The department offers two Master degrees; a Master of Sciences in Geological Sciences, and a Master of Sciences in Geophysics. M.S. candidates follow an integrated course of study recommended by a placement committee and the graduate advisor.

The student must demonstrate, by course work and by preparation of one research paper and by oral comprehensive examination, superior competence in the field of specialization, broad knowledge in the geological sciences, and satisfactory knowledge of sciences other than geology that are relevant to the fields of interest.

In addition to the above composition requirements, the M.S. degrees are normally earned by preparation of a satisfactory thesis; completion of Geology 201A and 201B; Geology 260 each quarter while in residence; completion of 1 unit of Geology 268, Oral Presentation of Research; and completion of 30 units (at least 20 units in graduate courses). Geology 260 and all 500-series courses (except 596) are excluded from these graduate course units.

M.S. degree candidates in geophysics must complete research in geophysics under faculty supervision. Master of Science degree candidates may also be required to present a defense of the thesis in open forum.