MS in Geosciences
The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES) offers a master of science (MS) program in geosciences. Students may choose to either:
- Study geosciences broadly
- Focus their studies in:
- Climate and environmental sciences
- Earth and planetary sciences
The MS in geosciences program is designed to be flexible, with opportunities to work with multiple faculty and take some courses outside of the EES department, according to student needs and interests. This program does allow part-time students.
The EES MS program is accredited by New York State.
Program Requirements and Tracks
Students also have the option to focus their MS degree more strongly on either research (“Plan A”) or coursework (“Plan B”).
Students in both tracks complete at least four or five formal graduate courses in the EES department. See the graduate courses page for a full listing of courses. For more details on the program, please see page 18 of the EES Graduate Student Handbook (PDF).
Choosing your Track
The research track is a good fit for students who are interested in trying more in-depth research in geosciences and/or wish to gain more experience in preparation for PhD programs.
The coursework track is a good fit for students who wish to expand their knowledge base in the geosciences in preparation for professional careers or PhD programs.
Research Track
Students in the research track (Plan A) are also actively engaged in research, including computational work, laboratory experiments, and fieldwork, depending on the research project. Successful completion of the research track requires producing a written thesis and passing an oral thesis defense. The research track program is generally intended to be two years in duration.
Coursework Track
Students in the coursework track (Plan B) are required to complete a culminating master’s essay that focuses on a key area of interest for the student and helps to advance the student’s professional goals. The coursework track program is intended to be completed in one or two years.
Applying
If you are interested in applying for the research track (Plan A) program, please identify faculty members with whom you would be interested in doing research, and contact them to check about availability prior to applying.
See our graduate applying page for a list of required application materials and for a link to our online application.
Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid
Application Fee
The application fee is $70 for the MS program. The fee may be waived for University of Rochester students, employees, and alumni. After completing the application, email our coordinator at ecabrer4@ur.rochester.edu with your request for the fee waiver and include your application reference number.
Tuition
Students in the MS program are responsible for paying tuition.
The projected 2026-27 School of Arts & Sciences cost is $2,258 per credit and we are able to offer a 40 percent discount for most students, with a net cost of $1,355 per credit. For our 30-credit program, the projected overall MS program tuition cost at this rate for most students is approximately $40,650.
Student Fees
Full-time student fees in 2025-26 are $490 ($480 for the mandatory health fee and $10 for the graduate activity fee) per semester. International students will also pay an international fee which is currently $70 per semester in 2025-26.
Health Insurance
Full-time students can either enroll in the UR Student Health Insurance Plan (Aetna) or they can waive this plan if their health insurance plan meets University Insurance Criteria. Additional Information can be found on the UHS Health Insurance for Full-Time Students page. In 2025-26, the cost was $1,860/semester.
Employee Tuition Benefits
University of Rochester (including Medical Center) employees should review eligibility for using tuition waivers and benefits as a part-time student for non-matriculated or degree eligible courses.