as a graduate student in the m.s. program in geosciences at western michigan university, you will gain a broad perspective on earth processes as well as a specialization in a specific discipline within the geosciences. through coursework and research, you will choose to specialize in one or more areas such as geochemistry, geophysics, geomorphology, hydrogeology, petrology, remote sensing, sedimentary systems, earth science education or economic geology. your coursework will provide you with foundational theoretical knowledge, as well as the ability to carry out relevant field and laboratory techniques. during your thesis research, you will learn how to design an investigation, collect and analyze your own data, form interpretations and share your results with peers, faculty and members of the geoscience community. the program provides the specialized knowledge, critical thinking and communication skills necessary to succeed in a wide range of careers. graduates of this program have attained positions in state and federal government agencies, non-profit agencies, environmental and geotechnical consulting firms, the oil and gas industry, the mining industry and the education sector. many graduates have pursued a doctoral degree upon completing this program.