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 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 use geophysics to 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 will I learn? You'll study properties and forces that act on planetary or inter-planetary scale, such as the microscopic properties of minerals, large scale forces such as gravity and magnetism, and the inner workings of the Earth. We will train you in fundamental physical principles and mathematical techniques of geophysics and you will learn to apply these techniques to diverse fields including:

• monitoring the Earth's changing environment and climate

• mapping environmental pollution above and below ground

• measuring rock and soil properties before civil engineering work

• carbon capture, energy storage and management of water resources

• technological innovations to sustainably explore and manage the Earth's resources for society's needs

• understanding the behaviour of the Earth's deep interior

• understanding how the Earth and other planets have formed and changed over their lifetime

• 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).

• Get advice and guidance with our dedicated Careers Service.