MSc in Geology in Reno United States | University of Nevada, Reno

Our graduate program offers diverse research opportunities across multiple geological specialties, such as:
geology (including regional studies, mineral resources, structural analysis, rock formation, plate tectonics, sedimentary layers, crystal studies, microfossils, ancient lakes, landforms, and climate impacts), geophysics (covering earthquake science, hazard assessment, resource exploration, satellite imaging, magnetic field history, and recent crustal movements), geochemistry (water-based isotopes, thermal systems),
geological engineering (rock mechanics, environmental barriers, landslide prevention, natural risks),
groundwater studies, Earth measurement, and space geology
Each student collaborates with faculty to design a customized study plan aligned with their professional aspirations. Research occurs both within our Department and through partnerships with the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology and the Nevada Seismological Laboratory.
Opportunities exist for both local and global research initiatives, with particular emphasis on field-based investigations. Our location at the University of Nevada, Reno places us at the junction of the Great Basin and Sierra Nevada regions, providing access to exceptional field sites from alpine glaciers to arid landscapes. Nearby attractions include Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, Great Basin, and Lassen Volcanic national parks. Our facilities boast cutting-edge equipment for studying Earth materials, thermal properties, ground movements, gravitational fields, magnetic variations, electrical characteristics, precise positioning, rock composition, and physical properties. We maintain an extensive regional earthquake monitoring system and operate a premier global positioning data processing facility.

All graduate degree programs share these learning objectives:
Developing skills to analyze and assess scientific publications within their chosen geological specialization.
Achieving expert-level knowledge and proficiency in their thesis research area.
Understanding how their specialized geological research connects to broader Earth Science principles.
Creating and presenting professional-quality documents, findings, and talks related to their thesis topic.