Geophysics Option
What is Geophysics?
Geophysics is the study of Earth’s physical processes. There are two main categories of geophysics: Exploration Geophysics and Solid Earth Geophysics. Exploration Geophysics uses the principles of physics to image Earth’s interior, analogous to medical imaging. Career applications include energy and mineral resources, natural and geotechnical hazards, and the environment. Solid Earth Geophysics studies Earth's dynamic processes that are responsible for earthquakes, volcanoes, mountain building, plate tectonics, heat flow, magnetism, and planetary interiors.
What our students like about this option!
What will you learn?
All of our undergraduate programs provide knowledge of the basics of Geoscience, Chemistry, Physics, Calculus, and Statistics in addition to learning GIS and basic computer programming. Our options require additional courses specific to that topic.
In our Geophysics (GEOP) Option, students will gain a deeper understanding of calculus and physics in addition to learning about tectonic and seismologic processes and how to apply these in the field.
Click here for the Geophysics Option Checksheet.
Careers in Geophysics
- Environmental consulting
- Energy
- Mineral resources
- Geotechnical/engineering
- Government Research
- Education
- Data Science
- More
If you have more questions about becoming a geosciences major or the admissions process, please visit our advising page or contact: April Newcomer, Advising & Enrollment Manager, 540-231-8824 apriln@vt.ed
