The Department of Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences at UCLA offers Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees with a specialization in Geophysics and Space Physics. This program focuses on understanding the fundamental processes governing Earth, its surrounding space environment, and other celestial bodies. Students will explore areas such as seismology, gravity, thermal regimes, geomagnetism, tectonics, geophysical fluid dynamics, mineral physics, and planetary science. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in theoretical and applied geophysics, with opportunities to specialize in various subfields. Students work closely with faculty advisors to tailor their course of study and research, culminating in either a comprehensive examination and thesis or a research-based thesis. The program aims to equip students with advanced research skills and knowledge necessary for careers in academia or industry.
No foreign language requirement.
Tuition and fees are estimates for most doctoral and master's programs for the 2024-2025 academic year and can vary for professional or self-supporting degrees. Official figures are maintained by the UCLA Registrar's Office.
Tuition for non-California residents, which includes international students, is approximately $36,297 annually. These figures are estimates for the 2024-2025 academic year and official amounts are maintained by the UCLA Registrar's Office.
The program requires completion of nine graduate and upper-division courses, totaling at least 36 units, with a minimum of 24 units in 200-series courses taken for a letter grade. Three core geophysics courses (EPSS 200A, 200B, 200C) are mandatory. There is no foreign language requirement.
Applications are submitted online through the UCLA Graduate Admissions portal. You should select the Master of Science (M.S.) in Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences with a Geophysics and Space Physics specialization. Consult the application checklist for detailed steps and deadlines.
The application deadline for Fall admission is typically December 15th. It is advisable to check with the department directly for applications submitted after the priority deadline.
Merit-based financial support, including fellowships, teaching assistantships, and graduate student researcher positions, is available to all graduate students, including international students. Applications for these are typically due by December 15th. UCLA Fellowship Awards are merit-based and allocated by the university to programs.
The Master of Science program requires 36 units of graduate and upper-division courses. While the exact duration can vary based on individual progress, the curriculum is structured to be completed within a standard graduate program timeframe.