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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
2025-09-01
Medium of studying
Duration
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Bachelors
Major
Geophysics
Area of study
Natural Science
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
Intakes
Program start dateApplication deadline
2025-09-01-
2024-09-01-
About Program

Program Overview


Durham University's Geophysics F665 program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of Earth processes and geophysical methods. Through a flexible degree structure, hands-on experience, and advanced modules, graduates develop skills in data analysis, modelling, and problem-solving, preparing them for careers in mineral exploration, environmental consultancy, and research.

Program Outline


🌎 Geophysics F665 - Durham University


📚 Degree Overview


Program Aims:

  • Equip students with the knowledge necessary to understand Earth processes and predict future behaviours.
  • Develop skills in data analysis and modelling to solve Earth Science problems.
  • Contribute to a sustainable future through monitoring natural hazards, resource detection, and computer modelling.

Program Description:

  • Flexible degree structure allows students to tailor their studies and specialize in areas of interest.
  • Combines fundamental Earth Science knowledge with advanced topics in geophysics.
  • Provides extensive hands-on experience through fieldwork, laboratory work, and research projects.
  • Offers opportunities for field trips, international placements, and year abroad study.

🧭 Outline


Year 1:

  • Focus on essential Earth Sciences: petrology, sedimentology, structural geology, and palaeontology.
  • Develop quantitative skills: mathematics and scientific computing.
  • Introductory courses in field studies, Earth materials, and environmental science.
  • Hands-on experience in data acquisition and analysis.

Year 2:

  • Deep dive into geophysical methods: exploration, modelling, and data analysis.
  • Fieldwork experience using geophysical instruments.
  • Advanced modules in structural geology, tectonics, and Earth processes.
  • Optional modules in various Earth Science specializations.

Year 3:

  • Independent research dissertation project under faculty supervision.
  • Advanced modules: earthquake sources, waves, Earth's structure and dynamics, geohazards, and climate change.
  • Optional modules in specialized areas: Western Alps field trip, environmental geochemistry, volcanology, tectonic processes, earth resources, polar environment, and more.

🧮 Assessment

  • Combination of coursework, practical assignments, laboratory reports, field reports, tests, and final examinations.
  • Dissertation project carries significant weight in final assessment.
  • Evaluation includes subject-specific knowledge, mathematical skills, scientific writing, data analysis, critical thinking, and project management.

🧑‍🏫 Teaching

  • Diverse teaching methods: lectures, practical classes, tutorials, seminars, independent study, and fieldwork.
  • Student-centered learning with emphasis on group work, active participation, and self-directed learning.
  • Experienced faculty with expertise in geophysics and related fields.
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities: laboratories, computing resources, and specialist equipment.

🚀 Careers

  • Graduates acquire highly transferable skills valued by employers in various industries.
  • Potential career paths: mineral exploration, petroleum companies, environmental consultancy, government agencies, academia, and research.
  • Excellent employment record: 91% of graduates employed or in further study within 15 months.
  • Average starting salary: £26,825.

📚 Other

  • Flexible pathways: standard three-year program or extended four-year program with placement or year abroad.
  • Renowned Earth Sciences department with top rankings and research excellence.
  • Modern facilities and industry-standard software.
  • Emphasis on real-world applications and industry relevance.
  • Strong focus on sustainability and addressing critical Earth Science challenges.
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