MEarthPhys Geophysics

The exciting nature of geophysics means you will have a diverse learning experience during your years with us.

What (and how) you learn will depend on the courses you take, and the nature of the topics explored.

Your programme begins with a broad grounding of topics across Earth sciences and the environment.

You will:

• build on this foundation while exploring new and varied topics in the following years
• develop independence and confidence as you progress through your studies

You can find details for compulsory and option courses through the 'Programme Structure' link.

MEarthPhys

The information on this page is for our 5-year Geophysics (MEarthPhys) degree.

It follows the 4-year BSc Geophysics degree until the end of Year 4. The degree then requires you to take an extra year of study.

This additional year enables you to deepen your knowledge, extend your skills, and become a specialist. You will complete an additional independent research project in Year 5.

Study pathways

We have three degree streams that specialise in geophysics:

• Geophysics
• Geophysics and Geology
• Geophysics and Meteorology

You do not need to apply to more than one geophysics degree when applying. You can switch between the different geophysics degrees in your first year of study as you discover the subjects you like best.

Our geophysics degrees:

• have the same entry requirements
• share the same first year
• include the possibility to switch degrees at the end of Year 1

From Year 2, our geophysics degrees diverge to become more specialised for their particular degree streams.

In addition:

• Many of the courses in your first and second years are also shared with our range of Earth science and environment degrees.
• Depending on the courses you take, it may be possible to switch between these degrees as you discover the subjects you like best.

You will then specialise in the subject of your choice in later years.

• Explore all Earth and environmental sciences degrees

Second year entry option

You have the opportunity to shorten the length of your studies by one full year.

This option may be for you if you know exactly what you want to do and are ready to study your chosen field right away. You can also fast track your career by graduating earlier.

However, during your first year, you will have fewer course options and flexibility.

But, you can:

• graduate with the BSc in three years, or
• graduate with an integrated masters (MEarthPhys) in four years, or
• graduate with the BSc, followed by a separate one-year postgraduate degree within four years

In your first year through this route, you will:

• join the cohort of students entering their second year of study (Year 2)
• take the same number of courses as your Year 2 peers, so there is no extra increase in your study workload
• have fewer option courses than your Year 2 peers. Instead, you will need to complete the compulsory courses of Year 1 and Year 2 within your first year

Please note: You must be suitably qualified if you want to shorten your studies. Make sure you view the entry requirements under 'Second Year Entry' below.

Switching degrees

Our Earth science and environment degrees provide opportunities to switch between degrees in your early years.

Please note:

• Some later courses may not be available if you have not taken the necessary pre-requisite courses.
• In order to switch between the different geophysics degrees, you must decide by the end of Year 1.

You should discuss your interests with your Cohort Lead to ensure that these options are still available to you.

Option courses

One of the most exciting things about a Scottish undergraduate degree is option courses. You have the opportunity to take a number of courses outside your degree.

You can choose courses related to your degree, or you can try something completely different and new to you.

Changes to teaching and learning

We are committed to offering high-quality education to all our students. However, please be advised that there may be changes to course options and delivery. All decisions are made to ensure we can provide the highest standards for your educational experience.

Optional courses can be subject to change or cancellation at short notice. In addition, places on optional courses can be limited due to course capacity and timetabling constraints. It may not be possible to guarantee every offer holder their top choice of optional courses.

Changes to field trips

Field course locations may change for a variety of reasons, including due to Covid-19. Where necessary, fieldwork will be relocated, rescheduled or alternative arrangements provided. Decisions will be made to safeguard the health and safety of our students, staff and community, and to ensure the highest standards of educational experience.

Accessibility on field trips

We are committed to making our degree as accessible and inclusive as possible. In the event that you cannot attend all trips or only some of them, we will provide alternatives with comparable learning outcomes where necessary.

The Earth sciences at Edinburgh are really comprehensive and offer many different options depending on your interest. I chose my degree because of the chance to study a wide range of material. During my degree, I have developed skills that I didn't realise I enjoyed, such as coding. And the fieldwork is a bonus as well!

David Fairweather, BSc Geophysics and Meteorology

Year 1

All compulsory courses will be the same across our geophysics degrees.

We will introduce you to the foundations of:

• geology
• geophysics
• mathematics
• physics

We will help you develop a strong sense of purpose and foster an idea of what you might want to do as a geophysics graduate.

Year 2

You will advance your knowledge in:

• geology
• geophysics
• mathematics
• physics

You can also choose option courses from a wide selection across the University. You can choose courses related to your degree. Or you can try something completely different and new to you.

Second year entry

If you have direct entry to Year 2, you will take a specially tailored set of courses in the first semester. But you will join the standard programme in the second semester.

Year 3

Your coursework will become more focused on specialised aspects of your degree.

You will spend more time developing detailed skills, and learning at the cutting edge of geophysics.

We will cover:

• maths and computing
• measurements and modelling
• geophysical imaging and inversion
• geophysical field skills
• general research skills

Year 4

You will develop expert knowledge in a field of your choice.

A significant focus will be on independent research.

You can either complete:

• one major project, or
• two smaller projects

Your project(s) will be an independent piece of research in your chosen specialist field. They can be inspired by your area of interest, aided by our world-class facilities and top scientists.

We will support you with individual supervision from an academic with experience in your chosen subject area.

Fieldwork

Through fieldwork, you will apply the skills you have learned during your studies. We will intensively explore a specific site, which we often share with students from France and Germany. This gives you the opportunity to meet fellow peers and apply geophysics in the real world.

Our selected location will provide you with a variety of fascinating geophysical and geological structures. Previous trips have taken place across various sites in Europe.

You will employ a wide range of geophysical techniques and equipment to study:

• gravity
• magnetics
• electromagnetism
• seismology

You will also continue to study courses that further your knowledge in geophysics.

Year 5

The primary focus will be designing and delivering a major independent research project on a topic of your choice. We will support you with individual supervision from an academic with experience in your chosen subject area.

This provides you with the opportunity to advance your skills and knowledge through the planning and execution of novel scientific research. You will further develop your understanding of how research is carried out by producing detailed work of original and high quality.

A number of past students have had their work published in peer-reviewed scientific literature or incorporated into broader publications.

You will also complete supporting research design and computing courses that help ensure your project is well-designed and achievable.

Programme structure

Find out more about the compulsory and optional courses in this degree programme.

To give you an idea of what you will study on this programme, we publish the latest available information. However, please note this may not be for your year of entry, but for a different academic year.

Programme structure (2023/24)

Our facilities

You will have access to the University's facilities across all University sites.

For example:

• laboratories
• libraries
• study spaces (some of which are open 24 hours)
• computing facilities
• social spaces
• leisure facilities

Depending on the option courses you choose, you may also study at various campus locations in Edinburgh.

King's Buildings campus

Most teaching occurs within the School of GeoSciences, located at the University's King's Buildings campus. The King's Buildings (KB) is the main campus of the College of Science and Engineering.

The King's Buildings campus is around 15 minutes from central Edinburgh. It is easily accessible by bus. You can also cycle (10 minutes) or walk (25 minutes) from the central area.

The School of GeoSciences houses a wide range of cutting-edge facilities and services. We also host several collaborative centres of research excellence.

You will attend lectures, tutorials and practicals in our state-of-the-art theatres and classrooms.

We embrace a hands-on approach to learning, so you will also have plenty of access to our specialist research facilities, laboratories, supercomputers and field equipment. And yes, we have drones!

You will:

• have access to a range of high-tech facilities, letting you analyse various types of samples
• collect some of these samples during field excursions and for your independent research project
• conduct field measurements using various techniques used in Earth and environmental sciences
• have access to digital field equipment and UAV unoccupied aerial vehicles (drones) to conduct measurements using various techniques

You will also be given a dedicated undergraduate student learning space during your honours years. You can use this space for your independent work, to study with others and socialise with your peers.

• Visit the School of GeoSciences Research Facilities

Computing facilities

We also have advanced computing facilities, where you will be able to:

• perform advanced geographic information systems (GIS) analysis
• run cutting-edge meteorological and geophysical computer models
• make the most out of digital field mapping tools

College of Science and Engineering

The College and University's central units provide many essential services at the King's Buildings campus.

For example:

• library and study facilities
• catering outlets and shops
• our Careers Service

You can find out more about King's Buildings campus on the College of Science and Engineering website:

• Visit the College of Science and Engineering website

A cluster of science and technology companies are also located on the campus. Many of these companies are spin-out companies based on College research. There are also start-ups which have located here to build close ties with the College.

Take a virtual tour

You can take a closer look at the School of GeoSciences and explore our facilities and campus on the University's Virtual Visit site.

Discover our city's landmarks, our campuses, accommodation and get video tours - all in one place.

• Take a virtual tour of the School of GeoSciences

Placements

There are no compulsory placements or internships as part of this degree.

But, you do have opportunities for work-integrated learning during your studies. For example, we can help you with self-arranged internships or summer work placements.

Geophysics with Professional Placement

If you are interested in a one-year placement, you can choose our integrated masters: the MEarthPhys Geophysics with Professional Placement.

This five-year degree follows our BSc Geophysics degree. However, it has the addition of a one-year placement between academic Years 3 and 4. This additional year gives you valuable professional experience with an external organisation.

You don't need to worry about making this choice yet. If you think you might want to change to the MEarthPhys Professional Placement degree, you will have until the end of your second year of study to decide.

• MEarthPhys Geophysics with Professional Placement

Study abroad

There are exciting opportunities to study abroad as part of the University's exchange programmes.

Many of our students spend their third year in Europe or further afield. A year abroad can give you invaluable academic and life skills.

In addition to University-wide exchanges, the School of GeoSciences has several subject-specific exchanges. We have partner universities in:

• Europe
• Canada
• New Zealand

Visit: What are my options for going abroad?

How will I learn?

You will learn from a wide range of experienced academics at the forefront of their field. Our research-led, industry-informed teaching incorporates the latest developments in your field. By sharing our discoveries with you, we keep your degree up-to-date, diverse, and exciting.

The types of learning styles depend on the courses you choose and the nature of the topics explored.

Teaching can be through a mix of:

• lectures
• tutorials
• practical classes
• laboratory work
• workshops
• field trips and field courses
• project work

You will also:

• design and execute your own research dissertation project in Year 4

• conduct an advanced, extensive research project in Year 5

You can find more information about teaching methods for individual courses by accessing them through the Programme Structure for this degree under 'What you will study'.

Technical training

This degree has a hands-on approach to develop you with a range of practical skills.

We will carefully balance:

• data science
• programming and computing simulations
• use of specialist computer programmes
• laboratory experience in a range of analytical techniques
• observational and analytical skills in different field settings
• geographical information systems (GIS)

You will have access to our wide range of specialist research facilities, laboratories and field equipment.

We also have cutting-edge computational facilities. They enable you to visualise and explore the scientific data created in your advanced projects.

How will you support me?

We want to help you make the most of your studies with us.

You will have access to a range of resources and activities to support you during your studies. You will be assigned a Student Adviser for the duration of your degree, who will be your main contact if you have any questions related to academic or pastoral support. The Student Adviser works closely with academics in your degree, as well as with wider University support services. They are also able to help you with a wide range of administrative and practical issues, and they can direct you to relevant resources or people.

• Find out more about student support

You will also be assigned a Cohort Lead who will organise activities to help you get to know the other students on your degree. They will also advise and support you on a range of topics, including course choices, how to develop and improve your academic skills, how to effectively use feedback and provide advice on your future career opportunities.

For your honours dissertation project and advanced project, you will also receive individual supervision and guidance from an academic with experience in your chosen subject area.

How will I be assessed?

We will assess you in various ways. The types of assessment depend on the courses you choose and the nature of the topics explored.

Assessment can be through a mix of:

• written or practical exams, including multiple-choice exercises
• laboratory reports and field project reports
• practical evaluation in the field or field notebooks
• coursework such as essays
• posters
• individual or group projects and presentations

You may also be evaluated in computer programming exercises. Some senior honours courses and projects in Earth sciences and environment involve computational modelling elements.

We will also assess your:

• presentation and scientific writing skills for your independent research project in Year 4
• advanced research project in Year 5. Your format may be a professional report or scientific paper, depending on your project.

You can find more information about assessment methods for individual courses by accessing them through the Programme Structure for this degree under 'What you will study'.

Our planet is rapidly approaching a critical state.

As a result, the demand for geophysicists and Earth scientists has never been greater.

With this degree, you will play a vital role in our transition into a more sustainable society.

We also want you to develop practical skills for future employers. Many of your learning activities simulate those that professionals perform in the real world.

Our programme equips you with sought-after data skills, computational analysis and quantitative skills. Demand is growing for these skills across a range of employment sectors.

Career opportunities

You could work in:

• environmental geophysics
• hydrogeology
• industrial management and administration
• renewable energy
• environmental protection
• natural hazards

The skills you develop with us are also highly transferable. You can work in other sectors such as:

• engineering
• finance
• business
• consultancy
• government or civil service positions

Where do our graduates find employment?

Our graduates have gained employment in roles such as:

• geophysicist
• meteorologist
• waste resource manager
• hydrogeologist
• resource discovery
• environmental consultant
• sustainability consultant
• minerals surveyor
• energy resources manager

A sustainable future

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are a call for action to address the significant global challenges of our generation.

There are 17 overarching goals with a timeline set to 2030. Nearly all countries in the world have committed to this plan, with societies rapidly adjusting to meet these goals.

They address challenges such as:

• climate change
• environment
• water
• food inequality
• protecting our planet
• sustainable growth and energy supplies

Earth sciences and geophysics are at the heart of these efforts.

With this degree, you can work in fields that directly contribute to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

Play a vital role in the climate crisis

As one of the world's leading universities, we play a vital role in tackling the numerous complex climate challenges. Our internationally renowned research aims to mitigate climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.

Read some of our stories:

• We are playing a vital role in the climate crisis
• We are helping decarbonise the energy sector
• We are leading data-driven research in space and satellites
• University of Edinburgh impact

Data innovation

A key feature of our programme is a strong focus on developing your skills around the generation and analysis of scientific data, aided by a wide range of computational techniques. Demand is growing for these data skills across a range of employment sectors.

Along with your subject-specific skills, you will develop valuable transferable skills.

For example:

• advanced computing and data skills
• the ability to think in 3D and 4D
• model building from limited datasets
• the capability to integrate spatial and temporal information
• understanding processes on a range of scales
• extrapolating hypotheses based on small data sets
• extracting key information from complex sets of observations
• assessing large data sets and pattern recognition in complex data
• dealing with complex systems and uncertainties

Networks

By studying with us, you'll join one of the largest and most successful groupings of Earth and environmental scientists in the UK.

This means you will have access to our wide range of research and industry networks. We have excellent relationships with many organisations and external practitioners. These range from local communities to government, industry, and academia.

Together, we help ensure this degree enables you to develop the competencies most prized by employers. Our links also provide you with valuable networking and potential employment opportunities.

All of this ensures your degree has real-world relevance.

Careers Service

We support you to recognise the wealth of possibilities ahead.

Our award-winning Careers Service plays an essential part in your wider student experience. We also support you after graduation.

We provide:

• tailored advice
• individual guidance
• internships and networking opportunities (with employers from local organisations to top multinationals)
• access to the experience of our worldwide alumni network

We invest in your future beyond the end of your degree. Studying here is about laying the foundations for your future success. Whatever shape that takes.

• Visit our Careers Service

Further study

Our programmes also prepare you for competitive entry into relevant postgraduate degree programmes. A significant proportion of our students progress to further postgraduate study and research.

• MSc Applied Environmental Hydrogeology
• MSc GeoEnergy
• Explore School of GeoSciences postgraduate taught degrees
• Explore School of GeoSciences Masters by Research (MScR) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes
• Edinburgh Earth, Ecology and Environment Doctoral Training Partnership (E4 DTP)
• Satellite Data in Environmental Science – Centre for Doctoral Training (SENSE)

Standard entry requirement

The standard entry requirement is:

• SQA Highers: ABBB by end of S5 or AAAB by end of S6. BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6.
• A Levels: AAA - ABB.
• IB: 34 points with 655 at HL - 32 points with 655 at HL.

Minimum entry requirement

The minimum entry requirement for widening access applicants is:

• SQA Highers: ABBB by end of S6. BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6.
• A Levels: ABB.
• IB: 32 points with 655 at HL.

More information for widening access applicants

Required subjects

The grades used to meet our entry requirements must include:

• SQA: 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.
• A Levels: Mathematics at A and Physics at B. GCSEs: English at C or 4.
• IB: HL: Mathematics (Analysis and approaches only) at 6 and Physics at 5. SL: English at 5.

Find out more about entry requirements

International applicants

We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.

Entry requirements by country

Mature applicants

We welcome applications from mature students and accept a range of qualifications.

Mature applicant qualifications

For direct entry to second year the standard requirements must be exceeded, including the following:

• SQA Advanced Highers: AAA to include Mathematics and Physics, and one of Biology, Chemistry, or Geography.
• A Levels: A*AA in one set of exams to include Mathematics at A* and Physics, and one of Biology, Chemistry, Geography, or Geology.
• IB: 38 points with 666 at HL to include Mathematics (Analysis and approaches only) and Physics, and one of Biology, Chemistry or Geography at 6.

Other entry pathways

Entry to many degrees in Science & Engineering is possible via other qualifications (eg HNC/D, Access, SWAP).

• Science & Engineering applications

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

SQA, GCSE and IB

For SQA, GCSE and IB students, unless a higher level is specified in the stated entry requirements, a pass is required in English at the following grades or higher:

• SQA National 5 at C
• GCSE at C or 4
• Level 2 Certificate at C
• IB Standard Level at 5 (English ab initio is not accepted for entry)

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 92 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced (CAE) / C2 Proficiency (CPE): total 176 with at least 162 in each component.
• Trinity ISE: ISE II with distinctions in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 62 with at least 54 in each component.

(Revised 29 August 2023 to remove PTE Academic Online)

We also accept a wider range of international qualifications and tests.

English language qualifications must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the degree you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL or Trinity ISE, in which case it must be no more than two years old.

English language requirements

This information is part of a government initiative to enhance the material that higher education institutions provide about their degree programmes.

It is one of many sources of information which will enable you to make an informed decision on what and where to study.

Please note that some programmes do not have Discover Uni data available.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for MEarthPhys Geophysics

Additional costs

The School of GeoSciences does not charge extra fees for compulsory field trips or field courses.

This degree involves a significant element of field study. We are proud to be able to support you as you learn practical and highly prized skills.

Costs of travel, accommodation and subsistence on compulsory field trips are covered by the programme, thanks to the continued support of our generous alumni community.

However:

• you are responsible for any incidental/personal expenses
• excursions as part of optional courses entail extra fees, which vary depending on the nature of the field trip

Dissertation costs

There may be some costs associated with your dissertation research project and advanced project, including field costs.

You can design your dissertation project to minimise costs. The School of GeoSciences also provides a £200 allowance for using facilities to support your dissertation project in Year 4, and again for your advanced research project in Year 5.

Funding

For more information on how much it will cost to study with us and the financial support available see our fees and funding information.

Fees and funding

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