Graduate Student Offices
Keys/Blaster Cards
Mailboxes
Computing Resources
Office Personnel
Supplies/Copies
Travel Expense Support for Technical Presentation at Professional Meetings
Use of Laboratories and Equipment
Lab and Work Request Procedures

General Requirements for Graduate Degree Programs

Introduction
Graduate Advisory Committee (GAC)
Registration
Full-Time Student Hour Requirements
Eligibility for Reduced Registration
Leave of Absence
Grade Point Average
Transfer Credits
Progress Grades
Incomplete Grades
Graduate Seminar
Minor Fields
Deficiencies
Temporary Advisors
Research/Thesis Committees
Qualifying Examinations
Admission to Candicacy
Thesis and Dissertation Procedures
Proposal
Budget
Proprietary Research
Manuscript Preparation
Thesis and Dissertation Defense
Graduation Deadlines
Conversion from Masters to Doctoral Program (Geology)
Completion of M.Sc. Program and Admission to Ph.D. Program

Graduate Degree Programs

Geology and Geological Engineering

Master of Science (Geology)
Master of Science (Geological Engineering)
Master of Engineering (Geological Engineering)
Doctor of Philosophy (Geology)
Doctor of Philosophy (Geological Engineering)
Professional Masters (Mineral Exploration and Mining Geosciences)
Professional Masters (Petroleum Reservoir Systems)

Geochemistry Program

Program Description
Program Requirements
Requirements Common to M.Sc. and Ph.D. Degrees
Thesis Committees
Research Proposal
Graduate Student Progress
Ph.D. Qualifying Examination
Thesis
Professional Masters (Environmental Geochemistry)

Hydrologic Science and Engineering

Degrees Offered
Program Requirements

INTRODUCTION [Return to Index]

This Handbook presents information and resources for graduate study in the Department of Geology and Geological Engineering and is intended to ease your transition into the Department and your life as a graduate student. This Handbook supplements and is subordinate to regulations in the Bulletin of Colorado School of Mines. It is the responsibility of each graduate student to read and understand information pertaining to graduate study in both this Handbook and the Bulletin. Members of the faculty, the Department assistants, or other graduate students can generally answer questions regarding the Handbook and the Bulletin.

Departmental focus areas include energy and minerals resources, hydrology, engineering geology/geotechnics, geochemistry, basic geosciences, and related new fields of endeavor.

MISSION STATEMENT [Return to Index]

The Mission of the Department is to:

1) integrate basic and applied research in educating undergraduate and graduate students with the knowledge and skills needed for leadership across disciplines in a professional career in the earth sciences and geological engineering;
2) deliver degrees in the earth sciences (graduate) and geological engineering (undergraduate and graduate);
3) conduct world-class research in the earth sciences and geological engineering, with a focus on applied problems; and
4) provide service and leadership toward local, regional, and global stewardship of the Earth.

VISION STATEMENT [Return to Index]

Our goal is to be a world-renowned applied geoscience/geoengineering department. This will be measured by the strength of our undergraduate and graduate enrollment; by demand for our graduates in industry, government, and academia; and by strong, sustained financial support and recognition of research.

PROFILE OF DEPARTMENT [Return to Index]

The Department of Geology and Geological Engineering emphasizes the study of science and engineering and the application of that knowledge to the solution of resource exploration and development, engineering and environmental problems. Graduate degrees are offered in Geological Engineering, Geology, and Geochemistry. The programs are broad enough to prepare graduates for a wide variety of careers in academic, research, or industrial organizations. The faculty is composed of full-time and adjunct geologists and engineers. Currently there are approximately 110 undergraduate students and 120 graduate students in the Department programs.

COLORADO RESIDENCY [Return to Index]

All out-of-state U.S. residents are strongly advised to begin to establish Colorado residency before they begin their first semester of study at CSM. The greatest advantage to establishing Colorado residency is a reduction in tuition. To qualify for residency a student must prove that they have lived in Colorado for one year or more immediately preceding the first day of classes for the semester in which resident status is sought. Important steps in establishing Colorado residency are obtaining a Colorado driver’s license, transferring motor vehicle and voter registration to Colorado, and rent receipts before the first day of classes this year in order to qualify for resident tuition one year hence. Employment and payment of state income taxes are additional but not essential criteria. There are no absolute requirements for establishing resident status. The Registrar considers cases on an individual basis. For additional information on establishing in-state residency consult the “In-State Tuition Classification Status” section in the Bulletin.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE [Return to Index]

The Department and CSM have designated funds for the support of Teaching Assistants, scholarships, and fellowships for graduate study. If you did not receive a financial aid offer at admission, there are also numerous sources of funding outside the school, which students are strongly encouraged to seek. You can obtain assistance from posted notices of funding opportunities, Office of the Dean of Graduate Studies, and Department faculty members. Evidence that you have attempted to solve your financial needs through application for outside grants will be considered in evaluating future requests for department funds. Financial support is also available for graduate students through the School’s Financial Aid Office. The American Association of Petroleum Geologists, American Association of University Women, Colorado Scientific Society, Geological Society of America, Sigma Xi, and Society of Economic Geologists have given grants in the past.

GRADUATE STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS [Return to Index]

The American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG), Association of Environmental Engineering Geologists (AEG), Society of Economic Geologists (SEG), and American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) all have student chapters on campus. There is also the Association of Geoscience Students (AGS). New students are encouraged to become involved in the activities of these groups. It is a great way to make contacts, learn useful information about the Department and help shape your life and studies at CSM.

AEG is open to students in disciplines related to engineering geology, geological engineering, and hydrogeology. The purpose of the organization is to promote activities that expand the experience and knowledge of the student members in these disciplines. Monthly meetings, which feature speakers from industry and government, are held along with field trips and social events.

Any student studying the geological sciences is eligible for membership in SEG. Purposes of the Society are to encourage increased knowledge of geology and its application to mining and mineral deposits, to promote professionalism and provide opportunities to meet geological professionals in the mining industry. Activities include technical speakers, field trips, and social events.

The student chapter of AAPG is open to any student majoring in geology. The purpose of the chapter is to advance the science of geology, especially as it relates to petroleum and natural gas and to promote and maintain a high standard of professional conduct.

Activities include speakers and social events. AGS is open to graduate and undergraduate students interested in the enjoyment of geology and promotion of geologic education. Activities include field trips to mineral localities, historic mining districts, oil fields, museums, mineral shows, professional conventions, and presentations by invited speakers.

AIPG is open to all geology students. It is an umbrella organization encompassing all geology disciplines. It focuses on promotion of high standards of professional practice and communication of the importance of geology to society. Monthly meetings are held during the academic year and presentations focus on topical issues such as ethics, junk science, and responsibilities of a consultant.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION [Return to Index]

For Affirmative Action Policy, Unlawful Discrimination Policy and Complaint Procedure, Sexual Harassment Policy, Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedure, and Personal Relationships Policy, see Policies and Procedures Section in Bulletin.

EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS [Return to Index]

Graduate Student Offices

Graduate student office space is allotted each semester on a priority basis and coordinated by Marilyn Schwinger, Departmental Administrative Assistant. We attempt to ensure that every graduate student has office space but this is not always possible. Office space is always at a premium, so space will only be issued to students who plan to use their office on a regular basis. The order of priority is:

1. Teaching Assistants
2. Student Research Assistants
3. Ph.D. Candidates actively working on dissertation
4. M.Sc./M.Engr. Candidates

Graduate students may retain their office only during the period in which they hold a TA, RA or are actively engaged in writing their thesis. When no longer entitled to an office, students must vacate the space making it ready for the next occupant and notify Marilyn Schwinger that they have vacated. There will be a waiting list of names for office space that will be awarded when space becomes available. All names, including former TAs and RAs, will be in the drawing. People whose names were drawn will be given the available space.

Keys/Blaster Cards [Return to Index]

Mailboxes [Return to Index]

Each semester, every graduate student in the Department is assigned a mailbox located in Room 215 of Berthoud Hall. Graduate students are not to use the Department as their principal mailing address. The CSM mailroom will not deliver incoming or accept outgoing personal mail.

Computing Resources [Return to Index]

Departmental Computer Facilities

The student Computer Labs are located in Rooms 201 and 222. A network account agreement is required before you can obtain a valid user ID. Graduate students are welcome to use the lab any time. The graduate student key will unlock the door after hours, but the door should remain closed to prevent unauthorized use.

Room 222 is reserved exclusively for student use. Room 201 is a teaching and short course lab. Pre-approved scheduling controls use of room 201. When not in use for classes or short courses, it is available for student use. There are also training sessions in the lab presented by experts on specific software or hardware applications. We have many sophisticated geologic applications and special hardware items such as a digitizing tablet, a slide scanner, and a flat-bed scanner. In addition, all computers have CD-burners.

A few simple rules must be followed to ensure these resources will remain available.

1. Clean up after yourself. Do not abuse the Department's Computing Lab.
2. No food or drink allowed in lab.
3. You may bring children, but permission must be granted before they can use any computer.
4. Pets are not allowed in the lab or in Berthoud Hall.
5. Do not change any files or settings on the computers.
6. Do not add, move, or remove any hardware. Exercise extra care with network cables. They are fragile and you may cause the system to crash if tampered with or moved.
7. If you have problems with lab computers or your computer account, fill out a trouble ticket at http://www.mines.edu/helpdesk/ requesting assistance.
8. Computers and printers remain on at all times. DO NOT SHUT THEM OFF.
9. The Department has a policy in place for software compliance. Do not copy or install any software to or from workstations or the network. If specific software is required that we do not have, discuss implementation with the Department Staff. We must have original media and supporting documentation for all installed software.
10. Printing costs for the Department are high. Please print only what you absolutely need.

This computer network is a result of the Department’s commitment to the use of computer technology in the geosciences and is supported by Department money as well as your technology fee. Please treat the system accordingly and understand that most hardware replacements, repairs, and software upgrades are paid for directly by the Department. Money conserved on repairs and replacements can be applied toward new purchases, so it is in your best interest to take care of these computers as if they were your own.

Academic Computing & Networking

Academic Computing & Networking provides computing and networking infrastructure and resources for CSM. Staff members serve as a resource to students as they conduct their studies.

Most computer systems are connected to the campus network and have access to the Internet and campus library resources. Black and white and color printing is available as well as poster printing and transparencies; check with the Help Desk (156A) in the Computer Commons for current charges.

All students can establish an e-mail account, an account on the AC&N PC network, and can create personal web pages. Over 2,000 computer-based training courses are available. Virus protection and personal firewall software is available through the AC&N web page free of charge to registered students.

Office Personnel [Return to Index]

The office staff is here to help, so please feel free to stop by the main office if you need assistance. A brief description of their duties and some procedures are listed below.

Debbie Cockburn

1. Department accounting
2. Department Head's correspondence, telephone calls, appointments
3. Purchasing, contracts
4. Assists students, professors, other academic and support departments, and administration
5. Equipment check out (LCD projectors, laptops, and digital camera)
6. Student employment contracts
7. Department Newsletter

Marilyn Schwinger

1. Provides information about the Department and school via telephone, email, and public contact
2. Assist students, general public, professors, other academic and support departments, and administration
3. Handles all materials and items relating to students
   • drop/add forms
   • grade change forms
   • advisors
   • maintains student files
   • assigns office space
4. Processes thesis defense notices and forms
5. Assign rooms for thesis defense

Supplies/Copies [Return to Index]

1. TAs have use of supplies, such as transparencies, pens, pencils, etc., for use in classes they TA only. The Department does not supply any materials needed for personal use.
2. All class material needing to be reproduced is sent to an outside vender. Turn around time is usually one day. Please see office personnel for proper paperwork and times for submission of materials.
3. Office personnel will supply paper and printer cartridges for computer labs.

Travel Expense Support for Technical Presentation at Professional Meetings [Return to Index]

Depending on the availability of funds, the Department will help defray travel expenses for graduate students whose abstracts have been accepted for oral or poster session presentation at regional, national, or international meetings. The Department strongly encourages such professional activities. Written requests for such support, with supporting documentation, should be submitted to the Department Head as soon as the abstract has been accepted.

Use of Laboratories and Equipment [Return to Index]

Classrooms are equipped with computers and LCD projectors. If needed, the Department has laptop computers and LCD projectors that can be reserved through Debbie. If this equipment is unavailable from the Department, the Computing Center might be able to supply it. Slide projectors can be checked out from Main Office. Use of various laboratories is monitored by the faculty and/or staff member in charge of each facility. Access to, and use of, these facilities is granted by Department assistants upon written permission from the responsible faculty/staff member. Students must demonstrate their ability to operate specific laboratory equipment independently before receiving access to that laboratory. Any questions regarding use of any lab should be directed to the designated person listed below. Questions regarding use of any lab should be directed to the designated person listed below. For a listing of analytical equipment see appendix. Mandatory hazardous waste training conducted by the Environmental Health and Safety Office needs to be taken by all students.

John Skok checks out Brunton compasses. Bruntons and other types of surveying equipment can also be checked out from the Engineering Department. The Department has a limited number of hard hats that can be checked out along with safety vests and traffic cones. See Marilyn for this equipment.

Lab and Work Request Procedures

Thin Section Lab

John Skok operates the thin section lab in Room 147A of Berthoud Hall. John will cut, polish, and stain thin sections. Check with him if special processing of thin sections is needed. Thirty thin sections per thesis are available at no charge. A written request for additional thin sections will be considered by the thesis committee for a thesis that requires an unusually large amount of petrographic work. A signed form from the advisor will be required for processing more than 30 thin sections.

The following analytical preparation procedures can be accomplished in the Thin Section Lab (Room 147):

• Sample cutting
• Sample polishing
• Production of petrographic thin sections
• Production of polished thin sections
• Staining of thin sections
• Impregnation of thin sections
• Crushing and grinding of samples
• Sieving of samples
• Magnetic mineral separation

1. Meet with a thesis advisor to discuss an overall plan with respect to analytical procedures to be used for samples.
2. Fill out a “Thin Section Request Form” identifying the specific procedures to be followed, listing all samples by number, and have thesis advisor sign form. Form in Main Office.
3. Turn in samples and form to John Skok in room 147 and discuss with him specific procedures, timing, and costs.

• Secondary electron imaging
• Backscatter electron imaging
• Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (Qualitative) and Printing of X-ray spectra
• Image photography

1. Meet with thesis advisor to decide on specific goals to accomplish on the SEM and which samples to analyze.
2. Meet with John Skok (room 147) to discuss planned use of the SEM and to deliver samples for preparation. Meet with John Skok for initial training session on sample coating and use of SEM. Graduate students are allowed to use the SEM independently once they have received permission from John Skok.
3. Reserve time using the sign-up sheet posted on door of Room 405B.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS[Return to Index]

Introduction

Graduate students must meet a number of responsibilities and fulfill certain requirements during their degree program. This section presents these requirements, deadlines, and suggested guidelines for completing these responsibilities. A two-year Master’s program is possible, but only if these deadlines and guidelines are followed closely. The duration of Ph.D. programs is more variable. Examples of the forms referred to below are included in the Appendix.

Graduate Advisory Committee (GAC) [Return to Index]

The GAC consists of faculty members of the Department. The GAC selects new graduate students, approves leaves of absence, approves thesis committees, and assures that all students make reasonable progress and complete degrees in a timely manner. Policy changes affecting graduate programs are first considered by the GAC before submission to the Department faculty. The GAC makes minor policy decisions and establishes procedures for administering the graduate program.

Registration [Return to Index]

Registration requirements include the following:

1. Continuing students should preregister to insure that a class will have sufficient enrollment to be held. Without sufficient enrollment classes may be dropped – it is in your best interest to pre-register! The Department expects students to register before classes begin each semester. This permits the Department to make final decisions on classes and teaching assignments and permits you to begin classes in an orderly manner. Timely registration permits the school to acquire state funds that are reflected in financial aid to students and the Department. Students who have not registered before the School’s registration deadline, which is five working days after the beginning of each semester, will be assessed a $100 late fee.
   
2. Payment of tuition and fees.

Full-Time Student Hour Requirements [Return to Index]

To be deemed full-time during the fall and spring semesters, students must register for 9 or more hours of course and/or research credit. However, international students need only register for 6 credit hours per semester during their first year if they are required to take special language instruction or are accepted in Provisional Status. In the event a thesis-based student has completed his or her required course work and research credits (36 hours for master’s students and 72 hours for doctoral students) and is eligible for reduced, full-time registration, the student will be deemed full-time if he/she is registered for at least 4 hours of research credit.

Eligibiligy for Reduced Registration [Return to Index]

In order to be considered for the reduced, full-time registration category, students must satisfy the following requirements:

• For M.Sc./M.Engr students, completion of 36 hours of course and research credit hours combined;
  
• For Ph.D. students, completion of 72 hours of course and research credit hours combined;
  
• For all students, an approved Admission to Candidacy form must be on file in the Graduate Office within the first week of the semester in which you are applying for reduced registration;
  
• Candidates for thesis-based degrees may not use more than 12 credit hours per semester in determining eligibility for reduced, full-time registration.

Leave of Absence [Return to Index]

Leaves of absence will be granted only when unanticipated circumstances make it temporarily impossible for students to continue to work toward a degree. Any request for a leave of absence must have the prior approval of the student’s faculty advisor, Graduate Advisory Committee, the Department Head, and the Dean of Graduate Studies. The request for a leave of absence must be in writing and must include (1) the reasons why the student must interrupt his or her studies and (2) a plan (including a timeline and deadline) for resuming and completing the work toward the degree in a timely fashion. Thesis-based students may not do any work related to their thesis and may not discuss their thesis with their faculty advisor while on a leave of absence. Students who wish to return to graduate studies after an unauthorized leave of absence must apply for readmission and pay a $200 readmission fee.

Grade Point Average [Return to Index]

A cumulative GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 must be maintained. Failure to maintain a 3.0 GPA will result in academic probation. Students failing to attain a 3.0 GPA by the end of a semester during which they are on probation are subject to suspension. Credit will be given for a grade of “C”, however, a GPA of 3.0 or higher must be maintained. Graduate credit will not be given for courses in which grades less than “C” were received.

Transfer Credits [Return to Index]

Transfer credits from other universities or from non-degree programs at CSM must be approved by the student’s committee, GAC, and the Graduate Dean. Only courses in which a grade of “B” or better was received may be considered for transfer. These credits will not be used in calculation of a student’s GPA. A maximum of 9 hours, which were not counted toward any other awarded degree, can be transferred into a Master’s degree program. Twenty-four hours of course credit are automatically granted to Ph.D. students entering with a M.Sc. degree. No more than 9 hours taken as a CSM non-degree student can be transferred and no more than 3 of these units can be 400-level. The remainder must be graduate level.

Progress Grades [Return to Index]

A student may receive a grade of In Progress-Satisfactory or In Progress-Unsatisfactory (PRG or PRU) for a course or research hours extending more than one semester. An In Progress grade indicates that the work is not complete. Progress towards successful completion of a graduate degree shall be deemed unsatisfactory if any of the following conditions occur: failure to maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or greater or receipt of an In Progress-Unsatisfactory for research hours. Upon the second occurrence of an unsatisfactory progress indication, the Dean shall notify the student that he or she is subject to discretionary dismissal according to the “Unsatisfactory Academic Performance” section listed in the Bulletin.

Incomplete Grades [Return to Index]

If a graduate student fails to complete a course because of illness or other reasonable excuse, the student receives a grade of Incomplete. The grade INC indicates deficiency in quantity of work and is temporary. A graduate student must remove all Incomplete grades within the first four weeks of the first semester of attendance following that in which the grade was received. If not removed within the fours weeks, the Incomplete will become an F.

Graduate Seminar [Return to Index]

All graduate students are required to take GEOL 607 Graduate Seminar. GEOL 607 is designed as a catalyst for initiating and conducting research. It focuses on research design and effective communication of research results. Students should take GEOL 607 either during preparation of their thesis proposal, or in the early stages of their research. If a student undertakes both a Master’s degree and a Ph.D. at CSM, GEOL 607 is required only once.

Minor Fields [Return to Index]

A minor field of study is optional in a Master’s degree program. A minimum of 9 semester hours in a department other than Geology and Geological Engineering must be completed to satisfy the minor field. These credits may be taken at another school. The courses must be approved by the student’s committee, home Department Head, and a faculty representative of the minor area of study. If a minor is declared, a member of the minor department will serve on the committee.

All doctoral candidates in the Geology or Geological Engineering degree programs must take a minor program of study in addition to the major field of emphasis. This program of at least 12 semester hours is intended to provide breadth of knowledge in support of the student’s principal research interests. The minor course sequence must be approved by the student’s doctoral committee and Department Head. It should be well-organized and sufficient to define preparation in a supporting field. A member of the minor area of study will serve on the student’s committee.

Deficiencies [Return to Index]

Students with an insufficient background in a particular area of geology or related science will be notified at the time of acceptance. They will be required to take appropriate courses to satisfy these deficiencies as approved by their committee and maintain a B average in any deficiency course. No graduate credit will be received for these courses. Any student receiving a “D” in a deficiency course will be required to repeat the course. Deficiencies should be removed as soon as possible after enrollment. Deficiency courses may be taken at a school other than CSM if approved by the Graduate Advisory Committee.

Temporary Advisors [Return to Index]

Upon acceptance, students are assigned a temporary advisor by GAC. The role of the student’s temporary advisor is for guidance and advice. A research or thesis advisor should be chosen by each student through consultation with faculty in the student’s area of interest, and a thesis-based committee should be formed by the end of their second semester. Students should not feel obligated to select a thesis topic under their temporary advisor. For any change in advisor, a committee form must completed and processed (online, see appendix for sample).

Research/Thesis Committees [Return to Index]

Students pursuing degrees should choose a research or thesis advisor and thesis committee, by the end of their second semester by meeting with faculty members who are interested in appropriate research topics. All thesis-based students are required to have a thesis advisor and committee while non-thesis based students require a research advisor only. A research advisor/thesis advisor and committee form, available online (see appendix for sample), should be submitted to Marilyn Schwinger for transmittal to GAC. The form will then be submitted to the Graduate School after Department Head approval.

The purpose of a research advisor or thesis committee is to monitor progress of courses and research/thesis work; meetings between student and research advisor or thesis committee should be arranged as needed and should be no less than one per semester. It is most important that the student and research advisor or thesis committee stay closely in touch to prevent any miscommunication or misinterpretation of work to be done and progress to be made. It is up to the student to schedule all meetings. The research advisor or thesis committee will oversee the student’s entire graduate program including transfer of credits, elimination of deficiencies, course of study, and in the case of a thesis-based program, thesis proposal, thesis research, and thesis defense.

Thesis advisors have to be members of the Department. Full time, tenured, or tenure track faculty are preferred as advisors. Research professors may serve as a thesis advisor in some instances, though this requires approval of the GAC and the Department Head.

A minimum of three faculty members constitute a M.Sc. committee; two members should be from the home department, however, exceptions can be made with the approval of the GAC. The roles and involvement of adjunct and emeritus faculty are variable and, therefore, their membership on these committees must be approved by GAC on a case-by-case basis. Additional members, such as non-CSM personnel, may be included on the committee. Off-campus members have the option of voting or non-voting (ex officio) status. Voting members have all responsibilities of academic members, including advising on technical matters, reading and critiquing the dissertation, attending committee meetings, the qualifying examination, and the defense of dissertation. A brief resume for off-campus committee members who hold voting status on the committee is required and is attached to the initial thesis committee form. Faculty and others outside the Department may serve as co-advisors. In the use of a co-advisor, the required committee members are increased by one member.

For a Ph.D. dissertation committee, there must be a minimum of five members; three members from the home or allied departments, one member representing the minor field, and one member outside the home or allied department recommended by the student and advisor(s). The roles and involvement of adjunct and emeritus faculty are variable and, therefore, their membership on these committees must be approved by GAC on a case-by-case basis. Additional members, such as non-CSM personnel, may be included on the committee. Off-campus members have the option of voting or non-voting (ex officio) status. Voting members have all responsibilities of academic members, including advising on technical matters, reading and critiquing the dissertation, attending committee meetings, the qualifying examination, and the defense of dissertation. A brief resume for off-campus committee members who hold voting status on the committee is required and is attached to the initial thesis committee form. Faculty and others outside the Department may serve as co-advisors. In the use of a co-advisor, the required committee members are increased by one member.

The thesis committee request form must be filled out by the student (online, see appendix for sample), signed by the thesis or research advisor, initialed by each committee member, approved by GAC, and approved by the Department Head before submission to the graduate school. The Graduate School must approve all thesis committees. An approved copy of the form will be returned to the student. Once the committee is established, an initial meeting to approve the student’s proposal, deficiencies, and course program should be held.

Qualifying Examinations [Return to Index]

Ph.D. students must pass qualifying examinations by the end of the second year of their programs. This timing may be adjusted for part-time students. The examination will be administered by the student’s doctoral committee and will consist of an oral and a written examination administered in a format to be determined by the student’s doctoral committee. Two negative votes by the doctoral committee constitute failure of the examination.

In case of failure of the qualifying examination, a re-examination may be given upon the recommendation of the doctoral committee and approval of the Graduate Dean. Only one re-examination may be given.

Admission to Candidacy [Return to Index]

All degree (thesis or non-thesis) candidates must submit an application of Admission to Candidacy by completing all prerequisites and core curriculum course requirements. In the case of M.Sc. or Ph.D. students, they must have a thesis committee appointment form on file in the Graduate Office. Admission to Candidacy must be granted before the student is permitted to defend his/her M.Sc. or Ph.D. thesis.

This application (online, see sample in appendix) must be reviewed by the committee or non-thesis research advisor and should contain a complete list of courses (completed, in progress, and proposed) being used toward the degree. This includes minor courses, transfer courses, and 400 level courses (if applicable) along with 500/600 level courses used to satisfy requirements for the degree. The form is then submitted for Department Head approval. Upon approval, the form is submitted to the Graduate Dean for approval. Any changes in the course program listed on the Admission to Candidacy form must be approved by the thesis committee, or research advisor, and Graduate Dean. All M.Sc. students must be admitted to candidacy within the first calendar year after enrolling as a graduate student at CSM. Ph.D. students must be admitted to candidacy within the first two calendar years after enrollment.

Thesis and Dissertation Procedures [Return to Index]

Each candidate for the thesis-based M.Sc. or Ph.D. (Geology or Geological Engineering) degree will be required to write a thesis acceptable to the committee, Department, and the Graduate Dean. The thesis must show original research of excellent quality in a suitable technical field and must exhibit satisfactory literary merit. The subject of the thesis is selected by mutual agreement between the candidate and the advisor and/or co-advisor, if applicable. Any major change in the scope and trend of the research requires the approval of the thesis committee. It is the responsibility of the advisor or co-advisor to supervise the research and to consult with other members of the thesis committee on the progress of the work. During the final semester of the program, each candidate must pass an oral defense of thesis which may cover course work as well as the thesis. Format instructions are available in the Graduate Office and should be obtained before beginning to write the thesis.

Non-thesis degree students must have their research advisor submit a memo to Marilyn Schwinger indicating the student will be graduating. A Statement of Work Completion will be prepared for advisor’s signature. Memo must be submitted by Thesis Defense Request dates of October 24, 2008 and March 20, 2009.

Proposal [Return to Index]

A thesis or dissertation proposal is required of all candidates for the purpose of (1) defining the scope of the proposed research and (2) to permit the thesis committee to determine the suitability of the research for a graduate thesis. The proposal should be approved by the thesis committee prior to the start of significant work on the project.

The proposal should stress the original research involved and follow the general outline listed below:

1. Title
   
2. Objectives and purpose
   
3. Thesis area location
   
4. Scope of research
   
5. Previous research of record
   
6. Description of proposed research
   
7. Schedule for completion of proposed research
   
8. Budget and funding source
   
9. Course schedule (including deficiencies, qualifying exam courses, and completed courses)
   
10. Written release for public disclosure of results (when outside funding is involved).

An outline for the thesis proposal should first be submitted to the thesis advisor for approval prior to writing and formal submission of the proposal itself. The proposal should be written in a concise format. The thesis committee will review the proposal and may suggest changes. After committee approval, a copy must be placed in the student’s file.

Budget [Return to Index]

Thesis/dissertation research (travel, living expenses, analysis, thin sections, etc.) costs can be significant. It is the responsibility of the student to develop a budget and plan for financial support prior to committee approval of the proposal. Individual faculty members or the Department may, in some cases, be able to provide assistance in securing support.

Manuscript costs also can be significant for copying, photos, CDs, etc. Each student pays graduation fees according to degree type: $380 (M.Sc.-Thesis), $241 (M.Sc.-Non-Thesis), and $440 (Ph.D.) are required. There is also a $25 fee for an extra copy of thesis if a co-advisor wants a copy. The student is responsible for all binding fees for copies beyond the six required.

Proprietary Research [Return to Index]

Under special circumstances, the School may enter into an agreement with a sponsor to include proprietary research in a graduate student’s thesis or dissertation. The nature and extent of proprietary research reported in the thesis or dissertation must be agreed upon in writing by the sponsor, principal investigator, student, and Dean of Graduate Studies. The thesis defense will remain open to the public. Denial of public access to the written thesis will be limited to a maximum of twelve months from the date of submittal of the Statement of Work Completion form to the Dean of Graduate Studies.

Manuscript Preparation [Return to Index]

An “ideal” sequence for draft preparation and review is as follows. The student, in conjunction with the advisor, prepares an initial outline of the thesis. This outline is developed into a rough draft (including all figures, tables, and plates), which is submitted to the thesis advisor and/or co-advisor, if applicable, for the first review. After the first draft has been returned to the student, a second draft is prepared which incorporates the revisions, corrections, and suggestions made on the rough draft. Following approval of the second draft of the thesis by the advisor and/or co-advisor, if applicable, copies are submitted to other members of the committee for their approval. This second draft may be approved by the committee or an additional draft(s) may be required. Upon approval of a final draft, the student may schedule a defense. See Thesis and Dissertation Defense Deadlines. Further revisions may be required as a result of the defense, so final copies should not be prepared until after that time.

Thesis and Dissertation Defense [Return to Index]

The defense must be open to the public and must occur at least one week after public notification of the scheduled defense date. Following the satisfactory defense of the thesis, the student will complete any revisions specified by the thesis committee and, after approval by the advisor, submit it to the Department Head for signature on the signature page before submitting the final copy to the Graduate Office for format approval. The student will then submit six copies (seven if there is a co-advisor) of the printed thesis/dissertation to Margaret Katz, Collections Conservator at Arthur Lakes Library prior to deadline.

Two negative votes from the thesis committee constitute failure of the oral defense regardless of the number of committee members present at the defense. At the discretion of the thesis committee, a second oral defense of dissertation may be scheduled. A second failure to defend the dissertation satisfactorily constitutes automatic, irrevocable termination of the graduate program. In either case of pass or failure, members voting in the negative may file a report on why they voted to fail. In the case of failure, a written statement indicating the reasons for failure of the defense will be prepared by the chairperson of the oral examination and provided to the student, with copies to the thesis committee, the Department Head, and the Graduate School.

Graduation Deadlines [Return to Index]

Students must complete the following steps by the stated deadlines in order to defend their thesis and graduate at the end of a semester. The defense is scheduled via the Thesis Defense Request form (online, see sample in appendix) and signed by all committee members showing their approval to meet at the agreed upon time and date. Submit completed form to Marilyn Schwinger for room assignment of defense. She will send announcements of the defense to committee members, the student and post the notice on the lecture board. The Statement of Work Completion will be sent to the thesis advisor.

September 23, 2008 and February 11, 2009 - Admission to Candidacy and Graduation Application must be turned into the Graduate Office.

October 24, 2008 and March 2, 2009 - Thesis Defense Request form due to Marilyn Schwinger.

November 7, 2008 and March 27, 2009 - Last day to defend thesis.

November 10, 2008 and April 6, 2009 - Last day for format approval by Department Head (signature on title page). Checkout card, EHS form, and Department exit form must be completed.

November 14, 2008 and April 10, 2009 - Checkout card and Work Completion form must be turned into the Graduate Office.

Conversion from Masters to Doctoral Program (Geology) [Return to Index]

A student who has started a Masters program may request permission to convert to a doctoral program without obtaining the Masters degree, provided all requirements for the Masters degree, except the completion of the thesis, have been completed. (International students are advised to complete a Masters degree prior to applying for the Ph.D. program.) The procedure to be followed is outlined below:

• After completing the equivalent of at least one summer working on a Master’s research project, the student should confer with the thesis committee and obtain permission to initiate an application for conversion to the Ph.D. program. Approval by the committee at this time is only approval to initiate the application and does not constitute Departmental approval of the conversion.
  
• If the committee approves initiation, the student should then prepare a report, substantiated with appropriate illustrations, explaining the results of research accomplishment to that date.
  
• A separate written proposal defining the purpose and scope of the proposed doctoral program should be prepared and submitted together with the above report. This proposal should include a justification for the conversion of the initial master’s program to a doctoral program and specify the scope and nature of the proposed research for the doctoral dissertation (i.e., what has changed in the original research program to qualify for a dissertation?).
  
• The committee will then arrange a meeting time for presentation and defense of the proposal. The examining committee will consist of the student’s M.Sc. committee. Upon written committee approval of the proposal and the GAC, the student is admitted to a Ph.D. program.

Completion of M.Sc. Program and Admission to Ph.D. Program [Return to Index]

A student who completes a master’s degree program is not automatically allowed to continue in a doctoral program. A student wishing to continue for a Ph.D. may bypass the normal admission process by filing a letter with GAC at the beginning of the final M.Sc. semester requesting admission to a Ph.D. program accompanied by a letter from his/her M.Sc. advisor that also requests admission. GAC has decision authority. If a student is unsuccessful in this process, a formal application may be filed. If a student is admitted before all Master’s degree work is completed, all Master’s degree requirements must be satisfied by the end of the first semester after enrollment in the Ph.D. program.

GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS

Graduate degree programs offered by the Department are thesis-based Geology (M.Sc. and Ph.D.), Geological Engineering (M.Sc.), Geological Engineering (Ph.D.), Geochemistry (M.Sc. and Ph.D.), and non-thesis based Geological Engineering (Master of Engineering), Professional Masters (Mineral Exploration and Mining Geosciences, Petroleum Reservoir Systems and Geochemistry).

GEOLOGY AND GEOLOGICAL ENGINEERING

MASTER OF SCIENCE (Geology)

The Master of Science program in Geology will require 36 semester hours of course and research credit hours plus a thesis. Up to nine credit hours can be at the 400-level and the remainder will be 500- or 600-level. Twelve of the 36 credit hours must be research credits.

To ensure breadth of background, the course of study for the degree Master of Science (Geology) must include at least one semester of graduate work in each of the fields of stratigraphy and sedimentology, structural geology/tectonics, and petrology. At the discretion of the student’s thesis advisory committee, an appropriate course taken from a degree program other than Geology may be substituted for one (and only one) of the fields above. Satisfactory performance in these courses is defined as a grade of “B” or better. Evidence of a prior graduate-level course in these areas may be accepted by the thesis committee. Candidates must also complete GEOL 607 Graduate Seminar as part of their course program.

All candidates must also complete an appropriate thesis based upon original research they have conducted. A thesis proposal and course of study must be approved by a candidate’s thesis committee before the candidate begins substantial work on the thesis research.

MASTER OF SCIENCE (Geological Engineering)

The Master of Science program in Geological Engineering is comprised of a minimum of 36 semester hours of course and project/research credit hours plus a thesis. Up to nine credit hours may be at the 400-level and the remainder will be 500- or 600-level. Students may specialize in one of three areas under this degree. They are engineering geology/geotechnics, groundwater engineering, and mining geological engineering.

MASTER OF ENGINEERING (Geological Engineer)

The Master of Engineering Program (non-thesis) in Geological Engineering is comprised of 36 credit hours with 30 course credit hours and 6 credit hours of independent study (GEGN 599). Up to nine credit hours can be at the 400-level and the remainder will be 500- or 600-level. The typical program plan includes 15 course credit hours in both the fall and the spring terms followed by 6 independent study credit hours during the summer term. The non-thesis degree includes three areas of specialization: engineering geology/geotechnics, ground-water engineering, and mining geological engineering.

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (Geology)

The Doctor of Philosophy program in Geology will be established individually by a candidate’s doctoral thesis advisory committee, but must meet the minimum requirements presented below. The Doctor of Philosophy program is comprised of a minimum of 72 hours of course and research hours plus qualifying examinations and a dissertation. Up to nine credit hours can be at the 400-level and the remainder will be 500- or 600-level. All candidates must complete a minimum of 24 research credit hours and must complete a minimum of 48 course credit hours, including 12 hours in a minor field. Up to 24 course credit hours (including those for the minor field) may be awarded by the candidate’s doctoral thesis advisory committee for completion of a Master of Science degree (from CSM or elsewhere). The Doctor of Philosophy in Geology program must satisfy the breadth requirements required of Master of Science in Geology candidates (including GEOL 607) and must also include GEOL 511 (History of Geological Concepts).

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (Geological Engineering)

The Doctor of Philosophy program is comprised of a minimum of 72 hours of graduate course and research combined. Requirements include the same courses as for the Master of Science (Geological Engineering). Up to nine credit hours can be at the 400-level and the reminder will be 500- or 600-level. The student is admitted into a degree program and must obtain approval from their advisory committee in order to change degree programs. Although minimum credit requirements are specified for each degree, the total number of credits and the number of courses taken by an individual student is likely to exceed this minimum and is determined by the student’s advisory committee.

PROFESSIONAL MASTERS (Mineral Exploration and Mining Geosciences)

The Professional Masters program (non-thesis) in Mineral Exploration and Mining Geosciences is jointly administered by the Geology and Geological Engineering, Geochemistry, Geophysics, and Mining Departments. Students gain admission to the program by application to any of the sponsoring departments and acceptance through the normal procedures of that department. This program is comprised of a minimum of 36 credit hours. Up to nine credit hours can be at the 400-level and the remainder will be 500- or 600-level. The program plan includes a 15 credit hour program from the relevant departments. In addition, 15 credit hours must be selected by the student in consultation with their degree committee consisting of three faculty members from the respective programs that have admitted the student (GC, GE, GP, MN). Six credit hours may be independent study in the student’s home department.

PROFESSIONAL MASTERS (Petroleum Reservoir Systems)

The Professional Masters in Petroleum Reservoir Systems program (non-thesis) is jointly administered by the Departments of Geology and Geological Engineering, Geophysics, and Petroleum Engineering. This program consists only of coursework in petroleum geoscience and engineering. No research is required. The program is comprised of a minimum of 36 credit hours. Up to nine credit hours can be at the 400-level and the remainder will be 500- or 600-level. The typical program includes a core of nine hours. Nine additional hours must consist of one course each from the three participating departments. The remaining 18 hours may consist of graduate courses from any of the three participating departments or other courses approved by the committee. Up to six hours may consist of independent study, including an industry project.

GEOCHEMISTRY PROGRAM [Return to Index]

Program Description

The Geochemistry Program is an interdisciplinary graduate program administered by the departments of Geology and Geological Engineering and Chemistry and Geochemistry. The geochemistry faculty from each department are responsible for the operations of the program.

Program Requirements

The program of study is selected by the student in consultation with his or her advisory and thesis committee. Students entering with backgrounds in chemistry will take more coursework in geology to strengthen their backgrounds in this discipline; the converse is true for students with a background in geology. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the Geochemistry Program, students are not required to take a minor.

Requirements Common to M.Sc. and Ph.D. Degrees

A thesis is required for the M.Sc. and a dissertation for the Ph.D. The Geochemistry program comprises a core group of courses, required of all students unless individually exempted by the Committee of the Whole based on previous background. The courses are:

CHGC 503 Introduction to Geochemistry
CHGC 504 Methods in Geochemistry, and a one-hour laboratory course selected from several available
In addition, M.Sc. degree students must take two courses from the following list:
CHGN/GEGN 509 Introduction to Aqueous Geochemistry
CHGC 610 Nuclear and Isotopic Geochemistry
CHGN 503 Advanced Physical Geochemistry
GEOL 512 Mineral and Crystal Chemistry

The doctoral student’s dissertation committee approves the number of course and research credits required for graduation, as well as the specific courses beyond the above requirements. The Ph.D. in Geochemistry requires a minimum of 72 credit hours, of which at least 24 hours must be research credit. Up to 24 hours of course credit may be transferred from a previous graduate degree upon approval of the dissertation committee. Research credits may not be transferred.

Graduate students resident in the Department of Chemistry and Geochemistry or the Department of Geology and Geological Engineering shall adhere to the seminar rules and requirements of the department of residence.

Thesis Committees

All new thesis committees and committee member changes for both degrees shall be considered and approved by the Geochemistry Committee of the Whole and the head of the appropriate department. Consideration will be given to maintain balance and adequate representation on the committee. For students transferring into the geochemistry program from other Colorado School of Mines M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs, where a thesis committee has been previously assigned, the Geochemistry Committee of the Whole shall examine, and may reconstitute, the thesis committee, with final approval of the reconstituted committee by the department head. All course programs must be approved by the thesis committee.

Research Proposal

There shall be a formal written proposal for the thesis research. The proposal shall be presented to the thesis committee and orally defended by the student. The National Science Foundation proposal format is recommended, unless specified otherwise by the thesis committee.

Graduate Student Progress

The Geochemistry Committee of the Whole shall evaluate graduate student progress, including curriculum, at least annually.

Ph.D. Qualifying Examination

A qualifying examination must be taken. It is expected that this exam will be completed within 3 years of matriculation or after the bulk of course work is finished, whichever occurs later. This examination will be administered by the student’s doctoral committee and will consist of an oral and a written examination, administered in a format to be determined by the student’s doctoral committee. Two negative votes in the doctoral committee constitute failure of the examination.

In case of failure of the qualifying examination, a re-examination may be given upon the recommendation of the doctoral committee and approval of the Graduate Dean. Only one re-examination may be given.

Thesis

All candidates are encouraged to write the thesis in journal format with appropriate background and appendix material included, as specified by the thesis advisor and thesis committee. Format instructions are available in the Graduate Office and should be obtained before beginning to write the thesis.

PROFESSIONAL MASTERS (Environmental Geochemistry)

The Professional Masters in Environmental Geochemistry program is intended to provide: (1) an opportunity for CSM undergraduates to obtain, as part of a fifth year of study, a Masters in addition to the Bachelors degree; and (2) additional education for working professionals in the area of geochemistry as it applies to problems relating to the environment.

The program is a non-thesis masters degree program administered by the Geochemistry Program, and may be completed as a combined degree program by individuals already matriculated as undergraduate students at Colorado School of Mines, or by individuals already holding undergraduate or advanced degree(s) who are interested in a graduate program that does not have the traditional research requirement. The program consists primarily of coursework in Geochemistry and allied fields, with an emphasis on environmental applications. No research is required though the program does allow for independent study, professional development, internship and co-op experience.

A minimum of 36 credit hours are required, with an overall GPA of at least 3.0. The overall course requirements will depend on the background of the individual, and may be tailored to professional objectives.

HYDROLOGIC SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING [Return to Index]

The Hydrologic Science and Engineering (HSE) Program is an interdisciplinary graduate program comprised of faculty from the departments of Chemistry and Geochemistry, Engineering, Environmental Science and Engineering, Geology and Geological Engineering, Geophysical Engineering, Mining Engineering, and Petroleum Engineering. Currently, students will apply to the hydrology program through the Graduate School and be assigned to the HSE participating department of the student’s HSE advisor.

The program offers programs of study in fundamental hydrologic science and applied hydrology with engineering applications. Our program encompasses ground-water hydrogeology, surface-water hydrology, vadose-zone hydrology, watershed hydrology, contaminant transport and fate, contaminant remediation, hydrogeophysics, and water policy/law.

Degrees Offered

Master of Science (Hydrology), Thesis option
Master of Science (Hydrology), Non-thesis option
Doctor of Philosophy (Hydrology)

Program Requirements

M.S. Non-thesis Option: 36 total credit hours, consisting of coursework (30 hours), and Independent Study (6 hours) working on a research project with HSE faculty, including a written report.

M.S. Thesis Option: 30 total credit hours, consisting of coursework (24 hours), and research (6 hours). Students must also write and orally defend a research thesis.

PhD: 72 total credit hours, consisting of coursework (at least 15 hours), and research (at least 24 hours). Students must also successfully complete qualifying examinations, write and defend a dissertation proposal, write and defend a doctoral dissertation, and are expected to submit the dissertation work for publication in scholarly journals.