Geophysics

Overview
Our BSC Geophysics is designed for curious minds eager to explore the dynamic forces shaping our planet. Geophysics merges the power of physics, mathematics, and earth sciences, offering you a unique opportunity to make a real impact on our changing world.

Geophysics at UEA combines our strengths in solid earth geophysics, marine science, and atmospheric science. This programme explores questions such as: What happens inside a volcano? How can we forecast earthquakes and mitigate their impact? Why do we experience extreme weather? How can we make the transition to sustainable and secure energy? With a geophysics degree at UEA, you’ll explore geophysics in the context of the entire Earth system. You’ll study the Earth’s many processes, from the seas and skies to the deep interior, and learn about the ways they shape our environment. You’ll have the choice of a wide range of diverse modules, spanning from geophysical hazards to ocean system and geo-resources for a sustainable future.

Geophysics degree offers practical solutions to some of the most significant challenges facing our planet, such as environmental sustainability, resource exploration, and natural hazard assessment. At UEA, you’ll develop key geophysical skills through exciting fieldwork and interdisciplinary study. This degree will unlock a wide range of career paths, from working in environmental consulting and energy exploration to contributing to future-shaping research in academia. Geophysics graduates from UEA are highly sought after in industries. UEA is one of the best places to study geophysics – we're ranked 16th for Geophysics in the UK by “QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024”.

This three-year course will inspire a lifelong understanding of the way the Earth works. You’ll explore how the whole Earth system, and its interactions, shape our environment. You’ll engage in a significant amount of fieldwork where you’ll learn to use a variety of state-of-the-art geophysical instruments and software, including seismic, electrical and magnetic imaging tools, ground-penetrating radar, and advanced modelling techniques. You’ll also develop practical skills that are in high demand across industries. Check out this solar water pump start-up project, founded by UEA graduates.

At the School of Environmental Sciences, you’ll benefit from a broad choice of subject material offered by our experienced and passionate faculty members who are actively involved in ground-breaking research. You’ll have the chance to specialise in your field of interest to an advanced level. You can tailor your degree towards geological geophysics, geohazards, meteorology and climatology, or oceanography – or study a combination of them all. You can also learn about how to manage big data from techniques such as remote sensing, using advanced techniques including machine learning, and artificial intelligence (AI).

Disclaimer

Course details are subject to change. You should always confirm the details on the provider's website: www.uea.ac.uk

Our degree covers a wide range of topics from earthquakes, volcanos and water resources. In Year 1, you will be introduced to a range of compulsory topics which will provide the foundation to your studies. These modules include Understanding the Dynamic Planet, Global Environmental Challenges and Research and Field Skills. As your studies progress, you will have the opportunity to take optional modules such as Geodynamics: Earth’s Engine, Ocean Circulation, Climate Systems and Earthquake and Volcanic Hazards.