Whether in the life sciences or physical sciences, San Diego County's landscape provides for an abundance of local research environments, including mountains, deserts, coastal, offshore and island environments. In some instances, research may focus on more distant areas, including opportunities abroad.
Each year, MS EOS students present an update on the results of their research during the previous year at the Graduate Colloquium. Feedback is provided to each student by their committee chair or thesis advisor.
Opportunities
Research experience can play a big role in a student's acceptance to a PhD program as well as future employment opportunities. At USD, students will have access to the hands-on experience of a research institution, coupled with the close faculty mentorship that is indicative of a liberal arts community. Coursework and research are combined, culminating in a written thesis. USD faculty are currently involved in a variety of research topics, including marine geochemistry, climatology, paleoclimatology, hydrology, oceanography, marine biology, locomotion and fluid dynamics, physiology, ecology and population genetics.
For ideas on possible research, see the areas that our past students have chosen to study.
- Completed Theses
- Student Publications
Starting research
Choose a research advisor
All MS EOS applicants must have a provisional advisor (who will likely become the chair of the student's thesis committee).
Meet with your Thesis Chair
During the student's first year, it is important to meet with your Thesis Chair on a regular basis to develop your research project. At least once every two weeks is strongly encouraged.
Once you've identified a focused research question and started to conduct work, there is an expectation of independence and responsibility. You should carry out your own studies and think critically about the results as you progress. Initiative and self-reliance are critical.