The graduate program in the Department of Geological Sciences at Brown is rated among the top programs in the nation and the world. Our faculty members, nationally and internationally acknowledged leaders in their fields, engage in externally supported research which is defining the direction of inquiry in the next 5-10 years. Five primary research areas follow nationwide themes:

• Structure and Dynamics of the Solid Earth
• Geological Materials: Properties and Processes
• Earth System History and Global Change
• Planetary Perspectives
• Environmental Sciences

Additional Special Program:

• Joint PhD Program with MBL
  (Marine Biological Lab, Woods Hole)

Faculty and students conduct experimental, theoretical, and/or field studies, with a goal to define and quantify the geological processes which shape our planet. The diverse interests of faculty and students drive a wide range of studies, and increased interactions across departmental lines have been developed with areas such as Environmental Sciences, Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, Engineering and Physics. Needs and interests of the individual student guide coursework; our intent is for students to develop breadth as well as depth of research.

The Department is a truly diversified community. Emphasis on collaborative and interdisciplinary research fosters a collegial exchange of scientific knowledge and expertise. Frequent Department functions (such as field trips, lunch time talks, weekly seminars, social gatherings, and the student GeoClub) encourage opportunities for friendly interactions at all levels between faculty, graduate and undergraduate students and support staff.

GRADUATE STUDIES
The Department of Geological Sciences offers integrated programs of graduate study and research leading to the Ph.D. degree. Strong undergraduate science training (e.g., biology, chemistry, engineering, geology, mathematics, or physics) is recommended. Enrollment is limited to 50 graduate students (generally equal men/women) to ensure effective use of research facilities and close student-faculty contact. Candidacy for the Ph.D. degree is established by passing the Preliminary Examination (end of the fifth semester with a Bachelor's, or fourth semester with a Master's).

APPLICATIONS
Applications are welcomed from students with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in the fields of biology, chemistry, engineering, geology, geophysics, mathematics, and physics. Applicants are encouraged to correspond directly with faculty whose work is of special interest. Completed admissions and financial aid applications are due in the Office of the Dean of the Graduate School January 1. Applicants should clearly express their area(s) of academic and research interest to allow most advantageous evaluation for admission. Submission of GRE test scores is required and tests should be taken as early as possible, preferably in the fall. Applicants will be notified of the results of their application around the end of March.

For application materials, contact the Graduate School. Visit the Geological Sciences Graduate Program and Research site for department-specific information.

FINANCIAL AID
All applicants for financial aid except foreign students are required to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application, obtained from the Graduate School by checking the appropriate financial aid box(es) on the admissions application.

Admission to doctoral study is normally accompanied by the award of an Assistantship or a Fellowship. Research and Teaching Assistantships (or combination) have a work commitment and typically cover full tuition, health fees, and a 12-month stipend. University Fellowships and other support sponsored by foundations and industry are also available for particularly deserving students or students whose work will be concentrated in certain areas of research. Ph.D. candidates are supported up to five years, as long as they remain in good academic standing at the University.

Student thesis topics are funded through grants and contracts to faculty members or through the department. Funds are available for a limited number of new graduate students to start summer research projects before they begin formal courses at Brown.

SUPPORT
Graduate students make up about 19% of the Brown student population of approximately 6,800. Brown funds most incoming doctoral students (Teaching or Research Assistantships are often available) and, as part of their University aid package, supported doctoral students receive a health insurance subsidy. See the "Support" section on the Graduate School website).

FOREIGN STUDENTS
Information for foreign students regarding visas, financial policies, etc. is available from the Graduate School. Foreign students whose native language is not English cannot be admitted until results of the TOEFL examination have been received by the Graduate School. Oral competency must be certified by a University exam before the student may teach.

Last updated July 2008