University of Calgary

Degrees and Specializations

The Department of Geoscience provides excellent opportunities for research in most areas of geology, geophysics, and hydrology. The varied research interests of the faculty provide opportunities for a wide range of graduate research topics as well as collaborative projects with faculty who have different specialties.

Degrees Offered

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Thesis based:

Degree requirements:

  • Two full-course equivalents
  • Number of hours: 6 to 12 hours per week per 12-week semester
  • Minimum GPA: 3.0 (base used: 4.0 point)
  • Residence requirement: Yes
  • Foreign language(s): No
  • Computer language: No
  • Comprehensive exam: Yes
  • Dissertation: Yes
  • Other requirements: Thesis proposal

Master of Science (M.Sc.) Thesis based:

Degree requirements:

  • Two full-course equivalents
  • Number of hours: 12 hours per week per 12-week semester
  • Minimum GPA: 3.0 (base used: 4.0 point)
  • Residence requirement: Yes
  • Foreign language(s): No
  • Computer language: No
  • Comprehensive exam: No
  • Other requirements: Thesis proposal

Master of Science (M.Sc.) Course-based:

Degree requirements:

  • Nine half course equivalents including GLGY or GOPH 701
  • GLGY OR GOPH 701 project course, submitted after all other course requirements are fulfilled
  • Minimum GPA: 3.0 (base used: 4.0 point)
  • Residence requirement: Yes
  • Foreign language(s): No
  • Computer language: No
  • Comprehensive exam: No


Geoscience offers non-thesis Master's degrees in both Geology and Geophysics. The course-based M.Sc. program provides B.Sc. graduates with advanced academic training.  If the student has an employer, the course-based M.Sc. program can be done in collaboration with an industrial partner and industrial capstone project. The program is suitable for both full-time and part-time mature students who may already be in the workforce with relevant work-experience, but wish to obtain an advanced degree without taking a leave of absence.   The department provides no funding for course-based M.Sc. students and for admission a  faculty member must agree to supervise the student's program. It is highly recommended that students contact potential supervisors before applying. 

Master of Science (M.Sc.) Course-based:
with a specialization in Reservoir Characterization - MSRC

This course-based MSc is an interdisciplinary specialization offered in conjuction with the Department of Chemical & Petroleum Engineering. Students complete ten half-course equivalents and finish the program with a reservoir characterization project, done in a team environment with Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists. Students can enroll part or full time until they reach the capstone phase. At this point, students must participate full time for their final term.

MSRC course requirements

  • Ten half course equivalents
  • Can attend full or part-time but must be full time for final term
  • Team based project in last term
  • Minimum GPA: 3.0 (base used: 4.0 point)
  • Residence requirement: Yes
  • Foreign language(s): No
  • Computer language: No
  • Comprehensive exam: No

For MSRC program information contact:

Dr. Rudi Meyer
403-210-7848
rmeyer@ucalgary.ca

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