Get the MESSAGe!
Admission Requirements
Admission into the program requires a Bachelors degree in Geoscience or a closely related discipline, including Field Camp (ESS 400) and at least four upper division courses spread among the following categories:
- Structural Geology, Geomechanics (ESS 311 or ESS 463)
- Sedimentology, Stratigraphy (ESS 455 or ESS 456)
- Mineralogy, Petrology, Earth Materials (ESS 212)
- Geomorphology (ESS 326)
- Geochemistry (ESS 312)
- Geophysics (ESS 314)
Applicants should also have completed one year of calculus with analytical geometry (Math 124, 125, 126), at least two quarters of calculus-based physics (Phys 121 & 122), and at least two quarters of general chemistry (Chem 142 & 152). Students with deficiencies in one or more courses may be able to make them up during the degree. Students with deficiencies in several areas or who have not completed the equivalent of a 9 credit field geology course (ESS 400)should complete these before enrolling in MESSAGe.
The application deadline is March 1.
The graduate school also requires students to have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university in the U.S. or its equivalent from a foreign institution. Students must also have at least a 3.0 (or B) GPA in the most recent 2 years of study, and prove English equivalency if necessary.
To apply, please visit https://www.grad.washington.edu/applForAdmiss/
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I apply? The on-line application for MESSAGe can now be accessed at:
https://www.grad.washington.edu/applForAdmiss/
When you are give an choice of programs/departments, select Earth and Space Sciences - Applied Geosciences (MS).
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When is the deadline? The deadline for applying is March 1st. You should expect a decision around April 15th.
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How many students do you accept? For Autumn Quarter 2013 we anticipate adding 15 new students.
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Do I need to submit GRE scores? GRE scores are optional for the MESSAGe program. Score reports over five years old (from the test date) are no longer valid. The institution code for the University of Washington is 4854. The department and major field codes are 0504 (Geological Sciences).
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Do I need to submit TOEFL/TSE scores? International students will need to demonstrate English proficiency. English proficiency requirements are published by the Graduate School and can be found at Memo 8.
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Are TA/RA positions available? Some teaching assistantships may be available on a quarter-by-quarter basis, but are not awarded in advance of matriculation. Research Assistantships are not typically available to students in the Applied Geosciences Program.
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How much is tuition? The latest tuition and fee information can be found at http://www.washington.edu/admin/pb/home/opb-tuition.htm. MESSAGe uses the College of the Environment Graduate Programs tuition rate, and for 2012-2013 the quarterly tuition is $4893.00 for full time residents, and $9099.00 for full time non-residents.
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Can I use financial aid? Yes, this program is fully financial aid eligible.
- Should I apply to MESSAGe or the Research Program? If you have a passion for research and your ultimate goal is a Ph.D., you should apply for the Research Program. If you enjoy practical problems and want a career outside of academia, consider MESSAge.
- Is this a distance-learning degree? No. You must come to UW to take MESSAGe courses. Some core MESSAGe courses are offered in hybrid video/classroom format to enable scheduling flexibility for those students who work while enrolled.
More information can be found at: http://www.ess.washington.edu/ess/education/grad/message/overview.html
MESSAGe is directed by Professor Juliet Crider.