Concentrations | Geology | SIU

Geology Concentrations

The graduate degree programs in Geology at SIU are designed to further a student’s competence in the basic fields of earth science and to provide for specialization dependent on student and faculty interest. We currently offer the Master of Arts (M.A.) and Master of Science (M.S.) degree programs to accommodate students with diverse career interests. Within either program, students work with an advisory committee to choose from one of two concentrations: Environmental Geology and Geospatial Analysis, and to select associated coursework.

View the Graduate Catalog for full requirements for each concentration within each degree path.

Environmental Geology

Environmental Geology reflects the fields long-standing tradition as a core environmental science discipline. Geology graduate students are at the forefront of addressing some of the most important environmental problems.

Knowledge is key. Whether you are interested in hydrogeology, natural resources, or tectonics, earning a master’s degree in Geology at SIU with a concentration in Environmental Geology will prepare you for an exciting future. Many of our graduates go on to rewarding careers in industry while others seek doctoral degrees at top educational institutions.

Geospatial Analysis

Contemporary geologists are collecting, observing, storing, and analyzing more data than ever before. Do so requires the ability to process and understand tremendous amounts of information. Many of the problems that geologists address also have a spatial component, so developing skills related to spatial analysis is imperative.

The Geospatial Analysis concentration combines training in Geology with aspects of geoinformatics. Students therefore build expertise in the application of geographic information science (GIS) applied to problems in Geology. Geospatial employment opportunities have increased markedly as geospatial approaches have become more common in applications across Geology.