Coordinator: Professor James Cull (School of Geosciences)
Geophysics is an interdisciplinary science involving aspects of geology,
physics, engineering, mathematics and computing. It is used to investigate the
sub-surface 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 program at level one (see the 'Geosciences' entry), detailed
studies in geophysics begin at the level three 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 level-one units in earth sciences (ESC), mathematics (MTH) and
physics (PHS). At level two, the recommended course includes 12 points from
each of the core ESC, MTH and PHS units. At level three, 48 points of
geophysics units are available (including civil engineering electives),
constituting a double major in geophysics. The prerequisites for geophysics at
level three are any 12-point sequence in level-two geoscience, physics, applied
mathematics, engineering or computer science, or with the permission of head of
school.
Students intending to major in geophysics should take the four six-point units
GPS3221 (Geophysical methods I), GPS3241 (Basin mapping), GPS3212 (Global
dynamics and crustal evolution) and GPS3232 (Geophysical methods II). One or
more six-point units from related physics or mathematics level-three electives
may be taken as substitutes subject to approval from the coordinator.
Students taking a single major (24 points) in geophysics are advised to combine
this choice with 24 points of level-three units in one of geology (ESC),
mathematics (MTH) or physics (PHS). Students taking 36 points of geophysics
units are advised to combine this choice with 12 points from either the ESC,
MTH or PHS streams at level three.
Students interested in the geoscience project option ESC3200 should obtain
permission from either the third-year coordinator or head of school.
Requirements for a professional qualification in geophysics include geophysics
at level three (together with the requisite backgrounds in physics,
mathematics, computing and preferably geology) and an honours course in
geophysics. Students intending to continue on to honours-level geophysics
should consult the geophysics coordinator when selecting units at level three.
A postgraduate masters and PhD program is also available.
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