MSc Geology: Project-Based
Western's project-based Master of Science program in Geology was launched in 2009 and is designed to meet the rapidly growing demand in industry for highly trained applied geologists. It is an important component of our Resource Geoscience Western initiative, an endeavor that we are pursuing in collaboration with industry partners, which places us at the forefront of Earth Sciences in Canada.
A comprehensive project-based MSc degree in Geology can serve as a basis for starting or upgrading a professional career, or it may lead to further studies in a PhD program. Many of the courses offered will help you to obtain necessary university credits for professional accreditation as a Professional Geoscientist. In addition, students are required to complete experiential, hands-on learning in a field environment.
Curriculum
Students in the project-based MSc program will take seven (7) half-courses over two terms (eight months), followed by an intensive four-month research project under faculty supervision.
The selection of courses for each student will be individualized based on interests and career objectives, in consultation with a faculty coordinator or advisor. 50% of courses must be in Geology.
Because the project-based MSc program relies more heavily on courses than the conventional MSc thesis-based degree, students from broader educational backgrounds such as physics, mathematics, computer science, environmental science or engineering will be considered. This program will enhance a student’s career prospects by providing training that may be needed for industry applications or professional accreditation, or as a stepping stone to further research within a program offering a PhD degree.
Am I eligible?
Applicants are required to be in their final year or have completed a bachelor’s equivalent degree in Earth Sciences or any related disciplines from an accredited university.
What degree will I graduate with?
Master of Science in Geology
Do I need to arrange a supervisor beforehand?
The project-based MSc Geology program requires a faculty supervisor to be arranged beforehand for any application to be successful. The applicant and potential supervisor are required to have a conversation (in-person, phone or virtual) to discuss a potential research project before a decision to admit the student is made.
Course work and progression
The project-based MSc in Geology is a one-year degree program, to be completed in three terms. The degree is offered on a full-time basis only. Full-time studies commence in September and finish at the end of August of each year. Students in the program will take seven half-courses over two terms (eight months), followed by an intensive 4-month research project (GL/GP 9590). The program must be completed in one year. Students must successfully complete their research project before their degree is earned.
Required courses for the project-based MSc in Geology include the Graduate Seminar (GL/GP 9580A) and a graduate level field course, plus electives chosen by the student in consultation with the department.
Students are required to achieve a minimum grade of at least 70% calculated each term over all courses taken for credit, with no grade less than 60%. If their grades do not meet these standards the student will not be able to remain in the program. In the summer term, students are required to produce a project report based on their research project that is suitable for a short, publishable journal article; the research project is intended to represent the equivalent of 4 months of full-time work on a project.
Financial Support and Tuition
Tuition is due at the beginning of each term. Tuition amounts are accessible through the Office of the Registrar. Tuition rates are subject to change each year. Students enrolled in the project-based Masters stream are self-funded, and not eligible for regular financial support from the university.
How do I apply?
Graduate school applications must be completed online. Access to the online application from this site or the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies site will coincide with the commencement of the application period. In addition to the on-line application, candidates are required to provide supporting documentation. All supporting documentation must be provided before an application is considered complete. Incomplete applications will not be assessed.
