Geophysics and Geology, MEarthPhys

If you are curious about how our planet works and want to help solve some of the biggest global challenges facing it then geophysics may be for you. What is geophysics?Geophysics is about understanding the Earth's systems interactions and complexities, exploring everything from liquid metal in its core to moving continents. We study the composition of the deep Earth to the rapidly changing composition of the atmosphere. We can use geophysics to monitor processes that result in catastrophic events like earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. Using a process called remote sensing we can gather vast amounts of data, often obtained through satellites, aircraft and drones. We can collect data from the edges of space to the centre of the Earth to understand, model and predict how it behaves. Using coding and building computer models helps us understand complex data and predict how the Earth will behave in the future. We are seeking ways to provide renewable sources of energy and finding materials and technologies that enable them. Geophysics is also about understanding the physics of environmental change. We can look for ways to mitigate the harmful impact of humans and repair damages of the past. Our understanding ranges from how atoms behave under immense pressures and temperatures deep within the Earth, to examining interactions between planetary bodies in our solar system and beyond. Understanding how the atmosphere and oceans interact allows us to predict the impact of human activities on the rapidly changing climate. We can benchmark our progress towards a net-zero future. The interdisciplinary and interconnected nature of geophysics defines much of what we do. It is why geophysics plays such an essential role in creating a more sustainable and equitable future. What will I learn? Our degree offers you the best of both subjects. Many people confuse geology and geophysics, as both study the Earth and how it works. For example, they both explore the mechanisms behind plate tectonics. However:

• Geologists focus on the materialistic surface of the Earth and its evolution.

• Geophysicists are mainly concerned about the Earth's physical processes, including its internal composition and atmosphere.

As a student in geophysics and geology, you will learn about:

• the microscopic properties of minerals

• the structure and composition of the Earth

• how large scale forces such as gravity, seismology and magnetism shape the Earth

• our Earth's past to forecast and safeguard its future

• the impact of global climate change on our world

Our research-led, industry-informed teaching ensures your degree has real-world relevance and helps make you highly sought after by employers. We embrace a hands on approach to learning, so you can develop in-demand practical skills. Many of your activities simulate those that professionals perform in the real world. Open to a world of possibilities We are one of the largest and most successful groups of Earth and environmental scientists and geographers in the UK. Many are world experts in their field. Our staff incorporate the latest research in your teaching, and share our discoveries.

• We have pioneered research proving human-caused greenhouse gasses are warming our planet, helping to underpin the 2015 Paris Agreement.

• We work with major space agencies to monitor the environment using satellite data.

• We are 16th in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2022.

• We are in the world's top 50 and the UK's top 10 universities for geophysics, natural sciences, environmental sciences, geology, earth and marine sciences (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021).

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