BSc Geophysics
Entry requirements
A level: AAB including Mathematics or Further Mathematics plus one other science from Biology, Chemistry, Computer and Marine Science, Economics, Engineering, Life and Health Sciences, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Physics, Psychology or Statistics. IB: 35 with 665 in higher level subjects, including two science subjects from the list above.
About this course
BSc (Hons) Geophysics, a three-year undergraduate degree in Earth and Environmental Sciences combining physics, mathematics and geology. Core topics include Data Analysis, Research Methods, Fieldwork and Environmental Analysis. The course builds a foundation in Earth Sciences and quantitative methods before students tailor later studies towards areas of interest, and the final year centres on an independent research Dissertation worth one third of final-year marks. Year 1 covers the foundations through Field Studies, Understanding Earth Sciences, Earth Materials and Further Mathematics for Geoscientists, alongside Introductory Data Science for Geoscientists and Environment and Sustainability. Field Studies develops mapping and observation techniques for geological features, while Earth Minerals teaches identification of minerals and rocks. Year 2 concentrates on geophysical techniques and quantitative analysis, with compulsory modules including Geophysical Methods, Lithospheric Structure and Imaging, Environmental Geophysics, Earth Systems Modelling and Analysis and Research Skills for Geoscientists. Optional modules in this year have included Isotopes in Environmental and Climate Sciences and Igneous and Metamorphic Processes. Year 3 pairs the Dissertation with Geophysical Theory and Applications, while optional modules have covered Earth Structure and Dynamics, Volcanology and Magmatism, Environmental Geochemistry and Tectonic Processes and Renewable Geo-resources.
Modules
- Field Studies - 20 credits
- Further Mathematics for Geoscientists- 20 credits
- Understanding Earth Sciences - 20 credits
- Introductory Data Science for Geoscientists- 20 credits
- Earth Materials - 20 credits
- Environment and Sustainability - 20 credits
- Geophysical Methods - 20 credits
- Earth Systems Modelling and Analysis- 20 credits
- Research Skills for Geoscientists- 20 credits
- Lithospheric Structure and Imaging- 20 credits
- Environmental Geophysics- 20 credits
- Example optional modules
- Dissertation - 40 credits
- Geophysical Theory and Applications - 20 credits
- Example optional modules