that must be paid by students and the length of the agreement. Because of the reciprocal nature of student exchanges, tuition is often waived at the host institution; however students continue to pay tuition to their home university. Students are responsible for all other expenses such as travel, fees related to non-academic services, accommodation and for incoming exchange students at Queen's, UHIP payment.

A cotutelle program is a dual doctoral degree program between two universities: the student completes the full degree requirements for each of the two universities (common dissertation) and if successful, receives a degree from each university. Cotutelle programs afford several opportunities: to enhance doctoral training, to foster international research, to enable student mobility, to develop global networks and experiences. Doctoral students at Queen’s may be able to engage in international cotutelle studies, depending on their academic program, supervision and plan of study. Students registered in a doctoral program outside of Canada are invited to consider Queen’s as a destination University for cotutelle studies.

Students in a cotutelle program are registered as full-time students at two institutions. They have a supervisor at both universities who are fully committed to mentoring the student in collaboration with each other. Students are subject to the admission requirements (including language requirements), degree requirements and the regulations of both universities and they spend research and study time at each institution. One comprehensive/candidacy examination and one thesis defence is held in accordance with the framework agreed upon at the start of the cotutelle program. Normally, a cotutelle option is possible when there is an existing or developing collaborative research project/program between researchers (i.e. prospective supervisors).

Students from China - China Scholarship Council

The China Scholarship Council is a government agency in China which provides scholarships to citizens of China (whether they are studying in China or abroad) for doctoral and postdoctoral studies.

Queen's University has signed an agreement with the CSC and with specific Chinese universities to be a preferred host institution for CSC scholarship holders. These scholarships will be awarded to students across all graduate programs, particularly those in physical sciences, applied science and life sciences. In order to apply for the CSC scholarship, a student normally must first have received a formal offer of admission from Queen's University. Please go to the " Procedures for students from China to apply for a CSC " webpage for more details.

Students from China

Jie Deng (Former Associate Professor at Fudan University)

Application & Admissions

As an international student, there are many aspects to consider before applying to a graduate program and then there is the application process itself.

  • Choosing a Program
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  • Admission Requirements
  • How to Apply

Registration & Fees

Based on the recommendation of the Working Group on Graduate Funding, Queen’s University has made the decision that, beginning September 2021, international PhD students will pay the same tuition amount as domestic PhD students.

Considering and understanding all the costs associated with studying is important to allow you to concentrate on your studies. Enrolling in graduate school also has a number of steps. Make sure you don't miss any, so you can start your program on time.

  • Tuition Fees
  • Student Activity Fees
  • Cost of Living
  • UHIP and Medical Coverage
  • Accepting an Offer
  • Selecting Courses
  • Changing registration status

Awards & Funding

Funding for International students

International graduate students are financially supported through a combination of stipends, awards, bursaries and employment opportunities.

Ph.D. students receive a guaranteed minimum funding package of $18,000 a year with many departments setting higher funding minimums and almost all offering much higher average funding packages. Funding is guaranteed for 4 years as long as the student remains in good academic standing. The majority of Master's students in research degree programs also receive substantial funding support.

Queen's also has entrance scholarships and fellowships available to international students who demonstrate academic excellence - eg. Principal's International Doctoral Award (PDF 23KB)

Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS): Foreign students who are studying in Ontario under a temporary resident visa - student study permit, under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) are eligible for the allotted visa student awards.

Information about other sources of funding for international students can be obtained from:

  • The Office of the University Registrars' Student Awards website
  • The Canadian Bureau for International Education website

American students who have access to Section 529 savings plans are eligible to utilize these resources while studying at Queen's.

International students can hold student loans that they may have secured through their home country. Please contact the appropriate student loan agency for further information.

Mitacs Globalink Research Award

The Mitacs Globalink Research Award supports international research collaboration. Special research funding is available for graduate students with uncertain status in their current location, to conduct research at a Canadian university.

Award overview:

  • $5,000 award from Mitacs to support student travel and accommodation expenses, research-related expenses, and student stipend
  • 12-24 week project at a Canadian university
  • Supervised by Canadian faculty
  • Applications are accepted at any time and will be processed as received.

For more info, see Mitacs Globalink Research Award .

Resources for International Students

Throughout your time at Queen's you may need to see advice or assistance. There are a number of departments

  • QUIC - Queen's University International Centre
  • SASS - Student Academic Success Services
  • Career Services
  • SGPS Student Advisors
  • Student Wellness Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need TOEFL if my studies were in English?

At Queen's, English is the language of instruction and communication, except in the language departments. Proficiency in English is a prerequisite for application to admission. Those applicants whose native languages do not include English will be required to obtain satisfactory standing in an English Language Proficiency test as part of the application process, and before final acceptance is granted.

Any applicant who has recently studied for at least one complete year at a university where English is the official language of instruction may be exempt from the English Language Proficiency test. An applicant requesting a waiver of the test for this reason should do so in writing and submit it with the application. The Director, Admissions and Student Services of the School of Graduate Studies, in consultation with the department, will make determinations in these cases.

How do I set up a bank account after I arrive in Canada?

International students are required to show their acceptance letter to the bank to be able to open an account.

How do I get a health insurance plan?

Enrolment in the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) for international students is mandatory for you and any dependants who arrive with you. UHIP provides basic medical insurance coverage for hospitals, doctors and some diagnostic fees. You and your dependents must enrol within 30 days of your arrival in Canada or you will pay a penalty of $500 plus retroactive premiums.

You must visit the Queen's University International Centre (QUIC) upon your arrival to Canada to apply for UHIP. All international students attempting to pre-register or register must complete a UHIP application to enroll themselves and their family members who reside in Ontario in UHIP.

Questions about the UHIP application process should be directed to QUIC by emailing them, calling them at extension 613-533-2604 (internal extension 32604) or visiting them in the John Deutsch University Centre.

Where should I look to find a place to live if I'm accepted?

Graduate students can find housing both on campus and off campus.

Are international students funded for their graduate studies?

International graduate students can receive funding for their studies at Queen's through a combination of stipends, awards, bursaries and employment opportunities.

As for domestic students, Queen's has a guaranteed minimum stipend for funding-eligible international PhD students currently valued at $18,000.

All international doctoral students without full external government funding who are admitted to full-time study at Queen's are eligible to receive an International Tuition Award. Under this program, each new international full-time doctoral student receives an award to be held during his or her funding-eligible years of study. The annual award is applied as a tuition credit directly to the students' fees account. Please contact the graduate coordinator of the department you are interested in for details.

Like domestic students, prospective or enrolled international graduate students do not make individual application for most internal named fellowships or scholarships or departmental awards administered by the School of Graduate Studies.

Can international students be teaching assistants?

Yes they can. Most graduate departments/programs engage several graduate students (both domestic and international) each year to assist in undergraduate teaching, tutorial work, and laboratory demonstrating, as Teaching Assistants (TAs).

Continue your research at one of North America's premier Earth Science Departments

Ready to apply.

Here's what you need to know.

Please look at this web site and direct your enquiry to a specific faculty member in Geology. Each faculty member will have their own idea of whether or not they will be accepting students. In addition, each applicant's funding options will be different, so it is a good idea to contact potential advisors first. Then, if the faculty member approves, an application can be submitted.

There will be a non-refundable full application fee of $105.00 CAN for each application to a program. When applying online, applicants must pay the application fee using a MasterCard or Visa credit card.

Those applying with a paper application must submit with that paper application a certified cheque or money order of $105.00 CAN, payable to Queen's University (this type of application will only be accepted by those people who are unable to use Visa or MasterCard electronically because of the lack of availability of this service in their area).

The electronic online application system must be accessed by all other applicants.

For complete information on applying to Graduate Studies please visit the Queen's Graduate Studies website .

How much does it cost to apply to Grad School at Queen’s University?

Currently the cost to apply to Grad School at Queen’s is $105.00 CDN. The Application submitted is only valid from September – May and then you would need to re-apply again for the next year.

What is the minimum funding offered to Graduate Students?

• M.Sc in applied Geology (MAG) is not funded.

• M.Sc & M.A.Sc. Students: $21,000

• Ph.D. Students: $23,000

Who can supervise or co-supervise graduate students?

All graduate students must have a supervisor. The supervisor must be a faculty member at Queen's who is a member of the School of Graduate Studies.

A co-supervisor is either a faculty member at Queen's who is a member of the School of Graduate Studies or who has been given permission to co-supervise by the School. Adjunct or term faculty and faculty from other universities cannot sole supervise a graduate student and can only act as a co-supervisor.

View a complete listing of current faculty members in Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering.

We've got answers! Get in touch with our Graduate Program Assistant today. We are here and happy to help!

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Graduate Degrees in Geology & Geophysics

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  • M.Sc. Program (Thesis-Based)
  • M.Sc. Program (Project-based)
  • Law & Geology Combined J.D./M.Sc. Program
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Please Note: Securing a faculty supervisor is essential to being successful in receiving an offer of admission to our M.Sc. program. Be sure to reach out to potential supervisors early in the process.

The objective of the Ph.D. program is to provide the supervision, intellectual environment and resources to permit an aspiring scientist to develop and complete a thesis, involving a significant addition to knowledge, on a specific project in Geology or Geophysics, or in a collaborative project involving one or more related disciplines. The scope of these research projects represents an enormous range of interests, from purely 'academic' to strongly 'applied' industrial and environmental topics. Current graduate degrees include:

  • Ph.D. in Geology
  • Ph.D. in Geophysics

Graduate students are encouraged to develop a passing knowledge of fields peripheral to their thesis topics by regular attendance at the weekly departmental colloquia, M.Sc. and Ph.D. defence lectures of fellow students, and through participation in the graduate seminar course and informal brownbag seminars.

Program Requirements

The course requirements can be found here . Courses are designed to supplement and broaden the student's knowledge base, however, a thesis based on original research forms the most important part of both the M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs.

Ph.D. students must pass an oral Qualifying Examination no later than 18 months after starting in the program.

Collaborative Specializations

A Collaborative Specialization is an intra-university graduate field of study that provides an additional multidisciplinary experience for students enrolled in and completing the degree requirements for one of a number of approved Master’s and/or  PhD  programs. Students meet the admission requirements of, and register in, the participating (or “home”) program but complete, in addition to the degree requirements of that program, the additional requirements specified by the Collaborative Specialization. The degree conferred is that of the home program, and the completion of the Collaborative Specialization is indicated by a transcript notation indicating the additional specialization that has been attained.

Students in our department often choose to pursue one of the following specializations:

  • Planetary Science and Exploration
  • Environment and Sustainability
  • Scientific Computing
  • Multi-Hazard Risk and Resilience (New Sept 2020)

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Earth Sciences

Why earth sciences @ memorial.

Memorial University of Newfoundland has one of the largest and most diverse Earth Science departments in Canada. With 23 faculty members, 16 staff members, and leading-edge teaching and research facilities, the department is able to offer high quality graduate degree programs. Graduates of Memorial’s Department of Earth Sciences have gone on to careers in academia, government, and the private sector. The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador is an excellent natural laboratory in which to study Earth Sciences and many of our courses have field-based components. The cross-section of geology that can be studied in Newfoundland and Labrador is unparalleled and spans a large part of Earth’s history. Our department’s long-standing, excellent reputation is, in part, due to its close proximity to this world-class geology. Memorial’s Department of Earth Sciences maintains close ties to the mining and petroleum industries of Canada, the USA, and elsewhere. Each year, leading petroleum and mineral exploration companies recruit at Memorial University because of the excellent education and training our students receive, and have taken with them throughout the world.

Description of programs

  • MSc – The MSc program is offered in both Geology and Geophysics, and involves courses and a thesis. The MSc can be completed in two years of full-time study.
  • PhD – The PhD program is offered in both Geology and Geophysics, and involves courses, a comprehensive exam, and a thesis. The PhD can be completed in four years of full-time study.

Contact a faculty supervisor

Graduate applicants interested in research-based programs are strongly encouraged to connect with a faculty supervisor at the time of application. Visit the Department of Earth Sciences website for a list of faculty members, their research interests, and contact information. You may also use the Yaffle search application to find a supervisor you may wish to work with.

The School of Graduate Studies offers advice on how to search for and contact potential supervisors . Need more help? Try attending one of our webinars and information sessions for prospective graduate students.

Minimum admission requirements

  • MSc – Bachelor's degree (minimum second class) in an appropriate area of study
  • PhD – Master’s degree in an appropriate area of study

Potential career options and outcomes

Mineral or oil and gas exploration and development, hydrogeology, environmental geology, secondary school teaching, geological surveys, university teaching and research, law, business, banking and economics, space

Graduate student and alumni profiles

Our graduate students come from all parts of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, and the world. View the student profile below to learn more about what they do and why they chose Memorial.

Current student success | Become a Graduate Student | Memorial University  of Newfoundland

Note: All figures are in Canadian dollars and subject to change. Fees are approved by the University’s Board of Regents. In the event of a discrepancy between the fees approved by the Board and those published on this website, the fees approved by the Board will prevail. Financial policies are enforced through the Department of Financial and Administrative Services. For the complete and official list of all fees and charges, visit www.mun.ca/finance/fees/ .

Program Information

Degrees offered:.

MSc (Geology, Geophysics) PhD (Geology, Geophysics)

Duration (Full-time students):

MSc: 2 years PhD: 4 years

Application Deadline:

January 15 for Spring and Fall admission September 15 for Winter admission

MSc: $20,000 PhD: $21,800

More funding information

Tuition (NL students):

MSc: $635-$953/semester PhD: $888/semester

Tuition (Other Canadian students):

MSc: $826-$1,239/semester PhD: $1,154/semester

Tuition (International students):

MSc: $1,074-$1,611/semester PhD: $1,499/semester

More tuition information

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Geology (MSc, PhD)

As a geology graduate student at the University of Regina, you can count on learning from and studying alongside highly-qualified and committed instructors in our Master’s and PhD geology programs. Our Master of Science degrees are recognized nationally and internationally and our graduates are eligible to register with professional geoscientific societies in Canada.

Our geology faculty are experts in their fields, and can offer various specialized courses, including many hands-on training opportunities and practices. Their research areas cover hard rock and soft rock studies, geofluids, mineral and oil-gas resources, and environmental geoscience. You’ll benefit from close contact with your supervisor and in-depth involvement in their topics of research, as you achieve your own research objectives.

Strong Connections

You’ll also benefit from our strong connections to industry and government agencies – in the classroom, in the field, in the community, and after graduation – and you’ll become part of a network of graduate students and alumni. Our close co-operation with Saskatchewan industry partners and the Saskatchewan Geological Survey provides hands-on learning opportunities for field work in the Canadian Shield and access to sedimentary cores and data relating to the Phanerozoic rocks of Saskatchewan. We draw additional strength for graduate student supervision from the highly qualified personnel at the Geological Survey. On campus, geology staff and students work in co-operation with the Petroleum Technology Research Centre in Regina.

Employment Success

The U of R geology program has an established reputation for training highly qualified personnel, and our graduates have an excellent record of obtaining employment. Post-graduation work can include working for mineral exploration companies and in government research for the geological survey. Canada’s federal and provincial governments, energy and mining, hydrogeological and related environmental service industries employ highly qualified geoscientists in a range of roles. As the present workforce ages there is a pressing need for new people to fill these roles. The U of R’s graduate programs in geology can prepare you for your career in the geosciences.

Research Activities

The research activities in the Department of Geology can be grouped into hard rock (igneous and metamorphic rocks), soft rock (sedimentary rocks), tectonics and structural geofluids, geomodelling, and environmental in terms of research fields, and into mineral resources, hydrocarbon resources, and environmental geoscience according to the fields of application. Faculty members in the Department of Geology are experts in their respective fields and can offer various specialized courses including hands-on training and practices.

Geology Meet Your Faculty

Quick facts, why study geology at the university of regina.

As a Geology graduate student, you will have close contact with supervisors and in-depth involvement in their topics of research. You’ll get hands-on skill-building opportunities in the lab and field.

After graduation, you’ll have connections to industry, government agencies, and job opportunities.

Graduate students have easy access to the Saskatchewan Subsurface Core Facility (Regina) which is highly beneficial to sedimentary geology students to gain practical skills in research on the sedimentary succession of Saskatchewan. Further to this, you’ll have all of this in close proximity to the Canadian Light Source synchrotron’s analytical facilities.

Our students work on a wide range of projects. Areas of specialization that our faculty are qualified to supervise include:

  • Quaternary studies
  • Geochemical, igneous, metamorphic, and structural studies of the Canadian Shield
  • Phanerozoic carbonate, clastic, and evaporite studies; coal, petroleum, and uranium mineralization
  • Metallic mineral deposits
  • Subsurface reservoir and caprock properties for carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS)
  • Geothermometry and fluid inclusion studies
  • Environmental geochemistry and geomicrobiology including mine waste remediation and reclamation

National and International Recognition

Students take major responsibility by performing their research activities leading to achievement of their research objectives. 

Our graduate degrees in geology are recognized nationally and internationally. Graduates are eligible to register in professional geoscientific societies in Canada.

Valuable Employment Skills

Graduates have an advanced understanding of Earth processes and gain critical research skills, logistical planning skills, and technical writing and presenting skills that make them an asset to employers.

High Employment Prospects

Geoscientists have excellent salary prospects upon entering industry positions. Students who graduate from our programs who have an undergraduate degree in geoscience generally qualify for registration in the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS). As of the 2022 APEGS salary survey, Geoscience (Geology, Geochemistry, Hydrogeology, Geophysics) graduates with five or less years’ experience (e.g., a student with an MSc degree who has been working for three years or less in industry) have a mean salary of $85,000. Saskatchewan geoscientists with more than 20 years of experience make an average of $170,000 per year!

Our students build expertise in field and/or lab skills through their research projects.

The research activities in the Department of Geology can be grouped into hard rock, soft rock, geofluids, and environmental in terms of research fields, and into hydrocarbon resources, mineral resources, and environmental geoscience according to the fields of application.

Our research faculty members, graduate students and collaborators are active in geoscience research in various parts of Saskatchewan, Canada, and around the world. In addition to geological field work, there are also opportunities to pursue laboratory-based research.

Industry and Government Collaboration

Since its inception, the Department of Geology has derived great benefit and support from its close and continuing research collaboration with the Saskatchewan Geological Survey and the Saskatchewan Research Council. On the 'soft rock' side, both the Geological Survey of Canada (GSC-Calgary) and the Saskatchewan Geological Survey - Subsurface Laboratory and core depository constitute an invaluable research resource. Similarly, a large amount of research and student support (both for field and laboratory work) has come from the Precambrian Division of the Saskatchewan Geological Survey.

Teaching Assistantships

Teaching assistantships provide our graduate students with hands-on experience mentoring and supervising undergraduate students, which are transferable skills they can use in careers in industry or government where teamwork is common. This work also provides students with opportunities to further develop their presenting skills.

Internships

Many of our students work on projects that are co-funded by industry partners, and additional funds can be obtained for some projects to enable students to participate in industry internship projects (e.g., MITACs Accelerate internships).

Students gain practical, industry-applicable skills through these experiences. These internships provide students the opportunity to build their resume with work experience in an industry setting, network with people working in their field, and gain experience in subfields of geoscience to help them with decision-making about their career post-graduation. Some of these jobs also lead to full-time positions after graduation.

Community Service Learning and Volunteer Opportunities

Many of our graduate students volunteer with our departmental community outreach activities. Here, they meet with elementary or high school students or community organizations to share Earth science-related activities with them and spread the word on our programs. Graduate students who participate in these activities gain experience fielding geoscience questions from a lay audience, and gain logistical planning experience preparing for these events. Some of our graduate students also organize events with the local student chapter of the Society of Economic Geology, including field trips within western Canada; again, this builds their practical logistical planning skills which are valuable as they transition into jobs in industry or government.

Specialized Labs, Equipment, and Resources

The department has research laboratory space providing faculty and graduate students access to a variety of specialized equipment and resources.

Research Laboratories

  • Geofluids Research Lab
  • Sedimentary Basin Studies and Geomodeling Research Lab
  • Precambrian Geology Research Lab
  • Quaternary Geology and Paleoecology Research Lab
  • Sedimentary Geochemistry Research Lab
  • Solid Earth Studies Lab
  • Environmental Geochemistry and Interfaces Lab
  • Geomicrobiology Lab

Research Facilities

  • Cold-Cathodoluminescence for Optical Microscope
  • Fluid Inclusion Heating-Freezing Stages
  • Petrographic Microscopes and Imaging Systems
  • Raman Spectroscopy
  • Epifluorescence microscope
  • Rock Sample Preparation Facility (Cutting, Grinding and Milling)
  • Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) - Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS)
  • SEM-CL Imaging and Spectrometry Facility
  • Well Log Microfiche Library and Reader
  • Geochemistry Laboratories
  • X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD)
  • X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (XRF)
  • Anaerobic glove box
  • PCR machines
  • Ultra-low temperature freezer

Award-winning Opportunities

  • A MSc candidate in our department was awarded an NSERC Canada Graduate Scholarship in 2022
  • A PhD candidate in our department was awarded an NSERC Canada Graduate Scholarship in 2022
  • Several of our students have won prizes in the annual Saskatchewan Geological Open House since 2020

Geology Frequently Asked Questions

  • Structural geology and metamorphic petrology
  • Precambrian tectonic processes
  • Igneous petrology, volcanology, and mineralogy
  • Mineral deposit geology
  • Carbonate sedimentology & depositional environments, stratigraphy, and geochemistry
  • Siliciclastic sedimentology, depositional environments and stratigraphy
  • Diagenesis and reservoir characterization
  • Glacial and Quaternary geology
  • Paleontology
  • Paleoenvironmental reconstructions
  • Low temperature aqueous geochemistry
  • Modeling of fluid flow and fluid-rock interactions
  • Modeling of hydrocarbon generation and migration
  • Fluid inclusion studies
  • Hydrothermal mineralizing systems and fluid-rock interactions

Environmental

  • Geobiology and geomicrobiology
  • Microbe-mineral interactions
  • Biogeochemical cycling and metal transformations

Mineral Resources

  • Sedimentary basin-hosted base metals, uranium, and REE mineralization
  • Magmatism-related mineralization
  • Orogeny-related gold mineralization, regional tectonic and metallogeny, structural control on mineralization
  • Geological mapping using GIS and remote sensing
  • Non-traditional secondary mineral resources

Hydrocarbon resources and CO2 storage system

  • Hydrocarbon sources and paths
  • Sedimentary and stratigraphic control of petroleum reservoirs
  • Characterization of petroleum reservoirs
  • Basin evolution and regional stratigraphy

Environmental Geoscience

  • Quaternary and cold environments and modern geomorphic processes
  • Quaternary environmental reconstructions from the tropics
  • Stable isotope records of ancient seawater and recent climate changes
  • CO2 sequestration in geological formations
  • Mine drainage environments, remediation, and reclamation
  • Biologically-mediated toxic metal(loid) transformation at contaminated sites Microbialites and microbial mats

There are many clubs and societies that you can join on campus.

  • M. Kent Club (Geology Student Society)
  • Saskatchewan Geological Society
  • Canadian Society of Petroleum Geologists
  • Society of Economic Geology (SEG) Student Chapter
  • Saskatchewan Geological Society Luncheons
  • Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC)

Yes! Once you have been accepted as a fully-qualified graduate student with no conditions or holds on your admission, then you are eligible to apply for our scholarships, awards, or graduate teaching assistant positions.

Geology Scholarships and Awards

  • Association of Exploration Geochemists Scholarship in Geology
  • LWV Graduate Scholarship

Faculty of Science Graduate Funding

  • Paul W. Riegert Memorial Scholarship in Graduate Studies
  • Gerhard Herzberg Fellowship
  • Saskatchewan Innovation and Excellence Graduate Scholarship

Apply for these scholarships, and more, by visiting our Graduate Awards Portal (GAP), the U of R online graduate scholarship application system.

All Graduate Funding Opportunities

Visit our Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research website to learn about all graduate funding opportunities including:

  • National Scholarships (including Tri Council funding)
  • Awards to Study Abroad
  • FGSR Funding/Special Awards
  • Funding for Indigenous Students
  • Funding for International Students
  • Other Awards and Scholarships
  • External Scholarship Opportunities
  • External Student and Faculty Awards

GEOL 811 Advanced Mineralogy

Laboratory aspects of R.I. determination, model analysis, reflectivity, micro-hardness, cathodo-luminescence, chemical and X-ray analysis and their application in natural mineral systems and assemblages.

GEOL 843 Recent Advances in Petrology

Modern work in pure and applied petrology, including recent developments in research methodology and instrumentation concerning the investigation of crustal inorganic and/or organic matter.

GEOL 850 Topics in Structural Geology

Relationships between internal and external stress and the resultant strain features in rocks, including mathematical analysis and analog computer studies.

Geol 840 Topics in Sedimentology

Selected topics in sedimentary basin studies: depositional environments, tectonic control on basin evolution ad basin-filling architecture, diagenesis & reservoir properties, petrology of clastic, chemical and biochemical sedimentary systems, lithostratigraphy, biostratigraphy and sequence stratigraphy.

GEOL 874 - Geology of Fluids

Occurrence and movement of fluids in the subsurface; pore geometry and fluid flow applied to ground water, petroleum geology, engineering geology, geothermal energy, and genesis of hydrothermal ore deposits.

Concepts and Goals

Students work closely with their supervisor on their research project to build skills and expertise in their subject area.

Build Relationships

Students benefit from building relationships with the tight network of graduate students in our department and our alumni in government and industry.

Scholarships and Grants

We offer departmental scholarships and opportunities for teaching assistant work to supplement stipends offered by individual researchers through their research grant funding. Some supervisors also offer opportunities for industry internships for their graduate students during their studies.

Present Your Research

Many of our graduate students volunteer with our Earth science outreach activities to the local community. Our graduate students have opportunities to present their research through our departmental seminar series and at local, national, and international conferences (e.g., the Saskatchewan Geological Open House, GAC-MAC).

What Can You Do with a Graduate Degree in Geology?

Upon successfully completing your graduate program in Geology, you can find work in academics, industry, or governmental surveys. Graduates are well-positioned to address resource and environmental issues critical to society. Career fields our graduate students have pursued after graduation include employment with mining companies and mineral exploration companies, jobs with the Saskatchewan Geological Survey, and university professors.

Many of our graduate programs alumni have become key players in their organizations. Some of our former graduate students have become university faculty members, and one of them was even recruited directly to the position of full professor as special talent.

The jobs that graduates go on to include:

  • Petroleum geologist
  • Environmental scientist
  • Seismologist
  • Mineral surveyors
  • Hydrogelogist
  • Oceanographer
  • Engineering geologist
  • Research geologist

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Doctorate in Philosophy Earth Sciences

  • Degree offered: Doctorate in Philosophy (PhD)
  • Registration status option: Full-time
  • Language of instruction: English
  • with thesis (12 full-time terms; 48 consecutive months)
  • Academic units: Faculty of Science , Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences , Ottawa-Carleton Geoscience Centre .

Program Description

Ottawa-Carleton Geoscience Centre

Established in 1982, the Ottawa-Carleton Geoscience Centre (OCGC) combines the research strengths of the University of Ottawa and Carleton University. The Centre offers graduate programs leading to the master’s (MSc) and doctoral (PhD) degrees in Earth sciences.

Research facilities are shared between the two campuses. Students have access to the professors, courses and facilities at both universities; however, they must enroll at the “home university” of the thesis supervisor.

The Centre is one of the participating units in the collaborative program in chemical and environmental toxicology (at the master’s and doctoral levels).

Main Areas of Research

  • Environmental geoscience
  • Geochemistry 
  • Geomathematics
  • Mineral resources studies
  • Sedimentary systems

Other Programs Offered Within the Same Discipline or in a Related Area

  • Master of Science Earth Sciences (MSc)
  • Master of Science Earth Sciences Specialization in Chemical and Environmental Toxicology (MSc)
  • Master of Science Earth Sciences Specialization in Science, Society and Policy (MSc)
  • Doctorate in Philosophy Earth Sciences Specialization in Chemical and Environmental Toxicology (PhD)

Fees and Funding

  • Program fees:

The estimated amount for university fees associated with this program are available under the section Finance your studies .

International students enrolled in a French-language program of study may be eligible for a differential tuition fee exemption .

  • To learn about possibilities for financing your graduate studies, consult the Awards and financial support section.
  • Programs are governed by the general regulations in effect for graduate studies at each of the two universities.
  • In accordance with the University of Ottawa regulation, students have the right to complete their assignments, examinations, research papers, and theses in French or in English. Research activities can be conducted either in English, French or both, depending on the language used by the professor and the members of his or her research group.

Program Contact Information

Graduate Studies Office, Faculty of Science

30 Marie-Curie Street, Gendron Hall, Room 181

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Tel.: 613-562-5800 x3145

Email: [email protected]    

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For the most accurate and up to date information on application deadlines, language tests and other admission requirements, please visit the  specific requirements  webpage.

To be eligible, candidates must:

  • Have a master's degree in earth sciences (or equivalent) with a minimum average of 75% (B+).

Note: International candidates must check the admission equivalencies for the diploma they received in their country of origin.

  • Demonstrate a good academic performance in previous studies as shown by official transcripts, research reports, abstracts or any other documents demonstrating research skills.
  • Meet the funding requirements.

Note: International students must provide proof of financial support: i.e., a stipend provided by a supervisor as well as a combination of awards and/or trust funds.

  • We recommend that you contact potential thesis supervisors as soon as possible.
  • To register, you need to have been accepted by a thesis supervisor.
  • The supervisor’s name is required at the time of application.
  • The choice of supervisor will determine the primary campus location of the student. It will also determine which university awards the degree.

Language Requirements

Applicants must be able to understand, write and fluently speak the language of instruction (English) in the program to which they are applying. Proof of linguistic proficiency may be required.

Applicants whose first language is neither French nor English must provide proof of proficiency in the language of instruction.

Note: Candidates are responsible for any fees associated with the language tests.

  • The admission requirements listed above are minimum requirements and do not guarantee admission to the program.
  • Admissions are governed by the general regulations in effect for graduate studies and by the general regulations of the Ottawa-Carleton Geoscience Centre (OCGC).

Fast-Track from Master’s to PhD

Students enrolled in the master’s program in Earth Sciences at the University of Ottawa may be eligible to fast-track directly into the doctoral program without writing a master’s thesis, provided the following conditions are met:

  • Completion of two graduate courses (six units) with a grade of A- or better in each;
  • Satisfactory progress in the research program;
  • Written recommendation by the supervisor and the advisory committee;
  • Approval by the graduate studies committee.
  • The transfer to the PhD must take place within sixteen months of initial enrollment in the master’s.
  • Following the transfer, all the requirements of the doctoral program must be met: six units of coursework in addition to the six already completed, the comprehensive exam (to be completed within 12 months of transfer), participation in the geoscience seminar series, and the thesis.

Requirements for this program have been modified. Please consult the  2019-2020 calendars  for the previous requirements.

The Department may require students to take additional courses, depending on their backgrounds.

Students must meet the following requirements:

Course List
CodeTitleUnits
Compulsory Courses:
6 optional course units in Earth sciences (GEO) at the graduate level 6 Units
Seminar:
PhD Seminar
Comprehensive Examination:
Comprehensive Examination (Ph.D.)
Thesis:
Doctoral Thesis

The optional course units may also be selected from related disciplines approved by the Department of Earth Sciences.

The comprehensive examination must be successfully completed within twelve months of the initial admission into the program.

Presentation and successful defense of a thesis based on original research carried out under the direct supervision of a faculty member of the Department.

Students are responsible for ensuring they have met all of the thesis requirements .

Minimum Requirements

The passing grade in all courses is B.

Students who fail two courses (equivalent to 6 units), the thesis proposal, or the comprehensive exam or whose research progress is deemed unsatisfactory are required to withdraw.

Research at the University of Ottawa

Located in the heart of Canada’s capital, a few steps away from Parliament Hill, the University of Ottawa ranks among Canada’s top 10 research universities. Our research is founded on excellence, relevance and impact and is conducted in a spirit of equity, diversity and inclusion.

Our research community thrives in four strategic areas:

  • Creating a sustainable environment
  • Advancing just societies
  • Shaping the digital world
  • Enabling lifelong health and wellness

From advancing healthcare solutions to tackling global challenges like climate change, the University of Ottawa’s researchers are at the forefront of innovation, making significant contributions to society and beyond.

Research at the Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science has become a true centre of excellence in research through its world-class professors as well as its programs and infrastructure in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, and Physics.

The research accomplished by its 140 internationally recognized professors, its approximately 400 graduate students and its dozens of postdoctoral researchers and visiting scientists has positioned the Faculty of Science as one of the most research intensive science faculties in Canada. Our professors have received many international and national awards including three NSERC Gerhard Herzberg Gold Medal winners and numerous Fellows of the Royal Society of Canada.

The Faculty of Science, through its strategic use of infrastructure programs, hosts world-class Core Facilities and is at the leading edge for the study of Catalysis, Experimental and Computational Chemistry, Environmental Toxins, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Isotope Analysis, Molecular Biology and Genomics, X-Ray Spectrometry/Diffractometry, Geochemistry, Mass Spectrometry, Physiology and Genetics of Aquatic Organisms, and Photonics. The Faculty is also associated with the Fields Institute for research in mathematical science and the Centre de recherche mathématiques (CRM) at the Université de Montréal, providing a unique setting for mathematical research.

For more information, refer to the list of faculty members and their research fields on Uniweb . 

IMPORTANT: Candidates and students looking for professors to supervise their thesis or research project can also consult the website of the faculty or department of their program of choice. Uniweb does not list all professors authorized to supervise research projects at the University of Ottawa.

Not all of the listed courses are given each year. The course is offered in the language in which it is described. A 3-unit course at the University of Ottawa is equivalent to a 0.5-unit course at Carleton University.

GEO 5114 Mineralogy (3 units)

An advanced course covering selected topics in mineralogy, such as crystallography, crystal chemistry, crystal structure, mineralogy of rock-forming mineral groups, and instrumental methods in mineralogical research, such as use of electronic optical instruments, spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography; seminar presentations and practical exercises included. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5104 at Carleton University.

Course Component: Lecture

GEO 5115 Thermodynamics, Kinetic Theory and Metamorphic Petrology (3 units)

Phase equilibria, phase diagrams, and the kinetics of mineral reactions; mass transfer, regional and global aspects of metamorphic, petrogenesis. Course may include one or two weeks of field-based instruction with costs borne by students. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5105 at Carleton University.

GEO 5122 Advanced Igneous Petrology (3 units)

The course focuses on particular aspects of the discipline and integrates physical and chemical processes with the dynamics of magmatic systems to understand igneous processes. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5202 at Carleton University.

GEO 5124 Geology and Geochemistry of Ore Deposits (3 units)

An advanced course in ore deposits examining aspects of their geology, geochemistry, and exploration. Topics will be selected from a range of different deposit types, including hydrothermal and magmatic ore deposits, as well as laboratory and field examination of different ores and their host rocks. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5204 at Carleton University.

GEO 5125 Natural Hazards in Canada - Risk and Impacts (3 units)

Overview of natural hazards and severe weather phenomena in Canada. Notions of risk, return period and probability of occurrence of natural disasters. Impact on society and infrastructure. Mitigation policies and strategies. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5215 at Carleton University.

GEO 5131 Siliciclastic Sedimentology (3 units)

Origin and significance of physical and sedimentary processes and structures. Analysis of ancient siliciclastic depositional environments in a facies model and sequence stratigraphic framework. Course involves lectures, seminars and field excursions. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5301 at Carleton University.

GEO 5135 Carbonate Sedimentology (3 units)

Aspects of modern depositional systems, dynamic facies models, sequence stratigraphy, mineralogy, and diagenesis of carbonate sediments. The practical part of the course will consist of a field-laboratory project that integrates various techniques in carbonate sedimentology (mapping, petrography, staining, cathodoluminescence, fluorescence, SEM).This course is equivalent to ERTH 5305 at Carleton University.

GEO 5136 Paleobiology (3 units)

Extinctions, micro- and macro- evolutionary processes, long-term trends and cycles in the Phanerozoic; functional morphology; application of invertebrates to biostratigraphy, paleoceanography and paleolimnology. May include one or two weeks of field-based instruction with costs borne by the student. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5306 at Carleton University.

GEO 5137 Evolutionary Developmental Biology (3 units)

Explores the mechanistic basis of organismic evolution from genetic, morphogenetic and epigenetic perspectives, within a phylogenetic context of living and extinct vertebrates. Lectures two hours a week and a laboratory of three hours a week. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5307 at Carleton University.

GEO 5138 Advanced Micropaleontology (3 units)

Paleobiology, biostratigraphy and paleoecology of microfossils in the context of paleoceanography, paloelimnology and paleoclimatology. Course may involve a field trip with costs to be paid by students. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5308 at Carleton University.

Course Component: Laboratory

GEO 5143 Environmental Isotopes and Groundwater Geochemistry (3 units)

Geochemistry and environmental isotopes in studies of groundwater dynamics, age and contaminant hydrogeology. Environments from shallow groundwater and surface water to deep crustal brines are examined. Low temperature aqueous geochemistry and mineral solubility with emphasis on the carbonate system. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5403 at Carleton University.

GEO 5144 Isotope Mapping and Provenance Applications (3 units)

Isotopes are used to trace provenance of organic and inorganic materials. This course will discuss how traditional isotope systems vary in the environment at different spatiotemporal scales and how mapping their variations can solve problems in hydrology, climatology, ecology, and archeology. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5414 at Carleton University.

GEO 5145 Radioisotope Geochemistry Methods (3 units)

Overview of the basic principles of radiochemistry and examination of the occurrence, sources and production of radionuclides in the earth system that have been used extensively in environmental and geochemical studies. Discussion of and practice using the key methods of radionuclide detection. Equivalent to course ERTH 5405 at Carleton University

GEO 5147 Aqueous Inorganic Geochemistry and Modelling (3 units)

Covers concepts in aqueous geochemistry including ion hydration and hydrolysis, aqueous activity, complexation, mineral solubility, carbonate system, redox, adsorption/surface complexation and reaction kinetics. Bi-weekly assignments provide an introduction to equilibrium geochemical modelling. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5407 at Carleton University.

GEO 5149 Reactive Transport Modelling (3 units)

Introduction to the theory of numerical models and application of reactive transport models in hydrogeology. Focus will be on development of appropriate conceptual models of flow, transport and bio- and geochemical reactions and simulation of these conceptual models using reactive transport codes. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5409 at Carleton University.

GEO 5151 Precambrian Geology (3 units)

Geology of the main Archean cratons and Proterozoic belts with emphasis on North America. Formation of the Earth, composition and evolution of the crust and mantle during the first 4 billion years of Earth's history, from its formation to the end of the Proterozoic. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5501 at Carleton University.

GEO 5153 Computer Techniques in the Earth Sciences (3 units)

A practical course for mapping; quantitative analysis, integration and modeling of spatial data related to geosciences and engineering applications using a combination of GIS, statistical and geostatistical analysis techniques. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5503 at Carleton University.

GEO 5155 Climate Change (3 units)

Considers climate changes and their driving mechanisms over a broad range of timescales based on observations from geological archives and more recent instrumented evidence. Future climate projections and their accuracy are also considered. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5505 at Carleton University.

GEO 5157 Tectonic Processes Emphasizing Geochronology and Metamorphism (3 units)

Applications of empirical, analytical and quantitative techniques to problems in regional geology and crustal tectonics; orogenic processes; heat and metamorphism; isotopic geochronology as applied to thermal history. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5507 at Carleton University.

GEO 5160 Chemistry of the Earth (3 units)

Examine the composition of the mantle and crust in selected tectonic settings, such as subduction zones and hot spots. Topics may include how geochemical data constrain geodynamic settings of study area. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5600 at Carleton University.

GEO 5163 Stable Isotope Geochemistry (3 units)

Mechanisms of isotope fractionation, fractionation in nature; physical and chemical isotope fractionation, kinetic isotope effects. Variations of stable isotope ratios (hydrogen, carbon, oxygen and sulphur) in nature. Preparation techniques of natural samples for isotope analysis. Applications of stable isotopes to study magma genesis, ore genesis, nature of water and formation fluids and sedimentary environments. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5603 at Carleton University.

GEO 5169 Radiogenic Isotope Geochemistry (3 units)

Radiogenic isotope systematics applied to the solid Earth and their use to understand various geological processes. Evolution of large-scale isotopic reservoirs throughout Earth's history. Application of different radiometric dating techniques, assessment of geochronological data, models and interpretations. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5609 at Carleton University.

GEO 5171 Physics of the Earth (3 units)

The physics and dynamics of the solid Earth: seismology; gravitational and magnetic fields; thermal state. Geophysical constraints on the structure and composition of the interior. Geodynamic processes. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5701 at Carleton University.

GEO 5173 Structural Geology (3 units)

Deformation processes and the analysis of geological structures at all scales. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5703 at Carleton University.

GEO 5174 Tectonics (3 units)

Dynamical and geological aspects of plate tectonics throughout Earth history. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5704 at Carleton University.

GEO 5177 Engineering Seismology (3 units)

Seismological topics with engineering applications. Characterization of seismicity and seismic sources (areas and faults). Seismic hazard analysis. Empirical and theoretical modeling of strong ground motion in time and frequency domains. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5707 at Carleton University.

GEO 5178 Geophysical Signal Processing (3 units)

Practical aspects of earthquake and other geophysical signal processing; focus on application of Fourier analysis, digital filters, instrument response. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5708 at Carleton University.

GEO 5191 Research Topics in Earth Sciences (3 units)

Directed reading/field/laboratory studies unrelated to thesis research, under the guidance of directors other than the thesis supervisor. A written proposal including research plan, deliverables, and evaluation must be submitted for departmental approval prior to registration. Written report required. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5901 at Carleton University.

Course Component: Research

GEO 5193 Field Studies (3 units)

Field investigations, unrelated to thesis research, not under the guidance of the thesis supervisor. Minimum of ten days field work, plus library/lab research. Individual projects require an approved research plan, deliverables, and evaluation scheme prior to registration. Field costs may be borne by the student. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5903 at Carleton University.

GEO 5301 Seminars in Earth Sciences (3 units)

Covers a spectrum of Earth Sciences topics and research problems, ranging from the solid Earth to its surface environment and climate. A strong discussion component and has the primary aims of exposing students to current research problems and improving their communications skills (oral and written). This course is equivalent to ERTH 5001 at Carleton University.

Course Component: Seminar

GEO 5306 Hydrothermal Ore Deposits (3 units)

An advanced course in economic geology related to hydrothermal ore deposits, including their geology and geochemistry, physical and chemical controls on hydrothermal mineralization, the recognition and characterization of ore-fluid reservoirs, and the nature of large-scale fluid flow and alteration, with an emphasis on applications to exploration. This course is equivalent to ERTH 5206 at Carleton University.

GEO 5900 Séminaire de Maîtrise / MSc Seminar

Une fois inscrits au programme, les étudiants doivent présenter leurs recherches oralement à l'un des symposiums biannuels du Centre de géoscience Ottawa-Carleton. La conférence sur la recherche en sciences de la Terre, qui se tient périodiquement à l’Université d’Ottawa ou à l’Université Carleton, est un alternatif acceptable pour ces présentations. / Once during their enrolment in the program, students are required to present their research orally at one of the biannual Ottawa-Carleton Geoscience Centre graduate symposia. The Advances in Earth Science Research Conference, which is hosted periodically at the University of Ottawa or Carleton University, is an acceptable alternative venue for these presentations.

Volet / Course Component: Séminaire / Seminar

GEO 8900 Séminaire de doctorat / PhD Seminar

GEO 9998 Examen de synthèse (doctorat) / Comprehensive Examination (Ph.D.)

L'examen de synthèse comprend une proposition de thèse et un examen oral dans trois domaines de spécialisation différents. Cet examen doit être passé dans les douze premiers mois suivant l'inscription au programme. Ce cours est équivalent à ERTH 6908 à l'Université Carleton. / The Comprehensive Examination involves a thesis proposal and oral examination in three different areas of specialization. This exam should be taken within the first twelve months of registration in the program. This course is equivalent to ERTH 6908 at Carleton University.

Volet / Course Component: Recherche / Research

Undergraduate Studies

For more information about undergraduate studies at the University of Ottawa, please refer to your faculty .

Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies

For more information about graduate studies at the University of Ottawa, please refer to your academic unit .

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81 Best universities for Geology in Canada

Updated: February 29, 2024

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  • Engineering
  • Environmental Science
  • Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
  • Mathematics

Below is a list of best universities in Canada ranked based on their research performance in Geology. A graph of 20M citations received by 671K academic papers made by 81 universities in Canada was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. University of Toronto

For Geology

University of Toronto logo

2. University of British Columbia

University of British Columbia logo

3. University of Alberta

University of Alberta logo

4. McGill University

McGill University logo

5. University of Calgary

University of Calgary logo

6. University of Waterloo

University of Waterloo logo

7. Western University

Western University logo

8. McMaster University

McMaster University logo

9. University of Guelph

University of Guelph logo

10. Dalhousie University

Dalhousie University logo

11. Laval University

Laval University logo

12. University of Ottawa

University of Ottawa logo

13. Queen's University

Queen's University logo

14. University of Saskatchewan

University of Saskatchewan logo

15. University of Montreal

University of Montreal logo

16. University of Manitoba

University of Manitoba logo

17. University of Victoria

University of Victoria logo

18. Simon Fraser University

Simon Fraser University logo

19. Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University of Newfoundland logo

20. Carleton University

Carleton University logo

21. York University

York University logo

22. University of Quebec in Montreal

University of Quebec in Montreal logo

23. Concordia University

Concordia University logo

24. University of New Brunswick

University of New Brunswick logo

25. Polytechnic School of Montreal

Polytechnic School of Montreal logo

26. University of Sherbrooke

University of Sherbrooke logo

27. University of Windsor

University of Windsor logo

28. University of Regina

University of Regina logo

29. Ryerson University

Ryerson University logo

30. Trent University

Trent University logo

31. Lakehead University

Lakehead University logo

32. Laurentian University

Laurentian University logo

33. University of Lethbridge

University of Lethbridge logo

34. Wilfrid Laurier University

Wilfrid Laurier University logo

35. Brock University

Brock University logo

36. University of Quebec at Chicoutimi

University of Quebec at Chicoutimi logo

37. School of Higher Technology - University of Quebec

School of Higher Technology - University of Quebec logo

38. University of Quebec in Rimouski

University of Quebec in Rimouski logo

39. University of Northern British Columbia

University of Northern British Columbia logo

40. Ontario Tech University

Ontario Tech University logo

41. Saint Mary's University

Saint Mary's University logo

42. Royal Military College of Canada

Royal Military College of Canada logo

43. St. Francis Xavier University

St. Francis Xavier University logo

44. Acadia University

Acadia University logo

45. University of Quebec, Trois-Rivieres

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46. University of Prince Edward Island

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47. HEC Montreal

HEC Montreal logo

48. Mount Allison University

Mount Allison University logo

49. University of Quebec, Abitibi-Temiscamingue

University of Quebec, Abitibi-Temiscamingue logo

50. University of Winnipeg

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51. University of Moncton

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52. Brandon University

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53. Thompson Rivers University

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54. University of Quebec

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55. Cape Breton University

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56. University of Quebec in Outaouais

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57. Vancouver Island University

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58. Mount Saint Vincent University

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59. British Columbia Institute of Technology

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60. Nipissing University

Nipissing University logo

61. Mount Royal University

Mount Royal University logo

62. MacEwan University

MacEwan University logo

63. Bishop's University

Bishop's University logo

64. Royal Roads University

Royal Roads University logo

65. Quest University Canada

Quest University Canada logo

66. Algoma University

Algoma University logo

67. Trinity Western University

Trinity Western University logo

68. University of the Fraser Valley

University of the Fraser Valley logo

69. Kings University in Canada

Kings University in Canada logo

70. Concordia University of Edmonton

Concordia University of Edmonton logo

71. National School of Public Administration

National School of Public Administration logo

72. Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Kwantlen Polytechnic University logo

73. OCAD University

OCAD University logo

74. Northern Alberta Institute of Technology

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology logo

75. Redeemer University College

Redeemer University College logo

76. St. Thomas University - Canada

St. Thomas University - Canada logo

77. University Canada West

University Canada West logo

78. University of Saint-Boniface

University of Saint-Boniface logo

79. University of King's College

University of King's College logo

80. University of Sainte-Anne

University of Sainte-Anne logo

81. SAIT Polytechnic

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The best cities to study Geology in Canada based on the number of universities and their ranks are Toronto , Vancouver , Edmonton , and Montreal .

Environmental Science subfields in Canada


Geology and Geological Sciences PhD and doctorate graduate and postgraduate degree programs offered by universities in Canada.

| | |


,
Clayton H. Riddle Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources
Department of Geological Sciences
, graduate studies

,
Clayton H. Riddle Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources
Department of Geological Sciences
, graduate studies

,
Faculty of Science
Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences
, graduate studies

,
Faculty of Arts and Science
Department of Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering
, graduate studies

,
Faculty of Science
Department of Earth Sciences
, graduate studies

,
Faculty of Science
School of Earth and Ocean Sciences
, graduate studies

,
Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences
, graduate studies

,
Faculty of Arts and Science
Department of Geology
, graduate studies

,
Faculty of Science
Department of Geology
, graduate studies

,
Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences
, graduate studies

,
College of Arts and Science
Department of Geological Sciences
, graduate studies

,
Faculty of Science
Department of Physics
, graduate studies

,
Faculty of Science and Engineering
Department of Earth Sciences
, graduate studies





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Best PhD Degrees in Geology at Universities in Canada

There are 26 study programs available at 24 schools and universities in the world , according to Erudera.

Erudera aims to have the largest and most updated database of study programs available in the world , and new study programs are being added weekly. You can use the filters to narrow down your search or sort your results based on popularity and top rankings to find more specific study programs. Once you filter your results, you can save your chosen programs to a personal list so you can do more research or contact the universities later.

Here are the best Canada universities for Geology :

York University

University of Regina

University of Toronto

University of Windsor

Laurentian University

University of Manitoba

University of New Brunswick

McMaster University

University of Saskatchewan

Simon Fraser University

University of Ottawa logo

Earth Sciences

University of Ottawa

University of Regina logo

Carleton University

Dalhousie University logo

Dalhousie University

McMaster University logo

Earth And Environmental Sciences

Laurentian University_logo

Mineral Deposits And Precambrian Geology

University of Lethbridge logo

Earth Space And Physical Science

University of Lethbridge

Simon Fraser University logo

Geological Engineering

University of British Columbia

Geological Sciences

York University logo

Earth Space Science

Memorial University of Newfoundland logo

Memorial University of Newfoundland

University of Western Ontario logo

University of Western Ontario

Laval University logo

Laval University

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7 Universities in Canada offering Postgraduate Geology degrees and courses

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Are you looking for Postgraduate courses in Geology? Here you can find course providers offering full-time, part-time, online or distance learning options.

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Lakehead University

THE World Ranking: 801

University of Saskatchewan

THE World Ranking: 351

Laurentian University

Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University of Newfoundland

THE World Ranking: 501

University of Regina

University of Regina

Queen's University

Queen's University

THE World Ranking: 251

The University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia

THE World Ranking: 41

There are more Geology courses available in North America

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What makes the program unique?

  • The Geological Science program in EOAS is consistently ranked as one of the best geological science programs in Canada, and in the top 20 internationally.
  • We house world-class instrumentation for isotopic and geochemical research (PCIGR), the Mineral Deposit Research Unit (MDRU), and Vancouver is the world headquarters for Mineral deposit exploration.
  • British Columbia is an ideal natural laboratory to foster combined field and laboratory research.
  • Industry and government collaborations are extensive and many graduate students are funded by Industrial partnerships, which typically lead to fulltime employment.

Quick Facts

Program enquiries, admission information & requirements, 1) check eligibility, minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

  • Canada or the United States
  • International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 100

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 7.0

Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is not required.

Prior degree, course and other requirements

Prior degree requirements.

Applicants with a B.Sc. or B.A.Sc. are considered; a B.Sc. in Earth Science or a B.A.Sc. in geological engineering is desirable.

2) Meet Deadlines

September 2025 intake, application open date, canadian applicants, international applicants, january 2026 intake, deadline explanations.

Deadline to submit online application. No changes can be made to the application after submission.

Deadline to upload scans of official transcripts through the applicant portal in support of a submitted application. Information for accessing the applicant portal will be provided after submitting an online application for admission.

Deadline for the referees identified in the application for admission to submit references. See Letters of Reference for more information.

3) Prepare Application

Transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

  • Supervision

Students in research-based programs usually require a faculty member to function as their thesis supervisor. Please follow the instructions provided by each program whether applicants should contact faculty members.

Instructions regarding thesis supervisor contact for Master of Science in Geological Sciences (MSc)

Prospective students are encouraged to read about the research interests https://www.eoas.ubc.ca/research/areas of individual faculty members to identify who would be a suitable supervisor and to contact this person before applying to the department.

Citizenship Verification

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Research Information

Research focus.

Research within our program includes:

  • the effects of climate change on landscapes, surface processes, and terrestrial sedimentary deposits
  • carbon sequestration processes at and near the surface of the Earth
  • processes involved in the genesis of mineral deposits
  • composition and thermal structure of the mantle underlying the oldest portions of the earth (cratons)
  • reservoir characterisation of unconventional petroleum resources
  • strain localization and processes in structural geology
  • processes operating in subduction zones
  • the origin and evolution of silicate magmas and mineralization potential
  • the reconstruction of the elevation of mountain belts through time
  • constraining the dynamics and geochemistry of the lithosphere through time
  • the distribution of elements and isotopes in Earth systems
  • volcanology and igneous petrology as related to the formation, transport and eruption of magma

Research Facilities

Our Geological Science program is housed in the recently constructed Earth System Science Building. Research facilities include, the Pacific Centre for Isotopic and Geochemical Research (PCIGR); the Electron Microbeam and XRD Facility (EMXDF), the Centre for Experimental Studies of the Lithosphere (CESL), and the Mineral Deposit Research Unit (MDRU).

Tuition & Financial Support

FeesCanadian Citizen / Permanent Resident / Refugee / DiplomatInternational
$114.00$168.25
Tuition *
Installments per year33
Tuition $1,838.57$3,230.06
Tuition
(plus annual increase, usually 2%-5%)
$5,515.71$9,690.18
Int. Tuition Award (ITA) per year ( ) $3,200.00 (-)
Other Fees and Costs
(yearly)$1,116.60 (approx.)
Estimate your with our interactive tool in order to start developing a financial plan for your graduate studies.

Financial Support

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options, including merit-based (i.e. based on your academic performance) and need-based (i.e. based on your financial situation) opportunities.

Program Funding Packages

Masters students are guaranteed a minimum salary of CAN $26,530.20 per year for the first two years, which can consist of research assistantships (RAs) to help professors with their grants and contracts, teaching assistantships (TAs) to help teach courses and labs and grade assignments, scholarships and prizes, and combinations of all the above.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

All applicants are encouraged to review the awards listing to identify potential opportunities to fund their graduate education. The database lists merit-based scholarships and awards and allows for filtering by various criteria, such as domestic vs. international or degree level.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)

Many professors are able to provide Research Assistantships (GRA) from their research grants to support full-time graduate students studying under their supervision. The duties constitute part of the student's graduate degree requirements. A Graduate Research Assistantship is considered a form of fellowship for a period of graduate study and is therefore not covered by a collective agreement. Stipends vary widely, and are dependent on the field of study and the type of research grant from which the assistantship is being funded.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)

Graduate programs may have Teaching Assistantships available for registered full-time graduate students. Full teaching assistantships involve 12 hours work per week in preparation, lecturing, or laboratory instruction although many graduate programs offer partial TA appointments at less than 12 hours per week. Teaching assistantship rates are set by collective bargaining between the University and the Teaching Assistants' Union .

Graduate Academic Assistantships (GAA)

Academic Assistantships are employment opportunities to perform work that is relevant to the university or to an individual faculty member, but not to support the student’s graduate research and thesis. Wages are considered regular earnings and when paid monthly, include vacation pay.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Estimator

Applicants have access to the cost estimator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Career Options

Our two-year M.Sc. program in Geological Science is designed to prepare students for employment in the public or private sector, or to pursue further studies in a Ph.D. program. Recent graduates have taken positions at numerous mining exploration companies (many of which are headquartered in Vancouver), government Geological Surveys, and faculty positions around the world. Those looking to pursue a Ph.D. in Geological Sciences have gone on to studies at Stanford, MIT, Melbourne, Oxford, Lyon, Bristol, Edinburgh, and many other institutions, including our own Ph.D. program!

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Master of Science in Geological Sciences (MSc). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

ENROLMENT DATA

 20232022202120202019
Applications4449413251
Offers1016131213
New Registrations91410811
Total Enrolment3934323544

Completion Rates & Times

  • Research Supervisors

Advice and insights from UBC Faculty on reaching out to supervisors

These videos contain some general advice from faculty across UBC on finding and reaching out to a supervisor. They are not program specific.

phd geology in canada

This list shows faculty members with full supervisory privileges who are affiliated with this program. It is not a comprehensive list of all potential supervisors as faculty from other programs or faculty members without full supervisory privileges can request approvals to supervise graduate students in this program.

  • Ameli, Ali (Geology; Applied Hydro-geochemistry; Climate Changes and Impacts; Environmental Tracer; Ground Water and Water Tables; Groundwater Ecohydrology; Groundwater-Surfacewater & land Interaction; Hydro-geological Engineering; Hydrological Cycle and Reservoirs; Numerical analysis; Watershed Management)
  • Barker, Shaun
  • Beckie, Roger (Other environmental engineering and related engineering; Hydrogeology; Mine drainage; physical hydrogeology; groundwater geochemistry; groundwater contamination)
  • Bustin, Robert Marc (Unconventional Petroleum Reservoirs)
  • Chritz, Kendra (Anthropocene, Onset, tempo, and trajectory of human impacts on biological processes and environmental change)
  • Crowe, Sean (Geobiology, biogeochemistry, microbial evolution)
  • d'Arcy, Mitch (Earth and related environmental sciences; Geomorphology; Climate/palaeoclimate; Sedimentology; Geochronology; remote sensing)
  • Eberhardt, Erik (Geotechnical engineering; Mining engineering; Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering; Deep Underground Excavations; Rock Slope Engineering; Block Cave Mining)
  • Groat, Lee (Mineralogy and crystallography (except soil mineralogy and chemicals aspects of crystallography); Inorganic geochemistry; Economic geology; mineralogy; crystal chemistry; Geochemistry; economic geology; gem deposits; pegmatites)
  • Hickey, Kenneth (understand the processes involved in the genesis of mineral deposits from a multidisciplinary perspective; Post-mineralization weathering, denudation and subsequent burial of Carlin-type Au-mineralization at the Cortez Hills deposit: Implications for finding Au-deposits in bedrock under cover.)
  • Jellinek, Mark (Volcanology, Geodynamics, Planetary Science, Geological Fluid Mechanics)
  • Johnson, Mark (Geology; Natural environment sciences; Agriculture; Biogeochemistry; Carbon cycle; Climate Changes and Impacts; data science; Ecohydrology; Ecology and Quality of the Environment; Fresh Water; Ground Water and Water Tables; Hydrological Cycle and Reservoirs; Land and Soil; land use; Running Water Hydrosystem; Water and Sustainability)
  • Kopylova, Maya (diamond ore deposits, Diamond exploration, petrology and volcanology)
  • Lukes, Laura (Earth and related environmental sciences; Psychology and cognitive sciences; Education; Geoscience Education Research (Discipline-Based Education Research); Self-regulated Learning; field-based experiential learning; learning in informal settings (e.g., museums, parks, science centers); crowdsourced and citizen science; teacher beliefs; motivation, emotion, and beliefs in learning; Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in STEM; learning engineering)
  • Mayer, Ulrich (Geology; groundwater contamination; groundwater remediation; hydrogeology; low-temperature geochemistry; mine waste management)
  • McDougall, Scott (Other earth and related environmental sciences, n.e.c.; Geotechnical engineering; Debris flows / floods; Geohazards; Landslide-generated waves; Landslides; Natural and man-made geological hazards; Rock avalanches; Shoreline erosion; Tailings dam breaches)
  • Peacock, Simon (Natural sciences; metamorphic petrology; Tectonics; earthquakes)
  • Russell, Kelly (Physical sciences; volcanology; petrology; magma rheology; geochemical thermodynamics)
  • Saylor, Joel Edward (Paleoaltimetry; Paleoclimatology; Tectonic Basin analysis; Quantitative sediment provenance analysis; Rivers; Tectonics; Sedimentary Basins; Structural Geology; Field Geology; Sedimentology; Stratigraphy; Sequence Stratigraphy; Sediments; Geology)
  • Scoates, James (Igneous petrology; Geochronology; Economic geology; magmatic evolution; layered intrusions; flood basalts; large igneous provinces; Proterozoic anorthosites; magmatic ore deposits)
  • Smit, Matthijs (1) timing and duration of)
  • Weis, Dominique (Isotope geochemistry; Environmental geochemistry; Earth Structure and Composition; Geodynamics; Chemical Pollutants; Earth Sciences; Geochemistry; High-precision/sensitivity geochemical analyses; Indigenous studies; Oceanic islands and mantle plumes)

Sample Thesis Submissions

  • Measuring enhanced carbon dioxide exchange between the atmosphere and mine waste derived from ultramafic hosted mineral deposits
  • Marine biomonitoring with lead isotopic compositions and metal concentrations using coastal British Columbia pink salmon
  • Paragenesis and evolution of Ba-silicate mineralization in Devonian strata at the Gun occurrence, the Yukon, Canada
  • Geologic time : exploring postsecondary students' knowledge and museum visitors' patterns of engagement
  • Petrophysics, carbon dioxide sequestration, and storage potential of Montney Formation’s shale oil and shale gas pools, with implications for enhanced hydrocarbon recovery
  • Using radiogenic isotopes to fingerprint the source of geochemical enrichment in the Hawaiian mantle plume from the Koʻolau basalts on Oʻahu
  • Emplacement environment and structural modification of the Big Bulk Cu-Au porphyry system, northwestern British Columbia
  • Characterization of gas migration related to ethanol blended fuel spills and stray gas
  • Source and timing of alkali metasomatism and associated critical element mineralization in the Pool Creek map area, southeastern Yukon
  • Carbon mineralization in ultramafic mine tailings via CO₂ injection

Related Programs

Same specialization.

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Geological Sciences (PhD)

Same Academic Unit

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Atmospheric Science (PhD)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Geological Engineering (PhD)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Geophysics (PhD)
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Oceanography (PhD)
  • Graduate Certificate in Applied Geological Engineering (GCAGE)
  • Master of Applied Science in Geological Engineering (MASc)
  • Master of Applied Science in Geophysics (MASc)
  • Master of Engineering in Geological Engineering (MEng)
  • Master of Science in Atmospheric Science (MSc)
  • Master of Science in Geophysics (MSc)
  • Master of Science in Oceanography (MSc)

Further Information

Specialization.

UBC and the Province of British Columbia offer exceptional opportunity for combined field and laboratory research. The Canadian Cordillera offers research opportunities in:

  • petrology of intrusive and volcanic rocks of many kinds, and of metamorphic rocks of all grades
  • structural studies of complex metamorphic terrains exposed in three dimensions
  • metalliferous deposits of varied genetic types
  • mineral exploration methods; mineralogy associated with many different environments
  • complexly folded and faulted successions of bedded rocks in the mountain belts and plateaus, and in virtually undisturbed coal- and gas-bearing strata of the north-eastern province
  • numerous problems of engineering, environmental geology-related to water, slope stability, natural geological hazards, and hydrogeology (lakes, fjords, deltas, tidal flats, continental shelf, and oceanic depths provide a wide range of aquatic environments for students interested in sedimentology, geochemistry, biostratigraphy, and geological oceanography)

UBC Calendar

Program website, faculty overview, academic unit, program identifier, classification, social media channels, supervisor search.

Departments/Programs may update graduate degree program details through the Faculty & Staff portal. To update contact details for application inquiries, please use this form .

phd geology in canada

Curious about UBC for grad school?

Our community of scholars is one of the world’s finest, committed to discovering and sharing knowledge, and to tackling the challenges that face our world.

  • Why Grad School at UBC?
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Initiatives

  • Public Scholars Initiative
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COMMENTS

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  9. Earth Sciences

    Mineral or oil and gas exploration and development, hydrogeology, environmental geology, secondary school teaching, geological surveys, university teaching and research, law, business, banking and economics, space. Graduate student and alumni profiles. Our graduate students come from all parts of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, and the world.

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  11. Doctor of Philosophy in Geological Engineering (PhD)

    The Ph.D. program in Geological Engineering is designed to prepare graduate students for employment in academia, industry, consulting companies, or the public sector. Recent graduates have taken positions in national labs, geotechnical and environmental consulting companies, mining and oil and gas companies, as well as provincial and federal ...

  12. Geology (MSc, PhD)

    Geology (MSc, PhD) As a geology graduate student at the University of Regina, you can count on learning from and studying alongside highly-qualified and committed instructors in our Master's and PhD geology programs. Our Master of Science degrees are recognized nationally and internationally and our graduates are eligible to register with ...

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  23. Master of Science in Geological Sciences (MSc)

    The Geological Science program in EOAS is consistently ranked as one of the best geological science programs in Canada, and in the top 20 internationally. We house world-class instrumentation for isotopic and geochemical research (PCIGR), the Mineral Deposit Research Unit (MDRU), and Vancouver is the world headquarters for Mineral deposit ...