PhD in Geosciences
Become a leading scholar in the integrated, global-scale study of Earth systems.
The PhD in geosciences at UMass Amherst is one of the top programs in the country, carrying out internationally recognized research across many subdisciplines.
The Department of Geosciences provides expertise on the entire Earth’s environment below, within, and above the critical zone. You’ll focus on the human dimensions of global environmental change, from defining the physical impacts of anthropogenic climate change on global and regional scales to understanding how societies cope with a rapidly changing world.
You’ll use world-class approaches and tools to pursue research topics like solid earth, surficial processes, geohydrology, and climate studies. You’ll also connect with the broader scientific community concerning research in Earth processes, global change, and human geography. The PhD in geosciences also offers a concentration in geography.
Through innovative teaching, mentoring, professional development, state-of-the-art facilities, and research activities, you’ll be prepared for productive careers in the industry, academia, and beyond.
Featured faculty
Julie Brigham-Grette
Professor
Julie Brigham-Grette is a graduate program director and a professor in the Department of Earth, Geographic, and Climate Sciences.
In the spotlight
PhD student Marsha Allen is driven to prevent water shortage on her home island of Tobago. Along with much of the Caribbean, Tobago has experienced a massive drought over the past decade, spurred by shifts in the climate.
Geology
Seek to understand the systems and forces constantly at work on our planet in your preparation for a career addressing important global challenges.
Geography
Choose from a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs exploring the complex relationships between the world’s people and places.