About
Geophysics is the application of physics to problems in Earth science. Geophysics is widely used in any situation where information on the subsurface is required—for example, environmental assessment and remediation, civil engineering, oceanography and space exploration.
- 4 year degree
- Full or part-time program
- You can enter this program directly from high school
- You can begin this program off-campus
What you will learn
You will study the earth’s interior using techniques based on physics and mathematics. You will participate in a field school that covers the complete range of geophysical tools including seismology, gravity, magnetics and electromagnetic methods which are used extensively in the search for natural resources. You will learn about the physics of earth processes like earthquakes and how to mitigate risks of natural hazards.
A first-year schedule sample
Here’s what a typical first-year schedule might look like:
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
Fall Term |
|
| GEOL 121a | Earth Processes |
| MATH 110b | Calculus I |
| CHEM 112a | General Chemistry I Structure Bonding and Properties of Materials |
| PHYS 115a | Physics and the Universe |
| INDG 107d | Introduction to Canadian Indigenous Studies |
Winter Term |
|
| MATH 164a | Linear Algebra |
| MATH 116b | Calculus II |
| PHYS 117 or PHYS 125a | Physics for the Life Sciences or Physics and Technology |
| CMPT 141a | Introduction to Computer Science |
| HIST 155c | History Matters Science and Environment |
a Required course for the major
b One of the course options to complete the Quantitative Reasoning Requirement
c One of the course options to complete the English Language Writing Requirement
d One of the course options to complete the Indigenous Learning Requirement
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
- GEOL 282: Earth Physics
Physical processes in the origin of the Earth and Moon, and in the subsequent development of internal structure. The generation of the geomagnetic field by dynamo action, and the use of magnetics and gravity in geophysics. Earthquakes and global seismology. The use of satellite data in geophysics. - GEOL 335: Seismology and Ground Penetrating Radar Methods
Introduction to seismological and ground penetrating radar methods; their integration with other geophysical techniques. Application of geophysical measurements to geological engineering, groundwater, and prospecting problems. - GEOL 485: Geophysics Field Camp
Practical experience in conduct of geophysical surveys; operation of equipment, data manipulation, computer processing and interpretation, preparation of reports. Normally held in late August, two weeks prior to the beginning of on-campus classes.
Hands-on experience
We were the first geophysics program in Canada to offer a field school. We still see this as our most important course and maintain it as one of the best and most comprehensive field schools available anywhere.
The participation of industry in the field school and the active involvement of faculty in research means that students have hands-on experiences with modern equipment.
Class size
Small class sizes and accessibility of faculty to students are one of the big advantages of the Geophysics program.
Careers
- Conservationist
- Parks and recreation officer
- Environmental planner
- Exploration geologist
- Environmental geologist
- Geophysicist
- Groundwater geologist
- Hydrogeologist
- Hydrologist
- Mine geologist
- Mineralogist
- Petroleum geologist
- Petrologist
- Sedimentologist
- Seismologist
- Stratigrapher
Tuition estimates
| Canadian students | International students | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $7,919 | $38,328 |
| Student fees | $1,121 | $1,121 |
| Books | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Total | $10,540 | $40,949 |
Tuition will vary depending on the type and number of classes you take in a year. This estimate reflects a typical amount you could expect to pay in your first year if you enroll in a full course load, the maximum number of courses allowed (2024-2025 Canadian dollar rates).
Student fees are used to fund specific student benefits, including health, vision and dental coverage, a bus pass, recreational programs and fitness centre access.
The cost of books and supplies varies widely depending on the courses you choose. It is recommended that you budget between $1,500-$2,500 per year.
Program options
These Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Geophysics degrees are offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Arts and Science:
You should consult with an academic advisor in the college when you begin your studies to decide if you want a four-year or honours degree.
Admission requirements and deadlines
Deadlines
Ready to apply?
Create an admissions account and start your application today. When you are ready to submit your application, you will be assessed a non-refundable application fee of $120 CAD.
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