Geology
Master of Science
Advanced skills in geology
As the world pays more attention to how human actions affect the environment — and its energy and water resources — the need for qualified geoscientists continues to grow.
This degree prepares you to meet this demand with the in-depth study of geological issues that are most relevant in today’s geological challenges, such as erosion, climate change and the sustainable use of land.
As a graduate student of geology, you will receive training in both theory and modern field observation strategies. The geology M.S. degree offers excellent opportunities to research geological problems around the world, as well as on other planets. You will also gain experience with sophisticated technologies used to study geological processes.
Overview
A foundation in geology
Application information
Applicants for the M.S. in geology program must meet the following degree-specific admission requirements:
- Education level: Bachelor's
- GPA: 3.0
- GRE: No
- TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo: 79/6.5/115 (for applicants whose education was completed in countries where English is not an official language)
- Number of references: Three
- Other requirements: No
Program availability
- Concentration: Thesis and non-thesis
- Semester intake: Fall and Spring
- Eligible for international admission
- Deadlines: General application deadlines
Visit Graduate Admissions to learn more and start your application.
Contact information
Earth and Spatial Sciences contact: Thomas Williams; tomw@uidaho.edu
Graduate Admissions contact: graduateadmissions@uidaho.edu, 208-885-4001
Find Department of Earth and Spatial Sciences faculty advisor contacts
Costs, funding and research
To learn about various ways to fund your graduate degree, check out Graduate Funding.
For detailed information about the cost of attendance, visit Financial Aid.
Beginning Fall 2026, M.S. students appointed as Teaching Assistants will receive an annual support package that includes:
- Base stipend: $18,985.20 for the 9-month academic year
- In-state tuition: fully covered by the program
- Out-of-state tuition: waived for non-resident students
- Health insurance: fully covered
- Summer support: additional scholarship up to $8,000, depending on funding availability
Real-world experience
- Laboratory work and study in the field
- Geological sciences seminar series
Degree fit
This degree could be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy geological research in the field and lab
- Want to solve environmental problems
- Are curious about the natural world
- Want to enhance your career opportunities in geology
Related clubs and organizations
- Graduate and Professional Student Association (GPSA)
- Geo Club
- Super Group
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,395 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Mining and Geological Engineers
$92,633 - Geoscientists
$96,639 - Hydrologists
$89,685 - Postsecondary Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Science Teachers
$82,694 - Geodetic Surveyors
$83,722
* Career data provided by Lightcast.