M.S. in Geology

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate programs

1. Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs at NAU should have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The university typically requires a minimum academic performance of 65% or higher for consideration.

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 80 or higher.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.

To support their academic pursuits, NAU offers various scholarships and financial aid options. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community. International students are encouraged to explore the available scholarships to help ease the financial burden of studying in the United States. 

1. Global Achievement Award: This scholarship is available to incoming international undergraduate students and is based on academic merit. The Global Achievement Award provides partial tuition waivers, making quality education more affordable for deserving international students.

2. International Excellence Award: The International Excellence Award is a competitive scholarship available to outstanding international students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements. Recipients of this scholarship receive a substantial tuition reduction.

3. Into NAU Scholarships: Into NAU is a pathway program for international students, and it offers several merit-based scholarships for students entering NAU through the program. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and leadership potential.

4. Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship: This scholarship is available to transfer students who are members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. It offers financial assistance to eligible international transfer students pursuing their bachelor's degree at NAU.

5. Diversity Scholarships: NAU values diversity and offers several scholarships that promote inclusivity and support underrepresented international students. These scholarships aim to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community.

6. Athletic Scholarships: Talented student-athletes have the opportunity to receive athletic scholarships, which are awarded based on athletic performance, skills, and potential to contribute to NAU's athletic teams.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at NAU offer scholarships to international students based on specific academic achievements and majors. Students are encouraged to inquire with their respective departments for available opportunities.

8. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students may have the chance to secure graduate assistantships, which provide financial support and valuable professional experience through research, teaching, or administrative roles.

9. External Scholarships: NAU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities available through organizations, governments, and foundations that provide financial support for studying in the United States.

Application Process and Deadlines: Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Geology program at Northern Arizona University opens up diverse and promising career opportunities for graduates with a passion for understanding the Earth's processes and its geological history. With specialized knowledge and practical skills gained through research and fieldwork, graduates are well-prepared to pursue rewarding careers in various sectors.  

1. Geologist: Graduates can work as geologists in government agencies, private companies, or consulting firms, conducting geological surveys, studying rock formations, and analyzing geological data for various projects.

2. Environmental Consultant: With expertise in environmental geology, graduates can work as environmental consultants, assessing the impact of construction projects, conducting environmental assessments, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

3. Petroleum Geologist: Graduates may choose to work in the oil and gas industry as petroleum geologists, exploring and evaluating potential oil and gas reserves.

4. Hydrogeologist: With a focus on groundwater studies, graduates can work as hydrogeologists, investigating and managing groundwater resources for sustainable use.

5. Engineering Geologist: Graduates can work with engineering firms, providing geological insights for construction projects, such as tunneling, foundation design, and slope stability analysis.

6. Natural Resource Manager: Graduates can work in the management and conservation of natural resources, contributing to sustainable land use and preservation efforts.

7. Geotechnical Engineer: With knowledge of soil and rock mechanics, graduates can work as geotechnical engineers, assessing site conditions for construction and infrastructure projects.

8. Mineralogist: Graduates can pursue careers as mineralogists, studying the formation and properties of minerals and their applications in various industries.

9. Research Scientist: Graduates can work in research institutions or universities as research scientists, conducting cutting-edge geological research and contributing to scientific publications.

10. Teaching and Academia: Some graduates may choose to pursue teaching careers in universities, colleges, or secondary schools, educating the next generation of geologists.