Course summary

If you are curious about how our planet works and want to help solve some of the biggest global challenges facing it then geophysics may be for you. What is geophysics? Geophysics has a significant impact on the welfare of society and our world. It is about understanding the Earth's systems interactions and complexities, exploring everything from liquid metal in its core to moving continents. We study the composition of the deep Earth to the rapidly changing composition of the atmosphere. We can monitor processes that result in catastrophic events like earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. Using a process called remote sensing we can gather vast amounts of data, often obtained through satellites, aircraft and drones. We can collect data from the edges of space to the centre of the Earth to understand, model and predict how it behaves. Using coding and building computer models helps us understand complex data and predict how the Earth will behave in the future. We are seeking ways to provide renewable sources of energy and finding materials and technologies that enable them. Geophysics is also about understanding the physics of environmental change. We can look for ways to mitigate the harmful impact of humans and repair damages of the past. Our understanding ranges from how atoms behave under immense pressures and temperatures deep within the Earth, to examining interactions between planetary bodies in our solar system and beyond. Understanding how the atmosphere and oceans interact allows us to predict the impact of human activities on the rapidly changing climate. We can benchmark our progress towards a net-zero future. The interdisciplinary and interconnected nature of geophysics defines much of what we do. It is why geophysics plays such an essential role in creating a more sustainable and equitable future. What is meteorology? Meteorology uses similar methods and techniques as geophysics to study atmospheric dynamics, climate change, and meteorological phenomena. There is a strong connection between geophysics and meteorology. Many of the Earth's processes can affect our atmosphere, climate and weather including gravity, heat transfer, ocean currents, and volcanic eruptions. Climate change is causing extreme weather and it is predicted these events will become even worse in the coming decades, causing significant challenges for both society and the environment. What will I learn? We will train you in fundamental physical principles and mathematical techniques of geophysics. Your training will be combined with an appreciation of atmospheric processes and the techniques used to study them. As a student in geophysics and meteorology, you will learn to apply your knowledge and skills to diverse fields. Our research-led, industry-informed teaching ensures your degree has real-world relevance and helps make you highly sought after by employers. We embrace a hands on approach to learning, so you can develop in-demand practical skills. Many of your activities simulate those that professionals perform in the real world. #Open to a world of possibilities We are one of the largest and most successful groups of Earth and environmental scientists and geographers in the UK. Many are world experts in their field. Our staff incorporate the latest research in your teaching, and share our discoveries.

• We have pioneered research proving human-caused greenhouse gasses are warming our planet, helping to underpin the 2015 Paris Agreement.

• We work with major space agencies to monitor the environment using satellite data.

• We are 16th in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2022.

• We are in the world's top 50 and the UK's top 10 universities for geophysics, natural sciences, environmental sciences, geology, earth and marine sciences (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021).

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