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PhD Programs @ COSM

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The Ph.D. programs in the College of Science and Mathematics at Georgia Southern University offer dynamic, interdisciplinary training that prepares students for advanced research and leadership in scientific fields. Our Environmental Science and Material Science programs stand out as collaborative efforts that bring together faculty expertise from across the entire college. These programs emphasize cross-disciplinary approaches to solving complex challenges, providing students with a rich academic environment and access to cutting-edge research. Whether you’re interested in exploring the natural world or developing the materials of the future, our Ph.D. offerings are designed to support your growth as an innovative and impactful scientist.

The College of Science and Mathematics is committed to supporting Ph.D. students through competitive Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs) and Graduate Research Assistantships (GRAs). These funding opportunities provide financial support in the form of stipends and tuition waivers, allowing students to focus on their academic and research goals. GTAs gain valuable experience through teaching and mentoring undergraduate students, while GRAs work alongside faculty on cutting-edge research projects. 

In addition to assistantship opportunities, eligible Ph.D. students may also be considered for the prestigious Georgia Southern Presidential Doctoral Fellows program. This competitive fellowship provides enhanced financial support to outstanding doctoral candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic promise and research potential. Presidential Doctoral Fellows receive additional funding beyond standard assistantships, helping to attract top-tier students and support their success throughout their doctoral journey. This program reflects Georgia Southern’s commitment to advancing high-impact research and fostering excellence in graduate education.

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Our PhD Programs

The College of Science & Mathematics offers two interdisciplinary Ph.D. programs that reflect the college’s commitment to impactful, research-driven graduate education. The Ph.D. in Environmental Science leverages COSM’s strengths in biology, geology, chemistry, and sustainability to address urgent ecological and environmental challenges. The Ph.D. in Material Science integrates chemistry, physics, and engineering to drive innovation in advanced materials and nanotechnology. These programs are further supported by the Institute for Coastal Plain Science and the Center for Advanced Materials Research—two COSM-led initiatives that promote collaborative, high-impact research. With access to cutting-edge facilities, dedicated faculty mentors, and robust assistantship opportunities, COSM Ph.D. students are prepared to become scientific leaders in both academia and industry.

Ph.D. in Environmental Science

Georgia Southern’s Ph.D. in Environmental Science is the only program of its kind in Georgia. This interdisciplinary degree prepares students to address complex environmental challenges through applied research in coastal and ecological systems. Students work closely with faculty across departments and conduct hands-on research in diverse natural laboratories—from coastal marshes to river systems—through the James H. Oliver Jr. Institute for Coastal Plain Science. With access to advanced tools in GIS, geospatial modeling, and field sampling, graduates are equipped to lead in areas such as environmental consulting, conservation, policy, and ecological research.

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PhD in Environmental Science

Ph.D. in Material Science

Georgia Southern’s Ph.D. in Materials Science offers an interdisciplinary approach to the design and development of advanced materials, including metals, polymers, composites, and biomaterials. Students work alongside faculty across physics, chemistry, engineering, and manufacturing to conduct hands-on research in cutting-edge labs and build solutions for real-world challenges in sustainability, healthcare, and technology. With strong industry partnerships and a focus on innovation, this program prepares graduates for impactful careers in R&D, academia, and advanced manufacturing.

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Institute for Coastal Plain Science

The Institute for Coastal Plain Science fosters interdisciplinary research focused on the unique ecosystems of the Southeastern Coastal Plain. From biodiversity and water quality to land-use change and conservation, the Institute connects faculty, students, and community partners to address critical environmental issues through impactful science.

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The logo of the James H. Oliver Institute for Coastal Plain Science.

Center for Advanced Materials Research

The Center for Advanced Materials Research serves as a hub for innovation in material development and characterization. Through collaborative research and state-of-the-art facilities, the Center supports breakthroughs in sustainable materials, nanotechnology, and applied sciences that address both academic and industrial challenges.

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Student researchers work with microscopic imagery on computer screens.