Master of Arts in Geology
Wayne State's Master of Arts (M.A.) in Geology provides students with specialized training in the geological and environmental aspects of this discipline. The M.A. has two degree options: coursework only (Plan C) or coursework with a capstone essay (Plan B).
Students receiving this degree will be especially prepared to work in a capacity that deals with or provides solutions to environmental problems in which the intimate relationship between the environment and earth science is an important factor. Students with an M.A. will be prepared for positions in the fields of environmental and geotechnical consulting and the M.A. provides a stepping stone to career advancement in these fields.
The master's degree program involves the rigorous, in-depth study of major concepts pertaining to the earth and the techniques used to study them. Admission into the program assumes a firm foundation in the basic and elemental concepts of geology.
Geology program requirements and curriculum
The Master of Arts in Geology is offered as Plan B (master's essay) or Plan C (coursework), both requiring 32 credits.
- The Plan B (master's essay) option is similar to the Master of Science thesis option in that students work with a particular faculty mentor to write a four-credit capstone research essay, but the essay option is less research-intensive than the Master of Science thesis.
- The Plan C (coursework only) option does not require a thesis or an essay and all 32 credits must be completed as graduate coursework. The coursework-only option is ideal for professionals who wish to advance their careers by gaining valuable education and training in advanced topics related to geology and environmental science.
Many of our graduate courses are offered in multiple formats (e.g., online) to accommodate working professionals.
Scholarships, financial aid and tuition
Funding
Many of our graduate students are fully or partially self-funded. Some of our M.S. graduate students are supported by graduate research assistantships (GRA), which are funded by faculty research grants. GRA positions are given by individual faculty members and are typically decided on after all of the applications have been received. There is no separate application for GRA positions, however, we recommend contacting the specific faculty members with whom you wish to work to find out if they have any funded positions in their research group.
The environmental science and geology department currently has one graduate teaching assistantship (GTA). There is no separate application for the GTA, but if you have an interest in teaching and would like to be considered, please detail your interest and qualifications in your application for admission.
There are a few scholarships available from the Graduate School that can also help cover tuition costs.
Tuition
Special tuition discount of more than 30% for out-of-state students: For the 2025-26 academic year, out-of-state students in the M.A. in Geology program qualify for a reduced tuition rate of $1,195.26 per credit hour, making a top-tier education even more accessible.
Career insights
A degree in geology can lead to a variety of career paths. Here are just a few of the many opportunities available in this field.
| Career | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Atmospheric and space scientists | $91,000 |
| Atmospheric, earth, marine and space sciences teachers, postsecondary | $90,000 |
| Conservation scientist | $63,000 |
| Environmental engineer | $92,000 |
| Geodetic surveyor | $67,000 |
| Geographic information systems technologists and technicians | $94,000 |
| Geoscientists (except hydrologists and geographers) | $79,000 |
| Geothermal production manager | $113,000 |
| Hydrologist | $97,000 |
| Mining and geological engineers, including mining safety engineers | $100,000 |
| Natural sciences manager | $137,000 |
| Petroleum engineer | $116,000 |
| Soil and plant scientist | $59,000 |
| Water resource specialist | $137,000 |
This data provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.