Graduate Programs

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.

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Defining Program Types

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

Doctorate (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)

Graduate Certificate

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.

Professional Master's (PM)

A Professional Master’s degree is a type of graduate degree focused on equipping students with practical skills and knowledge. Professional Master’s programs often prioritize course-based learning, applied projects and real-world case studies and are a great option for career advancement as it combines technical training with business and professional leadership skills.

Master of Engineering (M.Eng)

A Master of Engineering (M.Eng) degree emphasizes practical skills and prepares engineers for leadership roles and industry-specific management positions and is more practice-oriented vs. research or technical expertise. This degree type often consists of coursework designed for students who want to enhance their educational background but are not interested in advanced research.

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