?It allows students who successfully complete the program to upgrade their educational qualifications and advance to doctoral programs or professional positions that require an in-depth knowledge of hydrogeology, environmental geology, and geologic hazards. The University's location in the state capital provides direct access to many local, federal, and state agencies through internship and fieldwork opportunities.

Each student should plan a program according to his/her background, interests and objectives, in consultation with a faculty advisor. Students are required to consult with an advisor prior to admission to the program or initiation of graduate study. For information on how to select an advisor, students should contact the Geology Department Office. Graduate students who want to engage in teaching as professionals can apply for an appointment as a Graduate Teaching Associate. Graduate Teaching Associates have the opportunity to teach one to three lower division laboratory courses per semester and are paid at a rate commensurate with their teaching load.