By pursuing a Master of Science (MSc) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, you can embark on a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of your chosen field of study.
To identify a suitable supervisor, we recommend that students explore the research interests of our faculty members and reach out to them prior to applying for our graduate programs. This proactive approach will help students align their research goals with the expertise and interests of potential supervisors.
Master of Science (MSc.)
Credits: 45
The Master of Science in Earth and Planetary Sciences (Thesis) provides students with the opportunity to conduct research and develop expertise in a broad range of geological, Earth systems, and planetary science topics.
Research may encompass natural physical and chemical processes across the age of the solar system, their interaction with life forms, and the impact of human activities on our environment.
Students pursuing an M.Sc. are required to take four courses, and the major component of the program is an M.Sc. thesis that reports the main findings of the research.
Research for the thesis typically begins in the first year of residence and is completed, with mentorship from our faculty, in the second year of residence.
Doctor of Philosphy (PhD.)
Students typically enter the program with a MSC and typically have a background in earth sciences, chemistry or physics, depending on their research interests and the supervisor with whom they wish to work.
Ph.D. students commence work on the thesis research project, including preparation for an oral examination on their research proposal before the end of 18 months from starting the program. Conduct of the research and preparation of the results for thesis and publication typically takes three additional years. Students entering the Ph.D. program without an M.Sc. are required to take a full year of courses before embarking on the processes described above.
