BSc Geophysics

The exciting nature of geophysics means you will have a diverse learning experience during your years with us.

The way you learn will depend on the courses you take, and the nature of the topics explored.

Your programme begins with a broad grounding of topics across Earth sciences and the environment.

You will:

• build on this foundation while exploring new and varied topics in the following years
• develop independence and confidence as you progress through your studies

You can find details for compulsory and option courses through the 'Programme Structure' link below.

Study pathways

We have three degree streams that specialise in geophysics:

• Geophysics
• Geophysics and Geology
• Geophysics and Meteorology

You do not need to apply to more than one geophysics degree. You can switch between the different geophysics degrees in your first year of study as you discover what you prefer.

Our geophysics degrees:

• have the same entry requirements
• share the same first year
• include the possibility to switch degrees until the end of Year 1

From Year 2, our geophysics degrees become more specialised for their different degree streams.

In addition:

• Many of the courses in your first and second years are also shared with our range of Earth science and environment degrees.
• Depending on the courses you take, it may be possible to switch between these degrees as you discover the subjects you like best.

You will then specialise in the subject of your choice in later years.

Explore all Earth and environmental sciences degrees

Please note that some later courses may not be available if you have not taken the necessary pre-requisite courses. You should discuss your interests with your Cohort Lead to ensure that these options are still available to you.

Switching degrees

Our Earth science and environment degrees provide opportunities to switch between degrees in your early years. To switch between the different geophysics degrees, you must decide by the end of Year 1.

However, some later courses may not be available if you have not taken the necessary pre-requisite courses. You should discuss your interests with your Cohort Lead to make sure that these options are still available to you.

Option courses

One of the best things about a Scottish undergraduate degree is the amount of electives (called 'option courses') you can study. For this degree programme, you have the opportunity to take option courses outside your degree in Year 2.

You can choose courses related to your degree. Or you can try something different and new to you.

Changes to teaching and learning

We are committed to offering high-quality education to all our students. However, there may be changes to course options and delivery. All decisions are made to make sure we can provide the highest standards for your educational experience.

We try to provide a wide range of optional courses to choose from but these can be changed or cancelled at short notice. Course capacity and timetabling constraints can limit places on optional courses. Therefore, we cannot guarantee every offer holder their top choice of optional courses.

Data innovation

A key feature of our programme is a focus on developing your skills around the generation and analysis of scientific data, aided by a range of computational techniques.

For example:

• advanced computing and data skills
• the ability to think in 3D and 4D
• model building from limited datasets
• the capability to integrate spatial and temporal information
• understanding processes on a range of scales
• extrapolating hypotheses based on small data sets
• extracting key information from complex sets of observations
• assessing large data sets and pattern recognition in complex data
• dealing with complex systems and uncertainties

Changes to field trips

Field course locations may change for various reasons, including the health and safety of our students, staff and communities, and to make sure we can maintain the highest standards for your educational experience.

Where suitable, fieldwork will be relocated or rescheduled. We will also look at alternative arrangements that will make sure you achieve the quality learning outcomes of your degree.

We will announce any changes as soon as possible.

Accessibility on field trips

We are committed to making our degree as accessible and inclusive as possible. If you cannot attend all trips or only some of them, we will provide alternatives with similar learning outcomes where necessary.

Year 1

All compulsory courses will be the same across our geophysics degrees.

We will introduce you to the foundations of:

• physics
• geophysics
• mathematics
• geology

We will help you develop an idea of what you might want to do as a geophysics graduate.

Year 2

You will advance your knowledge in:

• maths
• physics
• geology
• geophysics

You can also choose option courses from across the University. You can choose courses related to your degree, or you can try something different and new to you.

Year 3

Your coursework will become more focused on specialised aspects of your degree.

You will spend more time developing detailed skills.

We will cover:

• maths and computing
• measurements and modelling
• geophysical imaging and inversion
• geophysical field skills
• general research skills

Year 4

You will develop expert knowledge in a field of your choice.

You will continue to study courses that further your knowledge in geophysics

There will also be a focus on independent research.

You can either complete one major project or two smaller projects.

Your projects will involve independent research in your chosen specialist field. They can be inspired by your area of interest and explored through our world-class facilities and top scientists.

We will support you with individual supervision from an academic with experience in your chosen subject area.

Fieldwork

Through fieldwork, you will apply the skills you have learned during your studies. We will explore a specific site, which we often share with students from France and Germany. This gives you the opportunity to meet fellow peers and apply geophysics in the real world.

Our selected location will provide you with different geophysical and geological structures. Past trips have taken place across various sites in Europe.

You will use a range of geophysical techniques and equipment to study:

• gravity
• magnetics
• electromagnetism
• seismology

Year 5

Optional year

You can choose to add another year to this 4-year BSc degree to complete an integrated masters (MEarthPhys).

You have two options for your extra year:

• complete a professional placement in the year between the academic years 3 and 4, or
• add an extra research-focused year after completing the four years of your BSc.

You can decide to change from the BSc programme to either of the following:

• the MEarthPhys with Professional Placement programme up until your second year of study
• the MEarthPhys programme up until your fourth year of study

You can find more information under each degree:

• MEarthPhys Geophysics
• MEarthPhys Geophysics with Professional Placement

Programme structure

Find out more about the compulsory and optional courses in this degree programme.

To give you an idea of what you will study on this programme, we publish the latest available information. However, please note this may not be for your year of entry, but for a different academic year.

Programme structure (2024/25)

Our facilities

You will have access to the facilities across all University sites.

For example:

• libraries
• study spaces
• computing facilities
• social spaces
• leisure facilities

Depending on the option courses you choose, you may also study at various campus locations in Edinburgh.

King's Buildings campus

We host classes mostly in the School of GeoSciences, located at the University's King's Buildings campus. The King's Buildings (KB) is the main campus of the College of Science and Engineering.

The King's Buildings campus is around 15 minutes from central Edinburgh. It is easily accessible by bus. You can also cycle (10 minutes) or walk (25 minutes) from the central area.

The School of GeoSciences houses a wide range of cutting-edge facilities and services. We also host several collaborative centres of research excellence.

You will attend lectures, tutorials and practicals in our state-of-the-art theatres and classrooms.

We have a hands-on approach to learning, so you will also have access to our:

• specialist research facilities
• laboratories
• supercomputers
• field equipment

You will:

• have access to a range of high-tech facilities, letting you analyse various types of samples
• collect some of these samples during field excursions and for your independent research project
• conduct field measurements using various techniques used in Earth and environmental sciences
• have access to digital field equipment and UAV unoccupied aerial vehicles (drones) to conduct measurements using various techniques

You will also be given a dedicated undergraduate student learning space during your honours years. You can use this space for your independent work, to study with others and socialise with your peers.

Computing facilities

We also have advanced computing facilities, where you will be able to:

• perform advanced geographic information systems (GIS) analysis
• run cutting-edge meteorological and geophysical computer models
• make the most out of digital field mapping tools

Some science and technology companies are based on the campus. Many of these companies are based on College research. There are also start-ups located here to build connections with the College.

Take a virtual tour

You can take a closer look at the School of GeoSciences and explore our facilities and campus on the University's Virtual Visit site.

Take a virtual tour of the School of GeoSciences

Placements

There are no compulsory placements or internships as part of this degree but you will have many opportunities to gain professional experience. For example, we can help you with self-arranged internships or summer work placements

Geophysics with Professional Placement

If you are interested in a one-year placement, you can take an extra year of study. This is through our integrated masters: the MEarthPhys Geophysics with Professional Placement.

This five-year degree follows the structure of our BSc Geophysics degree. However, it has a one-year placement between academic Years 3 and 4. This extra year gives you professional experience with an external organisation.

You will have until the end of your second year of the BSc to decide if you want to change to the MEarthPhys Professional Placement degree.

MEarthPhys Geophysics with Professional Placement

Study abroad

There are exciting opportunities to study abroad as part of the University's exchange programmes.

Many of our students spend their third year abroad in Europe or other parts of the world. A year abroad can give you valuable academic and life skills.

In addition to University-wide exchanges, the School of GeoSciences has several subject-specific exchanges. We have partner universities in:

• Europe
• Canada
• New Zealand

Visit: what are my options for going abroad?

How will I learn?

The types of learning styles depend on the courses you choose and the nature of the topics explored.

Teaching can be through a mix of:

• lectures
• tutorials
• practical classes
• laboratory work
• workshops
• field trips and field courses
• project work

You will also:

• design and carry out your own research dissertation project in Year 4
• conduct an advanced, extensive research project in Year 5

Technical training

This degree has a hands-on approach to develop you with a range of practical skills.

We will balance:

• advanced data science
• programming, computing simulations and modelling
• use of specialist computer programmes
• laboratory experience in a range of analytical techniques
• observational and analytical skills in different field settings
• geographical information systems (GIS)

You will have access to our wide range of specialist research facilities, laboratories and field equipment.

We also have cutting-edge computational facilities. You can use them to visualise and explore the scientific data created in your advanced projects.

How will you support me?

We want to help you make the most of your studies with us.

You will have access to a range of resources and activities to support you during your studies. You will be assigned a Student Adviser for the duration of your degree, who will be your main contact if you have any questions related to academic or pastoral support.

The Student Adviser works closely with academics in your degree and the wider University support services. They can also help you with a wide range of administrative and practical issues, and can direct you to relevant resources or people.

Find out more about student support

You will also be assigned a Cohort Lead who will organise activities to help you get to know the other students on your degree.

They will also advise and support you on a range of topics including:

• course choices
• how to develop and improve your academic skills
• how to effectively use feedback
• advice on your future career opportunities

For your honours dissertation project and advanced project, you will also receive individual supervision and guidance from an academic with experience in your chosen subject area.

How will I be assessed?

We will assess you in various ways, depending on the courses you choose and the nature of the topics explored.

Assessment can be through a mix of:

• written or practical exams, including multiple-choice exercises
• laboratory reports and field project reports
• practical evaluation in the field or field notebooks
• coursework, such as essays
• posters
• individual or group projects and presentations

You may also be evaluated in computer programming exercises. Some senior honours courses and projects in Earth sciences and environment involve computational modelling elements.

For your independent research project in your final year, we will assess your presentation and scientific writing skills.

By studying this degree, a range of career opportunities are open to you.

For example, you could work in:

• environmental geophysics
• hydrogeology
• industrial management and administration
• renewable energy
• environmental protection
• natural hazards

The skills you develop with us are also highly transferable.

You can work in other sectors such as:

• engineering
• finance
• business
• consultancy
• government or civil service positions

Where do our graduates find employment?

Our graduates have gained employment in roles such as:

• geophysicist
• meteorologist
• waste resource manager
• hydrogeologist
• resource discovery
• environmental consultant
• sustainability consultant
• minerals surveyor
• energy resources manager

A sustainable future

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are a call for action to address the significant global challenges of our generation.

There are 17 overarching goals with a timeline set to 2030. Nearly all countries in the world have committed to this plan, with societies rapidly adjusting to meet these goals.

They address challenges such as:

• climate change
• environment
• water
• food inequality
• protecting our planet
• sustainable growth and energy supplies

Earth sciences and geophysics are at the heart of these efforts.

With this degree, you can work in fields that directly contribute to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

You will join one of the world's leading universities, playing a vital role in tackling the numerous complex climate challenges. Our internationally renowned research aims to mitigate climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.

Further study

Our programmes also prepare you for entry into relevant postgraduate degree programmes. A significant proportion of our students progress to further postgraduate study and research.

• MSc Applied Environmental Hydrogeology
• MSc GeoEnergy
• Explore School of GeoSciences postgraduate taught degrees
• Explore School of GeoSciences Masters by Research (MScR) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes
• Edinburgh Earth, Ecology and Environment Doctoral Training Partnership (E4 DTP)
• Satellite Data in Environmental Science – Centre for Doctoral Training (SENSE CDT)

Careers Service

We support you in recognising the many possibilities ahead.

Our award-winning Careers Service plays an essential part in your wider student experience. We also support you after graduation.

We provide:

• tailored advice
• individual guidance
• internships and networking opportunities (with employers from local organisations to top multinationals)
• access to the experience of our worldwide alumni network

We invest in your future beyond the end of your degree. Studying here is about laying the foundations for your future success. Whatever shape that takes.

Visit our Careers Service

Standard entry requirement

The standard entry requirement is:

• SQA Highers: ABBB by end of S5 or AAAB by end of S6. BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6.
• A Levels: AAA - ABB in one set of exams.
• IB: 34 points with 666 at HL - 32 points with 655 at HL.

Minimum entry requirement

The minimum entry requirement for widening access applicants is:

• SQA Highers: ABBB by end of S6. BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6.
• A Levels: ABB.
• IB: 32 points with 655 at HL.

More information for widening access applicants

Required subjects

The grades used to meet our entry requirements must include:

• SQA: Highers: Mathematics at A and Physics at B. Higher Applications of Mathematics is not accepted in place of Higher Mathematics. National 5s: English at C.
• A Levels: Mathematics at A and Physics at B. GCSEs: English at C or 4.
• IB: HL: Mathematics (Analysis and approaches only) at 6 and Physics at 5. SL: English at 5.

Find out more about entry requirements

International applicants

We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.

Entry requirements by country

Mature applicants

We welcome applications from mature students and accept a range of qualifications.

Mature applicant qualifications

(Revised 16 October 2024 to remove the option of second year entry.)

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency which will enable you to succeed in your studies..

SQA, GCSE and IB

For SQA, GCSE and IB students, unless a higher level is specified in the stated entry requirements, a pass is required in English at the following grades or higher:

• SQA National 5 at C
• GCSE at C or 4
• Level 2 Certificate at C
• IB Standard Level at 5 (English ab initio is not accepted for entry)

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 92 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced (CAE) / C2 Proficiency (CPE): total 176 with at least 162 in each component.
• Trinity ISE: ISE II with distinctions in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 65 with at least 54 in each component. We do not accept PTE Academic Online.
• Oxford ELLT: 7 overall with at least 5 in each component.*

We also accept a wider range of international qualifications and tests.

Unless you are a national of a majority English speaking country, your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start of the month in which the degree you are applying to study begins. If you are using an IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL, Oxford ELLT, or Trinity ISE test, it must be no more than two years old on the first of the month in which the degree begins, regardless of your nationality.

English language requirements

(*Revised 24 May 2024 to change PTE Academic requirement from total 62 with at least 54 in each component, and to clarify that we do not accept PTE Academic online. Revised 29 August 2024 to add Oxford ELLT requirements.)

This information is part of a government initiative to enhance the material that higher education institutions provide about their degree programmes.

It is one of many sources of information which will enable you to make an informed decision on what and where to study.

Please note that some programmes do not have Discover Uni data available.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for BSc Geophysics

Additional costs

The School of GeoSciences does not charge extra fees for compulsory field trips or field courses.

Costs of travel, accommodation and general upkeep on compulsory field trips are covered by the programme, thanks to the continued support of our generous alumni community.

However you are responsible for any incidental/personal expenses. This may include suitable outdoor clothing and footwear.

Excursions as part of optional courses have extra fees, which vary depending on the nature of the field trip.

Dissertation costs

There may be some costs associated with your dissertation research project, including field costs. You can design your dissertation project to reduce costs.

The School of GeoSciences also provides a £200 allowance for using facilities to support your dissertation project.

Funding

For more information on how much it will cost to study with us and the financial support available see our fees and funding information.

Fees and funding

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