PhD in Geological Sciences - Structure and Tectonics in Boulder United States | University of Colorado Boulder

University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder United States
Visit institution website for more information
Qualification
Doctor of Philosophy
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD 35,514
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
36 months

Studies in structural geology and tectonics explore the mechanisms and causes of earth deformation across various scales, from microscopic mineral arrangements to massive lithospheric plates, and over timescales ranging from brief seismic events to the prolonged formation of mountain ranges. Our work focuses on deciphering the boundary forces that induce deformation, how rock strength influences the development of geological features, and how past plate movements have impacted phenomena like earthquakes, biological evolution, and climatic shifts. The Department of Geological Sciences at CU Boulder brings together experts in geodynamics, structural geology, geochronology, seismology, planetary science, geochemistry, geodesy, and geomorphology to tackle these challenges. Progress in structure and tectonics often emerges from interdisciplinary teamwork, as evidenced by the regular partnerships between faculty and graduate researchers at CU Boulder.


Destination of Study

Subjects of Study

Language Requirements

English
IELTS 6.0

Qualification Requirements

Hold a baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university.
Have an undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.00. Most of our competitive candidates have GPA's of 3.50 minimum.
Complete the online application.
Name 3-5 Geological Sciences Faculty members (found on this Faculty page) that you are interested in conducting research (an MS Thesis or PhD Dissertation) with and potentially serving as your Faculty Advisor.
Note: the GRE General Test scores are NO LONGER REQUIRED. If you have taken the GRE exam within the last 5 years and desire to submit your scores, the institution code is 4841, but your scores will not be viewed.
Provide three letters of recommendation. (Note: Recommenders will receive information on submitting letters once you input their information into your online application (even before fully submitting).)
Complete Science Study Summary, and upload it with the online application.
Provide a personal statement in essay form according to the application directions. This essay is a combination of academic and career goals, and addressing personal past challenges. In addition, naming specific Geological Sciences Department faculty members is required in this essay. Log in to the online application for full information. Recommended formatting and length is 2 pages single-spaced with 1-inch page margins and 11 point font.
Provide a diversity statement in essay form according to the application directions. This essay asks applicants to describe how their educational, professional, and/or personal experiences prepare them to contribute to support diversity, equity, and inclusion during their graduate career. Log in to the online application for full information. Recommended formatting and length is 1 page single-spaced with 1-inch page margins and 11 point font.
Electronically upload one unofficial transcript from each post-secondary institution attended to online application.
International applicants must submit financial statements showing proof of support and TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores from exam taken within the last 2 years. Minimum TOEFL scores: 537 (paper based)/75 (internet based). Institution code: 4841. Minimum IELTS scores: 6.0 (internet based). Institution code: 4841.Minimum Duolingo score: 120 on overall score (not per subcategory). The language requirement may be waived for applicants whose native language is English or for applicants who have completed at least one year of full-time academic study at a U.S. institution (or at an institution in a country where English is the native language) within 2 years of the desired admission term. See here for more details from the Graduate School and International Admissions office.

Tuition USD 35,514

Similar programs for you