Overview

Specialize your geological knowledge and gain hands-on experience under the supervision of some of Canada’s most prolific and renowned researchers and geologists.

Further your knowledge in earth sciences through a comprehensive Master of Geology program that includes theoretical study, research, as well as lab and field experience. Develop your geoscience skills and toolkit and contribute to ground-breaking research.

The Master of Science in Geology program offers 3 streams:

• MSc Geology (Thesis-based, Full-time)
  The thesis-based Master of Science in Geology program typically consists of four one-term graduate courses, plus a thesis.
• MSc Geology - Applied Mineral Exploration (Course-based)
  The Applied Mineral Exploration option is a two-year, course-based degree program designed for industry geologists who wish to upgrade their skills while maintaining full-time employment. This program does not require a thesis, but students may opt to conduct a research project.
• MSc Geology - Applied Mineral Exploration (Course-based, Accelerated)
  The accelerated Applied Mineral Exploration option is designed for geologists who wish to upgrade their skills by taking an intensive, one-year, course-based degree program. This program does not require a thesis, but students may opt to conduct a research project.

Choose a specialization based on your interests and our areas of expertise, or consider pursuing a funded research project. Research opportunities are available in all fields of geology, including but not limited to:

• 3D computer modelling
• Economic geology
• Environmental geology
• Experimental and field petrology
• Geophysics
• Geochemistry
• Glaciology
• Igneous and metamorphic petrology
• Mineralogy
• Ore deposit geology
• Paleontology
• Sedimentology
• Structural geology
• Volcanology

The Harquail School of Earth Sciences and its Mineral Exploration Research Centre (MERC) are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and analytical instruments, all located within a global geology and mining hub, allowing students and researchers to conduct cutting-edge research. Our renowned faculty are leaders in their sub-disciplines, recognized through international and national awards. View the complete list of our lab equipment and learn about our analytical capabilities, or take a virtual tour of our featured analytical instruments and Laurentian University campus via our ArcGIS StoryMap!

Key Features

Take advantage of an impressive array of analytical instruments and technology, allowing you to conduct cutting-edge research that aligns with industry standards.

The Harquail School of Earth Sciences is ranked #1 in Canada in National Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) funding in economic geology and in applied geophysics. Laurentian University is #1 in Ontario in mining and mineral processing research.

Travel nationally and internationally - into the field and to geology & mining conventions - while being based in a world-renowned mining and innovation hub, filled with networking opportunities.