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.

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 begin your studies in meteorology with introductory courses.

We will also 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.

Year 3
You will begin your studies in meteorology with introductory courses.

We will also 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.

Year 4
As part of this degree you will complete a professional placement in Year 4.

Your placement will be with an approved company or research institute in the UK or abroad.

During this time you will work on a relevant project related to your degree. You will be assessed on your project work with the external partner.

This opportunity can give you valuable insight into the professional and real-world application of your degree and enhance your future career path.

Year 5
You will develop expert knowledge in a field of your choice.

A significant focus will be on independent research.

You can either complete:

one major project or
two smaller projects
Your project/s will be an independent 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 techniques and equipment to study:

gravity
magnetics
electromagnetism
seismology
You will also continue to study courses that further your knowledge in geophysics and meteorology including the atmosphere and climate.

Programme structure
Find out more about the compulsory and optional courses in this degree programme.

To give you an idea of what you will study on this programme we publish the latest available information. However please note this may not be for your year of entry but for a different academic year.

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