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Introducing BSc Geophysics and Meteorology
The exciting nature of geophysics and meteorology means you will have a diverse learning experience during your years with us.
The way you learn will depend on the courses you take, and 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 below.
Study pathways
We have three degree streams that specialise in geophysics:
You do not need to apply to more than one geophysics degree. You can switch between the different geophysics degrees in your first year of study as you discover the subjects you prefer.
Our geophysics degrees:
- have the same entry requirements
- share the same first year
- include the possibility to switch degrees until the end of Year 1
From Year 2, our geophysics degrees change 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 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 prefer.
You will then specialise in the subject of your choice in later years.
Explore all Earth and environmental sciences degrees
Please note that some later courses may not be available if you have not taken the necessary pre-requisite courses. You should discuss your interests with your Cohort Lead to ensure that these options are still available to you.
Switching degrees
Our Earth science and environment degrees provide opportunities to switch between degrees in your early years.
To switch between the different geophysics degrees, you must decide by the end of Year 1.
Option courses
One of the best things about a Scottish undergraduate degree is the amount of electives (called 'option courses') you can study. You have the opportunity to take a significant number of courses outside your degree in Years 1 and 2.
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, there may be changes to course options and delivery. All decisions are made to make sure we can provide the highest standards for your educational experience.
We try to provide a wide range of optional courses to choose from but these can be changed or cancelled at short notice. Course capacity and timetabling constraints can limit places on optional courses. Therefore, we cannot guarantee every offer holder their top choice of optional courses.
Data innovation
A key feature of our programme is a strong focus on developing your skills around the generation and analysis of scientific data, through a wide range of computational techniques.
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
An extraordinary reputation
We are one of the largest and most successful groupings of geographers, Earth and environmental scientists in the UK, many of whom are world experts in their field.
- We have pioneered research proving human-caused greenhouse gases are warming our planet, which helped underpin the 2015 Paris Agreement.
- We are working with major space agencies to monitor the environment using satellite data.
- We are 22nd in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
- We are ranked in the world's top 50 universities for natural sciences subjects, and 4th in the UK. Across Earth and marine sciences, environmental sciences, geology, geography and geophysics, we are ranked top 10 in the UK (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024).
Our staff will include the latest research in your teaching, and share our discoveries with you.
Video: Earth sciences and environment
Life-changing field trips
Field trips are at the heart of this programme.
We know that getting out in the world is essential for understanding how it works.
We will take you beyond the classroom so that you can apply your learning to real-life situations.
Our field courses and day excursions are challenging and fun. Often, they will provide some of your most memorable moments.
For example, you could be:
mapping the subsurface of meteorite impacts and volcanic craters
on a windswept island using instruments to study weather systems
- exploring the geology of rocks found under the North Sea and comparing with offshore geophysical data
- travelling abroad and working with international peers to conduct gravity and seismic surveys
What do you do on a field trip?
Our hands-on approach to learning helps build your confidence and practical experience. It also gives you field skills valued by employers.
Our network of leading experts in environmental geoscience will take part in these excursions.
Your training leads to the opportunity to conduct your independent research project. An experienced academic will supervise and support you through your work.
Field experiences help create a sense of community in your cohort. You will take part in a dynamic learning experience through peer learning where knowledge, ideas, and discoveries thrive.
Working on multidisciplinary problems with your peers prepares you for life after university. Teamwork and collaborative solutions are important for solving the environmental challenges we face.
Our trips also help you to experience working with different types of field equipment, which will help you develop practical skills. We have a range of tools and high-tech equipment to take field measurements such as:
- Unoccupied Aerial Vehicles (UAV) - also called 'drones'
- digital mapping tools
- geophysical instruments to acquire electrical resistivity and magnetic data
- geophysical instruments to conduct seismic surveys
The locations and experiences of each trip will vary. We want you to gain a broad understanding of how the world works. Our goal is to reduce our carbon footprint while giving you the best training opportunities.
Our compulsory field trips or field courses are free, including travel and accommodation. To ensure our degrees are accessible and inclusive, we offer alternative learning experiences where necessary.
Edinburgh is your ideal base
Edinburgh is ranked 2nd in the UK and 16th in the world in the QS Best Student Cities 2024. Our vibrant capital is an irresistible blend of history and modern city life.
Edinburgh is not only a fantastic city to live in; it is also the perfect location to study geography and the Earth sciences. Did you know that Edinburgh is the 'birthplace' of modern geology and Earth sciences?
An ancient volcano known as 'Arthur's Seat' forms part of a magnificent park in the middle of our city. Superb geological locations are right on our doorstep, providing you with world-class outdoor training grounds. Many of these sites are of scientific importance. For example, the world-famous "Hutton's Unconformity" at Siccar Point is just a short trip away.
We will help you make the most of our local surroundings throughout your studies.
Explore rugged coastlines, misty mountains, forest glens and sparkling freshwater lochs.
It is no surprise we are regularly voted one of the most desirable places to live in the world.
What is it really like to study with us?
No one knows what it is like to study here better than the students themselves.
Our students are sharing their experiences - from studying to living in Edinburgh and everything in between.
Get social with us: