Geophysics

Durham University

Gain the knowledge you need to understand how the Earth works. With this BSc you will learn how Earth systems interact and how data analysis and modelling future behaviours can help solve Earth Science problems.,Understanding the physical processes that control the materials, structure and dynamics of our planet is key to predicting the Earth’s future behaviour and mitigating the global challenges faced by society. Geophysics is essential to creating a more sustainable future for humanity through monitoring natural hazard risks, detecting resources and computer modelling to predict future behaviour. Our flexible Geophysics degree, puts you in control, giving you both the fundamentals and increased specialisation as you progress through the degree, allowing you to choose a pathway of most interest to you. Combining academic excellence and cutting-edge research, the course will equip you with the tools needed for employment in a range of sectors, including mineral exploration and extraction industries, in petroleum exploration companies, and with environmental and hydro-geological industries. The advanced quantitative skills developed during this course can provide a strong base for securing employment outside geoscience, for example, in finance, insurance and banking. You may be able to transfer to the four-year MSci degree in Earth Sciences at the end of your second year. The fourth year combines a bespoke research project in your specialism, with advanced modules designed to integrate your Earth Science knowledge for vocational and/or research applications. You can also apply to add a placement year or a year abroad to your degree, increasing the course from three years to four.In the first year, you will gain a fundamental understanding of Earth Sciences, as well as developing university-level skills in Maths and Physics. Year 2 specialises in the geophysical methods associated with geophysical surveying, data analysis and mathematical modelling of Earth science processes. In Year 3, you will undertake a geophysical research dissertation and develop advanced knowledge in specialist geophysical topics of your choice with multiple residential field work opportunities.Course structureYear 1 modulesCore modules:Field Studies introduces techniques for description and interpretation of natural geological features. This module also covers mapping skills, and the observation, recording and processing techniques needed for fieldwork and imagery.Further Mathematics for Geoscientists ensures that you have the basic maths techniques needed to solve a range of numerical problems in the geosciences.Understanding Earth Sciences covers an introduction to the areas of petrology, sedimentology, structural geology and palaeontology and relates the processes to the plate tectonic cycle.Introductory Data Science introduces the fundamentals of data acquisition and analysis in a geoscientific context. You will learn how to apply computational tools to manipulate and visualise a range of scientific and geospatial data.Sustainability introduces global issues and concepts around sustainability, with an emphasis on aspects most relevant to Earth Sciences such as water, climate, energy and mineral resources, food resources, and natural hazards, and is thematically taught around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Optional modules:In recent years, optional modules have included: Earth MaterialsEnvironmental Earth ScienceYear 2 modulesCore modules:Geophysical Methods for Geoscientists introduces the main geophysical exploration methods and explains their application in understanding the geological structure of earth.Fieldwork (Geophysical) gives you hands-on experience of some widely used geophysical field methods used in geophysical surveys, in preparation for your dissertation project.