MSc in Geological Sciences - Petrology and Mineralogy in Boulder United States | University of Colorado Boulder

University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder United States
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Qualification
Masters Degree
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD 32,220
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
18 months

Petrology examines rocks - including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary types - along with their formation and transformation processes. Mineralogy focuses on analyzing the chemical composition, crystalline structures, and physical characteristics of minerals within rocks. Since both petrological and mineralogical processes respond to environmental factors, scientists analyze rock compositions and their mineral components to address key questions across various geological fields.

At CU Boulder, researchers apply petrology to investigate volcanic formation and magma sources, continental crust development during mountain building and erosion, the creation of accessory minerals like REE phosphates in diverse rock types, the formation of economically valuable mineral and petroleum deposits, Earth's atmospheric, oceanic, and biological evolution through time, as well as geological phenomena on other planets.

The department's petrological and mineralogical studies collaborate with other technical fields like geochemistry and geochronology, while aligning with research objectives in economic resources, astrobiology, geobiology, geodynamics, planetary geology, sedimentology, and structural tectonics.

The department's petrology facilities enable detailed analysis of rock and mineral compositions and textures. These resources feature a state-of-the-art electron microprobe for submicron-scale chemical analysis down to trace elements, plus a Raman microscope-spectrometer for rapid, non-destructive chemical imaging and vibrational analysis of various materials. These microanalysis tools are complemented by comprehensive geochemical equipment for measuring bulk elemental and isotopic compositions in geological samples.


Destination of Study

Subjects of Study

Language Requirements

English
IELTS 6.0

Qualification Requirements

Hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university, or have done work equivalent to that required for such a degree.
Show promise of ability to pursue advanced study and research, as judged by the student's scholastic record.
Have adequate preparation to enter graduate study in the chosen field. Have at least a 2.75 (2.00=C) undergraduate grade point average.
For review and decision purposes you are required to upload an unofficial copy of your transcript(s) in the application. We require one copy of the scanned transcript from each undergraduate and graduate institution that you attended. Include any transcripts, mark sheets, or grade reports, and any certificates, degrees, diplomas, or statements of graduation or completion from each college or university attended, regardless of the length of attendance, whether or not courses were completed, and whether or not you believe the record will affect your admission or transfer of credit.
Internet Based TOEFL- 75
IELTS - 6.0
Duolingo - 120
Hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university, or have done work equivalent to that required for such a degree.
Show promise of ability to pursue advanced study and research, as judged by the student's scholastic record.
Have adequate preparation to enter graduate study in the chosen field. Have at least a 2.75 (2.00=C) undergraduate grade point average.
Applicants to programs in the College of Engineering and Applied Science must have a 3.00 (3.00=B) undergraduate grade point average. Note: applicants who cannot meet this undergraduate standard may still secure regular admission if they have completed 9 semester hours of relevant graduate course work with at least a 3.25 grade point average.

Tuition USD 32,220

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