Physics with Geophysics

Study this programme and gain a range of transferable skills that will put you at the forefront of modern physics while discovering how planet Earth works and how we use physics to image its static and dynamic subsurface, from inner core to crust.

There has never been a better time to study physics and geophysics as we seek to provide sustainable resources for the world’s population. On our Physics with Geophysics BSc you will learn fundamental Physics principles that govern the behaviour of matter and energy, which are essential for understanding a wide range of natural phenomena, and then apply these principles within Geophysics to study the Earth’s physical properties and processes. This integration helps in comprehensively understanding the Earth’s structure and behaviour.

As a geophysicist, you’ll study the physical aspects of the earth using a range of methods, including gravity, magnetic, electrical and seismic. By collecting data on seismic waves, which move through and around the earth, you’ll create a picture of what lies below the earth’s surface. This information is vitally important to many industries and governments.

As part of the Department of Physics, you will be taught by academics involved in cutting-edge research across various fields in physics. We are very proud of our research achievements and major international collaborations, such as the Large Hadron Collider at CERN in Switzerland, STFC’s Diamond Light Source and Daresbury Laboratory in the UK, ESRF and GANIL in France, GSI and DESY in Germany, and TRIUMF in Canada. During your studies you will use our award-winning Central Teaching Laboratories with state-of-the-art, superbly equipped and purpose-built teaching spaces that host research-grade equipment.

Geophysics students at Liverpool also benefit from extensive fieldwork opportunities. The fieldwork is an integral part of the curriculum, as practical experiences allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing their understanding of geophysical processes and techniques. Fieldwork in the Physics with Geophysics programme currently involves a residential course.

You will also work within one of our research groups to undertake a significant geophysical research project in your final year, which has the possibility to include a fieldwork component. Our students have opportunities to study abroad or take a year in industry. We also have strong connections with industry and governmental agencies who can provide opportunities for collaborative projects, and employment after graduation.

What you'll learn to apply the principles of Physics and Geophysics to study, explore and understand the Earth’s structure, atmosphere and space environment.

This programme is available with either a Year in China or a Year Abroad. The Year in China offers undergraduate students the opportunity to spend one year at our joint venture, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), following XJTLU's BA China Studies degree classes. XJTLU is a fully English-speaking university, located in Suzhou. The Year Abroad offers students the opportunity to spend a full academic year studying at one of our partner universities around the world, following a mixture of culture and/or discipline-related modules. If you wish to study this programme with a Year in China or a Year Abroad you will have the opportunity to apply after you arrive at Liverpool.