Geological Engineering is a rapidly growing field of study that integrates two disciplines-geology and engineering. Geological engineers help find the best ways to use the Earth's resources for solving technical problems while protecting the environment. The need for geological engineering graduate education has been brought about by modern developments in science and industry which have an impact on earth materials including soil, rock and water. The area of study combines research and application methodologies of geology and several engineering disciplines to address engineering problems in which the geologic nature of a site or geologic process constitute major design objectives or constraints.

Working in teams and using appropriate tools helps tackle the most complex geological engineering problems. (large image)

The emphasis of the Graduate Geological Engineering Program at the University of Wisconsin is on development of a student's ability to originate and perform analytical, numerical and/or laboratory and field analysis techniques to address new and challenging earth-related problems associated with modern land-use practices, earthen construction, mineral extraction and environmental pollution control and remediation. The Program is interdisciplinary and draws on faculty and courses from several departments including Materials Science and Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nuclear Engineering and Engineering Physics, and Geology and Geophysics. The Program appeals to a wide audience of students with varied backgrounds and with different areas of intended emphasis. Students typically have backgrounds in engineering (especially mining, civil, environmental, and mechanics), or physical sciences (especially geology, geophysics , and geography). Degree criteria are flexible so that a student's program of study and research can be tailored to suit their individual needs. Typical programs of study and research include topics in geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineering, hydrology and hydrogeology, numerical and analytical modeling of rock masses, remote sensing, rock mechanics and rock engineering.

Research assistantships, teaching assistantships and fellowships are available to qualified applicants either immediately or one or two semesters after entering the program.