Master in Geological Engineering

The application deadline for the Aug 2027 intake is Mar 1, 2027. Tuition fees are 23,000 USD per year.

The Master in Geological Engineering at University of Alaska Fairbanks is a master's degree for students who want to work on geological engineering problems in the Arctic. This 1-2 year program helps students develop skills to solve real-world problems in a unique natural classroom.

The curriculum focuses on field-based research, including mapping landslides and conducting rockfall analyses. Students learn to produce landslide inventory maps and work on hazardous slopes adjacent to major highways. They gain hands-on experience with LiDAR coverage and other technologies.

Graduates can pursue careers as Geological Engineers, Geotechnical Engineers, Environmental Consultants, Mining Engineers, or Petroleum Engineers. They can work in industries such as construction, mining, or environmental consulting, and be employed by companies like the US Geological Survey, the Alaska Department of Transportation, or private engineering firms.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is a research-focused public university known for strengths in Arctic studies, environmental science, engineering and natural resources. Founded in 1917 and located in Fairbanks, UAF combines rigorous academics with hands-on learning, making it a strong choice for students who want immersive research experiences and fieldwork opportunities. The campus community supports interdisciplinary study and encourages students to contribute to real-world solutions for northern and global challenges.

UAF offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and emphasizes applied research tied to regional needs, including climate science, renewable energy and indigenous studies. International students benefit from a close-knit campus environment, laboratory and field research opportunities, and access to specialized centers that focus on northern systems. Collaboration with faculty on funded projects is common, providing pathways to professional development, publications and practical skills valued by employers and graduate programs.

Living in Fairbanks gives students access to unique cultural and outdoor experiences, from aurora viewing to wilderness research sites, while local services support international student integration. Prospective international applicants should review program prerequisites, research opportunities and funding options, and connect with advisors in their department. UAF's emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement makes it a compelling option for students drawn to environmental research, engineering challenges and Arctic-focused scholarship.