The University of Edinburgh, founded in 1583, is a public research university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is the sixth oldest university in the English-speaking world and one of Scotland's ancient universities. The university has a long and rich history, and has produced many notable alumni in a variety of fields, including science, literature, and politics. Today, the University of Edinburgh is a leading research-intensive university, with a global reputation for academic excellence and a strong commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. It is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and the world.

We will assign you with a Personal Tutor for the duration of your degree. They will be a member of our teaching staff who provides you with individual academic guidance and support. They will assist you in mapping out a path through your studies. You will be able to discuss your course choices degree options and get careers advice.

You can also seek help from your Personal Tutor and Student Support Team to take advantage of our University's extensive network of student-support services.

Year 1
All compulsory courses will be the same across our geophysics degrees.

We will introduce you to the foundations of:

physics
geophysics
mathematics
geology
We will help you develop a strong sense of purpose and foster an idea of what you might want to do as a geophysics graduate.

Year 2
You will advance your knowledge in:

maths
physics
geology
geophysics
You can also choose option courses from a wide selection across the University. You can choose courses related to your degree. Or you can try something completely different and new to you.

Second year entry
If you have direct entry to Year 2 you will take a specially tailored set of courses in the first semester. But you will join the standard programme in the second semester. You can also choose two option courses from a wide selection in the Schools of Physics and Astronomy GeoSciences or elsewhere in the University.

If you have direct entry to Year 2 you will take a specially tailored set of courses in the first semester but join the standard programme in the second semester.

Year 3
Your coursework will become more focused on specialised aspects of your degree.

You will spend more time developing detailed skills and learning at the cutting edge of geophysics.

We will cover:

maths and computing
measurements and modelling
structural geology
geology field skills
general research skills
Year 4
You will develop expert knowledge in a field of your choice.

You can either complete:

one major project or two smaller projects
an independent mapping project
Your project/s will be an independent original piece of research in your chosen specialist field. They can be inspired by your area of interest aided by our world-class facilities and top scientists.

We will support you with individual supervision from an academic with experience in your chosen subject area.

Through fieldwork you will apply the skills you have learned during your studies. We will intensively explore a specific site which we often share with students from France and Germany. This gives you the opportunity to meet fellow peers and apply geophysics in the real world.

Our selected location will provide you with a variety of fascinating geophysical and geological structures. Previous trips have taken place across various sites in Europe.

You will employ a wide range of geophysical and geological techniques and equipment to study:

gravity
magnetics
electromagnetism
seismology
You will also continue to study courses that further your knowledge in geophysics and geology.

Year 5
Optional year
You can choose to add another year to this 4-year degree to complete an integrated masters (MEarthPhys).

You have two options for your extra year and will either:

Complete a professional placement between the academic years 3 and 4.
Or add an extra research-focused year after completing the four years of your BSc.
Are you unsure if you are interested in research or a professional placement yet? Don't worry you can decide to change from the programme:

to the MEarthPhys with Professional Placement programme up until your second year of study
to the MEarthPhys programme up until your fourth year of study
You can find more information under each degree:

MEarthPhys Geophysics and Geology
MEarthPhys Geophysics and Geology with Professional Placement

The University of Edinburgh is a world-class research-intensive university that has been shaping the minds of students for over four centuries. Founded in 1583, it is one of Scotland's ancient universities and the sixth oldest university in the English-speaking world. The university is located in the beautiful and historic city of Edinburgh, which is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere.

The University of Edinburgh offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, sciences, engineering, medicine, business, and law. The university has a strong reputation for academic excellence, and its graduates are known for their high level of education and employability. The university is home to some of the world's most respected research centers and institutes, including the Edinburgh College of Art, the Royal Observatory, and the Human Communication Research Centre.

Throughout its history, the University of Edinburgh has produced many notable alumni, including economist Adam Smith, philosopher David Hume, and Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland's most famous writers. The university has also produced seven Nobel Prize winners, including Alexander Fleming, the discoverer of penicillin, and Peter Higgs, who proposed the Higgs boson particle.

The University of Edinburgh is also known for its commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. It is home to several leading research centers and institutes that specialize in areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and sustainable energy. The university also has a strong emphasis on student engagement, and it encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities, clubs and societies, and volunteer work.

The University of Edinburgh is a diverse and inclusive community, with students and staff from all over the world. The university provides students with a supportive and challenging environment, where they can develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen fields. The University of Edinburgh is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and the world, making it an excellent choice for students who are looking for a high-quality education and a great student experience.

You will need to book the accommodation after you have been accepted.

You can choose to live on campus or off campus in private accommodation.

• Make a booking online after you have been accepted (in this case please let us know your choice when you apply).
• Register when you arrive - its not possible to reserve a room before arriving. You can arrive a few days before and book it