Geology Graduate Schools: How to Choose?

I'm a junior in high school, but I'm really passionate about geology and want to pursue it in grad school eventually. How can I start narrowing down which graduate schools have the best geology programs? What factors should I be considering?

It's great to see that you already have a clear passion for geology and are thinking ahead to graduate school! Here are some steps and factors to consider when narrowing down geology graduate programs:

1. Rankings: Begin by researching geology program rankings from reputable sources to build a list of highly regarded schools. This will give you an initial idea of which schools are well-known for their geology programs.

2. Faculty Research Interests: Explore the research interests of faculty members at various graduate programs. Identify the schools with faculty members whose research aligns with your areas of interest within geology. Engaging with professors who share your passion can greatly enhance your graduate experience and open up research opportunities.

3. Research Facilities and Funding: Investigate the research facilities and resources available at the graduate schools you're considering. Well-equipped facilities, access to funding, and ample resources can significantly impact your research opportunities and overall experience in the program.

4. Location: Geology programs often require fieldwork as part of research or coursework. Look for graduate programs in locations with diverse and accessible geological features. The location may provide unique opportunities for field experiences and can also affect your quality of life during your time in the program.

5. Alumni Success and Network: Research the career outcomes of alumni who have completed the geology programs you're considering. A strong alumni network can provide valuable connections for your future career and give you insights into the career paths pursued by graduates.

6. Financial Support: Consider the financial support options available at each school. Funding opportunities, such as fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships, can help you cover the costs of graduate study and may impact your decision.

7. Program Size and Atmosphere: The size of a program can influence your graduate school experience. Smaller programs may offer more individualized attention from faculty, while larger programs might provide more opportunities to collaborate with a diverse group of peers. Consider the atmosphere and culture of each program to determine the environment in which you'd thrive best.

At this stage, focus on excelling in your undergraduate studies, and try to gain research experience and fieldwork opportunities in geology. As you progress through your undergraduate studies, it will become clearer what you're looking for in a graduate program, and you can further refine your list accordingly. Remember that you should also consider the strength and related opportunities of a school's undergraduate geology program when applying for your upcoming college education.