Academic Programs

PhD | MS – Thesis | MS Non – Thesis | Certificate

Request Information
View Programs
Apply Now

World-Class STEM Education.

Graduate level education with formats that fit, explore STEM programs in-person and online. If you are ready to continue your education, enhance your research experience and connect with world-class faculty and industry experts, Colorado School of Mines graduate programs will help you achieve your academic and professional goals. You’ll be inspired to further enhance your skills as an innovator, expert and entrepreneur, and to address the greatest challenges that face our planet and beyond.

Defining Program Types

Understand the difference in program types to find which is right for you.

PhD

Doctor of Philosophy

A PhD program is often the result of lifelong learning and the pursuit of the pinnacle of the academic experience. The PhD or ‘Doctor of Philosophy’ is the highest level of academic qualification one can achieve. Through multi-semester data and research, students will publish a final thesis of their work and findings. Mines is the only institution in the world that offers doctoral programs in all five of the major earth science disciplines.

MS - Thesis (MS-T)

Master of Science

Thesis programs will involve multiple semesters of focus on data collection and a strong dedication to research. Upon completion, most students will submit a final paper with all findings to be published. This is typically the route that students will take when they are preparing for a PhD program.

MS Non-Thesis (MS-NT)

Master of Science

Non-thesis programs generally require a submission of a final project or capstone. Even though research will not be the primary focus of a non-thesis program, it is important to note almost all MS programs will have a research component but will rarely have an expectation of papers being published. This is a common degree program for working professionals who may not have the capacity to dedicate time to multi-semester research.

Certificate

GradCert

A graduate-level certificate will utilize advanced, high-level courses without awarding a full degree. Often, certificates are a shorter time commitment with less cost. Earning this credential allows students to acquire specialized knowledge to help advance career goals, prepare for a graduate degree, meet licensing requirements and more. Certificates can be achieved along the way of pursuing a higher degree or independently on their own.

Get Connected.

You don’t have to decide right now, get connected with more information.

Get Connected

You Are Ready.

APPLY NOW
FINISH YOUR APPLICATION

Contact Us

Starzer Welcome Center
1812 Illinois Street
Golden, CO 80401

(303) 273-3247
grad-admissions@mines.edu

 

Graduate Academic Programs 

Click on the program name for specific information, including admissions requirements.

Nana Asmah “I came to Mines because of the supportive facilities and learning environment, and because graduates are in high demand by companies.”

Nana Asmah
Natural Resources and Energy Policy Master’s Student

Michael Knight“I chose Mines because of all the exciting research in renewable materials and its connection to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.”

Michael Knight
Materials Science, PhD Candidate

Madison Berry “One of the things I most enjoy at Mines is the large focus on preparing you for the workforce.”

Madison Berry
Mechanical Engineering Student

More About Mines.

student wearing a colorado school of mines blue shirt. at the kitchen island on her ipad computer with a notebook. coffee maker in background.

MINES ONLINE

Flexibility in formats that fit your life. 

image of mines research magazine 2024 with a stack of the previous 4 magazines underneath. links to mines magazine online.

MINES RESEARCH MAGAZINE

Innovation with impact.

aerial view of center of campus with mountains in background. blue sky and clouds.

GET TO KNOW MINES

From tours and events, to meet ups in your area.