Graduate Studies in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (formerly Geological Science)  involve academic coursework and independent research. Students are prepared for careers as professional scientists in research, education, or the application of the Earth and planetary sciences to mineral, energy, water, and space resources. Course programs in the areas of faculty interest are tailored to the student’s needs and interests with the aid of their research advisor. Students are encouraged to include in their program courses offered in other departments at the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability and other departments in the university.

PhD students are encouraged to broaden and deepen their knowledge by taking formal coursework in earth sciences, chemistry, physics, mathematics, biology, and engineering. Students must consult with their research advisor(s) regarding course selection. Some specific programs in EPS have additional course and examination requirements that must be fulfilled before advancing to PhD candidacy. Students should consult with their advisor(s) about possible requirements in addition to the general EPS requirements.

Admissions Information

The following items must be received in the electronic application:

  • Online application (the online application opens in mid-September for the following next year’s autumn next start)

  • Application fee    

  • Statement of purpose

  • Supplemental questions (Answered in the online application)

  • Three letters of recommendation

  • Scanned copy of official transcript(s)

  • TOEFL, if applicable

In keeping with university policy, applicants whose first language is not English must submit TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores from a test taken within the last 18 months. Individuals who have completed a BS or two-year MS program in the U.S. or other English-speaking countries are not required to submit TOEFL scores. Previously admitted students who wish to change their degree objective from MS to PhD must petition the GS Admissions Committee.

If you have additional questions, contact eps-admissions@stanford.edu. More university information and application system questions can be found on Stanford’s Graduate Admissions website and the online application.