Master of Science in Geophysics

The Master of Science (MS) in Geophysics curriculum is designed to develop new understanding through research and creativity. Skills obtained by graduates from this degree program include knowing how to: place geophysical information into a context that is meaningful to land and environment stewardship and civil infrastructure stakeholders; assess risk and vulnerability from geophysical hazards and make realistic evaluations about quality and quantity of Earth resources; determine whether geophysical data could be indicative of a potential subsurface target of interest; recommend the suitability of a given type of geophysical data to address a given geoscience problem; suggest generalizations about fundamental Earth structures and processes from incomplete and possibly inaccurate geophysical information; combine geological and geophysical data to build an integrative model whose value exceeds the sum of its components; prepare an oral presentation, and respond to questions, in which geophysical information is described, interpreted, and from which conclusions are drawn; prepare a well-written and well-structured document that contains sound reasoning and defensible conclusions based on geophysical principles; access and learn to use commercial software packages that process, display and manipulate geophysical data; access and learn to use basic geophysical field and laboratory equipment; execute a test of a geophysical research hypothesis using basic principles, data, and techniques; and understand the basic principles of scientific uncertainty as it relates to geophysical hypothesis testing.

Students must hold a bachelor’s or professional degree (or equivalent).