Program Overview
The environmental geology masters program prepares students to address complex environmental challenges using geological science, analytical skills, and professional training. Designed as a Professional Science Master’s (PSM), this program blends advanced coursework in environmental geology with applied professional development, preparing graduates to work at the intersection of science, policy, and environmental management.
Students pursuing an environmental geology masters study how Earth processes interact with human activity and environmental systems. From groundwater contamination and soil quality to natural hazards and environmental remediation, the field of environmental geology plays a critical role in understanding and solving environmental problems. This program emphasizes scientific investigation, data analysis, and real-world applications that help students translate geological knowledge into practical environmental solutions.
The environmental geology masters curriculum integrates geology, environmental science, hydrology, and geospatial analysis. Through interdisciplinary coursework, students develop a deep understanding of the physical processes shaping the environment and learn how geological data can inform environmental decision-making. Courses also explore how environmental geologists analyze natural resources, monitor environmental change, and evaluate environmental impacts associated with land use, infrastructure development, and resource management.
A distinctive feature of the environmental geology masters program is its focus on professional preparation. Students gain experience in project management, scientific communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration. These skills are essential for environmental geologists who work with engineers, policymakers, environmental scientists, and community stakeholders to address environmental issues and develop sustainable solutions.
Students in the environmental geology masters program learn to evaluate environmental systems using geological methods such as sediment analysis, groundwater modeling, geochemistry, and environmental monitoring. By studying environmental geology, students gain insight into how geological materials and processes influence ecosystems, water resources, and environmental quality. This knowledge supports environmental planning, resource conservation, and environmental hazard mitigation.
The program also emphasizes practical experience. Students in the environmental geology masters engage in applied research projects that address real-world environmental problems. These projects allow students to apply geological and environmental science concepts while developing professional expertise. Many projects reflect issues commonly addressed by environmental geologists, such as groundwater contamination, environmental site assessments, and environmental risk analysis.
Classes are completed online or in hybrid mode, with the exception of three required field workshop courses held at the Edwards Campus in Overland Park, the Lawrence campus, or KU’s field station in Colorado.
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For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Environmental Geology, PSMKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Master’s in Environmental Geology is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Master’s in Environmental Geology Learning Outcomes
Students who complete the environmental geology masters program develop advanced knowledge and applied skills in environmental geology and related scientific disciplines. Graduates will be able to:
- Apply advanced geological principles to analyze environmental systems and address environmental challenges through quantitative analysis, critical thinking, and case studies related to environmental science geology.
- Synthesize and evaluate geological, geochemical, and hydrological concepts to assess environmental conditions and support responsible decision-making that serves populations affected by environmental issues.
- Identify and develop original analysis or interpretation of a relevant environmental topic, demonstrated through course projects and the professional capstone experience.
- Communicate scientific findings effectively in professional environments through technical reports, graphical illustrations, and presentations.
- Demonstrate effective project management and collaboration skills through group work and applied project development.
What Careers are Possible with a Master’s in Environmental Geology?
Graduates of the environmental geology masters program pursue a variety of careers related to environmental science, geology, and resource management. Because environmental geology bridges scientific analysis and environmental decision-making, graduates are well prepared for roles across the environmental sector.
Many graduates work in environmental consulting firms where environmental geologists analyze environmental data, conduct site assessments, and help organizations understand geological conditions affecting environmental quality. Others work in government agencies or regulatory organizations where environmental geology knowledge supports environmental monitoring, land management, and environmental policy implementation. Possible career paths include:
- Environmental consulting
- Groundwater and hydrogeology analysis
- Environmental risk and hazard assessment
- Environmental resource management
- Environmental research and data analysis
- Environmental monitoring and site assessment
- Sustainability and environmental planning
Labor market data from Lightcast indicates continued demand for professionals trained in environmental geology and related environmental science fields. Organizations across the public and private sectors rely on environmental geologists to evaluate environmental conditions, assess environmental risks, and guide environmental decision-making based on geological evidence.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The University of Kansas offers competitive tuition rates for its environmental geology masters. For information about financial aid options, visit our Financial Aid site.Admission Requirements
Admission to the environmental geology masters degree requires:
- A completed bachelor’s degree in geology from an accredited institution with official transcripts
- Candidates with a related degree and 20 hours of coursework in geology, physical geography, engineering, or hydrology may be eligible.
- In some instances, relevant work experience in environmental geology may substitute for missing courses
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on 4.0 scale (GPA below 3.0 may be considered for provisional admission under extenuating circumstances)
- Statement of interest summarizing your education, employment history, your long-term career goals, and how this program will help you achieve these goals
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume/CV
Please visit KU Edwards Campus for more information.
Student Life and Learning Experience
Students in the environmental geology masters program engage in a collaborative academic environment that emphasizes scientific discovery, professional growth, and applied learning. Coursework and projects within environmental geology encourage students to investigate environmental problems and develop science-based solutions.
Graduate students often participate in research activities and applied projects that mirror the work performed by professional environmental geologists. These experiences allow students to gain hands-on experience analyzing environmental data, interpreting geological evidence, and communicating scientific findings.
The environmental geology masters program also encourages participation in seminars, professional workshops, and networking opportunities that connect students with professionals working in environmental geology and environmental science fields.
Through these experiences, students gain exposure to emerging research topics in environmental science geology, develop professional relationships, and build the expertise needed for careers in environmental science and geology.
Master’s in Environmental Geology Sample Courses
Students in the environmental geology masters program complete coursework that explores key topics within environmental geology and environmental science. Sample courses may include:
- Project Management for Professionals
- Managing Teams and Leading People
- Environmental Regulation and Policy
- Physical Hydrogeology
- Geological Log Analysis
- Applied Groundwater Modeling
These courses help students develop the scientific knowledge and analytical tools used by environmental geologists to study environmental systems and address environmental challenges. For a full course listing, visit the KU Catalog.
Master’s in Environmental Geology Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Spring: Priority deadline of Nov. 1, final deadline of Dec. 15.
Summer: Priority deadline of Feb. 1, final deadline of May 1.
Fall: Priority deadline of May 1, final deadline of Aug. 1.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in two years.