BSc GEOPHYSICS
BSC GEOPHYSICS
What happens inside a volcano? How can we forecast earthquakes? Why do we experience extreme weather and can we control it?
Explore geophysics in the context of the entire Earth system. You’ll study the Earth’s many processes, from the seas and skies to the deep interior, and learn about the way they control our environment. You’ll have the choice of a significant range of modules thanks to our diverse expertise, with a particularly strong emphasis on geophysical hazards.
This is a highly desirable degree due to the varied skills you’ll develop. The subject can be applied in many different industrial, governmental and academic settings. And UEA is one of the best places to study it – in the most recent Research Excellence Framework we were ranked first in the UK for the impact of our world-leading research in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences (Times Higher REF2014 Analysis) and we have a global reputation for excellence in Environmental Sciences.
About
This three-year course will inspire a lifelong interest in, and understanding of, the way the Earth works. You’ll explore how the whole Earth system and its interactions control our environment. You’ll also develop an understanding of the issues that threaten our future.
Approximately one third of your time at UEA will be spent studying mathematical techniques and gaining the skills necessary to analyse the physical environment. You’ll develop a critical awareness of issues at the frontier of research, along with a comprehensive understanding of research methods and their limitations. You will learn self-direction and originality in applying knowledge, solving problems and conducting research.
You’ll get involved in a significant amount of fieldwork in many different geological environments. During your field course you’ll learn to use a variety of technological equipment and techniques – including seismic and gravity investigations, magnetic and electrical measurements, and ground-penetrating radar surveys.
Our geophysics degrees are run jointly by the School of Environmental Sciences and the School of Mathematics, and in collaboration with the School of Computing Sciences. So you’ll benefit from a broad choice of subject material, and have the chance to specialise in your field of interest to an advanced level. You can tailor your degree towards geological geophysics, geohazards, meteorology and climatology, or oceanography – or study a combination of them all.
When you graduate, you will be highly employable, with a wide range of skills that are highly prized by employers. Many of our graduates have gone on to work for local and multinational companies within sectors such as geophysical exploration and services, geotechnical engineering, risk analysis and environmental consultancy.
Our BSc Geophysics is ranked in the top 20 for Geology by 'The Complete University Guide 2022', and in the top 25 for Earth and Marine Sciences by 'The Guardian 2021'.

Ask a Student

UEA Award

HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS
- SHARE
- Facebook
- Twitter
- LinkedIn
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.Accreditation
This course is accredited by the Geological Society for the purpose of partially meeting the experience requirement for Chartered Geologist.
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/en/Education%20and%20Careers/Universities/Degree%20Accreditation

Ask a Student

UEA Award

HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS
Placement Year and Study Abroad
You could also choose the MSci Geophysics with a Year Abroad to spend your third studying geophysics overseas in Europe, Australasia or North America. Your time abroad is a great way to build contacts and show future employers your resilience and adaptability.
Or go for BSc Geophysics with a Year in Industry and spend a year in the workplace. It will not only give you first-hand knowledge of the way in which your chosen field operates, it will also greatly improve your chances of progressing within that sector thanks to the relevant work experience, valuable contacts and real-world insight you’ll gain

Ask a Student

UEA Award

HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS
After the Course
After graduating you could follow in the footsteps of past graduates and go into sectors such as water management, resource exploration, geotechnical engineering, risk analysis, environmental consultancy, hazard management or teaching.
Alternatively you could continue your studies with a taught masters degree such as the MSc in Environmental Science or a research degree such as a PhD.
To get your career off to the best start, our Careers Service run annual Environmental Science events. These include alumni-led presentations and workshops across a range of sectors, including industrial, governmental and academia.
Career destinations
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
-
Water Management
-
Resource Exploration
-
Geotechnical Engineering
-
Risk Analysis
-
Environmental Consultancy
-
Hazard Management

Ask a Student

UEA Award

HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS
Assessment for Year 1
At the end of each year you will be assessed on a combination of coursework, project and examination results. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose.
Your final year will include a research project, which will be assessed through your dissertation.
We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Assessment for Year 2
At the end of each year you will be assessed on a combination of coursework, project and examination results. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose.
Your final year will include a research project, which will be assessed through your dissertation.
We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Assessment for Year 3
At the end of each year you will be assessed on a combination of coursework, project and examination results. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose.
Your final year will include a research project, which will be assessed through your dissertation.
We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Assessment for Year 1
At the end of each year you will be assessed on a combination of coursework, project and examination results. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose.
Your final year will include a research project, which will be assessed through your dissertation.
We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.Modules in this range are core, which means they have to be passed and are not eligible for compensation. Students will select one of either ENV-5004B or ENV-5005K. Students must submit a request to the School for a place on the field courses.
Assessment for Year 2
At the end of each year you will be assessed on a combination of coursework, project and examination results. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose.
Your final year will include a research project, which will be assessed through your dissertation.
We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.Assessment for Year 3
At the end of each year you will be assessed on a combination of coursework, project and examination results. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose.
Your final year will include a research project, which will be assessed through your dissertation.
We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.Entry Requirements
A Levels
ABB including Mathematics or BBB including Mathematics with an A in the Extended Project. Science A-Levels must include a Pass in the practical elementBTEC
DDM in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability or Countryside Management, alongside grade B A-Level Mathematics.Scottish highers
AABBB including grade A in MathematicsScottish highers advanced
BCC including MathematicsIrish leaving certificate
3 subjects at H2 and 3 subjects at H3 including MathematicsAccess course
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in MathematicsEuropean Baccalaureate
75% overall including 70% in Mathematics.International Baccalaureate
32 points including HL 5 in Mathematics.GCSE offer
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
Additional entry requirements
Science A-levels must include a pass in the practical element.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes.
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for this course, our partner INTO UEA offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a foundation programme:
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering
International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences
Alternative Qualifications
UEA recognises that some students take a mixture of International Baccalaureate IB or International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme IBCP study rather than the full diploma, taking Higher levels in addition to A levels and/or BTEC qualifications. At UEA we do consider a combination of qualifications for entry, provided a minimum of three qualifications are taken at a higher Level. In addition some degree programmes require specific subjects at a higher level.
Students for whom english is a foreign language
We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including speaking, listening, reading and writing) at the following level:
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
We will also accept a number of other English language qualifications. Review our English Language Equivalences here.
INTO UEA also offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
Pre-sessional English at INTO UEA
English for University Study at INTO UEA
Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
Gap year
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
Intakes
This course is open to UK, EU and International applicants. The annual intake for this course is in September each year.

Ask a Student

UEA Award

HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
Information on tuition fees can be found here.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds.
The University of East Anglia offers a range of Scholarships; please click the link for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course related costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.

Ask a Student

UEA Award

HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS
How to Apply
Applications need to be made via the Universities Colleges and Admissions Services (UCAS), using the UCAS Apply option.
UCAS Apply is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time Undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom. It is made up of different sections that you need to complete. Your application does not have to be completed all at once. The application allows you to leave a section partially completed so you can return to it later and add to or edit any information you have entered. Once your application is complete, it is sent to UCAS so that they can process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Please complete our Online Enquiry Form to request a prospectus and to be kept up to date with news and events at the University.

Ask a Student

UEA Award

HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS

Ask a Student

UEA Award

HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS
Related Courses
Not quite right? Search for other courses below: