What can I do with a BSc in Geophysics?

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Why should I major in Geophysics?

Here's your chance to better understand the planet you live on by applying methods from physics, math and computation to real world problems. The transferable and quantitative skills you develop, including physics-based modelling and data analysis, leave you well positioned for careers within and beyond the earth and planetary sciences. Graduates in Geophysics have gone on to pursue a range of careers in environmental consulting and engineering-related fields, software development, scientific research in earth and space sciences, and the natural resource sector. Some have launched their own technology-related startup companies.

Where can I see Geophysics in the real world?

  • Climate change, including the physics that controls Earth's climate and the impact of climate change on the Earth.
  • Plate tectonics, earthquakes, seismic hazards and volcanoes.
  • Gravity of the Earth, including the moon's interaction with ocean tides.
  • The structural properties of planet Earth, like radioactivity and magnetism.
  • How Earth and other planetary bodies evolve. 
  • Tracking ground water resources (e.g. water table).
  • Assessing the spread of pollutants in an environment.
  • Exploration for oil and minerals.

Is Geophysics for me?

"I think it's important to...have curiosity and a drive. It's not an easy program so you do need the drive and the commitment to really finish what you're starting."

Meghan, fourth year Geophysics

What skills will I gain?

Skills in GEOP

Check out the key skills employers are looking for.

What questions are UBC Geophysicists researching?

Dr. Catherine Johnson

What can we learn about a planet from its magnetic field?

To infinity and beyond

Dr. Christian Schoof

What is the likely future behavior of West Antarctica and Greenland?

Ice Ice Baby

Dr. Valentina Radic

How many glaciers in the world will survive the global warming?

Keep cool and carry on

Dr. Mark
Jellinek

Did plate tectonics ultimately drive the rise of complex life?

Step up to the plate

Dr. Michael Bostock

How big will the next Cascadia megathrust earthquake be?

Drop, cover and hold on

Learn more about Geophysics

Thank you to Dr. Valentina Radic and Meghan (BSc undergraduate) for sharing their experiences and knowledge of Geophysics to create this blog post.