Geophysics

Geophysics is one of the branches of Physics, which studies the physical processes and laws of solid Earth (Earth’s crust, Earth mantle and nucleus), oceans and other water massives and atmosphere. Geophysics is divided into fundamental (or theoretical) geophysics and exploratory (applied) geophysics. The main objective of fundamental Geophysics is to find regularities in the processes occurring on the Earth's surface and in its depths. The main goal of applied geophysics is to study the structure of the Earth in order to find and refine the structure of mineral deposits, oil and gas. The methods of applied geophysics include seismic, magnetics, gravity, electrical and electromagnetic methods.

Degree in Geophysics

Many technical universities provide separate undergraduate study programs in Geophysics. Applicants for these programs need to have excellent grades and some extra knowledge background in Physics, Geography and Mathematics - admission to these programs is usually highly competitive.

The first years of undergraduate degree in Geophysics is usually dedicated to basic core courses in Physics, Geology and Mathematics. Students also learn how to use specific equipment and work with data. The following years of education are dedicated to specific knowledge of the techniques of analysing the Earth. Students will also participate in fieldwork  activity. A degree can be completed by providing a final dissertation or/and by passing final exams.

Study programs in Geophysics

You can find several study programs in Geophysics by using our website, for example,  MA Geophysics in Aarhus University, Denmark,  BSc Environmental Geophysics with a year in North America, University of East Anglia, UK, or Geology and Geophysics in Yale University, USA. Some more programs can be found by using the Search button.