Overview

The Earth Sciences programme at Montana State University provides a rigorous academic environment for students pursuing Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy degrees. This curriculum emphasises independent thesis research supported by advanced coursework to prepare graduates for high-level scientific careers.

Candidates engage in deep academic exploration across a variety of specialised disciplines. The department fosters a culture of discovery where students work closely with expert faculty members to expand the boundaries of geographical and geological knowledge through original investigations and field-based studies.

Why Earth Sciences at Montana State University?

The department is distinguished by its extensive faculty expertise and state-of-the-art facilities, including the ESCI Rock Processing Lab. Students benefit from a unique geographic location in Bozeman, which serves as a natural laboratory for studying geomorphology, volcanology, and snow science.

Research at this institution is highly impactful, with recent projects covering landslide hazard assessment and exotic species studies in Grand Teton National Park. The university provides robust support for graduate researchers, including access to specialised collections and collaborative colloquiums that enhance the learning experience.

The programme is known for its interdisciplinary approach, allowing scholars to integrate techniques from GIS and bioclimatology into their primary research. This breadth of expertise ensures that graduates are well-equipped to address complex environmental and geological challenges on a global scale.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 21098 per year
National fee: USD 21098 per year
Local fee: USD 6542 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on independent research and advanced theoretical study. Modules may include:

Settlement Geography
Bioclimatology
GIS
Planning
Snow Science
Volcanology
Paleobiology
Dinosaur Taphonomy
Stratigraphy
Geomorphology

Careers with Earth Sciences

Graduates from this department are prepared for professional roles in environmental consultancy, resource management, and academic research. The rigorous training in data analysis and field methods makes alumni highly competitive for positions in both government agencies and private sector organisations.

Past students have successfully transitioned into careers involving landslide hazard mitigation, conservation science, and geological surveying. The focus on independent research ensures that every graduate possesses the critical thinking skills required for leadership roles in the global scientific community.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Weather and Climate

Principles of Geomorphology

Surface Water Resources

Snow Dynamics and Accumulation

Physiography of the U.S

Quaternary Environment

Environmental Geology

Oceanography

Dinosaurs

Planetary Geoscience

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bozeman, United States

Disciplines

Earth Sciences View 163 other Masters in Earth Sciences in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

A bachelor's degree (or higher) or the equivalent from an accredited, government-recognized university. These degrees are generally four-year-long programs.

B average or higher from your undergraduate study (3.0/4.0 GPA, or equivalent).

Evidence of English language proficiency.

3 letters of recommendation.

A personal statement.

Official transcripts for all post-secondary coursework completed.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

21098 USD / year

≈ 21098 USD / year
Out-of-State

21098 USD / year

≈ 21098 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6542 USD / year

≈ 6542 USD / year

Living costs

Bozeman

United States

1099 - 2275 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Earth Sciences.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Bozeman

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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