Master of Science in Earth Sciences

Master’s degree

ID:

0726_100_N101

The Master of Science in Earth Sciences focuses on independent research under expert supervision. Students produce a thesis addressing complex geological or environmental challenges, enhancing their analytical skills and preparing for project management roles or pursuits in research and development.

Contact information

Ms Gillian Strydom

Departmental administrator

[email protected]

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Programme overview

Duration

Two years

Campus

Stellenbosch

Type

Full thesis

More information

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When applying

When applying for a postgraduate programme, some may require you to upload additional supporting documents beyond completing the standard application form online. Where such documents are required, more information will appear under the section below titled “Supporting Application Documents.”

Please note that selection for postgraduate programmes is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Research Master’s and PhD applicants are strongly advised to consult the relevant department before applying to discuss their proposed research topic and confirm the availability of a suitable supervisor.

Minimum admission requirements

• A BScHons degree in Geology or an approved equivalent qualification.
• Supplementary studies may be required from you before beginning research.

Supporting application documents

Confirmation of prospective supervisor
Applicants must make contact with a prospective academic supervisor who is active in their field of research interest. Please provide details of a prospective supervisor and evidence, in a form of an email, of contact with this supervisor. Upload the email evidence (in a .msg format or as a pdf) as part of your formal application to the University.

Document placeholder name on application portal:
Confirmation of prospective supervisor

Statement of research interest / Outline
This is a brief summary of the master's research proposal (1-3 pages in length) which outlines your area of research, aims of the research project and the research methodology you plan to use.

Document placeholder name on application portal:
Research project / Outline / Proposal

Programme structure

Compulsory Module
Subject number | Module code | Credits | Module Name | Semester

14314 828 180 Thesis Earth Sciences Both

Assessment and Examination
After completion of the research, you must submit a thesis for examination to the satisfaction of the examiners and do an oral examination.

Last updated 01 April 2026

Disclaimer:
The University reserves the right to amend the information on this webpage at any time. While every effort is made to ensure that the information provided is accurate and complete, it may be subject to change or become outdated. It remains the responsibility of prospective students to verify all details against the relevant faculty yearbook or directly with the relevant department.