eos graduate handbook
TRANSCRIPT
EOS Graduate
Handbook
A comprehensive guide to the policies and
procedures of graduate programs in the Department
of Earth and Ocean Sciences
Fall 2019 – Spring 2020
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................... 3 A. Graduate Coordinator ................................................................................................................... 3
ii. EOS GRADUATE PROGRAMS AND ACADEMIC REGULATIONS .............................................. 4 A. Master of Science in Geoscience .................................................................................................... 4 B. Geographic Information Science Certificate ................................................................................ 5 C. Course Offerings ............................................................................................................................. 5 D. Transfer of Credit from another Institution ................................................................................ 5 E. Adding, Dropping and Withdrawing from Courses .................................................................... 5 F. Grading and Retention ................................................................................................................... 6 G. Provisional Status and Academic Deficiencies ............................................................................. 6
III. M.S. GEOSCIENCE PROCEDURES ..................................................................................................... 7 A. Fall Kickoff Meeting....................................................................................................................... 7 B. Program Timeline and Student Information Sheet ..................................................................... 7 C. Graduate Advisor ........................................................................................................................... 9 D. Graduate Degree Plan .................................................................................................................... 9 E. Procedures for the Thesis Option ................................................................................................ 10
a. Thesis Committee and Prospectus ................................................................................ 10 b. Oral Comprehensive Exam ........................................................................................... 12 c. Thesis Credits ................................................................................................................. 12 d. Conducting Thesis Research ......................................................................................... 13 e. Oral Defense of Thesis and Submission to the Graduate School ............................... 14
F. Procedures for the Portfolio Option ........................................................................................... 15 a. Portfolio Components and Committee Composition .................................................. 16 b. Written Comprehensive Examination .......................................................................... 16 c. Practicum (GEO 597) and Internship (GEO 598) ....................................................... 17 d. Final Report and Public Presentation of Internship or Practicum............................ 18 e. The Portfolio Defense..................................................................................................... 19
H. Switching between M.S. Geoscience Concentrations & Options .............................................. 21 I. Application for Graduation ......................................................................................................... 21
IV. CERTIFICATE IN GISCIENCE PROCEDURES .............................................................................. 22 A. Core and Elective Courses ........................................................................................................... 22 B. Other Courses ............................................................................................................................... 22
V. FINANCIAL INFORMATION ............................................................................................................. 23 A. Teaching Assistantships ............................................................................................................... 23
a. Teaching Assistantship Contract .................................................................................. 24 b. Suggestions for New Teaching Assistants .................................................................... 24
B. Tuition Remissions (out-of-state), Loans, etc. ............................................................................ 25 C. Federal Loans for GIS Certificate Students ............................................................................... 26 D. North Carolina Residency ........................................................................................................... 26 E. Financial Aid Information for Graduate Students .................................................................... 28 F. Research Assistantships and Fellowships ................................................................................... 29 G. Graduate School Support of Student Travel .............................................................................. 29 H. Graduate Student Association Support of Student Travel ....................................................... 30 I. Research Grants and Fellowships ............................................................................................... 30
VI. EOS DEPARTMENTAL PROCEDURES............................................................................................ 32 A. Official Communication ............................................................................................................... 32 B. Telephone Service ......................................................................................................................... 32 C. Office Space................................................................................................................................... 32
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D. UNCW ID Card and Mail ............................................................................................................ 32 E. Departmental Keys ....................................................................................................................... 33 F. Security and Safety ....................................................................................................................... 33 G. Clerical Support and Records ..................................................................................................... 33 H. Use of Departmental Equipment ................................................................................................. 33 I. Departmental Seminars ............................................................................................................... 34 J. CMS Boat Use ............................................................................................................................... 34 K. Rock Preparation and Thin Section Laboratory ....................................................................... 34 L. Computer Laboratories ............................................................................................................... 35
VII. OTHER UNCW INFORMATION ........................................................................................................ 36 A. University Parking........................................................................................................................ 36 B. William Madison Randall Library ............................................................................................. 36 C. Insurance ....................................................................................................................................... 37
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I. INTRODUCTION
The Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences offers two graduate programs: 1) Masters of
Science (M.S.) in Geoscience and 2) Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Geographic
Information Science (GIS). The general focus of the M.S. program is the development of
professionals capable of conducting research in geoscience through a broadly based study of
modern Earth and ocean processes and their ancient analogs. See the program website for
more information, forms, this handbook, and many other useful pieces of information:
http://www.uncw.edu/msgeoscience/index.html. The GIS Certificate program is18 credits
where 9 are core geospatial credits and 9 are elective credits from a variety of disciplines that
utilize geospatial technology. The GIS Certificate can be completed in 1 year and can be
pursued simultaneously with another graduate program. Details are here:
http://uncw.edu/earsci/gradgiscertificate.html
This handbook is a guide for your graduate career in the Department of Earth and Ocean
Sciences (EOS) by providing guidelines for the procedures that are necessary for efficient
completion of the programs.
A. Graduate Coordinator
The department Graduate Coordinator oversees the operations of the M.S. Geoscience and
GIS Certificate graduate programs. The coordinator is the link between the Department and
the Graduate School and therefore should be informed of all changes or problems during your
graduate student career. The Graduate Coordinator maintains a digital record for each student
and the EOS department office maintains a hard copy record for each student in the graduate
programs.
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ii. EOS GRADUATE PROGRAMS AND ACADEMIC REGULATIONS
Official Graduate School regulations and procedures are in the UNCW Graduate Catalogue
(http://catalogue.uncw.edu/index.php). All students must regularly refer to the UNCW
catalog for degree requirements. The catalog is the rulebook so pay close attention to the
details. The degree audit, available via SeaNet, records progress toward completing the
degree and is based on the year that a student starts the program. Each year the catalog may
change, so it is important that the student understands the requirements for the catalog year
when they started at UNCW.
A. Master of Science in Geoscience
Goals of the M.S. program are to provide advanced research and educational opportunities in
the geosciences and to prepare geoscientists for solving contemporary problems in Earth,
ocean and environmental science. Specific objectives are: 1) research competence in
geoscience; 2) professional competence in the assessment of water, energy and Earth
resources through the integrated analysis of geological and geographical data using advanced
technologies; 3) research competence in geoscience that encourages continued effort towards
the doctoral degree; and, 4) to provide the scientific community with meaningful geologic,
geographic, geospatial, and oceanographic data.
The M.S. Geoscience program includes three (3) concentration areas in Geology, Geospatial
Science, and Earth Processes and Global Change. The Geology and Geospatial Science
concentrations offer both a thesis and portfolio option, while the Earth Processes and Global
Change concentration has only the thesis option. These concentrations provide a foundation
for employment in the geological, geospatial technology, and environmental fields, mineral
and energy industries, and government agencies. Students, in consultation with the Graduate
Coordinator and their advisor, will select the appropriate concentration and option based on
their needs and interests. In addition, the thesis option prepares students for advanced study
leading to the doctoral degree.
Students in the M.S. Geoscience program will acquire an in-depth knowledge of a chosen
specialty, knowledge of available resource materials, writing skills, and problem-solving
skills. In addition to these basics, students continuing to a Ph.D. program will benefit from a
greater depth of knowledge of areas related to their specialty. The program requirements
outlined in the following sections provide insights into procedures, expectations, and
regulations. Our program provides for construction of a degree plan that meets common basic
needs of all masters-level graduate students.
All M.S. Geoscience students must complete Research Methods in Geoscience (GEO 501)
and Technical Communication in Geoscience (GEO 502). The thesis option requires
successful completion of 30 hours and a thesis. The portfolio option requires 30 credit hours
and completion of either a practicum (GEO 597) or an internship (GEO 598), which are part
of the portfolio. You may elect to do both a practicum and an internship, but only one of these
will count towards completion of the portfolio. Thesis students are encouraged to pursue an
internship for course credit. The benefit of the M.S. Geoscience program is that students have
the flexibility to design the program that best suits their career goals. Students should refer to
the catalog often to make sure they are fulfilling the degree requirements.
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B. Geographic Information Science Certificate
Geographic Information Science (GISci or GIScience) is the academic theory behind the
development, use, and application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing
(terrestrial, airborne and satellite), data visualization, Global Positioning Systems, spatial
analysis, and quantitative methods. The purpose for the graduate certificate in GIScience is to
provide students with a solid foundation in GIScience and enable the students to explore
application areas that utilize this technology. The curriculum is two parts: 1) core courses that
teach the fundamental theory and application of geospatial technology and 2) electives that
cover the vast range of this burgeoning technology in disciplines such as computer
programming, field methods including GPS technology and spatial analysis, environmental
and ecological applications, geological applications in oceanography, coastal and upland
environments, and quantitative analysis and database management.
The graduate certificate in GIScience is intended to provide a mixture of theory and practical
knowledge. The GIS certificate is designed to serve: 1) students who wish to acquire technical
expertise to support knowledge gained in other graduate programs and 2) returning students
who wish to acquire expertise to further their current and/or future job requirements. At the
end of the program, students will employ a balanced combination of theory of spatial concepts
and practical application of GIScience techniques to spatial problems in their own field of
study.
For specific program requirements, please see the graduate catalogue: http://catalogue.uncw.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=31&poid=4641&returnto=2976
C. Course Offerings
All geoscience graduate courses are designated by the prefix GEO, GLY or GGY and are
numbered at the 500 level. See the online catalogue (http://catalogue.uncw.edu/index.php) for
a complete description of all courses.
D. Transfer of Credit from another Institution
A maximum of 12 semester hours of graduate credit may be transferred from another
accredited institution. Grades earned on transferred work must be equivalent to a B or better.
Additional information about the transfer credit process is available online:
http://www.uncw.edu/gradschool/currentstudents/transfercredit.html
The student must complete the transfer credit form and send it to the Graduate Coordinator for
signature. Official transcripts are required so the student must request these from the
institution which are then sent to the UNCW Graduate School where the transfer credit will be
processed.
E. Adding, Dropping and Withdrawing from Courses
The Calendar of Events listed in the UNCW Graduate Catalogue and the Schedule of Classes
for each semester specifies the time periods allotted for adding, dropping or general
registration of individual classes. See the calendar on the Registrar’s website:
http://www.uncw.edu/reg/calendars-events.htm
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Please note that every course for which a graduate student is enrolled must be completed or
officially dropped.
F. Grading and Retention
UNCW uses grades from A through C and F as well as Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (for thesis
coursework), Pass/Fail, Incomplete, and Withdraw. Please see the catalogue for a detailed
description:
http://catalogue.uncw.edu/content.php?catoid=31&navoid=2839#Graduate_Grading
Consistent with university policy, three grades of C, one grade of F, or one grade of U (e.g.
thesis/dissertation) results in dismissal from any graduate program. Further, if a student falls
below a 3.0 GPA at any time, he or she goes on academic probation and has either three
subsequent courses or 8 hours to bring the GPA up to at least a 3.0. In addition, a student must
have at least a 3.0 GPA in order to begin any program specific comprehensive examination
and/or thesis work. See the catalogue for details:
http://catalogue.uncw.edu/content.php?catoid=40&navoid=5219#Retention_Policy
Graduate students in good standing (maintaining satisfactory grades and making substantial
progress toward the completion of their degree), and are continuously enrolled, have a
maximum degree period of five (5) years from the date of their first registration for graduate
study at UNCW. When extenuating circumstances warrant, an extension of time limit for
completing a graduate program may be granted to a student upon his or her petition to the
Dean of the Graduate School. Here is the form to request an extension:
http://www.uncw.edu/gradschool/currentstudents/forms.html
G. Provisional Status and Academic Deficiencies
When a student has been accepted to the M.S. in Geoscience or GIS Certificate program, the
Graduate Coordinator will inform them by email if they have been accepted to the program
with provisional status. Provisional Status is a UNCW requirement if an incoming student
had an overall undergraduate GPA that was less than 3.0. The student will receive
information regarding how to remove the provisional status, and customarily if the student
receives grades of B or better in the first 8 credits hours then the status will be removed from
the student’s record. No student with provisional status is eligible for a Teaching
Assistantship.
When a student begins the program, the advisor will evaluate the student’s undergraduate
program and may require that deficiencies be remedied. In some cases, a deficiency may be
satisfied by taking one or more undergraduate courses. In such cases, no graduate credit will
be given for courses taken at the undergraduate level. Normally, a minimum grade of B must
be achieved. If deficiencies are determined that can be accomplished by taking graduate
courses in other departments, the student’s advisor will determine how these hours will or will
not be incorporated into your academic record. Regardless, all requirements for the program
must be attained in order to graduate.
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III. M.S. GEOSCIENCE PROCEDURES
The M.S. Geoscience program consists of several components: 1) course work, 2)
comprehensive exam, 3) research, practicum, or internship, 4) presentation, 5) thesis or
portfolio.
A student shall advance to candidacy for the master's degree upon successful completion of
all deficiencies, the thesis prospectus or detailed practicum or internship proposal, the
comprehensive (oral or written) examination and all course work excluding thesis hours
(GEO 599), internship (GEO 598), or practicum (GEO 597) hours.
Students will have an advisor and committee to help guide them through the process. Below
are details to describe each of the program components.
A. Fall Kickoff Meeting
Students are required to attend the annual Fall Kickoff Meeting. This is a required part of the
M.S. Geoscience program and can only be missed with an approved absence from the
student’s advisor. Missing this meeting without approval will jeopardize standing in the
program. Usually the meetings is scheduled on the same day as convocation (mid-August)
which is normally the Monday before classes start. Please see the university calendar
(http://www.uncw.edu/reg/calendars-events.html). Early in the summer, the Graduate
Coordinator will send an email to all M.S. Geoscience students informing you of the date and
time for the meeting as well as other information. Items on the agenda for the meeting include
introduction of new students, program information, important dates, and faculty introductions.
Additionally, those students who are Teaching Assistants will also meet with the lab
coordinators.
B. Program Timeline and Student Information Sheet
The M.S. Geoscience program is designed to be completed in 2 years. However, the average
time to degree completion is 2.5 years. Normally, graduate students enroll for 8 or 9 credit
hours of course work during each of the first two semesters. Thesis, practicum, or internship
credit is normally taken in the third or fourth semesters. The comprehensive oral examination
(thesis option) or written examination (portfolio option) are conducted after all course work is
completed. Although research begins at the onset of your program, plan on utilizing at least
one full semester for completing the thesis, practicum, or internship. The thesis or portfolio
defense is normally scheduled for the latter part of the fourth semester. A degree program
checklist is available on the departmental webpage.
Below are milestones and activities to help guide students through the 2 years (4 semesters
and 1 summer):
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Fall Year 1 Spring Year 1 Summer Year 1 Fall Year 2 Spring Year 2
Orientation Accepted to program:
http://www.uncw.edu/gradschool/admitt
edstudent+B4:F10s.html
Attend grad school orientation & EOS Fall kickoff meeting
(http://www.uncw.edu/gradschool/orient
ation.html)
Attend Fall EOS kickoff meeting
Teaching
Assistantship
TAs must enroll in HR system:
http://www.uncw.edu/gradschool/graduateassistants/index.html
Submit Course Plan &
Assistantship Agreement form (Grad Coordinator will email to
you)
Apply for NC
Residency
Submit Course Plan &
Assistantship
Agreement form
Courseload Enroll in 8 course credits (including
GEO 501)
Enroll in 8 course credits
(including GEO 502)
Enroll in 1-4 credits Enroll in 8 credits Enroll in 5-8 credits
(thesis/practicum/internship)
Responsibilities
&
Opportunities
Know your degree requirements - read
the catalog: http://catalogue.uncw.edu
Apply for travel funding from
UNCW's Grad Student Association to support your
research:
http://student.uncw.edu/org/gsa/formpolicies.html
Attend/present at a
conference & apply for travel funds:
http://www.uncw.edu/
gradschool/currentstudents/formsdocs/trave
laward.pdf
Apply to graduate, clear degree audit,
turn in all requirements: http://www.uncw.edu/gradschool/curren
tstudents/graduation.html
Thesis Tasks Define thesis topic, determine
committee, preliminary draft of
prospectus
Schedule at least 1 committee
meeting, complete prospectus,
identify and pursue funding;
begin research
Collect and analyze
data; begin writing
thesis
Take oral
comprehensive exam
& file final
prospectus (with
committee
signatures); finalize
research; continue
writing thesis
Finalize thesis: advisor approves draft, grad school approves format, committee
approves draft, public presentation &
defend thesis, advisor & committee signs cover page, submit to grad school:
http://www.uncw.edu/gradschool/thesis/
index.html
Portfolio Tasks Define practicum or internship in
collaboration with advisor and inform
graduate coordinator of intent by end of
first semester; identify appropriate
portfolio committee
Develop practicum or internship
proposal; file finalized proposal
with Graduate Coordinator prior
to third semester
Work on practicum
or internship as
appropriate;
Work on practicum
or internship;; write
practicum or
internship report;
present practicum or
internship activities
Take written comprehensive exam;
committee approval of portfolio
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All graduate students are required to complete and maintain an information sheet
(http://www.uncw.edu/msgeoscience/current/forms.html) that documents addresses and
emergency contact information. Students are required to complete a new form at the
beginning of every academic year.
C. Graduate Advisor
Each student has an advisor who serves as the chair of the student's thesis, practicum, or
internship. Students are not admitted into the program without a faculty member who has
agreed to serve as their advisor. The advisor must have expertise in the area of student
research or professional internship and usually agrees to advise only those students wishing to
pursue a topic area within his or her range of research expertise. Mutual consent between the
graduate student and a faculty member in the selection of a graduate advisor is critical to the
success of the student's degree program and research.
The graduate advisor provides guidance during registration and course planning. The
relationship between student and advisor is a close and important relationship. Maintaining
good working relations with the advisor should minimize problems in the completion of the
research project or internship and should result in invaluable assistance to the student.
However, after beginning graduate studies, if a student wishes to switch to another area of
research, or the faculty advisor changes research directions, then this may necessitate
selection of a new graduate advisor and committee. Only after very careful consideration,
should a student or advisor feel that a change may be best, then: 1) there is a meeting between
the student and advisor when the two of you discuss alternative advisors, 2) the Graduate
Coordinator is notified that there may be a change in advisor and requests a meeting, 3) the
Graduate Coordinator, advisor, and student meet to discuss the options, 4) meeting(s) occur
with potential new advisors to see if there is a good fit, and 5) change of advisor is reported in
the student's file. If an advisor cannot be identified, the student will be dismissed from the
program. Switching advisors rarely happens and should only occur after very careful
consideration since it will likely lead to a longer time in the program.
D. Graduate Degree Plan
A graduate degree plan should be completed before the end of the second semester or before a
substantial number of course credits have been completed. The EOS Department has a form
that can be used (http://www.uncw.edu/msgeoscience/current/forms.html), but the degree
audit also has the capability for a course plan to be entered into the student record. The
student and his or her advisor should, by mutual agreement, develop a course sequence for 1 -
2 years based upon projected course offerings. The degree plan should reflect the broad
aspects of offerings in geoscience and should provide some focus for the student's specific
interests. The plan should reflect the background and preparation of the student and remedy
any deficiencies. The plan should identify required and elective courses to assure all program
requirements are completed. The plan is used by both student and advisor to check the
progress of course work.
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E. Procedures for the Thesis Option
In the thesis option, the most important responsibility of graduate advisors and committee
members is the guidance of graduate student course work and research. Failure to monitor
these elements may result in considerable strain on the student-thesis advisor-university
relationship. In order to promote a firm understanding of student expectations in their
educational and research program, a prospectus is essential. The graduate student's thesis
committee should meet and approve the prospectus and program plan for each graduate
student. All parties signify their mutual agreement to the provisional document as outlined
above by signing the Thesis Prospectus Approval Form
(http://uncw.edu//msgeoscience/current/forms.html). A copy of the prospectus is maintained
with the advisor and thesis committee and the form is kept on file in the student's permanent
record. The prospectus should be completed before the beginning the third semester. The
student or advisor must email the completed form to the Graduate Coordinator who records
the date and then forwards to the EOS Administrative Assistant who places it in the file.
The format of the prospectus is at the discretion of the advisor and committee. Traditionally,
prospectuses have included the following sections: student program, literature review,
research proposal, anticipated budget, and potential sources of funding.
a. Thesis Committee and Prospectus
The primary role of the graduate advisor is to assist in the choice of courses to take and
direction of the thesis topic. The graduate advisor provides guidance during the research
project and critically edits the thesis with suggestions for any improvements. The advisor,
therefore, must have expertise in the area of student research and usually agrees to advise only
those students wishing to pursue a research topic within his or her range of research expertise.
The advisor assists in selecting two other faculty members to serve on the thesis committee.
Selection of committee members is normally completed during the first semester and should
focus on providing the student with additional expertise in the design and implementation of
the research project. Any faculty member at UNC Wilmington holding graduate faculty
status is eligible if they provide the needed expertise. At least two committee members,
including the advisor, should be from the Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences faculty.
One other faculty member from another department may be added to the committee, if
appropriate, but may not chair the committee. The advisor completes and submits the Thesis
Committee Appointment form (available on line on the departmental webpage) to the
Committee members and Graduate Coordinator. A copy is placed in the student’s permanent
file.
The thesis committee assists the student by suggesting courses for their degree program, assist
with the development of the research project, and must approve the prospectus and final
thesis. They are prepared to offer advice on any aspect of the program. Each committee
member reads, edits, and evaluates the thesis and must approve the final draft.
The thesis committee conducts the oral comprehensive examination. Their evaluation of the
student's performance determines whether the student passes or fails. Careful selection of
committee members and maintaining close contact with each member throughout the degree
program ensures a smooth progression towards completion of the degree. Keeping the
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committee members informed of progress on research and writing of the thesis is especially
important. If the committee is uninformed about progress, they will assume that nothing is
happening. The relationship among graduate student, advisor, and thesis committee is an
unusual and close relationship. Maintaining good working relations with the advisor and
committee members should minimize problems in the completion of the thesis project and
should result in invaluable assistance to the student.
Occasionally a non-UNCW expert provides a valuable addition to a thesis committee. When
this is the case, the person must be approved as Graduate Faculty, which is processed through
the Graduate School. The Graduate School policy governing these appointments is as follows:
• The student's advisor submits the nomination, co-signed by the Graduate Coordinator
and the Department Chair, to the graduate school. The nomination shall include a brief
supporting statement about the person's expertise in relation to the student's research and
a current curriculum vitae should accompany the nomination.
• Minimum criteria for approval normally include possession of an appropriate terminal
degree and evidence of current scholarly activity appropriate to the discipline (normally
publications in refereed journals).
• Approval rests with the Dean of the Graduate School.
• Approval does not allow listing of the person's name in the UNCW catalogue nor does it
authorize formal involvement with other advisory committees or assignments associated
with graduate education. However, the appointee signs the title page of the thesis in the
same fashion as other members of the thesis committee.
• Not more than one such person shall serve on a student's thesis committee, and each shall
serve in addition to the three regular or adjunct members of the UNCW faculty that
normally constitute an advisory committee (i.e., a total of four persons).
A research proposal, or prospectus, written in narrative form, describes the objectives,
hypotheses, methodology, and data analyses of the thesis research project. Prospectus
organization and content are ultimately the decision of the advisor and committee in
consultation with the student. At a minimum, the prospectus should clearly state a research
question or questions, preferably with testable hypotheses, place the research in context of the
current literature, and outline a detailed methodology that is appropriate to address the
research questions and/or hypotheses. The following are guidelines to help students create a
prospectus that addresses the goals:
1. The prospectus may be broad-based in nature, especially if the topic or approach is
novel or innovative.
2. The prospectus should indicate a time period for accomplishment of the proposed
objective.
3. The prospectus should demonstrate that the objectives can be accomplished in the time
frame discussed.
4. The entire document should be considered conditional.
5. The methodology for accomplishing each objective should be presented in as much
detail as possible.
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6. The kinds of data to be collected and the method of analysis should be clearly stated.
7. The document should address the significance of the study in light of the literature
cited.
8. The prospectus can be used to measure progress and develop a schedule for
accomplishments.
b. Oral Comprehensive Exam
Every graduate student must pass a comprehensive examination covering his or her field of
study prior to being elevated to status as a degree candidate. The comprehensive exam is
designed to provide the student with the opportunity to demonstrate his or her knowledge of
course work completed at the University of North Carolina Wilmington or transfer work
accepted by the university for graduate credit. The questions reflect your proficiency,
communication, and critical analysis of geoscience. The exam should be taken when the
student has completed the majority of their course work, no later than the third semester of
course work (for fulltime students), and they are ready to enroll in Thesis credits. However,
sometimes the timing for coursework requires that thesis work is underway and then when
coursework is close to being complete, the comprehensive exam is conducted. In order for
the student to remain in good standing, he/she must have completed and passed the
comprehensive exam prior to completion of 3 thesis credits. Therefore, if a student has
enrolled in 3-credits of thesis then he/she must complete the oral comprehensive exam before
the end of the semester.
The student passes the examination only with unanimous approval by the thesis committee.
The decision of the committee is final. The Oral Comprehensive Exam form must be signed
by the advisor and thesis committee members at the time of the examination (available online
on the departmental webpage). The advisor returns the completed form to the Graduate
Coordinator. If the student passes the exam, then the Graduate Coordinator notifies the
Graduate School so that the student’s degree audit reflects date that the student passed the
comprehensive exam. If the student does not pass the exam then the advisor and thesis
committee makes recommendations for improving the student’s performance and the student
must reschedule the exam after three months have elapsed. The student must pass the exam
on the 2nd attempt or he/she will be dismissed from the program.
Although it is common to have a committee meeting to discuss the prospectus as well as
conduct the comprehensive exam, they are two separate events and do not have to be
scheduled at the same time. Remember, a signed prospectus should be on file prior to
enrolling in thesis credits and it is possible to take the oral exam while enrolled in thesis
credits, so the prospectus approval usually happens before the oral comprehensive exam, but
sometimes they occur at the same time.
c. Thesis Credits
Students must enroll in a minimum of three credit hours of thesis (GEO 599) and a maximum
of six credits may be used toward the degree. Students often elect to register for thesis credits
during their final semester even though research has been initiated in the first semester of the
program because course work is usually taken during the initial two to three semesters of
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graduate study. Students completing GEO 599 credits in semesters other than that of their
defense are required to give a brief (5-10 minute) presentation of their progress on the
research symposium day as scheduled by the Graduate Coordinator.
Continuous Enrollment (GRC 600): For students who have completed all of their coursework
(30 credits and met the requirements of the program) and are only completing their thesis, the
University provides a special course, Continuous Enrollment (GRC 600) so that a student can
be enrolled at UNCW while working on their thesis (e.g. using the library and other facilities)
and also satisfying the university requirement that you must be enrolled in order to graduate.
Students registering for GRC 600 must have their registration approved by the Graduate
School. Students must be enrolled (either course credit or GRC 600) during the
semester in which the degree is awarded. Students must be enrolled to defend a thesis
and graduate from UNCW.
See this website to fill out the GRC 600 form:
http://uncw.edu/gradschool/registration/index.html
d. Conducting Thesis Research
Although course work is important to graduate education at the master's level, research and
the resultant thesis are unique experiences of graduate study. Consequently, the design of a
realistic and well-defined research project should be the highest priority. A thesis project
consists of two phases: writing a prospectus and writing a thesis. A detailed prospectus
facilitates this goal by outlining necessary steps in reviewing pertinent literature and in
writing a narrative of the scope of the thesis. The student and thesis committee use the
prospectus to monitor progress in the research project.
Thesis research provides an opportunity to make a contribution to science and to learn
firsthand the objectives, hypotheses, methodologies, data analysis techniques and
interpretations used in research. Graduate students often lack experience in conducting
directed or original research. Therefore, the thesis advisor must assume an active role as
teacher and advisor in the design and completion of student research.
Writing a thesis involves presentation of research findings and evaluation of work done by
others. Incorporation of pertinent existing knowledge relative to the thesis research is most
important and usually involves frequent and careful citing of work published by others. Such
citations should conform to the principles set forth in the U.S. Geological Survey’s
“Suggestions to Authors” and/or the journal in which the student expects to publish the thesis.
The process of writing your thesis usually takes much longer than you first anticipate.
Finishing the thesis prospectus within the first or second semester and beginning the research
project early are both key elements to finishing the degree within four or five semesters.
Beginning your research, finishing data collection, and completing all requirements for the
degree except for the thesis within three or four semesters requires a great commitment on
your part. Taking the initiative is your responsibility. Your thesis committee and major
advisor are willing to work with you to ensure your completion of the degree.
Graduate School policy, endorsed by the department, states that the thesis should be in the
format of an article ready for submission to an appropriate journal. Detailed presentations of
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data should be in the form of appendices and should be sufficient to allow future students access
to your data should they need to repeat the work or to make comparisons with newly gathered
information. Faculty advisors and advisory committees differ in opinion as to the appropriate
length of a thesis. Discussions with your advisor prior to beginning formal research and writing
should clarify your mutual understanding of thesis format and how much detail to include.
Detailed guidelines for the preparation and submission of a thesis have been developed by the
Graduate School and are available on this website:
http://www.uncw.edu/gradschool/thesis.html.
This website also has the deadlines for submission for formatting approval and final thesis
submission. Follow these guidelines carefully. Before beginning your writing, check the
Graduate School website to determine if there have been changes to the thesis guidelines. If
any questions arise about thesis format discuss them with your advisor or the Graduate
Coordinator.
e. Oral Defense of Thesis and Submission to the Graduate School
Each student is required to publicly present and defend his or her thesis. The process is to first
give an oral presentation to the EOS department and then privately defend the research to the
thesis committee. The defense allows the committee to question the student on all phases of
the research and the written thesis. The following are guidelines for each component of
completing a thesis:
• Format Approval: After the advisor has approved the thesis, the student must submit it
electronically to the Graduate School for format approval. The thesis copy must be
accompanied by the thesis Format Approval Sheet. See detailed instructions on the
graduate school website: http://www.uncw.edu/gradschool/thesis/index.html
When the thesis has been reviewed, the student will be notified that the format has been
approved and the oral defense can be scheduled. Please allow at least three (3) working
days for the review process. If the thesis was not approved, meet with your advisor to
discuss the required changes and resubmit it to the graduate school. You will then be
advised as to whether a defense can be scheduled.
• Schedule Defense: A tentative defense date is selected in consultation with the student’s
thesis advisor and all committee members. A tentative date can be chosen since it can be
difficult to find a date that works for the entire committee and getting a date scheduled
as soon as possible enables faculty and students to know the date well ahead of time.
However, the student must remember that this is tentative and may change depending on
committee review of the thesis. After a date is chosen, the student must consult with the
EOS administrative assistant to reserve a room for the public presentation and private
defense. • Committee Thesis Approval: With approval from the student’s advisor, the student
sends a complete thesis to each committee member at least 10 (preferably 15) working
days before the scheduled tentative defense. The thesis must be complete and format
has been approved by the graduate school. Each committee member will study and
edit the thesis prior to the defense and may give feedback to the student prior to the
defense or bring comments and edits to the thesis defense. Any committee member
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who feels the student’s thesis is not ready for the defense can request that the defense be
re-scheduled.
• Defense Flyer: The student must create a Thesis Defense Flyer and submit it to the EOS
administrative assistant for dissemination to the entire department. The department must
be given at least 1-week notice for the defense or else it will potentially be rescheduled
for a later time. Students need to remember that the public presentation is an important
component of their graduate program and therefore ample notice must be given in order
to involve everyone in the department who is available to attend.
• Thesis Presentation and Defense: The format of the thesis defense involves a public
presentation followed by a private, closed door, defense consisting of questions by the
thesis committee. Normally, the examination by the thesis committee immediately
follows the public presentation; however, on rare occasions, the public presentation
may be scheduled to precede the private defense by up to one week, but only if the
entire thesis committee agrees to this scheduling. When this happens, the date of
private defense is considered the formal date of the defense, which means this is the
date that is submitted to the graduate school and entered into the student record.
• Thesis Defense Results: After the private defense, the thesis committee deliberates on
the student's performance and the student is notified that they have either passed or
failed the defense. It is a unanimous decision of the committee. Following the
decision, the committee shall complete a Results of Thesis Defense form (available
online on the departmental webpage) and submit it to the Graduate Coordinator who
records the result and the EOS Administrative Assistant places the original in the
student’s departmental file.
• Final Thesis Edits: At the conclusion of the defense, the student receives suggestions
for changes, additions, deletions, etc. from each committee member. The student
should make all changes or corrections requested by the committee and prepare the
final copy for submission to the Graduate School. The student must get their
committee’s approval (by signing the cover page) prior to submitting the final thesis to
the graduate school. Follow the guidelines on the graduate school website for
submitting the thesis as well as completing and submitting the ETD form.
• Deadline: The deadline for completion of the thesis requirement
(http://www.uncw.edu/gradschool/thesis.html) shall be without exception the last day of
final exams in the semester in which the student intends to graduate. If that deadline is
not met, graduation will be moved forward one semester (assuming no other
requirement remains unfulfilled).
• GEOREF: In order to complete the GEOREF submission form, students must
complete this form before graduating. This information allows the Graduate
Coordinator to submit the citation materials necessary to have your thesis included in
the GEOREF database.
F. Procedures for the Portfolio Option
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a. Portfolio Components and Committee Composition
In order to fulfill the requirements for the M.S. Geoscience degree, students in the portfolio
option must complete and defend a portfolio that represents their collective learning
experiences during their M.S. degree program in front of a faculty committee. The faculty
committee composition should be identical to that of a thesis committee (described in Section
E of this handbook). The portfolio consists of: 1) a resume, 2) a letter to the reader and 3) the
following artifacts: a) practicum or internship proposal (see descriptions below), b)
practicum/internship final report, c) practicum/internship presentation (e.g. Adobe PDF or
PowerPoint) and d) at least five additional examples of coursework or professional
deliverables that include at least 1 writing sample of more than 2 pages in length and 1
presentation (poster or PowerPoint). Other examples of work during the program can include,
but are not limited to, maps, project reports, meeting abstracts, peer-reviewed manuscripts,
and other work approved by the advisor.
The resume should conform to the formatting and content standards common to the student’s
career path of interest. The letter to the reader should be addressed to the committee and not
exceed 2 pages (single-spaced, 12 pt, Times New Roman, font). A business letter format
should be employed. The content of the letter should: 1) discuss the professional goals the
student had when they entered the program and the extent to which they were achieved; 2)
explain how the program helped you grow professionally and how the deliverables included
in the portfolio contributed to that growth; and 3) reflect upon the student’s ability to work
effectively with colleagues, professionals, and community stakeholders.
b. Written Comprehensive Examination
Every graduate student (thesis or portfolio option) must pass a comprehensive examination
covering his or her field of study prior to being elevated to status as a degree candidate. In the
portfolio option, the comprehensive examination is written and is taken after the successful
completion of all required core coursework with the exception of GEO 597 and GEO 598.
The comprehensive examination is designed to provide the student with the opportunity to
demonstrate their knowledge of course work completed at the University of North Carolina
Wilmington or transfer work accepted by the university for graduate credit. The questions
reflect your proficiency, communication, and critical analysis of geoscience.
In the portfolio option, the written comprehensive examination is scheduled during the
midpoint of the Spring or Fall semester. The Graduate Coordinator will notify students with
the exam date, but all students should be preparing for the exam well ahead of time. The
student must notify the Graduate Coordinator and advisor (by email) the intent to take the
exam and must provide at least 15 business days prior to the date of the examination.
This examination is comprised of two parts. The first part is multiple choice and covers an
overview of geology topics for students in the geology concentration and geospatial topics for
students in the geospatial concentration. The second part is composed of questions collected
from faculty who have taught electives in the program of students. A minimum of 3 courses
are included in this part of the exam. Generally, the format is essay, short answer,
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computations, and other means of assessing knowledge. Students should discuss this exam
with faculty in order to prepare for the exam. Do not wait until the last semester to start
preparing for this examination.
The written comprehensive examination is administered by the Graduate Coordinator. To
pass the exam, the combined total score for the two sections of the examination must be
greater than 75%. Any graduate student failing the written examination may take the exam
again, but no student may take the examination a third time. The student must pass the exam
on the 2nd attempt or they will be dismissed from the program. The student may elect to re-
take all or only parts of the exam, but remember the total score must be at least 75% so this
should be discussed with the advisor and Graduate Coordinator.
The results of the written comprehensive examination are shared with the student and advisor
and the graduate school is notified so that the student’s degree audit is updated to reflect
completing this part of their program.
c. Practicum (GEO 597) and Internship (GEO 598)
One key component of the portfolio track of the M.S. Geoscience degree program is
completion and documentation of experiences in either Practicum (GEO 597) or Internship
(GEO 598). As specified in the catalog, students must submit a final report and give a public
presentation to receive credit for these courses. Prior to enrolling in either course for credit,
students must write a proposal that demonstrates the internship/practicum final report
expectations (this is largely completed in GEO 502). It is the responsibility of the GEO 597 or
GEO 598 course instructor to ensure rigor, quality, and timeliness of course-related products
and deliverables. A copy of the GEO 597 or 598 written report and presentation files must be
included in the student’s final portfolio. Intent to pursue either the internship or practicum
must be on record with the Graduate Coordinator before the end of the student’s 1st semester
(full-time students).
Also note that students must complete 18 hours of coursework prior to enrolling in GEO 597
or GEO 598. Students who have completed all their course work and are taking either GEO
597 or GEO 598 will be considered as full-time students, thereby fulfilling the enrollment
status and guaranteeing use of the library, computing facilities, etc.
Practicum (GEO 597)
The practicum allows the student to initiate, develop and complete a well-defined
investigation into a topic or area of interest (both intellectually and professionally) to the
student. In order to remain in good standing, the intent to pursue an practicum as part of the
portfolio requirement must be on record before the end of the student’s 1st semester (full-time
students) Prior to registering for practicum (GEO 597), the student must write a proposal for
the practicum activity and get approval from both the graduate coordinator and advisor. To
ensure that the student progresses in a timely manner, and maintains ‘good standing’ in the
program, the proposal must be approved by the student’s advisor and submitted to the
Graduate Coordinator prior to the beginning of the 3rd semester (full-time students). The
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project proposal is similar to a thesis prospectus in that there is a clear description of the
rationale, literature review, hypotheses if relevant to the project, expected outcomes/results,
and timeline for completing the project.
Internship (GEO 598)
An internship provides professional development in a particular area of the student’s interests.
Prior to registering for internship (GEO 598), the student must write a proposal that describes
the expectations/goals, learning outcomes, and product deliverables anticipated for the
internship experience. The proposal also must include a description of the internship site (e.g.
Is the site a federal/state/municipal agency, non-profit, sole proprietorship, or corporation?
What does the agency/company/group do and who are the primary clients/stakeholders?
Where will you be working and how will you fit into the organizational structure?) Finally,
the student also must demonstrate, to the graduate coordinator, that the final report
expectations have been shared with their advisor and their internship supervisor prior to
enrollment. The advisor, site supervisor/mentor, and Graduate Coordinator all must agree to
the objectives and deliverables included in the proposal before enrollment is approved.
Importantly, all internships must be Geoscience in nature as determined by the Graduate
Coordinator in consultation with the Graduate Advisory Committee. The proposal must be
approved by the student’s advisor and submitted to the Graduate Coordinator prior to the
beginning of the 3rd semester (full-time students).
Specific information on the procedures and processes for securing an internship can be found
by contacting the EOS Internship Program Coordinator. In order to remain in good standing,
the intent to pursue an internship as part of the portfolio requirement must be on record before
the end of the student’s 1st semester (full time students).. At the completion of the internship,
the student writes a final report and gives a public presentation. See sub-sections c and d
below for more information.
d. Final Report and Public Presentation of Internship or Practicum
As specified in the course catalog, a student must submit a final report and give a public
presentation to receive credit for practicum (GEO 597) or internship (GEO 598). Successful
completion of GEO 597 and GEO 598 requires that a student receives a passing grade on each
of the following elements.
Final Report Expectations:
The final report is a thorough description of the activities undertaken as part of the
internship/practicum experience and should describe how the experience aligns with the
student’s professional goals. The report must: 1) address the objectives stated in the
practicum/internship proposal and 2) be completed by the end of the semester during which a
student was enrolled in GEO 597 or 598. The faculty advisor is responsible for assigning a
final report grade. A copy of the report, with a title page signed by the advisor, must be
submitted to the Graduate Coordinator for inclusion in the student file. The student should
maintain a digital copy for inclusion in their final portfolio. NOTE: This document comprises
one element of the portfolio, but is not the entire portfolio.
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The written final report should include the following elements:
• Title page that includes:
o Descriptive title
o Student name
o Advisor name and signature line
o Date
• Description of the practicum/internship sponsor (i.e. company, agency, research
laboratory) including:
o Sponsor’s mission or research objective
o Organizational structure
o Facility where work was conducted
• Statement of the goals/objectives specific to the work completed by the student
• Description of methods/techniques used
• Description of data/results/deliverables (this section does not require an in depth
analysis of data or results)
• Discussion of the broader significance and application of generated products
• Discussion of how the experience aligns with the student’s professional goals
• Detailed log of hours worked signed by supervisor
• Literature citations (reports should cite the peer-reviewed literature and technical
reports, where appropriate, to demonstrate the student’s understanding of their
topic, methods, and deliverables).
Oral Presentation Expectations:
At the completion of GEO 597 or GEO 598, the student will give a 15-minute public
presentation about their practicum or internship experience. All presentations in a given
semester will take place during a mini-symposium that also includes presentations by GEO
599 students scheduled by the Graduate Coordinator in consultation with faculty advisors
and/or instructors of record. Students will be required to attend all presentations in their
scheduled symposium. Faculty advisors are required to attend presentations given by their
advisees and submit a presentation grade to the course instructor of record. Presentations will
be open to the public and all faculty are encouraged to participate. A digital copy of the
presentation should be archived by the student for inclusion in their final portfolio.
e. The Portfolio Defense
The portfolio is presented and privately defended by the student in front of their faculty
committee. Portfolios must be submitted to the student’s advisor and committee no less than
two weeks prior to the portfolio defense. At the defense, the student will briefly summarize
the artifacts included in their portfolio, and then choose three of the artifacts that represent
their greatest growth areas and discuss those selected entries in more detail. One of these
artifacts must be either the practicum or internship final report. During the defense, the
student will be expected to critically analyze their knowledge and skills and articulate how
those skills will allow them to positively contribute to their targeted profession.
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G. Requirements to Remain in “Good Standing” in the M.S. in Geoscience Program
The Department requires that students pursuing the M.S. in Geoscience must be making
satisfactory progress in the program in order to remain in “Good Standing”. Maintaining this
status is important because it means you are on track to complete the program in a timely
manner and you are eligible to receive a Teaching Assistantship if funds are available. If a
student is declared not in Good Standing, they can petition to be reinstated. The Graduate
Advisory Committee reserves the right to evaluate the Good Standing status of any student in
the M.S. Geoscience program at any time. The requirements for Good Standing are:
1. Must maintain a GPA above 3.0. Per UNCW regulations, a student with a GPA
less than 3.0 is placed on Academic Probation.
2. Must maintain grades of B- or better in all coursework. When a student receives a
grade of C it indicates that he/she is having difficulty progressing in the program.
UNCW regulations stipulate that when a student receives three Cs or one F they
are dismissed from the program. If a student receives a C, they are no longer in
Good Standing in the M.S. Geoscience program.
3. As described in the UNCW catalog, an Incomplete is used when extenuating
circumstances prevent a student from completing a course. Therefore, when a
student receives an Incomplete it is an indication that he/she is potentially having
difficulty progressing in the program. If a student receives an Incomplete, their
Good Standing status in the M.S. Geoscience program will be evaluated by the
Graduate Advisory Committee.
4. As a Teaching Assistant, the EOS department requires positive teaching
evaluations. Therefore, a student may not be in Good Standing if they receive poor
evaluations.
5. Thesis Prospectus must be approved by the Thesis Committee and is ideally
completed by the beginning of the 3rd semester, but no later than the end of the
3rd semester (full-time students).
6. Oral comprehensive exam must be taken, and passed, before completing 3 Thesis
credits (full-time students). A student cannot take the exam until the advisor has
approved the prospectus. The prospectus can be signed by the committee at the
same time as the oral comprehensive exam.
7. The intent to pursue an internship as part of the portfolio requirement must be on
record before the end of the student’s 1st semester (full-time students).
8. The internship or practicum proposal must be approved by the student’s advisor
and submitted to the Graduate Coordinator prior to the beginning of the
3rdsemester (full-time students).
It is the student’s responsibility to maintain Good Standing in the M.S. Geoscience program.
Therefore, the student and their advisor must promptly notify the Graduate Coordinator when
key milestones have been achieved so that the student’s record is up-to-date. It is the
responsibility of the Graduate Coordinator to record the milestones and forward this
information to the EOS Administrative Assistant who maintains the student file.
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H. Switching between M.S. Geoscience Concentrations & Options
Students may switch from one concentration to another (e.g. Geology to Earth Processes &
Global Change) and may switch from the thesis to portfolio option, or portfolio to thesis
option. To initiate the switching process, the student must first submit a written email request
to the Graduate Coordinator and their advisor. Upon approval from the advisor and the
Graduate Coordinator, the Graduate Coordinator will send a request to the graduate school to
change the student’s concentration or option. If a student requests to switch from portfolio to
thesis an approved prospectus must be on file by no later than the end of the third semester or
24 credits, whichever is earliest. The required approved prospectus ensures that the student is
progressing through the program in a timely manner and switching from portfolio to thesis
will hopefully not extend the time to completion.
I. Application for Graduation
Students must apply to graduate from any UNCW program. You simply login to SeaNet and
follow the instructions. The deadline for submittal of this application is published in the
University Calendar of Events (see the registrar’s website). Normally, the Apply to Graduate
deadline is the semester preceding the semester in which the student wishes to graduate. Any
student failing to meet the deadline to Apply to Graduate must contact the Graduate School
and hope that an exception can be granted. Also, all students must be enrolled in order to
graduate. If you have completed all coursework then you must enroll in GRC 600 (explained
above).
You may graduate in Spring (May), Summer (August), or Fall (December). Students who
graduate in the spring are expected to attend the Commencement activities. It is the student’s
responsibility to notify their advisor and Graduate Coordinator if they will not be present for
commencement. If you graduate in August then you can attend the December commencement
since there is no summer commencement activities. All students participating in the
Commencement exercise must order academic regalia.
There are two (2) final steps in the graduation procedure in the Department of Earth and
Ocean Sciences:
1. Clean up your office space and turn in keys to the EOS Administrative Assistant.
2. Complete the Exit Evaluation Survey form. This form is on the M.S. Geoscience
website and its completion allows the Graduate Coordinator and Graduate Advisory
Committee to monitor issues and difficulties experienced by the graduate student in
completion of their degree.
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IV. CERTIFICATE IN GISCIENCE PROCEDURES
The GIS Certificate is designed for students who would like to: 1) pursue a career in GIS and
need more coursework to help with job placement, 2) combine GIS with another discipline, or
3) gain more knowledge to help with achieving professional certification (e.g. GISP).
A. Core and Elective Courses
Students pursuing the GIS Certificate complete 18 credits of approved courses. You should
carefully read the graduate catalog (http://catalogue.uncw.edu/index.php) to make sure you
are on track to complete the certificate. Students with no previous experience in geospatial
technology should begin the program with the core courses (9 credits) since they provide the
foundation that is needed for more advanced courses and they will provide the breadth of
information that is needed in the profession. The remaining electives (9 credits) are listed in
the catalog. Once a semester the Graduate Coordinator will email a list of courses for the
following semester that meet the requirements for the GIS Cert. Do not lose this email
because you will need it when you begin registering for courses.
B. Other Courses
On occasion, there are trial courses (e.g. GEO 592) that may count as electives in the
program. The rule for any course to count towards the GIS Cert is that the content must be
50% geospatial (cartography, remote sensing, image processing, database design and
management, statistical analysis, field mapping, or other activities that utilize geospatial
technology).
A student may enquire with the Graduate Coordinator to see if a course will count towards the
program. The student must provide the name of the faculty instructor, course syllabus and
schedules, and list of assignments. For example, if a student enrolls in a Directed Independent
Study (DIS) (e.g. GEO 591) he/she must provide ample information in order for the Graduate
Coordinator to evaluate the 50% rule. At the end of the semester, the student must provide an
email from their advisor and documentation (e.g. final report) in order for the Graduate
Coordinator to make the final judgment and then petition the Graduate School to update the
student’s degree audit.
No thesis credits will count towards the GIS Certificate regardless of geospatial content.
Students are encouraged to enroll in Internship credit. Please schedule a meeting with the
EOS Internship Program Coordinator to learn about the program and remember that the same
50% rule applies to internships. You must plan ahead in order to get GIS Certificate credit for
an internship.
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V. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
A. Teaching Assistantships
The Earth and Ocean Sciences Department offers Teaching Assistantships (TAs) to students
enrolled in the M.S. Geoscience Program. Students in the Graduate GIS Certificate Program
should expresses concern for the lack of TA funding to the Dean of the College of Arts and
Sciences.
Students must apply for an assistantship by writing an email to the Graduate Coordinator and
cc’ing your advisor. Requests must be sent before the end of the semester. For example, if a
student would like a TA to start in the Fall semester, then they must email the Grad
Coordinator before the end of the Spring semester. TA funding is very limited and,
unfortunately, the Department does not receive enough funding to support all of the qualified
students in the M.S. Geoscience program. Therefore, selection for TA funding is based on the
following ranked criteria:
1) recruiting new students to the M.S. Geoscience program;
2) 2nd year students who were recruited to the program, are progressing well in their
classes and research (are in Good Standing in the program), have received excellent
teaching evaluations, and are highly recommended by their advisor,
3) 2nd year students who are progressing well in the program and meet the requirements
of #2, and
4) 3rd year students.
Teaching Assistantships are normally awarded for one academic year. Students failing to
perform their duties in a satisfactory manner may have their assistantship revoked at any time.
Normally, and by departmental rule, Teaching Assistantships are awarded for a total of four
semesters. Exceptions may be granted for an additional semester upon justification and
review by the student’s advisor, Graduate Coordinator and EOS Department Chair.
When a students accept a TA position they are agreeing to be a part-time employee of
UNCW. Each semester, all TAs must be on campus and available for work at least one week
prior to the beginning of classes and must remain on campus through the final examination
period. Arrival delays, early departures or any time missed during the semester, must be
approved by your advisor, faculty supervisor/lab coordinator, Graduate Coordinator and Chair
of the Department. Never plan on leaving (e.g. for a conference) without first obtaining
permission or else you risk your status as a student in good standing which can jeopardize
future funding.
During the semester, all TAs are evaluated by the lab coordinator through in-laboratory
observations and provide feedback to the TA. The laboratory coordinator gives one copy of
the completed evaluation form to the Teaching Assistant and places another copy in the
student's file. Our goal is to provide the best learning environment for our students. At the end
of the semester, all faculty supervisors complete an evaluation of their assigned TA and turn
these in to the Graduate Coordinator. This evaluation is used to identify outstanding TAs, to
help those who may be struggling or to find assignments that are better suited to the TA.
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TAs are assigned duties by the Graduate Coordinator in consultation with the Department
Chair. Duties will generally involve preparing for and teaching two or three 100 or 200 level
laboratories. Other duties may be assigned as appropriate.
The EOS Administrative Assistant will complete form HR 1.35 to initiate payment to you for
your assistantship. Valid I-9 and W-4 forms must be completed and forwarded to the Dean of
the College of Arts and Sciences before you will receive your paycheck. Therefore, you must
complete the Onboarding process in the UNCW Human Resources office prior to the semester
when you first begin employment at UNCW.
a. Teaching Assistantship Contract
Students who are receiving a Teaching Assistantship must sign the Graduate Assistantship
Appointment Agreement prior to the beginning of the semester. This document sets forth the
expectations, terms and conditions between the graduate student assistant and UNCW. All
terms and conditions must be satisfied or termination of the appointment may occur as well as
potential denial of any future appointments. The Graduate Coordinator emails the form to the
student who then electronically signs it and submits it to the Graduate School.
b. Suggestions for New Teaching Assistants
To learn about the responsibilities of a Teaching Assistantship, please read the manual from
the UNCW graduate school:
http://www.uncw.edu/gradschool/graduateassistants/guidelines/manual.pdf
Listed below are some suggestions to help make your job as a laboratory instructor easier.
• If you have no class conflicts, sit in on the lecture section of the course for which you are
a TA. This will help your teaching in several important ways:
o You will be able to cite specific examples from the lecture material and discuss
the relationship to subjects being covered in the lab exercises, and vice versa.
By doing so, you will help make the course a more integrated, total experience
for the student.
o Students will ask questions about things that they don't understand from the
lecture portion of the course. This way you will be better prepared to answer
them.
• Prepare thoroughly — if you are well prepared, teaching is surprisingly easy and fun. Talk
to the lab coordinator if you have questions on any aspect of the laboratory material.
You should anticipate sending 5 to 7 hours per week preparing for a laboratory.
• Authorized Absences from Examinations: Students who will be absent from a scheduled
class meeting or examination because of an official university activity must provide a
written excuse in advance. These students shall be given the opportunity by their
professor and laboratory instructor to complete any missing assignments or
examinations.
• Inform your students of your office hours and your office location. Be sure to include
your office hours and office location on the course syllabus. Post the hours on the
outside of your office door and keep them. Undergraduate students will complain if
they can't find the TA during posted office hours.
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• Check with the lab coordinator and the lecture instructor concerning any responsibilities
beyond teaching your labs. TA's are often needed to proctor examinations, grade
papers, or assist with other duties at various times throughout the semester. Also
discuss grading procedures and record keeping of grades with each lecture instructor.
• Try to be as informed as possible on various items related to each lab. If you do not
know the answer to a questions, then do not be afraid to say “I don't know that answer,
but check with me in a couple of days so that I have time to find the answer.” There
are many problems associated with adopting an attitude such as “I can tell them
anything because they will never know and probably do not care to know,” or “They
will never know the difference.” Keep in mind that many of our undergraduate majors
decide on geology, geography or oceanography as a career so it is important that we
teach them the correct knowledge. Experience has demonstrated their consternation
and frustration upon discovering in an upper-level class that something they learned in
a 10o-level lab was inaccurate information. None of us are experts on everything, and
there is nothing wrong in admitting that we don't know the answer. Students should
respect you more for wanting to take the time to find correct answers to their questions
rather than simply telling them something on the spur of a moment.
• Complete your grades as soon as possible and final lab grades to the lecture instructor
for inclusion in the final student grades. Lecture instructors find it advantageous to
have the lab grades before the lecture final exam, which could be scheduled as early as
two days after the last day of classes. Please check with each lecture instructor to
determine a mutually agreeable deadline for the submission of lab grades.
• You may find it inadvisable to post your grades, but, if you do, remember that you are
not permitted to identify proper names and student identification numbers on the
posted list. If you post grades, please give the lecture instructors a copy before you
post. You should be available for consultation with the students during the final
examination period in case they have questions concerning their lab grade. For your
convenience, you may wish to post specific office hours for the final examination
period. Do not post grades and immediately “skip town” because this will place
unnecessary burdens on the other Teaching Assistants, faculty and office staff.
• Make sure your class grade distributions are reasonable and justified. If necessary, check
with the student’s lecture instructor concerning his or her performance in lecture.
B. Tuition Remissions (out-of-state), Loans, etc.
The UNCW College of Arts and Sciences administers the distribution of tuition remissions for
out-of-state students enrolled in all graduate programs within the College. Tuition remissions
available on this campus are very limited in quantity and demands among the departments
with graduate programs are very high. Only students who have an assistantship (TA or RA)
are eligible for out-of-state tuition remissions. The department of Earth and Ocean Sciences’
Graduate Advisory Committee annually reviews all graduate students and determines a
ranking for receiving tuition remission funding for out-of-state graduate students.
In addition to teaching and research assistantships, state and federal loan and work-study
programs are available to qualified graduate students. Specific information concerning
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details, applications, changes, and additions may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office
(962-3177).
The North Carolina Insured Loan Program is available to North Carolina residents who are
enrolled for at least nine hours in graduate studies. Students may borrow up to $5,000 per
academic year from College Foundation, Inc., without family need or income restrictions.
These are long-term, low interest loans with repayment beginning six months after graduation
(or withdrawal) and extending over a period of up to 10 years. The interest on the loan begins
to accrue on initiation of repayment. Application for North Carolina insured loans are made
directly to: College Foundation, Inc., 1307 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27605.
Non-resident graduate students may be eligible for similar loans through Federally Insured
Student Loan Programs in their home states. These programs have essentially the same
eligibility and repayment requirements as the North Carolina Insured Loan Program.
Addresses of state agencies offering insured loans can be obtained from the Financial Aid
Office.
Graduate students who can demonstrate significant financial need, are enrolled for at least
nine hours of course work, and are citizens of the United States may be eligible for the
College Work-Study Program. This federally funded program provides a variety of part-time
jobs in campus departments and offices on a schedule compatible with the student's class
schedule. The hourly pay is based on the federal minimum wage. Students in this program
usually work between 10 and 15 hours per week, depending upon established need. In order
to determine eligibility, applicants must complete an institutional application form and a
Financial Aid form available from the Financial Aid Office.
Graduate students may also obtain research funding by independently seeking grant or
scholarship monies. The Office of Research Services and Sponsored Programs may be able to
provide assistance with information on sources of funding and with the preparation of
application packages. The Office of Research Services and Sponsored Programs (962-3810)
is housed in Hoggard Hall. Also consult with your advisor and the Graduate Coordinator
concerning sources of outside funding. Always stay current reading email because the
Graduate Coordinator will inform students of opportunities.
C. Federal Loans for GIS Certificate Students
UNCW’s Financial Aid office has a Graduate Certification Form
(http://uncw.edu/finaid/OSFAForms.html) that a student needs to complete in order to
possibly qualify for a Federal Student Loan program. Please enquire with the Financial Aid
Office for more information.
D. North Carolina Residency
Under North Carolina law, legal residence means more than simply living in the state.
Specifically, it means maintaining a domicile (permanent home of indefinite duration) as
opposed to a temporary residence incident to enrollment in a college, university or technical
institute of the state. As a starting point, if you have living parents, your domicile is
presumed to be that of your parents but may be changed to qualify for in-state tuition if your
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required legal residence can be demonstrated. Marriage does not prevent you from becoming
a legal resident for tuition purposes, nor does marriage ensure that you will become a resident.
To determine whether you can become a legal resident of North Carolina for tuition purposes,
you must demonstrate an intent to make North Carolina your permanent dwelling place of
indefinite duration. These actions should be undertaken immediately upon your arrival to
campus and North Carolina (preferably within the first month). Please review these actions
and steps at http://uncw.edu/admissions/documents/ResidencyInfoBrochure.pdf. The
following are some more important actions to help attain residency:
• convert your automobile registration to North Carolina
• obtain a North Carolina driver’s license (or NC Identification Card from the Driver's license
office)
• register to vote in North Carolina and vote when possible
• list your personal property at the New Hanover County Tax Office for taxation
• file a North Carolina tax return as a resident at the next appropriate time
• convert your banking, club/organization membership, etc., to North Carolina
These actions begin the one-year (12-month) waiting period to attain residency. To become a
North Carolina resident you must demonstrate that you are financially independent of your
parents or guardian if your parents or guardian are non-residents of North Carolina and
demonstrate a visible means of support substantiating the claim of financial independence. If
you have not been entirely self-supporting during the last 12 months, a completed affidavit
will be required from your parent(s) to indicate the amount of support provided.
Further and equally important, once you have clearly established the residency intent and
financial independence, you must maintain North Carolina residence for 12 months
immediately before the semester the in-state status can be made effective. The only
exceptions to the required 12-months residency period apply in some, but not all, cases to
individuals marrying a North Carolina resident who has maintained residency 12 months or
longer, and to individuals whose parents have been North Carolina residents 12 months or
longer and who are legal dependents of their parents.
If you desire a residence change, you must complete a Residence and Tuition Status
Application and submit it to the Dean of the Graduate School. Applications can be obtained
from the Graduate School at http://uncw.edu/gradschool/residency/forms/nonresident.pdf. No
status change can be made without submission of this application. The 12-month residency-
waiting period must be completed before the first day of the semester in which in-state
residency is being requested. Please note that you may submit your application up to 60 days
before the start of the semester in which your in-state status can become effective although the
entire 12-month residency period may not have been satisfied at the time your application is
filed.
In other words, to avoid being billed as an out-of-state resident, you should file for a status
change before the tuition bills are due so that the Graduate School will have time to process
the application and notify Student Accounts as to your status change. For example, when
applying for in-state residency for the fall semester, students may submit their applications
starting June 15, or 60 days before the semester begins.
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A decision on your residency status will be emailed approximately 10 days after being
reviewed by the Graduate School. If you are denied North Carolina residency for tuition
purposes, an appeal of the decision is possible. At that time, you can, and should, attend to
clarify points and to present additional arguments in your favor.
E. Financial Aid Information for Graduate Students
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), on-line, at
www.fafsa.gov.
• Accept loans, or portion of loans, offered.
• Complete Loan Entrance Counseling, on-line, at www.studentloans.gov.
• Complete Master Promissory Note(s), on-line, at www.studentloans.gov.
• Completed aid disburses to UNCW student accounts ten days before classes start OR
when students are enrolled at least half time. Students who register during drop/add
should expect a financial aid refund approximately seven business days later.
• For students whose aid requirements are complete, and who are pre-registered at
least half-time, every effort is made to have refunds available, by direct deposit, the
first day of classes each term.
• Direct deposit is set up through SeaNet, E-billing and Account Information, and the
“E-Refund” tab.
• Read Emails! Communication from the financial aid office is via UNCW email.
Points to Remember:
• A new FASFA must be completed each academic year.
o File in March or April to allow ample time for aid to process for fall.
o Please do not wait until the day bills are due to file the FAFSA.
• Half-time enrollment (at least 4.5 hours) in a degree-seeking program is required.
• Post-baccalaureate certificate students are not eligible for federal aid at UNCW
(except teacher certification students).
• Students who are taking classes required for admission to a graduate program at
UNCW may be eligible for student loans, at undergraduate levels, for up to twelve
months. Contact the financial aid office to follow-up.
• Students must accept loans (or portion of loans) offered. Aid will not be disbursed
until the student confirms it.
• Full-time equivalent courses (e.g. thesis, internship, practicum, and GRC 600) are
considered full-time for financial aid purposes.
• Pay attention to billing notices from the Student Accounts Office:
o Notices are sent to students whose aid is not in place to cover charges.
o Check SeaNet for outstanding requirements or follow-up with the financial aid
office.
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o Students will be dropped from classes for failure to pay tuition..
• Financial aid for graduate students disburses at full-time levels for students enrolled in
6.00 or more credit hours.
o For students who pre-register for 6.00 hours, and add courses during drop/add,
additional charges may post AFTER the financial aid refund was processed.
o Students are responsible for clearing the additional charges before the next bill
due date, or registration will be cancelled.
o Monitor student account information to stay on top of current charges.
• Pre-registration for spring semester begins in October. Students with an outstanding
balance on their student account cannot pre-register for classes.
Summer Aid
• Summer session is a trailer to the current academic year.
• Financial aid is limited to eligibility remaining from fall/spring.
• The summer aid application is available on the financial aid website after April 1:
o Students must complete the summer application.
o Half-time enrollment during summer is required for federal aid eligibility.
F. Research Assistantships and Fellowships
Research Assistantships (RAs) are offered by the department through individual faculty who
have funds available from research grants or contracts. Selection criteria are similar to those
for Teaching Assistantships with emphasis on the suitability of an applicant for a particular
research program. Stipends are generally the same as for Teaching Assistantships. Duties
will be assigned by the faculty member administering the research project. RAs are awarded
usually for one full academic year; however, sometimes RAs are awarded for a single
semester or for a summer session based.
G. Graduate School Support of Student Travel
One component of the Graduate School's Professional Development Program provides, in
part, travel expenses for graduate students who will participate in the agenda of professional
conferences. Funds for these activities are limited and dependent upon the availability of
funding. The following guidelines are enforced to achieve and maintain the maximum thrust
of the program.
1. The Graduate School will provide up to $400 for a graduate student to participate in
a professional conference. Seminars, workshops, and similar meetings normally
will be excluded in favor of annual conferences of professional societies.
2. The funds will be allocated expressly for graduate students and not for faculty.
Students must be in good standing, making satisfactory progress toward completion
of their degrees, and enrolled at the time the funds are expended.
3. Preference will be determined, in descending order of importance, as follows:
a. Conferences where students present papers as sole or senior authors, and where
papers will be printed in full as part of the conference proceedings.
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b. Conferences where students are junior authors, and where papers will be printed
in full as part of the conference proceedings.
c. Conferences where students present papers as sole or senior authors, and where
papers will be printed only as abstracts.
d. Conferences where students are junior authors, and where papers will be printed
as abstracts. In all cases each student must present a scholarly paper in order to
be considered for travel funds.
4. To apply, the student's major professor should submit a letter of application, which
clearly indicates (a) one of the above circumstances outlined in 3 above, including
the date of the presentation, (b) evidence of the paper's acceptance, (c) a budget
covering transportation and per diem, and (d) the source of commitment for the
matching funds. Applications must be cosigned by departmental chairs.
Application forms are available online on the graduate school webpage.
5. Students selected for support will receive an award letter and will be expected to
comply with the rules of the allocation. In all cases, the funds will be administered
on a cost-reimbursement basis.
H. Graduate Student Association Support of Student Travel
The Graduate Student Association provides graduate students with a one-time travel grant to
attend professional conferences, workshops, or to complete thesis research. These grants are
designed to reward excellence in scholarship and to increase the visibility of the University of
North Carolina Wilmington’s graduate programs within the academic community. Funds are
limited, and all guidelines are strictly enforced. In the event of limited funds, preference will
be given to students beyond their first year of graduate study who has not received a travel
grant from either the Graduate School or the Graduate Student Association. Students are only
eligible to receive one travel grant per year, and, if a student has received a grant for any
travel from the Graduate School, he or she is automatically ineligible for this travel grant
award. Online forms are available at: http://student.uncw.edu/org/gsa/forms.htm.
I. Research Grants and Fellowships
UNCW has many scholarships and other research funding opportunities:
• Sylvia & B.D. Schwartz Scholarship
This university-wide scholarship provides an award equal to the current in-state tuition and
fees for one year. The criteria for the award are: 1) you must be enrolled for at least nine (9)
credits during both fall and spring semesters, 2) you must have achieved scores of at least 550
on either the verbal or quantitative section of the Graduate Record Examination and at least
450 on the other section, and 3) you must have attained an undergraduate Grade Point
Average of at least 3.25 for at least 60 hours of course work. The Department of Earth and
Ocean Sciences may submit one name for consideration of this award, annually in early
spring. See the departmental Graduate Coordinator for additional information.
• Champion McDowell Davis Scholarship
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Full-time graduate students with at least two full semesters of work to complete before
graduation are eligible for the Champion McDowell Davis Scholarship. The Department of
Earth and Ocean Sciences may nominate individuals for this award annually, in mid-spring.
The scholarship covers in-state tuition and fees for one year.
• Graduate School Summer Research Stipend
The Dean of the Graduate School annually awards several stipends for summer research
during a period when your teaching or research assistantships may lapse. The awards are
competitive and require a research proposal. The current value of this award is $1,000.
• Dr. Ralph W. Brauer Fellowship
The Brauer Fellowship was established to assist currently enrolled degree-seeking graduate
students in supporting extraordinary projects and activities generally not funded through other
means by the university. For more information see the purpose, guidelines, and application
form: http://www.uncw.edu/grad%5Finfo/UniversityofNorthCarolinaWilmington-
Scholarships.htm. Applications are due at the beginning of October.
• Department of Earth and Ocean Science Research Grant
The EOS Research Grants awards funds for graduate student research. These grants can be
used to support any aspect of research, including field work and research-related travel,
analyses, thin-section preparation, equipment, and supplies. Individual grants are limited to a
maximum of $500.00. Applications are typically due in late January. Application forms are
available online on the departmental webpage.
• Victor Zullo Memorial Research Award
The Victor Zullo Memorial Research Award is a cash award that recognizes outstanding
achievement in research by a UNCW Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences student. The
selection is made by the department awards committee with nominations from faculty
advisors.
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VI. EOS DEPARTMENTAL PROCEDURES
The Earth and Ocean Sciences department office staff will provide information and assist
graduate students toward a successful course of study. Below are general procedures that
specifically affect graduate students. For additional information on general office procedures
check with office staff. If in doubt about anything consult the Graduate Coordinator.
A. Official Communication
The University of North Carolina Wilmington recognizes e-mail as an official method of
communication with students, staff and faculty. The UNCW e-mail address is the official
address for faculty, staff and students. Therefore, students must regularly (at least daily) read
their UNCW email. Students assume full responsibility for the decision to forward e-mail to
another account and any failure to receive e-mail does not constitute a defense for failure to
respond. While e-mail is an official method of communication, it is not the only official
method of communication and does not exclude alternate methods such as written or oral
communications. All members of the university community must maintain good e-mail
management habits and adhere to the standards of responsible use specified in the UNCW
Responsible Use of Electronic Resources Policy:
(http://uncw.edu/policies/documents/07.100_Resp_Use_of_Elec_Resources0807.pdf)
B. Telephone Service
There are no public telephones provided for student use. Therefore, if you receive a phone call
via the EOS department office then a message will be placed in your student's mailbox.
Students should regularly check their mailbox for messages and other information. Office
staff has neither the time nor responsibility for tracking down graduate students for a message.
C. Office Space
Each full-time graduate student, Teaching Assistant, or Research Assistant is provided office
space (pending availability) where materials may be stored and where students may study and
work. The Department Chair, in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator, makes office
assignments. Priority for office space is given for TAs since they are required to meet with
students. It is the student’s responsibility to keep their space clean, uncluttered, and be
respectful of the shared office spaces. Please report any problems to the Department Chair.
D. UNCW ID Card and Mail
The university requires every student to have a valid UNCW ID card. The library circulation
system also requires use of the UNCW ID card.
Mailboxes are provided in the departmental office for all fulltime students in the M.S.
Geoscience program. The department receives mail once daily. Mail leaves the departmental
office once daily. The university mail should be used for official university business only.
Personal mail can be sent at the post office in the University Center.
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E. Departmental Keys
All graduate students are provided electronic access (via your student ID) to the exterior doors
of DeLoach Hall and Osprey Hall and the Center for Marine Science if you are working in
these buildings. You will also be given a key for your assigned office space, and other rooms
as needed. Additional requests for keys are initiated in the EOS department office. Students
should consult with their advisor or Department Chair to determine the specific keys or
electronic door access that is needed. The Department Chair issues the appropriate request to
the Physical Plant to have keys made. The student will be notified when the keys are ready.
All keys must be returned to the department upon completion of the M.S. degree or
withdrawal from the University. The Center for Marine Science (CMS) keys are assigned in
the CMS front office.
F. Security and Safety
Graduate students are expected to assist the faculty in maintaining building security. It is the
responsibility of any graduate student who is working in a laboratory during off hours to leave
the room secure with lights off and doors locked. The outside building doors of DeLoach
Hall are electronically keyed (open with your UNCW ID card) and should never be propped
open. If you find a door propped open, please close it properly. Undergraduate students are
usually not permitted in the building on weekends unless under the direct supervision of a
faculty member or assigned access through the department office.
A graduate student should be prepared to deal with emergencies as effectively as possible. (l)
Locate fire extinguishers, fire blankets, exits, and emergency lights. (2) In any lab where you
will be teaching or working, locate the nearest first-aid kit, eyewash station, and shower. (3)
If a student is working in the building during off hours and an emergency occurs (fire,
chemical spills, injuries, etc.), call the university police at 911 or 962-2222 or
[email protected]; then notify your advisor. In the event of serious equipment malfunction,
please contact your advisor, the Graduate Coordinator or the Department Chair and take such
measures as are feasible until help arrives.
G. Clerical Support and Records
The departmental administrative assistants do NOT perform any clerical work for students.
The official student files are kept in the department office and are maintained by the
administrative assistants and the chair of the department. The Graduate Coordinator
maintains a digital archive of student records and forwards these to the department for
printing and saving in the student folders.
H. Use of Departmental Equipment
Most of the equipment in the research and teaching laboratories is university owned and is
usually managed by a faculty member for use in particular courses and research programs.
Often the equipment requires considerable skill and care to avoid damage that may be costly
to repair and which may render the item unusable while repairs are made. Graduate students,
therefore, should never use a piece of equipment without first requesting its use from the
faculty member in charge. If it is not clear which faculty member is in charge, consult your
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advisor and/or the Department Chair. Generally, such use will be granted if the item is not in
use and the responsible faculty member is convinced that the student knows how to use the
equipment properly and will give the item of equipment proper care during its use. There
may be times when equipment is in heavy use and will not be available, and there may be
certain items which faculty will not allow others to use. If a project is being planned that may
require department equipment, you should discuss the availability with your advisor. If there
is a lack of access to equipment, then there may be other alternatives to obtain the use of
necessary equipment or the project may have to be redesigned.
I. Departmental Seminars
The Earth and Ocean Sciences Department offers seminars by scientists and students. These
seminars are designed to provide intellectual stimulation for students and faculty, and all
graduate students are required to attend.
J. CMS Boat Use
Anyone operating a university vessel must have UNCW boat certification. Certification is
obtained by successfully completing of a university-sponsored short course in boat handling
and water safety. Other boating courses may be acceptable if approved by the UNCW Center
for Marine Science (CMS) boat safety officer. Consult the CMS website for more
information: http://uncw.edu/cms/
K. Rock Preparation and Thin Section Laboratory
Dr. David E. Blake is the laboratory director. The rock preparation and thin section
laboratory is housed in Room 107 of the Academic Support Building, located across the street
from the campus police station in the southeast corner of campus. Graduate students who
plan to use the laboratory must be certified by the director before operation of any equipment.
Failure to follow documented procedures may result in loss of user privileges.
The following laboratory procedures must be adhered to at all times.
• A sign-in sheet is located next to the laboratory entrance. All users must sign-in before and after
using the lab for any purpose, noting all equipment that was used. Any problems with equipment
or the lab during your visit must be reported immediately to the director.
• Safety equipment (safety goggles, ear guards, insulated gloves, and aprons) must be worn during
use of the equipment. You should not be under the influence of certain prescription drugs while
operating the equipment – if in doubt, check with your pharmacist.
• The wall-mounted exhaust fan must be operating during equipment use.
• Tools are for use on equipment in rock preparation lab; they should not be used for repairs elsewhere
or removed from the laboratory.
• Storage of rock samples in the laboratory may be arranged with the consent of the director.
• The laboratory must be kept clean at all times. This means working in specified areas, removing
samples from specified areas so that others may use the same equipment, cleaning and protecting
equipment as directed in the laboratory manual, wiping floors after saw or lap wheel use, returning
samples to assigned storage areas, and sweeping floors after laboratory use.
• Tobacco products of any type may not be used in the laboratory. Food should not be brought into or
consumed in the rock lab.
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L. Computer Laboratories
The Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences maintains computers and printers for use by
graduate students in DL 120 and DL209. Students must use an external flashdrive or their
space on the network Timmy server to save files. Never save files on the desktop/hard drive
and never alter the computer configuration. Students will lose computer access privilege if
they damage or alter any of the computing or printing equipment. If there are computer
problems, please report this to your advisor who will submit a ticket to TAC.
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VII. OTHER UNCW INFORMATION
A. University Parking
All students must obtain a parking decal in order to park on campus. Parking priority locations
may be available for graduate Teaching Assistants, but this varies from semester to semester.
See the UNCW Parking Office for more information.
B. William Madison Randall Library
a. Facilities
The William Madison Randall Library, located in the center of campus, is open over 98 hours
per week during the regular academic sessions. The library receives a large number of
geological serials. Current periodicals are arranged in alphabetical order on the shelves
located on the south side of the first floor. In addition, many full text journals are available
online. Previous issues, bound and unbound, are located in the stacks in the northwest corner
of the first floor. Students and faculty members are allowed to check out periodicals for a
period of up to two days. In addition, copy facilities are available on the first floor at a
nominal cost.
It is important for each graduate student to learn the organization of the Library and access to
its various components as geology publications are located in several different collections.
An important starting point is the Reference Desk where you can read the Guide to
Collections and Services and its complement Geology, a Guide to Research or contact Mr.
Peter Fritzler ([email protected]) the sciences librarian. In addition, online information
about geology resources can be found at:
http://library.uncw.edu/web/research/subjects/earthscience/index.html.
On-line Catalog (ROC). The Randall Library Online Catalog lists cataloged books, maps,
and audiovisual materials. Access to the catalog is through the Randall Library home page:
http://library.uncwil.edu. You can search in the catalog by subject, author, title, or keyword.
All cataloged materials are assigned specific Library of Congress subject headings. A list of
these subject headings can be found in the red volumes, or the microfiche edition, of Library
of Congress Subject Headings located in the catalog area of the Library.
b. Liaison Librarians
Liaison librarian services include more in-depth help finding information for your papers,
projects, thesis, or other research. One-On-One Help is a form that allows you to contact the
librarian in your subject area. They can assist you with accessing (and understanding) the
research databases, library catalog, and other resources to find articles and books for your
papers, and show you how to obtain resources that are not available in Randall Library. This
service is provided for students, faculty, and staff at UNCW.
For additional information online: http://library.uncw.edu/forms/one_on_one_help
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C. Insurance
a. Health Insurance
All UNCW students are required to have health insurance. Those unable to show proof of
existing coverage will automatically be enrolled in the university sponsored insurance plan.
Details are available on the Student Health Center website:
http://uncw.edu/healthservices/shc_studentins.html.
Beginning on August 1, 2013, Student Blue, underwritten by Blue Cross Blue Shield of North
Carolina (BCBSNC) became the insurance carrier for the Student Health Insurance Plan. The
plan protects students at home, at school, or while traveling, 24 hours a day, for the entire
year, including vacation periods. All students attending UNC Wilmington are eligible for
participation in this plan.
Application forms and information concerning coverage, exclusions, annual cost, and
enrollment dates can be obtained online at http://uncw.edu/healthservices/nextyear.htm or
from the Student Health Center on the second floor of Westside Hall. Please note that
services and fees for using the Student Health and Wellness Center are subject to change.
b. Liability Insurance
Graduate Teaching Assistants may take advantage of the Teachers' Liability Insurance offered
by the University of North Carolina system through The Travelers Insurance Company.
Forms are usually circulated at the beginning of the academic year.