Why should you apply to earn a M.S. or a PH.D. from Auburn University's Department of Geosciences?

1 Investigate Earth systems and environmental processes via interdisciplinary research.
2 Learn from the use of first-class analytical and field-survey facilities in the classroom and through thesis research.
3 Engage with faculty and students with diverse backgrounds and academic training.
4 Perform hands-on, real-world projects funded by government agencies and/or industry.
5 Receive competitive financial support packages including graduate stipends, tuition waivers, and research and travel grants for thesis and dissertation research.

Letter from the Chair

This is a very exciting time in Geosciences here at Auburn and throughout the world. The future of humanity depends on the sustainable use of Earth’s resources and sound environmental stewardship. Geosciences professionals have the chance to address issues of vital importance to society: natural resources, climate change, natural hazards, and environmental pollution and human health. The interdisciplinary nature of Geosciences leads to collaborative interactions with many other departments on campus. Our faculty have developed a diverse suite of courses and pursue cutting-edge research in Geosciences regionally and globally. In the Department of Geosciences, we provide real-world field and laboratory experiences that prepare students to compete in the marketplace and make meaningful contributions.

Please enjoy our brochure, visit our website, auburn.edu/geosciences, and feel free to contact us with questions about any of our programs.

War Eagle!
Ming-Kuo Lee
Professor and Chair

Admissions Process

Admission to the M.S. programs in Geology and Geography requires a bachelor’s degree in Geology or Geography, respectively, or in related Earth Science disciplines. Admission to the Earth System Science Ph.D. program requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in related Earth Science disciplines. For both M.S. and Ph.D. programs, an acceptable undergraduate grade-point average, satisfactory scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE; General test only), three supporting letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose are required.

Applications for admission can be initiated online via the Auburn University Graduate School link (https://app.applyyourself.com/?id=auburn-g). GRE scores and an official undergraduate transcript from all colleges attended must be submitted directly to the Graduate School at least four weeks prior to the start of the semester in which the student desires to enroll (preferably by January 15 if financial assistance is requested for admission into the Fall semester). All queries on graduate admission in M.S. and Ph.D. programs can be addressed to the Graduate Program Officer of the Department of Geosciences, Dr. Ashraf Uddin (uddinas@auburn.edu; 334-844-4885).

Student Spotlights

Alicia Fischer

Hydrogeology

“I have endless opportunities to explore my area of interest, allowing me to get hands-on experience in the field and in the lab and to present my research at national conferences. I have been challenged out of my comfort zone, learning to defend my work in front of oil executives and helping the 2019 department team achieve third place in the Imperial Barrel Award (IBA) Competition.”

Raeann Garcia

Economic Geology

“I benefit from many resources here such as opportunities for research and travel funding, access to many research facilities, an internship experience, and the ability to contribute to the department in various student groups. I also spent a month in summer doing field research at my thesis site where I worked closely with professional geologists from the mining industry.”

Sharif Mustaque

Sedimentary and Petroleum Geology

“I am excited to be working on sedimentary geology and petroleum geology at Auburn University. The department provided me with the opportunity to work on multiple advanced labs that helped me improve my research skills. The research and travel grants provided by the department significantly supported both my research and travel to international meetings. It was a breathtaking experience to be part of the IBA team and place in the top three teams from the Gulf Coast region.”

Megha Shrestha

Geographic Information Sciences

“The Earth System Science Ph.D. program provides a perfect blend of opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research on the use of Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing technologies to improve human lives, especially in urban areas, which is my passion and area of interest. I also benefitted from an internship opportunity in Germany while studying in Auburn.”

Research and Lab Facilities

Areas of Research

Environmental Geosciences

Solid-Earth Processes and Dynamics

Earth and Life Through Time

Natural Resources Exploration and Evaluation

Geospatial Sciences and Geoinformatics

Geoscience Education Research

Life in Auburn

Why Live in Auburn?

This vibrant college-town is a unique place. You will enjoy a smaller community filled with nature areas, restaurants, shopping and more. Additionally, the city of Opelika is just a few minutes away, and Atlanta, Birmingham and the entire Gulf Coast are within a short drive.

Residents have access to one of the largest areas of biodiversity in the entire Southeastern United States. You can relax in Auburn’s Arboretum, ride 15 miles of bike trails in Chewacla State Park, meet friends at local coffee shops, enjoy dinner outside for most of the year, and see an array of amazing flora including the exclusive Auburn Azaleas.

COSAM is committed to cultivating culturally competent professionals. COSAM’s Office of Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity provides resources to enhance awareness and appreciation of cultural and individual diversity, promote community, and prepare students to have a global impact in STEM.

AUBURN UNIVERSITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION/EMPLOYER.