Overview

The Earth and Planetary Sciences programme at The University of New Mexico provides students with a rigorous academic environment focused on the complexities of our planet and the wider solar system. This curriculum balances theoretical classroom learning with extensive practical experience in both modern laboratories and diverse field settings.

The department is committed to developing well-rounded scientists who can address critical environmental and geological challenges. By integrating various scientific disciplines, the programme ensures that graduates possess the analytical skills required for high-level research and professional practice in the geosciences sector.

Students benefit from a collaborative atmosphere where faculty members and researchers work together on groundbreaking projects.

Why Earth and Planetary Sciences at The University of New Mexico?

The University of New Mexico is home to specialised research centres, including the Institute of Meteoritics and the Center for Stable Isotopes. These facilities provide students with access to world-class equipment and unique geological collections that are essential for advanced planetary and terrestrial research.

The department prides itself on its strong emphasis on field-based learning, utilising the unique geological landscape of the region as a natural laboratory. This hands-on approach is complemented by sophisticated laboratory facilities, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of geochemistry, geophysics, and volcanology.

Financial support is a key feature of the graduate experience, with various competitive opportunities available to students. These include Teaching Assistantships, Research Assistantships, and specialised Fellowships, all designed to support academic excellence and professional development throughout the duration of the programme.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 29146 per year
National fee: USD 29146 per year
Local fee: USD 10084 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Climate
Atmospheric Sciences
Hydrology
Geochemistry
Petrology
Mineralogy
Geophysics
Seismology
Planetary Sciences
Sedimentology
Stratigraphy
Paleoclimate
Paleontology
Surface Processes
Tectonics
Structural Geology
Volcanology

Careers with Earth and Planetary Sciences

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse professional paths within the global geosciences industry. Many alumni secure roles in environmental consultancy, natural resource management, and energy sectors, applying their technical expertise to solve complex geological problems and manage earth resources.

The rigorous research training provided also enables students to pursue successful careers in academic and governmental research organisations. Graduates often find opportunities in planetary science research, climate monitoring, and geological surveying, contributing to our understanding of the Earth and other celestial bodies.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Structural Geology

Supportive Science/Mathematics

Fine Arts

Sedimentology and Stratigraphy

Humanities

General Physics

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Albuquerque, United States

Disciplines

Earth Sciences Astronomy & Space Sciences Geology View 177 other Masters in Geology in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Online application

Letter of intent must contain:

why you wish to obtain a degree from E&PS at UNM
what field(s) of study within the earth sciences are of greatest interest to you for graduate research
highlight previous research experience, and lab, field, and computational skills
a specific EPS faculty member(s) who might act as your advisor (we strongly encourage you to contact potential advisors)
email address, and/or daytime phone number

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

29146 USD / year

≈ 29146 USD / year
Out-of-State

29146 USD / year

≈ 29146 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10084 USD / year

≈ 10084 USD / year

Living costs

Albuquerque

United States

870 - 1360 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Earth and Planetary Sciences.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Albuquerque

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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