Graduate Programs

East Carolina University offers robust master’s (M.S.) programs in earth sciences through its departments of Geography, Geological Sciences, and Planning & Development. In the Geography master’s program, students may specialize in environmental, human, atmospheric, or geospatial topics, and choose between thesis and non-thesis (internship) options; concentrations include a planning‐focused track and a Professional Science Master’s in GIS. (Geography) In Geology, the M.S. degree emphasizes coastal geology, environmental geology, hydrogeology, and solid Earth processes, leveraging ECU’s proximity to coastal systems and access to advanced instrumentation and field research platforms. (Geology MS Information) Meanwhile, the Planning & Development master’s (MSPD) is delivered fully online, designed for working professionals, and offers concentrations in coastal/environmental planning, urban/community planning, and rural/regional planning. (Planning and Development MS) Together, these programs provide interdisciplinary training in Earth system science, spatial techniques, and community planning, preparing graduates to engage with environmental challenges, land use issues, and sustainable development across multiple scales.