Frequently Asked Questions about the Online M.S. in Geological Sciences

This information is for students interested in the Online M.S. in Geological Sciences, a non-thesis option program.

Q: Am I required to be on the Ohio University campus at any time during the program?

A: No, the program is 100 percent online. Students are not required to be on campus during the program.

Q: Is there a thesis involved in the degree?

A: No. This is a non-thesis program. 

Q: How many classes do I have to take each semester?

A: Students have the flexibility to decide the number of classes that they would like to take. 

Q: How long does it take to complete this program?

A: Students can normally complete the program in one to two years.

Q: I am a science teacher, can I join the program?

A: Yes. Science teachers are welcome to join the program.

Q: I am a recent college graduate, do I need working experience to apply to the program?

A: No. Anyone can apply to the program, as long as they have a bachelor’s degree in geology, earth or space sciences, integrated science, physical science, science education, or related degree deemed equivalent by the graduate recruitment committee in the Geological Sciences Department at Ohio University.

Q: I live overseas, can I still join the program?

A: Yes. The program is open to students globally.

Q: I have a full-time job, can I take the classes according to my own schedule?

A: Yes, the classes are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to accommodate full-time workers. 

Q: Can I begin the program in any semester?

A: Yes, students can start the program during any academic semester.

Q: Are all of the GEOL courses offered in the 7-week format?

A: Yes, all GEOL classes in the program are offered in the 7-week format.

Q: When can I graduate?

A: You can graduate if (1) you have earned 30 credits, (2) your GPA is 3.0 or higher, (3) you have completed a minimum of seven letter-graded courses (at least five letter-graded courses must be completed in GEOL), totaling at least 28 credit hours, and (4) you have completed two credits of GEOL 6921 Colloquium in Geology and passed culminating Research and Technical Skills Portfolio evaluation.

Q: If I choose to, can I attend the graduation ceremony like the on campus students?

A: Yes. As a graduate of Ohio University, you and your family are invited to attend commencement ceremonies.