Geology is the study of the materials, processes, and history of the solid Earth and its fluid envelopes. Geology is an integrative field, drawing on mathematics, chemistry, physics and biology to understand the interactions of the lithosphere, biosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere. Studies in geology commonly combine observations and measurements from field, laboratory, and computational studies. Geology plays an important role in decisions about resource use, slope stability and the safety of building projects, natural hazards standards, mineral exploration and extraction, the basic workings of the Earth, and the understanding of the effects and rates of natural and human-induced change in the environment.

Most graduate research in the geology program includes field study. An approved field course of at least 9 quarter credits or equivalent experience is prerequisite to candidacy for a graduate degree. No foreign language is required.

Students who seek training in a combination of field and laboratory techniques applying a variety of scientific problems will find very few places with the number of opportunities or the variety of facilities that are available at Oregon State. Research in the department falls under three broad areas: Solid Earth Processes and History; Surface Earth Processes and History; and Human Interaction with the Earth.

Admissions Requirements

Admit Term
  • Any Term

Fall Term Recommended

Required Tests
  • None

GRE will no longer be required on applications for fall 2021 and later.

English Language Requirements ?

English language requirements for international applicants to this program are the same as the standard Graduate School requirements.


Additional Requirements
  • All parts of the application must be received by the deadline in order to be considered for funding. The applicant is responsible for making sure the application packet is complete. Please contact the program for more information.

Application requirements, including required documents, letters, and forms, vary by program and may not be completely represented here. The processing of your application will not be completed until these requirements have been met. Please, before applying to this program, always contact the program office to confirm application requirements.


Application Process

Please review the graduate school application process and Apply Online.

Dates & Deadlines ?

Admissions Deadline for all applicants
December 15

Concentrations ?

This program has concentrations or tracks not represented here. Please visit the  Geology Website program website to learn more.

MAIS Participation

This program may serve as a secondary or third only field of study in a MAIS degree.


AMP Participation ?

This program does not participate in the Accelerated Master's Platform (AMP)