Geophysics is an interdisciplinary science involving aspects of geology,
physics, engineering, mathematics and computing. It is used to investigate the
subsurface structure of the earth and is essential for mineral exploration
(including base metals, coal, oil, gas and groundwater), geotechnical and civil
engineering surveys. Although an introduction to aspects of geophysics is given
in the geology first-year program (see earth sciences), detailed studies in
geophysics begin at the third-year level to allow the necessary basics of
physics, mathematics, computing, and preferably geology, to be acquired.
The recommended course for a major in geophysics should include 12 points from
each of the core first-year subjects in earth sciences (ESC), mathematics (MTH)
and physics (PHS). At second year, the recommended course includes 16 points
from each of the core ESC, MTH and PHS subjects. At third year, 48 points of
geophysics subjects are available (including civil engineering electives),
constituting a double major in geophysics. Alternatively, 24 points of
geophysics subjects may be combined with 24 points from one of the ESC, MTH or
PHS third-year streams, or 36 points of GPS may be combined with 12 points from
one of the ESC, MTH or PHS third-year streams. Requirements for a professional
qualification in geophysics include third-year geophysics (together with the
requisite backgrounds in physics, mathematics, computing and preferably
geology), and an honours course in geophysics. A postgraduate masters and PhD
program is also available. For details of these courses and a recommended
program of studies, see the relevant entries for ´Earth sciences'.
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