Geophysics

Bachelor of Science

(Faculty of Science)

Geophysics is the application of the laws and techniques of physics to uncover knowledge about the earth’s dynamic processes and subsurface structure. It explores phenomena such as earthquakes and tsunamis (“tidal waves”) to improve our understanding of the earth’s physical processes and our ability to predict re -occurrences. It also encompasses the study of gravity and the physical processes taking place in the deep interior of the earth, such as the flow of heat and the generation of the earth’s magnetic field, as well as physical processes occurring in the atmosphere and outer space, such as solar wind and “Northern Lights.” Geophysical knowledge has numerous implications not only for our own planet, but also in our investigation of the moon, other planets and their satellites, and the sun.

Geophysics can be divided into two broad categories: whole earth geophysics, and applied geophysics. Whole earth geophysics (or global geophysics) involves the study of physical processes spanning the entire earth such as those associated with plate tectonics, earthquakes and the earth’s magnetic field. Applied geophysics involves the application of geophysical principles and methods for a wide variety of purposes. These include the search for oil, gas and metallic mineral deposits, the investigation of subsurface structures and materials that have engineering implications, the study of near-surface effects that impact the environment and society, and more. Both categories overlap because they share many of the same principles and techniques, and studies from one branch of geophysics are applicable in the other.

General Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission applicants are required to present the appropriate high school subjects and a competitive average.

Application/Document Deadlines

Students must meet the competitive average.

Why Study Geophysics?

Rocking your world
Have you been amazed by the natural forces that come into play during a powerful earthquake or been shocked by the widespread destruction caused by tsunamis? Such awesome physical manifestations of the earth’s dynamic nature have inspired many scientists to study geophysics. Geophysicists develop scientific methods for understanding the earth and how it works, apply this knowledge to help locate underground natural resources that we depend on, predict future natural disasters, and even theorize about the physical make-up of other planets in our solar system.

World wonders
Successful geophysics students are curious about the world around them, particularly the physical processes underlying natural events such as earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, and the dynamic forces at work in these phenomena. They enjoy solving problems in mathematics, physics and geology, and are fascinated by large-scale earth processes and events that occur thousands of kilometres away or billions of years in the past. If you share these interests, the Geophysics program at the University of Calgary can offer you the world.

Work in the wild
Geophysics has numerous innovative applications and offers graduates a variety of interesting work environments combining the office with the laboratory and the outdoors. For example, geophysical methods have been used in environmental projects such as mapping contaminant plumes, in archaeological projects locating buried tombs, and in forensic investigations finding objects pertinent to public legal investigations. Geophysics students can look forward to growing career opportunities as new applications for geophysical science emerge in the field.

The Bachelor of Science in Geophysics is a four-year degree program characterized by a series of 11 course clusters that share a thematic emphasis. Studies include a foundation in geology, geophysics, physics, mathematics and chemistry, and geophysical fundamentals covering geophysical exploration, global studies, rock properties, and data acquisition methods.

What do I need to get in?

You’ll need to meet the admission requirements of the Faculty of Science.

What will I study in my first year?

The courses in the first year of the Geophysics program provide students with an introduction into physical and historical Geology and help you build a strong foundation in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics.

What will I study in later years?

In the second, third and fourth years of the Geophysics program you’ll take a number of fundamental Geophysics courses including global geophysics, exploration geophysics, mining geophysics, physical properties of rocks, geophysics field methods, gravity and magnetics, seismic theory and methods, geophysical data processing and geophysical interpretation. You will also take additional courses in Geology, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics and Computer Science. In addition to these core science courses you’ll select from a number of related geoscience, engineering and science options giving you the opportunity to prepare yourself for professional accreditation (with APEGGA for example, the Association of Professional Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists), as well as graduate schools or careers in academics or industry. Honours students complete a research project under the guidance of a faculty member. During your degree you are also expected to take a number of courses from outside your major field and are encouraged to take courses that will provide breadth and contribute to the interdisciplinary nature of your degree.

What can I do with my degree?

As a Geophysics graduate you’ll have a fundamental understanding of geophysical concepts, principles and methods in whole-earth subjects and rock physics, and be able to apply your knowledge to geophysical problems including those related to exploration and mining geophysics. Your comprehensive background in seismology, geomagnetism, gravity and geophysical data-processing methods will allow you to solve complex problems, and think critically and logically about geophysical concepts and inquiries. You may find employment in science, engineering or environmental companies or act as a private consultant, working on projects/studies involving infrastructure, water systems, environmental assessment, and even archaeological excavation. You may also perform geophysical research for oil-and-gas companies, conduct geological and geophysical surveys for government agencies, or work in private science institutions a researcher. Employment in public parks systems and museums are additional career options.

Additional Information

Department of Geoscience