M.S. in Geology

Entry requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Requirements:

• Applicants must have completed a recognized undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent) is required. This translates to approximately 60% or above in the grading system.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 80.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.

3. Standardized Tests:

• GRE: A minimum GRE score of 300 is required.

California State University, Fresno, is committed to supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarships and financial aid opportunities. These scholarships help ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. 

1. International Student Scholarship: Fresno State offers merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Dean's Graduate Medal: This scholarship is awarded to the top graduate student from each academic college at Fresno State. It recognizes outstanding academic achievement and contributions to the college.

3. President's Graduate Medal: The President's Graduate Medal is the highest honor for a graduate student at Fresno State. It is awarded to a graduate student who has demonstrated exceptional scholarship, leadership, and service.

4. Graduate Equity Fellowship: The Graduate Equity Fellowship is designed to support underrepresented and economically disadvantaged graduate students. It provides financial assistance and mentoring to help students succeed in their academic pursuits.

5. Athletic Scholarships: Fresno State offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes. These scholarships are typically awarded to individuals who excel in specific sports and contribute to the university's athletic programs.

6. External Scholarships: International students can also explore external scholarship opportunities, including those offered by government agencies, private organizations, and foundations in their home countries.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Fresno State may offer scholarships to graduate students in specific fields of study. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

8. Fulbright Scholarships: Fresno State participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Applicants can apply for Fulbright scholarships through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country.

9. Cultural and Exchange Program Scholarships: Fresno State may offer scholarships to international students participating in cultural exchange programs or partnership agreements with specific universities and organizations.

10. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students may have opportunities to work as research or teaching assistants, which often come with a stipend and/or tuition remission.

Tips for Scholarship Application:

• Applicants should pay close attention to scholarship application deadlines and ensure that all required documents are submitted on time.
• Strong academic performance, letters of recommendation, a well-written personal statement, and a demonstrated commitment to community involvement and leadership can enhance scholarship application chances.

Graduates of the M.S. in Geology program at California State University, Fresno, are well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in the field of geology and related industries.  

1. Geologist: Graduates can work as professional geologists, conducting geological surveys, site assessments, and subsurface investigations in various industries, including environmental consulting, mining, and energy exploration.

2. Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants assess the impact of human activities on the environment, develop remediation plans, and ensure regulatory compliance.

3. Hydrogeologist: Hydrogeologists study groundwater flow and quality, addressing issues related to water resource management, contamination, and sustainability.

4. Geophysicist: Geophysicists use seismic and electromagnetic methods to study the Earth's subsurface, often working in resource exploration or environmental assessment.

5. Geotechnical Engineer: Geotechnical engineers assess soil and rock properties to inform the design and construction of infrastructure projects, such as bridges and buildings.

6. Natural Resource Manager: Graduates with an interest in resource management can work in roles focused on responsible resource extraction, conservation, and land reclamation.

7. Research Scientist: Some graduates may pursue careers as research scientists in academia, government agencies, or research institutions, advancing the field of geology through innovative research projects.

8. Environmental Policy Analyst: Environmental policy analysts work on environmental regulations, policy development, and advocacy to address geological and environmental challenges.

9. Climate Scientist: Graduates interested in climate change can work on climate research and policy initiatives aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change.

10. Seismologist: Seismologists study earthquakes and seismic activity, contributing to earthquake hazard assessment and preparedness.

11. Geological Consultant: Geological consultants provide expertise to businesses and organizations on geological solutions, site selection, and risk assessment.

12. Educator: Some graduates may choose to pursue teaching careers at the high school or college level, educating the next generation of geologists.

13. Remote Sensing Specialist: Remote sensing specialists use satellite and aerial data to monitor geological and environmental changes.

14. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Analyst: GIS analysts use spatial data to create maps and analyze geological and environmental patterns.

15. Volcanologist: Volcanologists study volcanic activity and volcanic hazards, contributing to disaster preparedness and risk assessment.