Geophysical Sciences, BSc

Course content

Your degree is designed around a combination of compulsory core modules and a choice of optional modules that allow you to tailor your study towards the topics that interest you most.

In your first year you'll study compulsory modules only, training you in the fundamental skills in geology, maths, physics, geophysics and computer programming that you will use throughout your degree. Students who don't have A-level Further or Pure Maths will also study a module 'Intermediate Mathematics for Environmental and Geophysical Scientists'. Students with this A-level study a discovery module (see 'Broadening' below).

In your second year compulsory modules train you in the key geophysics techniques used in resource exploration and the study of tectonic plates. You will also study advanced mathematical and computer programming needed to understand and process geophysical data. Optional modules allow you to specialise in topics from exploration geophysics, natural hazards or physics.

Your final year includes a project that allows you to do research with a member of staff on a topic in their area of expertise. In compulsory modules you will study the global structure and dynamics of our planet, and attend seminars from visiting researchers from around the world. Optional modules allow you to pursue interests in, for example, volcanic systems, or the petroleum and energy sector.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: AAB , including mathematics and physics.

  Offers exclude general studies.

  GCSE: English and Mathematics at grade C or above. Or an appropriate English language and Mathematics qualification.

  • Career opportunities

    Geophysics graduates are in demand among companies that value teamwork skills, independence, numeracy and scientific literacy.

    Your main strengths as a Leeds graduates will be the breadth and depth of your core knowledge and skills in the Earth Sciences. You will have the ability to combine quantitative and analytical skills with a good overview and understanding of geophysical and geological problems.

    Your employment prospects can be further enhanced by an MSc degree, and we offer a number of related, vocational MSc degrees in Leeds, with industry sponsored scholarships and other funds available, including funding only available to Leeds graduates.

    Our graduates enjoy rewarding career opportunities within the UK and around the world in the petroleum and mining industries, civil engineering or environmental consultancy. Our strong research tradition means that our graduates are also found working as researchers in government organisations and universities around the world.

    Read more about our Alumni Success Stories.

    Careers support

    The School of Earth and Environment is committed to enhancing employability and offers a range of initiatives to ensure our students receive the highest level of support throughout their studies. Read about careers and employability on the School website.

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    You can convert your 3-year degree into a 4-year study abroad degree by spending an additional year overseas, before returning to Leeds to complete your final year of study. You don't apply directly to this course, instead you can register your interest with us once you've enrolled on the 3-year degree.

    To be eligible for Study Abroad you'll need to maintain a good average in your assessments in years 1 and 2 and, for some destinations, you may have to show you have the necessary language skills. Read more about eligibility on the Study Abroad website.

    The Study Abroad Office and the School provide guidance to help you set up a study place at one of the University's partner institutions from around the world. Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

    You may also be interested in our integrated Masters, which includes a year studying in Australia, New Zealand, Canada or the USA. Read Geophysical Sciences (International) MGeol, BSc.

    You can convert your 3-year degree into a 4-year industrial degree by spending an additional year on an industrial placement, before returning to Leeds to complete your final year of study. This allows you to gain valuable hands-on experience, and earn a salary, before you complete the final year of your degree.

    You can choose this option in advance, by applying to Geophysical Sciences (Industrial) BSc. You can also start on this degree and register your interest in this exciting opportunity after you begin.

    The School has strong connections with industry and will help you through the search, application and interview process. You may end up working in or near Leeds, near your home, or perhaps overseas. The School will provide guidance and assistance throughout the process and will support you during your placement, liaising with your employer to ensure that your work is of value to your academic development.

    Students who choose the Year in Industry option frequently receive attractive offers of employment when they graduate. The employability benefits include opportunities to:

    Read more about Year in Industry on the School website.

  • Fieldwork

    Fieldwork will be an essential element of your degree, and is one of the most enjoyable and sociable parts of the course for students and staff alike. As a geophysics student at Leeds you will learn to plan and carry out geophysical surveys using a wide range of equipment and techniques, as well as the principles of geological data collection and mapping. Our programme includes compulsory residential field trips in every year, with a mix of UK and international destinations.

    Because we recognise the value of field experience the school heavily subsidises or covers the transport and accommodation costs for all compulsory taught fieldcourses and many optional field trips.

    Alumni profile

    'Fieldwork gives you a real sense that you're doing something relevant, and is a genuine boost to the theory you've studied.' Read more Adam Booth, BSc Geophysical Sciences

  • Related courses

    Geological Sciences BSc
    Geophysical Sciences (Industrial) BSc
    Geophysical Sciences (International) MGeophys, BSc