Geophysics`

Geophysics

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Why choose Geophysics?

Geophysics is the application of the laws and techniques of physics to uncover knowledge about the earth’s dynamic processes and subsurface structure. Geophysicists ask questions such as: How do earthquakes and tsunamis form and can they be predicted? What are the properties of the Earth's gravitational and magnetic fields? How can seismic waves be used to study the Earth's interior and find natural resources?

During the course of your studies, much of your learning will occur while actively working on problems in class, during tutorials, and in the laboratory. This degree will provide you with a foundation in geology, geophysics, physics, and mathematics, to apply data acquisition methods and interpretation to geophysical exploration, global earth studies, and the study of relevant rock properties.

Career opportunities

Geologists have global career opportunities in resource industries (oil & gas and other energy resources, metals and other natural materials), engineering/environmental assessment firms, state geological surveys, research institutions, and more. A degree in geology can also be used as a stepping-stone to graduate studies or another professional degree such as business, law, or education.​

Courses in this program

  • General Chemistry (Change and Equilibrium)
  • General Chemistry (Structure and Bonding)
  • Mechanics
  • Applications of Geoscience
  • Principles of Geoscience

Detailed course information


​When I arrived at UCalgary as a new geophysics instructor in 2015, I was excited to see the strong support for experiential learning at this institution. In particular, the geophysics field school, which gives senior undergraduate geophysics students hands on experience with data collection and analysis, was visited by several members of the senior executive staff in the Faculty of Science. This clearly demonstrates the importance that is placed on connecting theory with practice at UCalgary.

Brandon Karchewski

PhD — Instructor, Geophysics


Admission requirements
I am currently a(n):
Required courses for admission
Additional admission details
Intake and application dates
Curriculum (education system)
Estimated competitive admission average
Description
Button
Approved courses and options
Approved courses and options notes

Use the Undergraduate Student Cost Estimator to calculate your expenses as a first-year student. Undergraduate Student Cost Estimator

See the best of UCalgary

See the best of UCalgary

Check out our student experience page to find out more about what life is like on campus or consider visiting campus for a tour led by one of our current students.

Learn about the student experience

More ways to get in touch

Ready to find out what campus is really like? Book a tour, join us at an event, or sign up for more information.


Join us for a future student event

Check our calendar to find out when we'll be in your area, or register for one of our upcoming online events.

Check events

Sign up for more information

Sign up for more information about UCalgary, receive important details and reminders, and find out when UCalgary is visiting your area.

Get more information

See the campus

Guided by a current student, you'll explore our classrooms, residences, athletic facilities, and more.

Book a tour

Contact us and get help

Need assistance? Learn how to get ahold of us and find answers to your questions.

Contact and help


Ready to take the next step?

Faculty of Science

Faculty of Science

Science B 149
2500 University Drive NW
Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4

403.220.8600