The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at UTSA offers two Master of Science degrees: Geoinformatics and Geosciences (formerly Geology). The Master of Science degree in Geoinformatics is a multidisciplinary degree which applies geospatial science and modern technology to solve probelms in industry or academia. The Master of Science degree in Geosciences offers opportunities for advanced study and research in emphasis areas such as geology, hydrogeology, geophysics, paleontology, petrology and others. Thesis and non-thesis options are available in both programs.

Please refer to the Geoinformatics (MS) and Geosciences (MS) Admission Requirements for details on the admissions process. The main items in the application are:

• Undergraduate degree
  • Geoinformatics requires a Bachelor of Science degree with emphases in geological, biological, physical, environmental, or computational sciences, or a Bachelor of Arts degree with emphases in geography, social sciences, humanities, or business
  • Geosciences requires an undergraduate degree in geosciences/geology (equivalent to UTSA's) or a bachelor's degree in chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science, life sciences, or engineering from an accredited institution of higher education with sufficient coursework in the geosciences
• Completed application form
• Official undergraduate transcripts
• Two letters of recommendation
• Statement of Purpose
• GRE score not required
• TOEFL score (international applicants)
• IELTS Score (international applicants)

All applications are processed by the Graduate School; however, our department is happy to provide advice to assist you in the preparation of your application. Please contact the Graduate Advisor of Record if you have any questions.

• Geoinformatics Graduate Handbook
• Geosciences Graduate Handbook

Graduate Advisors of Record

Geoinformatics – Dr. Alberto Mestas-Nuñez
Geosciences – Dr. Judy Haschenburger

Environmental Science and Engineering (ESE) Ph.D. Program

A range of geoscience-related research topics may be pursued within the ESE doctoral program, which is a joint program supported by faculty in Engineering, Integrative Biology, and Earth and Planetary Sciences. Some areas of research emphasis include water resources, spatial analysis, remote sensing, cryosphere, and natural hazards. The Ph.D. Program in Environmental Science and Engineering is administered by the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department.
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