Apply for Geophysics Major (MSc Science)

Geophysics
MJRP-GEOPM

Geophysics

Postgraduate major

Advance your understanding of geophysical exploration methods, industry-standard equipment and software.

This offering version is phasing out and no longer taking applications. You may be able to apply for a later version.

Course outline
  • Qualification
    Geophysics Major (MSc Science)
  • Credit

    Credit

    400
Course outline

Select your preferred degree

This course belongs to multiple degrees. Select the single degree or double degree below to see the application deadlines.

Course outline

Outline

Outline

Geophysics is a branch of Earth sciences that uses physical phenomena to remotely image and characterise the subsurface, with applications in mining, oil and gas, geothermal, groundwater, and carbon underground storage industries. 

Geophysicists use seismic, magnetic, electromagnetic, radiometric and gravitational technologies and techniques to determine the structure and composition of natural, and sometimes artificial, materials below the Earth's surface, without the need for drilling and excavation.

This course is designed for students who have completed an undergraduate geophysics, science or engineering degree and wish to enhance their career prospects with an additional qualification in geophysics. 

It offers a solid grounding and practical training in a range of geophysical exploration methods, including data acquisition, processing, and interpretation.

You will gain hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment and software. You will also become more familiar with recent geophysical developments through a range of coursework units and investigative projects. 

This major sits within the Master of Science (Science) degree. To apply for this major, you will apply for the Master of Science (Science).

Please refer to the handbook for additional course overview information. 

What you'll learn

  • apply discipline, knowledge, principles and concepts; apply modern geophysical methods to exploration problems in petroleum, mineral and groundwater exploration; evaluate new methodologies
  • think critically, creatively and reflectively, analyse geophysical approaches to gathering subsurface information
  • access, evaluate and synthesise information, locate, appraise and select publicly available literature and data in printed and electronic media
  • communicate effectively; report on new geophysical development to industry, government and academia using written and oral presentations
  • use technologies appropriately; select best geophysical methods for given problems; be familiar with modern geophysical instruments and computer software; use electronic resources for communication
  • utilise lifelong learning skills; demonstrate an ability to learn independently
  • recognise and apply international perspectives; recognise the global nature of geophysical problems and regional issues relating to exploration for resources
  • demonstrate cultural awareness and understanding; demonstrate an understanding of the cultural impact of resource exploration and development
  • apply professional skills; conduct, organise and report upon a geophysical research project; apply a professional approach to working with individuals and organisations; demonstrate an ethical approach to using data and reports

Professional recognition

The Commonwealth Public Service Board accepts this course as satisfying its requirements for appointment as a professional geophysicist. A degree in geophysics satisfies the academic requirements for membership to the Australian Society of Exploration Geophysicists, the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (USA) and the European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers.

Admission criteria

What you need in order to get into this course. There are different pathway options depending on your level of work and education experience.

A recognised bachelor degree in science with competency in geophysics or a related discipline to the level of second-year tertiary study. Special consideration will be given to geoscience graduates with associate degrees or diplomas and several years of industry experience.

Please note: this course is not suitable for students who have completed the Bachelor of Science (Geophysics) (Honours) at Curtin.

English requirements

Curtin requires all applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English. Specific English requirements for this course are outlined in the IELTS table below.

You may demonstrate English proficiency using the following tests and qualifications.

IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System)

Writing

6.0

Speaking

6.0

Reading

6.0

Listening

6.0

Overall band score

6.5

Credit for recognised learning (CRL)

Use your experience to get credit towards your degree

Finish your course sooner with credit for your previous study or work experience.

Fees and charges

Please view the Master of Science (Science) degree for indicative fees.

Looking for more detail on the course structure?

View course structure

Frequently asked questions

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  • The offering information on this website applies only to future students. Current students should refer to faculty handbooks for current or past course information.

    The information on this page may be subject to change. In particular, Curtin University may change the content, method or location of delivery or tuition fees of courses.

    While Curtin uses reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided on this page is accurate and up to date, errors and omissions sometimes occur. Curtin makes no warranty, representation or undertaking (expressed or implied) nor does it assume any legal liability (direct or indirect) for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information.

    View courses information disclaimer.

  • Curtin course code: MJRP-GEOPM
  • Last updated on: 28 March 2024

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