Study geophysics

Geophysicists investigate the Earth's structure and the processes that shape our planet. We use physics, mathematics, geophysical data and advanced computer methods to "see" beneath the Earth's surface and understand how the Earth works. We study everything from the microscopic properties of minerals and rocks to large-scale surface processes. As a geophysicist, you can study natural resources, earthquakes, climate change and much more. 

Much like medical imaging allows doctors to look inside the human body, geophysical methods allow us to explore what lies underground. By analyzing waves, gravity, magnetic fields, and electrical signals, we can map geological structures that would otherwise remain hidden. Earthquakes also provide us with knowledge of the global Earth structure. Once structures in the subsurface are mapped by imaging methods, geophysicists can describe the processes that shaped these structures through the use of mathematical and numerical models.

Geophysics helps society address some of today's most important challenges, such as:

• Locating and recovering resources such as hydrocarbons, critical minerals needed for the green transition, and groundwater.
• Understanding geohazards such as earthquakes, tsunamis and landslides.
• Storing and monitoring CO₂ safely underground
• Supporting the planning of tunnels, bridges, offshore wind farms, and other infrastructure.
• Mapping large geological areas in order to increase our knowledge of the Earth's structure
• Understanding consequences of global warming on the Earth. 
• Investigating archaeological sites without excavation 

As the world faces climate change, growing energy demands, and increasing pressure on natural resources, geophysicists will play an increasingly important role in building a sustainable future.

The risk of water shortages several places on Earth means that we need to find more groundwater aquifers. Climate change contributes to an increased risk for permafrost thawing in Arctic regions, and geophysical methods are used for mapping and monitoring the thawing process. The continuous population growth on our planet also leads to an increased need for using geophysical methods for locating and developing natural resources so that a sustainable economy might be maintained. The population growth also makes us more susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis due to higher population density in vulnerable areas. Knowledge about natural disasters, and how we may protect ourselves from these, will therefore also be very important in the future.

A geophysics degree gives you a strong foundation in:

· Earth science

· Physics

· Mathematics

· Programming and data analysis

· Scientific problem-solving

As you progress through the programme, you can specialise in areas such as:

· Geophysical data acquisition and interpretation

· Development of new theory and/or new methods

· Earthquake and geohazard research

· Numerical and computational modelling

· Machine learning and artificial intelligence in geoscience

You will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience through fieldwork, data analysis, and research projects.

Through our extensive national and international network, you can spend part of your degree abroad and collaborate with students and researchers from around the world. You may also have opportunities to participate in field courses, conferences, seminars, and research projects throughout your studies. Click here to read more about exchange opportunities.

Geophysicists have always been in demand across many sector, including::

· The energy sector (hydrocarbons, hydropower, thermal, wind)

· Research (universities and research institutes)

· Teaching (mathematics, physics, earth science and IT) at high school and university levell

· The mining industry

· Engineering companies (construction of tunnels, bridges etc.).

· Public sector consultant work (research departments, government)

The analytical, quantitative, and programming skills you develop are highly transferable and valued by employers in many industries.

If you are interested in science, enjoy solving problems, and want to contribute to a more sustainable future, geophysics could be the right choice for you. Feel free to contact the department if you want to know more about what we have to offer. We look forward to hearing from you!