PhD Geology & Environmental Science at University of Pittsburgh

Programme overview

A research PhD in Geology and Environmental Science with research areas including tectonic, volcanic and surface processes, planetary science, paleoclimate, environmental geochemistry, energy geosciences and hydrologic processes. Financial support is normally provided through teaching and research assistantships and fellowships.

Faculty: Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences | Department: Geology and Environmental Science | Duration: 72 credits | Intake: Fall | Location: Pittsburgh, PA, United States

What you will study

72 credits including at least 24 credits of formal courses (18 within the department), a preliminary assessment based on six first-two-year courses (GEOL 2001, GEOL 2468 and three core courses) passed with B or better, and dissertation research, with a 3.0 minimum GPA.

Career pathways

Academic, government and industrial research, teaching and scientific entrepreneurship.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applications and all materials due January 15 for fall entry. Required: online application, $75 fee, 5-10 page writing sample, unofficial transcripts, cumulative GPA of at least 3.0/4.0, three letters of recommendation, CV/resume. International applicants need TOEFL 4.5 overall on the new scale (4.5 speaking/reading/writing, 5.0 listening), IELTS 7.0 with 6.5 per section, or Duolingo 120, unless exempt.

Domestic applicants: USD 27,412 a year (2026-27). Pennsylvania-resident graduate tuition, Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

International applicants: USD 49,272 a year (2026-27). Out-of-state (non-PA resident) graduate tuition, Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

Intake: Fall

Duration: 72 credits

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