Geophysical sciences degrees abroad
Geophysical scientists use physical laws to understand the Earth’s structure and processes.
After developing a solid understanding of earth sciences, physics, mathematics, and computing, you’ll explore how the earth came to be. You’ll analyze what it’s made of, how it works, and what this means for its inhabitants.
Studying abroad is an invaluable opportunity to see different geophysical principles, formations, and behaviors in action. From volcanoes to earthquakes, and climates to oceans, you’ll appreciate the diversity of the Earth’s systems and functions.


Geophysical sciences program structure
Most bachelor’s degrees in geophysical sciences are studied full-time over three years. However, it’s possible to convert your BSc into a four-year course by taking an industrial placement year. This is an unbeatable way to gain hands-on experience and try out career options.
If you want to gain a deeper understanding of the field, you can take advantage of the graduate programs on offer. MSc courses generally take between one and two years, while PhD programs can last anywhere from four to seven years.
Lectures, workshops, seminars, laboratories, and field trips will help you develop a sound theoretical and practical understanding of geophysical science. Your progress will be assessed through a mixture of exams, essays, presentations, and fieldwork.
Thanks to the wide variety of modules on offer, it’s easy to tailor your degree to reflect your interests. However, here are some of the core topics you’ll likely cover:
- Understanding the Earth’s structure
- Earth materials, behaviors, and properties
- Understanding geological processes
- Earth and ocean systems
- Hydrocarbon and mineral exploration
- Monitoring natural hazards
- Geofluids - water, ice, magma, and hydrocarbons
- Gathering, analyzing, and interpreting geophysical data
Best countries to study geophysical sciences
Best universities to study geophysical sciences
How to study geophysical sciences abroad
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Geophysical sciences study abroad programs
Geophysical sciences undergraduate programs
Bachelor's in geophysical sciences
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Geology - Geophysics - BSc Louisiana State University, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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28,700 USD
Fee in university's local currency 28,700 USD
- Start date
- January, May, August
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Geophysics - BSc Western Washington University, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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24,690 USD
Fee in university's local currency 24,690 USD
- Start date
- January, September
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Geophysics - BSc University of South Carolina, USA
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
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33,928 USD
Fee in university's local currency 33,928 USD
- Start date
- January, August
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Environmental Geoscience - BES Trent University, Canada
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
18,579 USD
Fee in university's local currency 23,529 CAD
- Start date
- -
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Environmental Geoscience - BSc/BSc (Hons) University of Saskatchewan, Canada
- Program type
- Bachelor's
- Duration
- 4 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
15,594 USD
Fee in university's local currency 19,749 CAD
- Start date
- January, May, July, September
Diploma in geophysical sciences
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Circumpolar Studies - UGDip Trent University, Canada
- Program type
- Undergraduate diploma
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
18,579 USD
Fee in university's local currency 23,529 CAD
- Start date
- September
Certificate in geophysical sciences
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Environmental Geoscience - Cert Coast Mountain College, Canada
- Program type
- Undergraduate certificate
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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10,102 USD
Fee in university's local currency 12,794 CAD
- Start date
- January, September
Geophysical sciences graduate programs
Master's in geophysical sciences
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Geology and Geophysics - MSc University of Helsinki, Finland
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
18,049 USD
Fee in university's local currency 15,000 EUR
- Start date
- September
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Geology or Geophysics - MSc University of Wyoming, USA
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
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15,500 USD
Fee in university's local currency 15,500 USD
- Start date
- May, September
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Geoscience Research - MSc Keele University, UK
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 1 year
- Annual tuition fee
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21,556 USD
Fee in university's local currency 15,500 GBP
- Start date
- September
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Geoscience - MSc Midwestern State University, USA
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
14,200 USD
Fee in university's local currency 14,200 USD
- Start date
- January, August
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Geoscience - MSc University of North Carolina Wilmington, USA
- Program type
- Master's
- Duration
- 2 years
- Annual tuition fee
-
18,548 USD
Fee in university's local currency 18,548 USD
- Start date
- January, August
Doctorate in geophysical sciences
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Geology or Geophysics - PhD University of Wyoming, USA
- Program type
- Doctorate
- Duration
- 3 years
- Annual tuition fee
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15,500 USD
Fee in university's local currency 15,500 USD
- Start date
- May, September
Future geophysical sciences careers
The work of geophysical scientists is crucial in the fight against some of the world’s most serious environmental challenges. As the threats to our planet increase, you’ll have an array of important and rewarding career paths to choose from.
Your numerical, analytical, and research skills will make you a stand-out candidate for any of the following positions:
- Geologist
- Geophysicist
- Offshore engineer
- Environmental scientist
- Natural hazard analyst
- Archeologist
- Research associate
- Energy officer
Most universities have a careers office that offers free and professional advice. They can help you find work experience, improve your resume, and navigate life after university.
