Ph.D. in Geological Sciences

Our geological sciences Ph.D. program develops exceptional scientists who are advancing the field of geoscience research. Our graduates have gone on to secure prestigious roles in academia, industry, and government. The program offers a flexible, individualized approach, taking full advantage of Cornell’s emphasis on interdisciplinary education to create a rich, personalized learning experience.
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Professor Patrick Fulton tapes equipment used to study the plate boundary fault that ruptured during the Tohoku earthquake that devastated Japan in 2011.

The graduate program in geological sciences offers students broad training in basic sciences, as well as field, theoretical, and practical experience through research in their chosen specialty. Cornell’s program provides flexibility for students to engage across disciplines, with strengths in areas such as geophysics, geochemistry, petrology, structural geology, marine ecology, and energy resources. Interdisciplinary study opportunities exist in marine ecology, water resources, applied geological science, and various other fields.

student in orange coveralls and a hard hat pulling rock samples from mud at the Cornell University Borehole Observatory.

Program Highlights

  • Research Opportunities

    Ph.D. students have access to a wide range of research programs, such as those focused on geophysics, space-based geodetic studies, tectonics, sedimentation, planetary science, and more. Field research locations include Alaska, Chile, Hawaii, Tibet, and others.

  • Fellowships

    Various fellowships, including department and Cornell Fellowships, are available to support students. Ph.D. students, in particular, may apply for prestigious national fellowships, such as the NSF and NASA fellowships.

Concentrations

  • Economic Geology
    Engineering Geology
    Environmental Geophysics
    General Geology
    Geobiology
    Geochemistry and Isotope Geology

  • Geohydrology
    Geomorphology
    Geophysics
    Geotectonics
    Marine Geology (minor)
    Mineralogy

  • Ocean Science and Technology
    Paleontology
    Petroleum Geology
    Petrology
    Planetary Geology
    Precambrian Geology

  • Quaternary Geology
    Rock Mechanics
    Sedimentology
    Seismology
    Stratigraphy
    Structural Geology

Program at a Glance

  • Minor Advisors: Ph.D. students must choose two or more minor advisors, with at least one advisor representing a minor from outside geological sciences.
  • Qualifying Exam: Ph.D. students must take a qualifying examination before the end of their third semester. This exam assesses the candidate’s readiness for advanced studies and helps the Special Committee plan the student’s program.
  • Thesis: Ph.D. students must submit a dissertation acceptable to the Special Committee and the Graduate School.
  • Research Focus: Ph.D. students generally focus on more advanced research, with the final two to three years of their program dedicated to dissertation work.
  • Financial Aid Duration: Ph.D. students typically receive financial aid for up to five years, contingent on satisfactory academic progress.
  • Interdisciplinary Opportunities: Ph.D. students have significant flexibility to engage in interdisciplinary research across various fields, including those related to planetary science, geophysics, and marine ecosystems.

Additional Opportunities

  • Tubular Icefin robot on a table in a lab. Outer shell is off and many wires and circuits are showing. Two researchers are at tables in the background.

    Centers, Facilities and Institutes

    The Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences is home to several cutting-edge centers, labs, and institutes that drive our groundbreaking research.

  • Two EAS students stand inside the Ecology House Contest construction they were part of creating.

    Student Groups and Organizations

    Explore the diverse range of student organizations and clubs available to enhance your academic journey and connect with peers who share your interests.

A collection of brown and light-colored fossils attached to a wall and displayed on tables
Trilobite and other fossils at the Museum of the Earth, Paleontological Research Institution.

  • Museum of the Earth

    The Paleontological Research Institution, located near the campus, has world-renowned facilities and collections available to students interested in paleontology.

Contact

  • Director of Graduate Studies

    Matthew Pritchard
    pritchard@cornell.edu
    607-255-4870

  • Assistant Director of Graduate Programs and Course Coordinator

    Sierra Henry
    slh297@cornell.edu
    607-255-8737