Geophysics
The University of Edinburgh
UCAS Code: M7G6 | Master of Earth Physics - MEarthPhys
Entry requirements
A level
Required subjects: A Levels: Mathematics at A and Physics at B. GCSEs: English at C or 4.
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
34 points with 655 at HL - 32 points with 655 at HL. Required subjects: HL: Mathematics (from 2021, Mathematics: Analysis and approaches only) at 6 and Physics at 5. SL: English at 5.
Scottish Higher
AABB-ABBB by end of S5 or AAAB by end of S6. BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6. Required subjects: Highers: Mathematics at A and Physics at B. Higher Applications of Mathematics is not accepted in place of Higher Mathematics. National 5s: English at C.
UCAS Tariff
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About this course
If you have a curiosity about how our planet works, a love of the outdoors, and an aptitude for physics and maths, then geophysics may be the career for you.
Geophysics is the study of physical processes through the use of physics and mathematics - and applying this to our understanding of the Earth.
Join us as we explore our magnificent planet, from its hot core through to its crust and oceans, atmosphere and beyond.
**Why Geophysics?**
Geophysics has a significant impact on the welfare of society and our world.
In fact, exploration geophysics has helped us find the energy sources that have driven many of the social and economic advances over the last century.
Now, these techniques are increasingly being used to safeguard our natural environment.
For example:
* gravity surveys can tell us about mass losses from the ice sheets of Greenland and Antarctica
* these surveys can also identify changes in the water table in regions reliant on groundwater
* large scale global seismology has helped us to identify areas at risk from earthquakes and tsunami, saving lives
The use of Earth's natural resources is also evolving. You will:
* learn how the applications for natural resource exploration are shifting into new and innovative technologies
* understand these technologies, helping ensure the Earth's resources are used and disposed of more sustainably
* benefit from the research and expertise of our academics, many of whom are at the forefront of this change
**What will I learn?**
You will learn to understand our world, so you can help safeguard its future. You will explore the properties and forces, small and large, that act on planetary or even inter-planetary scales, including:
* the microscopic properties of minerals
* large scale forces such as gravity and magnetism
* the inner workings of the Earth
We will train you in the fundamental physical principles and mathematical techniques of geophysics. You will learn to apply these techniques to diverse fields, for example:
* monitoring the Earth's changing environment and climate
* mapping environmental pollution above and below ground
* measuring rock and soil properties prior to civil engineering work
* carbon capture, energy storage and management of water resources
* mineral exploration
* understanding the behaviour of the Earth's deep interior
* understanding how the Earth and other planets have formed and changed over their lifetime
**Why study in Edinburgh?**
By studying geophysics at the University of Edinburgh, you will:
* join one of the top-ranked universities in the world
* become part of an academic community in one of the leading geosciences departments in the UK
* enjoy access to a world of experience with our research and industry networks
* learn from leading geophysicists and Earth scientists at the forefront of their fields, undertaking world-leading research in a wide range of areas
By studying this degree, you can play a vital role in our transition into a more sustainable society.
Tuition fees
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The Uni
Central area campus
School of GeoSciences
What students say
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Geography, earth and environmental studies
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