Graduate Programs

We offer graduate opportunities in Master’s (M.S.) and Doctoral (Ph.D.) degrees, as well as Certificate Programs in Earth & Environmental Sciences. There is no fee to submit an application to any of our graduate programs.

Most graduate students are supported through teaching assistantships or research assistantships funded by grants. Competitive fellowships with enhanced stipends are available for top Ph.D. candidates. We do not offer 1st year PhD students fellowships, but yearly offer a fellowship to our top post-quals student.

 

Graduate Program Application Deadlines

Master's Degrees and Certificate Programs:

  • Spring 2026 Admission: Priority consideration will be given to applications received by November 15, 2025.
  • Fall 2026 Admission: Priority consideration will be given to applications received by June 15, 2026.

Ph.D. Program Admission

  • Fall 2026 Admission: Final deadline for Ph.D. applications is January 15, 2026.

 

Application Review Criteria

We consider the following factors when reviewing applications:

  • Academic performance (GPAs from previous degree programs). Unofficial transcripts may be submitted initially, but official transcripts are required for admitted students.
  • Three letters of recommendation, ideally including at least one from a former professor.
  • Personal Statement addressing the following three prompts (each ~350 words):
    • What are your research goals, and which faculty member would you like to work with if admitted?
    • Describe a significant project you initiated and completed (e.g., class project, research, internship, or job). What did you learn and what skills did you gain?
    • Describe a major academic challenge you faced and how you overcame it. What did you learn and what skills did you gain?
  • Faculty mentorship: Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact potential research advisors prior to applying to explore available opportunities. Current research projects are listed [here].
  • TOEFL score (if applicable), with a minimum score of 90.
    • TOEFL Institution Code: 6173
  • GRE scores are not required and are not considered in our admissions process.

For more information about our programs, please visit our sse.tulane.edu/eens or contact the Graduate Committee Chair, Dr. Torbjörn Törnqvist.