Geophysics

Geophysicists study the dynamics of the solid earth, the atmosphere, oceans, ice sheets and climate.

There is a high demand for graduate geophysicists from industry, with geophysicists being listed in three of the top five job categories in the UK government's Shortage Occupation List in 2023. Geophysics is a highly interdisciplinary degree that combines aspects of physics, mathematics, geology, chemistry and computer science to study the physical properties and processes of the Earth, atmospheres, ocean, ice sheets and other planets. The programme is fully accredited by the Geological Society of London.

Geophysics Degree

 

Prospectus:

Further enquiries:

Prof John Brodholt

How to apply

In their first two years all students study a common geophysics syllabus covering the fundamentals of global geophysics, geophysical instruments and fieldwork, laboratory rock and ice physics, seismology, physics of the earth's deep interior, weather, ice sheets and climate. Theoretical studies are integrated with a large element of illustrative practical work both in the laboratory and in the field. In the third and fourth years there is the opportunity to specialise in, for example, the environmental aspects of the subject.

Options will also be available in planetary science, such as Astrobiology, and space science, such as Solar and Magnetospheric Physics.

A modern approach to teaching is used with courses based around laboratory practicals utilising sophisticated research-level equipment, and around theory workshops. Fieldwork training is provided in both first and second years. Third year teaching has strong research-led components, including substantial independent research projects covering the key skills needed for modern geophysicists, and in the fourth year a major independent research project is taken.

The first three years of the BSc and MSci programmes will be the same. However, the additional fourth year of the MSci allows for a major individual research project and advanced options, providing extra depth and breadth of knowledge. We recommend you apply for an MSci initially, as this keeps more options open.

Year 1 BSc/MSci 

Core or compulsory modules

Term 1:

Term 2:

Optional modules:

No optional modules in Year 1

Fieldwork:

Year 2 BSc/MSci 

Core or compulsory modules

Term 1:

Term 2:

Optional modules:

Term 1:

Term 2:

Fieldwork:

Year 3 BSc/MSci 

Core or compulsory modules

Term 1:

  • GEOL0020 Field Geophysics (this 15 credit module is compulsory for MSci students. BSc students must take GEOL0079 instead.)
  • GEOL0029 Seismology I 
  • GEOL0079 Independent Field Geophysics Project (this 30 credit module is a compulsory for BSc students.) New module for the 25-26 academic year.

Term 2:

Optional modules:

See note below* 

Term 1:

Term 2:

Fieldwork:

  • Royal Greenwich Park, Greenwich, London, Part of GEOL0020 Field Geophysics (takes place in September preceding the start of Year 3)
  • South-East Spain (part of GEOL0023)

* Other optional modules are available from Mathematics, Physics and Engineering. Please check with the Geophysics Stream Director for approval. Please note you may NOT select PHAS0057 Physics of the Earth.

Year 4 MSci

MSci Co-ordinator: Prof. Ian Wood

The fourth year of the MSci allows for an individual research project and advanced options, providing extra depth and breadth of knowledge. We recommend you apply for an MSci initially, as this keeps more options open. To progress to year 4 of the MSci programme, you must have a 3rd year average of 60% or better and a nominal BSc award of an upper second, or better. Students who do not fulfil the required criteria to proceed at the end of the 3rd year may be considered for graduation with the award of a BSc Honours degree.

Compulsory modules MSci:

Term 1 & 2

Optional modules MSci:

Term 1:

    Term 2:

    Fieldwork:    

    Your Learning

    We use a mixture of lectures, practical classes, field courses, directed reading, problem-orientated learning, private study and tutorials to enable you to gain the theoretical knowledge and practical skills demanded by the programme, as well as to develop key transferable skills such as critical analysis, report writing, team working and organisational skills.

    Assessment

    You will be assessed by a combination of written examinations, practical examinations, coursework, independent project reports and an oral examination.

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    Resources:

    All Modules: See the list of all the different Modules at Earth Sciences UCL.

    Information for Current Students: student handbook, academic regulations, policies and procedures. Intranet access

    How to Apply: Everything you need to know about applying for a degree in Earth Sciences UCL

    Keep up to date with our latest activities and research spotlights.  Newsletters

    Contact Us:
    Email:es-admissions@ucl.ac.uk

    Undergraduate Tutor: penelope.i.r.wilson@ucl.ac.uk