PaleontologyMS
If studying fossils is your dream career, then this master’s program is a perfect next step! Expect to dive deep into research, answering some key paleontological questions, including how organisms adapt to different environments. This program offers a thesis or non-thesis option, as well as an accelerated master's option.
Mosasaur - South Dakota School of Mines - Museum of Geology
Video
Program Highlights
Department pageFeatured Research
- EarthChem & SESAR Data Infrastructure for Geochemistry and Earth Science Samples Communities
- RII Track 4 Inverse Methods of Hydraulic Fracturing for Enhanced Geothermal Systems in a Deep Mine
- Curation, Digitization, And Access to Fossil Specimens from the Richmond Hill Quarry
Featured Courses
- Paleobiology
- Field Paleontology
Potential Careers
- Paleontologist
- Science journalist
- Scientific illustrator
- Park ranger
- Museum collections manager
Requirements
Application InstructionsEligibility Criteria
Bachelor's Degree in
- Geology
- Geological Engineering
- Paleontology
- Mining Engineering
Credits
Course requirements: 24 credits
Research requirements: 6 credits
Total credits: 30
Non-Thesis
Course requirements: 30 credits
Project requirements: 0 credits
Total credits: 30
Application Deadline
For Fall Enrollment: February 1
For Spring Enrollment: August 1
Thesis
The thesis option focuses on graduate coursework and independent research. By the
end of the program, you will have a written thesis and an oral presentation that defends
your original work and contribution to the field of study.
TYPE
In-Person
ADMISSION MATERIALS
- Statement of purpose
- Official US transcripts or international transcript evaluation
- Official English proficiency scores
- 3 Letters of recommendation
- GRE scores not required
- Eligible for assistantships
- Tuition and fees
Non-Thesis
The non-thesis option focuses on graduate coursework and professional development.
Learn the latest advanced information and apply it to your work in the field. There
is no requirement for a thesis. A project may be required.
TYPE
In-Person
TYPE
In-Person
ADMISSION MATERIALS
- Statement of purpose
- Unofficial transcripts
- English proficiency scores
- Not eligible for assistantships
- Tuition and fees
Have more questions?
Geology & Geological Engineering, Paleontology MS:
Trevor Waldien
Program Coordinator
NMI 328
