Earth Sciences: Geochemical Systems (M.S.)

The option in Geochemical Systems is intended for students with interests in all aspects of geochemistry: bedrock, sediment, water, ice, and air with particular emphasis on interpreting and modeling the interaction of these media (e.g., biogeochemistry, air quality, and climate change).

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the M.S. program in geochemical systems are expected to have completed coursework that provides them with foundational knowledge. This foundational knowledge is the equivalent to the completion of: two terms mathematics, which includes both differential and integral calculus (one of these two terms could be statistics); two terms lab-based general chemistry; and two terms of a combination of biology and/or physics. Typical applicants have undergraduate (or equivalent) degrees in Earth sciences, environmental sciences, chemistry, physics, mathematics, data science, engineering, the biological sciences, or related fields. We also encourage inquiries from those who have earned an undergraduate degree in a different major with appropriate coursework in foundational subjects. Students still working to strengthen a particular component of their foundational coursework may be admitted provided they are prepared to complete courses, in addition to their graduate degree requirements, as needed. The program of study a student wishes to follow, together with the research topic and the student's undergraduate major, determines any additional necessary coursework, which will be recommended during the admission process. Applicants are strongly encouraged to meet with their potential advisor(s) and/or the graduate program coordinator prior to submission of their application with any questions on admissions criteria and the degree program. 

Degree Requirements

Thesis Option

Students in the thesis option must satisfactorily complete at least 30 graduate credits, which include the credits accumulated in the core curriculum. Students in this option must complete a master's thesis (6 credits) and give an oral presentation of the results.

Non-Thesis Option

Students in the non-­thesis option must satisfactorily complete at least 34 graduate credits, which includes the core curriculum, a 2­-credit directed research project (ESCI 898 Directed Research), and a written and oral presentation of that research.

Geochemical Systems

Additional electives are to be selected from graduate level courses in the department and/or from graduate level courses  in related disciplines outside of the department (e.g., civil and environmental engineering, natural resources, chemistry, mathematics and statistics, and computer science). More detailed information is available from the department. 

Sample Degree Plan

This sample degree plan serves as a general guide; students collaborate with their academic advisor to develop a personalized degree plan to meet their academic goals and program requirements.

Accelerated Master's Overview

Accelerated Master’s programs offer qualified University of New Hampshire undergraduate students the opportunity to begin graduate coursework in select graduate programs while completing a bachelor’s degree. Accelerated master's programs are designed to provide students with an efficient and cost-effective pathway to earn both a bachelor's and master's degree or graduate certificate, enhancing career opportunities and long-term earning potential.

Accelerated Master's Highlights

• Begin studying advanced topics while an undergraduate student with the opportunity to complete a master’s degree or graduate certificate early.
• Master’s degree program students: Earn up to 12* graduate (800-level) course credits while completing a bachelor’s degree. This coursework will count as dual-credit toward both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
• Graduate certificate program students: Earn up to 8* graduate (800-level) course credits while completing a bachelor’s degree. This coursework will count as dual-credit toward both the bachelor’s degree and the graduate certificate.
• Students complete the bachelor’s degree, and then officially matriculate into the master’s or graduate certificate program to complete the remaining required graduate-level coursework.

*Some exceptions apply. 

Accelerated Master's Admission Requirements

• A minimum 3.2 cumulative GPA is required.*
• A minimum of 90 undergraduate credits must be completed prior to enrolling in graduate (800-level) courses.
• Streamlined Graduate School Application (two letters of recommendation; most standardized tests and application fee are waived).*

*Some exceptions apply.

Accelerated Master's Requirements

• Students must attend a mandatory orientation session.
• Students must submit a special registration form each semester for dual-credit courses and note any DegreeWorks exceptions.
• Students may defer graduate matriculation for up to one year after earning their bachelor’s degree in most programs.
• See the Accelerated Master’s Catalog Policy and Accelerated Master’s Website for additional information and a list of programs. Note that some programs have additional requirements (e.g. higher-grade expectations) compared to the general policy.

Earth Sciences: Geochemical Systems (M.S.) Accelerated Option

This graduate degree program is approved to be taken on an accelerated basis in articulation with the following undergraduate program(s):

Program Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge of core concepts and qualitative/quantitative techniques in Geochemical Systems that results in sufficient expertise to conduct substantive supervised research.
• Review, critically evaluate, and synthesize published research in the Earth sciences and related fields of mathematics, statistics, physics, chemistry, and biology.
• Develop testable research questions and implement a rigorous study using appropriate methodologies to generate findings, develop evidence-based interpretations, and reach well-supported conclusions.
• Prepare written manuscripts in a scientific style of English that meets the level and standards of leading academic journals and respond appropriately to recommendations for revision.
• Clearly convey research findings to specialist and non-specialist audiences through oral and written presentations supported by appropriate digital media.
• Demonstrate collaboration and leadership in creating a productive and welcoming work environment that is supportive, inclusive and equitable.
• Make effective contributions to university, community and professional service.