Geology, Geological Engineering, and Mining Engineering  PhD

Students studying rock layers in the field.

 

Geology and Geological Engineering Department

Applicants for this doctoral program are expected to have a BS degree in geology, geological engineering, paleontology, mining engineering, or a closely related field that includes calculus/statistics, physics, chemistry, and core geology subjects. However, a specific undergraduate degree is not required. You will elect to pursue a specialization in Geology, Geological Engineering, or Mining Engineering. Each specialization has different background and program requirements. An online option is available for the Mining Engineering Specialization. Contact the department to inquire.

Edward Anokye describes his experience at South Dakota Mines

Student talking in an interview.

 

Program Highlights

Department page

Featured Research

  • EarthChem & SESAR Data Infrastructure for Geochemistry and Earth Science Samples Communities​
  • RII Track 4 Inverse Methods of Hydraulic Fracturing for Enhanced Geothermal Systems in a Deep Mines​
  • Curation, Digitization, And Access to Fossil Specimens from the Richmond Hill Quarry

Featured Courses

  • Rocky Mountain Stratigraphy
  • Volcanology
  • Linear Inverse Methods in Geology
  • Experimental Rock Deformation
  • Applied Groundwater Flow and Transport Modeling
  • Engineering Geology of Surficial Deposits

Potential Careers

  • Mining
  • Environmental consulting
  • Environmental remediation
  • Oil and gas exploration
  • Paleontologist
Department page
I think my experience has been super eye-opening since I got here. I’ve just learned so much that I never even understood as undergrad. It’s just been a great experience.
Lauren Stern
MS GGE

 

Requirements

Application Instructions

Eligibility Criteria

3.0 GPA on 4.0 scale
Bachelor's Degree in
  • Geology
  • Geological Engineering
  • Paleontology
  • Mining Engineering
Criteria may not be strict thresholds; factors such as work or research experience may be considered. Students with questions about eligibility should contact the program prior to applying.

Credits

Course requirements: 36 credits
Research requirements: 36 credits
Total credits: 72

Application

Applications are considered after the deadlines, but timely admittance and/or funding may be affected. Applications may be deferred to a later semester without reapplying.

For Fall Enrollment: February 1
For Spring Enrollment: August 1
Application Instructions

Program information

Geological Engineering Specialization Program Requirements

Geology Specialization Program Requirements

Mining Engineering Specialization Requirements* 

TYPE
In-Person
*Also available online

ADMISSION MATERIALS
  • Statement of purpose
  • Official US transcripts or international transcript evaluation
  • Official English proficiency scores
  • 3 Letters of recommendation
  • GRE scores required for Mining Engineering only
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
COST

Contact Us:

Mining Engineering & Management MS/PhD:

Kelli McCormick

Program Coordinator
Kelli.McCormick@sdsmt.edu
Phone: (605) 394-1971
Office: NMI 315

Geology and Geological Engineering:
Dr. Trevor S Waldien 

Assistant Professor
Trevor.Waldien@sdsmt.edu
Phone: (605) 394-2461
Office: NMI 328

 

Related Links

Geology & Geological Engineering
Mining Engineering & Management

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