Geology-Physics and Mathematics

Program Description:

The Geology-Physics and Mathematics program at Brown University offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary curriculum designed to prepare students for advanced exploration and understanding of Earth's physical processes, mathematical theories, and scientific principles. This innovative program combines rigorous coursework in geology, physics, and mathematics, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills essential for tackling complex scientific challenges. Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on research, laboratory experiments, and field studies, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. The program emphasizes the development of a solid foundation in the physical sciences, alongside specialized training in geophysical methods, mathematical modeling, and data analysis. By integrating these disciplines, students are equipped to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, environmental consulting, natural resource management, and scientific instrumentation. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their academic path according to their interests and career goals. Collaboration with faculty members who are leaders in their fields provides students with mentorship and access to cutting-edge scientific tools and facilities. Graduates of the Geology-Physics and Mathematics program at Brown University are well-prepared to contribute to advances in understanding Earth's structure, processes, and resources, as well as addressing pressing environmental and scientific issues facing our planet today.

Recommended for students seeking a liberal education and interested in applying physical and mathematical principles toward an understanding of the processes affecting planets, Earth, and the environment and how they are modeled.  Some course requirements may be flexible based on consultation with concentration advisor.

Standard program for the Sc.B. degree

This program is recommended for students interested in graduate study and careers in geophysics, climate science and related fields.  Students will be prepared to understand and use models, make measurements, and use theories of the processes studied in these fields.  Some course requirements may be flexible based on consultation with concentration advisor.

Requirements

• Test Requirements: Applicants can satisfy our testing requirement in one of two ways: (1) Either the SAT and any two SAT Subject Tests, or (2) the ACT.  Applicants who take the redesigned SAT are not required to take the optional writing section.  For applicants who take the ACT, we strongly encourage, but do not require, the writing component.  Brown will accept test results for either the old or the new SAT.
• Official test results must be sent directly to Brown from either the College Board, which administers the SAT, or from the American College Testing Program, which administers the ACT.
• To have scores sent to Brown, you will need to provide our institutional code numbers:
  • For the SAT, Brown's code number is 3094
  • For the ACT, Brown's code number is 3800
• You are welcome to take advantage of the College Board's Score Choice option, but this may delay your scores being received by Brown---a delay may mean we will not read your application until we receive a full set of official test scores.
• Please note: we encourage students to have at least one set of scores in our office by the appropriate application deadline.
• An official transcript of your complete high school academic record must be sent to the Office of College Admission directly from each secondary school you have attended.
• We will accept transcripts submitted by your school(s) through online services, such as Docufide, Naviance, and the Common Application. If you are unable to submit through one of these online services arrange to have your materials sent directly to Brown University, Office of College Admission, Box 1876, Providence, RI 02912 or fax to 401.863.9300.
• Your midyear school report including final grades for fall courses and a list of your spring courses can be submitted online through the Common Application.
• Through the Common Application applicants can request school forms and recommendations via email from their guidance counselor and from two teachers who have taught them in major academic subjects (science, social studies, mathematics, foreign language, English).
• If you are considering a Bachelor of Science degree or the Program in Liberal Medical Education, at least one of your recommendations should come from a math or science teacher. In addition, we highly recommend that applicants to the PLME program submit results for at least one science SAT Subject Test.
• Please note: secondary school personnel do not need to wait until you have submitted your application before making their contributions. The online system will lead you through the process of supplying the name and email address of your counselor and teachers so that a user account can be created for them. They will then be able to submit forms on your behalf either electronically or via regular mail.
• Please note: applicants are neither required nor expected to provide additional materials, but the opportunity to do so is available to any candidate. Applicants are not expected to provide additional materials as part of the admission process.
• We prefer that you upload supplementary materials to your file after you receive your Brown account username. 
• We recommend that you do not send a collection of award certificates or similar materials.
• If you are accomplished in music or visual art, you may include additional supplements along with your application in the Common Application, through SlideRoom. You do not need to wait for your Brown account username to upload music or visual art materials to SlideRoom.
• Please note: SlideRoom only accepts one submission, if submitting two you will need to sign up with a second email account.
• Auditions and portfolio reviews are neither required nor reviewed for students interested in Theatre Arts & Performance Studies.
• If you have a YouTube video we recommend uploading the link via our self-service site once you receive your Brown account username.  

The Geology-Physics and Mathematics program at Brown University offers a comprehensive financial aid package to support eligible students throughout their undergraduate studies. Brown University is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, ensuring that talented individuals from diverse economic backgrounds can access its rigorous academic programs without undue financial burden. The university's financial aid policy is need-based, meaning that aid packages are customized based on a family's financial circumstances, tuition costs, and other relevant factors. Students from families with limited financial resources may receive full-tuition scholarships, which cover tuition fees entirely, along with stipends for living expenses, books, and other educational costs. Brown employs a need-blind admissions process for U.S. students, allowing applicants to compete for admission regardless of their financial situation. Once admitted, students are invited to apply for financial aid by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the CSS Profile, and other required documentation. For international students, Brown also provides need-based aid, although the availability of funds may be limited compared to domestic students. The university encourages early submission of financial aid applications to ensure timely review and maximum potential aid. In addition to need-based aid, Brown offers a range of scholarships, fellowships, and work opportunities to help students fund their studies. The Brown Promise program guarantees financial aid for families with an income below a certain threshold, effectively eliminating the need for loans in many cases. Furthermore, students can explore external funding sources including federal and state grants, external scholarships, and private loans, if necessary. The university's Office of Financial Aid provides personalized guidance to help students understand available options and plan their finances accordingly. For students pursuing the Geology-Physics and Mathematics program, such financial support measures aim to ensure that the pursuit of interdisciplinary scientific education is accessible to all qualified applicants, thereby fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community committed to research, innovation, and academic excellence.

The program in Geology-Physics and Mathematics at Brown University is a multidisciplinary academic offering that integrates the study of Earth's physical properties, geological processes, and advanced mathematical techniques. Designed for students interested in understanding the natural world through a comprehensive scientific lens, the program emphasizes the development of strong analytical and quantitative skills necessary for research and professional work in Earth sciences and related fields. Students enrolled in this program engage with courses that cover a broad spectrum of topics, including mineralogy, petrology, geophysics, structural geology, seismic imaging, environmental geology, as well as advanced mathematics such as calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, and statistical analysis. The curriculum is structured to foster an interdisciplinary approach, enabling students to apply mathematical models and physical principles to real-world geological problems.

During their studies, students have access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities, fieldwork opportunities, and computational resources, which support active learning and practical experience. The program encourages research projects, often in collaboration with faculty members recognized for their work in geosciences, physics, and mathematics. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in academia, scientific research, environmental consulting, resource exploration, and governmental agencies, or they can pursue further studies in graduate or professional schools. The program at Brown emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific communication skills, ensuring students are equipped to address complex challenges related to Earth's systems and other natural phenomena. Overall, the Geology-Physics and Mathematics program at Brown University offers a rigorous, well-rounded education that prepares students to contribute meaningfully to scientific understanding and technological advancements in Earth and physical sciences.