Coordinator: Professor James Cull (School of Geosciences)
Geophysics involves the application of physics, mathematics and computer methods to the investigation and interpretation of the Earth's interior. In addition to subsurface mapping and remote sensing to assist with geological models, exploration targets and subsurface utilites can be located directly using a variety of techniques including gravity, magnetics, electromagnetic, and seismic profiles.
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.
Major sequence in geophysics (48 points):
Details of these units and a full list of related units are provided in the `Geosciences' entry in this section of the handbook.
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. 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.
At level three, 48 points of geophysics units are available (including civil engineering electives), constituting a double major in geophysics. Students intending to major in geophysics should take the four six-point units ESC3222, ESC3241, ESC3311 and ESC3322. 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 interested in the geoscience project option ESC3200 should obtain permission from either the third-year coordinator or head of school.
Students taking a single major (24 points at level three) in geophysics are
advised to combine this choice with 24 points of level-three units in one of
geosciences (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.
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.
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