Geophysics BSc

BSc Geophysics
  • Undergraduate
  • BSc

Geophysics

Apply mathematical and physical laws to better understand how our planet works.

Apply mathematical and physical laws to better understand how our planet works

Learn essential skills and apply your knowledge in real-world settings

Draw on different fields – from physics and chemistry, to mathematics and engineering

Course key facts

  • Qualification

    • BSc

  • Duration

    3 years

  • Start date

    October 2025

  • UCAS course code

    F662

  • Study mode

    Full-time

  • Fees

    • £9,250 per year Home

    • £43,300 per year Overseas

  • Delivered by

  • Location

    • South Kensington

  • Applications: places

    5 : 1 (2023)

Minimum entry standard

  • AAA (A-level)

  • 38 points (International Baccalaureate)

View full entry requirements

Course overview

By studying the Earth's internal core, crust, oceans, atmosphere, and the solar system, we can gain a better understanding of how our planet works.

This course explores how maths, physics and computer modelling can all be used to help further our knowledge of Earth processes.

You'll combine traditional observational and field skills with numerical and analytical fundamental science to understand the Earth more quantitatively.

You'll benefit from our internationally leading research programme, as well as lectures and case studies from business and academic leaders.

As the course progresses, you'll specialise in areas such as marine geophysics and geophysical techniques. You'll also develop your computing expertise towards using specialist electronic mapping packages.

Our courses place a strong emphasis on fieldwork, where you'll learn essential skills and apply your knowledge in real-world settings.

This includes the opportunity to build your familiarity with using technical equipment on a fieldwork trip to Cyprus.

Your final year culminates in the completion of a research project or dissertation, enabling you to explore an aspect of geophysics in greater detail.

Throughout your studies, you'll also develop transferable professional skills such as group working, problem-solving and data analysis.

Structure

This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum. However, this information is subject to change.

Find out more about potential course changes.

Please note: it may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts. For confirmation, please check with the relevant department.

You’ll take the following core modules.

You’ll also choose one optional modules.

 

Core modules

  • Dynamic Earth and Planets
  • Stratigraphy and Geomaterials
  • Programming for Geoscientists
  • Maths Methods 1
  • Deforming the Earth
  • Geology in the Field
  • Physical and Surface Processes
  • Volcanism and Internal Processes
  • Maths Methods 2

Optional modules

  • Chemistry for Geoscientists
  • Low Temperature Geochemistry

You’ll study the following core modules.

 

 

Core modules

  • Solar System Science
  • High-temperature Geochemistry
  • Maps and Structures
  • Pure and Applied Geophysics
  • Field Geophysics
  • Remote Sensing Earth and Planets
  • Maths for Scientists and Engineers
  • Mechanics and Waves
  • Seismology and Numerical Methods

You’ll study all core modules. 

You’ll also choose seven optional modules, two from Group A, one from Group B and four from Group C.

A maximum of three can be level 7 modules from Group C during this year. 

Core modules

  • Independent Project
  • I-Explore

Optional modules – Group A

  • Near-surface Seismic Imaging
  • Continental Tectonics
  • Climate
  • Advanced Remote Sensing

Optional modules – Group B

  • Practical Seismic Data Processing
  • Integrated Advanced Field Geology

Optional modules – Group C (Level 6)

  • Advanced Programming
  • Astrobiology
  • Earth Systems
  • Environmental Seminars
  • Geological and Coastal Engineering
  • Gravity, Magnetism and Orbital Dynamics
  • Hydrogeology and Fluid Flow
  • I-Explore
  • Mining Environmental Management
  • Ore Deposits
  • Planetary Surfaces
  • Tectonics of the Oceans

Optional modules – Group C (Level 7)

  • Advanced Exploration Geophysics
  • Applied Geomorphology
  • Collisions and Craters
  • Geodynamics
  • Geohazards
  • Geological Reactive Transport
  • Geophysical Inversion
  • Magmatic Processes and Products
  • Meteorites
  • Minerals Processing
  • Palaeobiology
  • Palaeoceanography
  • Planetary Chemistry
  • Planetary Physics

Professional accreditation

This degree is professionally accredited by the Geological Society of London.

With a professionally accredited degree, you’ll be able to demonstrate to employers that you have achieved an industry-recognised standard of competency. Professional accreditation also provides international recognition of your qualifications, which you can use to launch a career abroad.

Our BSc courses in Earth Science also reduce the number of years of post-graduation experience you need in order to register as a Chartered Geologist (CGeol). This is a highly respected qualification earned by professionals working in the geosciences industries, and can help you to enhance your career prospects and earning potential.

The current accreditation agreement started in 2023, and is due to be renewed in 2029.

Associateship

In addition to your degree, you’ll receive the Associateship of the Royal School of Mines (ARSM) upon completion of this course. This associateship is awarded by one of our historic constituent Colleges.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching and learning methods

  • Person at lectern giving speech
    Lectures
  • Four students sitting in a tutorial
    Tutorials
  • Field work
  • A group of people interacting
    Group exercises
  • Laboratory work

Balance of assessment

Key

  • Coursework
  • Practical
  • Examination

Year 1

  • 15% Coursework
  • 20% Practical
  • 65% Examination

Year 2

  • 10% Coursework
  • 15% Practical
  • 75% Examination

Year 3

  • 15% Coursework
  • 35% Practical
  • 50% Examination

Assessment methods

  • A person completing a written exam
    Written examinations
  • Person completing coursework
    Coursework
  • Reports
  • Poster project
    Poster presentations
  • Person giving seminar
    Seminars
  • Oral assessments

Testimonials

Entry requirements

We consider all applicants on an individual basis, welcoming students from all over the world.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

You can now submit your application via UCAS Hub. There you can add this course as one of your choices and track your application.

Submit your application via UCAS | F662

UCAS institution code: I50

Application deadlines – 29 January 2025 at 18.00 (UK time)

Tuition fees

Home fee

2025 entry

£9,250 per year

Overseas fee

2025 entry

£43,300 per year

How will studying at Imperial help my career?

91% Of Imperial Earth Science & Engineering graduates in work or further study*

  • 91% Of Imperial Earth Science & Engineering graduates in work or further study*
  • 9%

86% Of Imperial Earth Science & Engineering graduates in highly skilled work or further study*

  • 86% Of Imperial Earth Science & Engineering graduates in highly skilled work or further study*
  • 14%

*2020-21 graduate outcomes data, published by HESA in 2023

Globe

In today's global challenges, earth science graduates are needed more than ever.

Skills

Develop the essential core knowledge and skills for an earth sciences career.

Man with a rocket in his mind

Become a geologist, geochemist, or geophysicist with highly sought-after skills in space-related jobs.

Cap and degree

Our graduates often pursue further study in master's programs or doctoral research.

Man standing under a sign pointing different directions

Other potential career paths include geologists, risk consultants, geophysicists, consultants and research assistants.

Course data

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Read our terms and conditions

You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.

Programme specifications