Overview

The Geophysics bachelor degree at University of California, Riverside provides students with a rigorous scientific foundation in the physical processes that shape our planet. This programme focuses on the application of mathematical and physical principles to understand global tectonics, earthquake mechanics, and the composition of the Earth's crust and mantle. Students develop essential technical skills in measuring and modelling variations in seismic waves and gravity to solve complex geological problems.

Why Geophysics at University of California, Riverside?

Students benefit from the university's unique location, utilising Southern California’s diverse landscape as a natural laboratory for field-based learning. The department offers a close-knit community where undergraduates receive personalised faculty mentoring from experts holding doctoral degrees. Facilities include the Earth and Planetary Sciences Research Museum and specialised research centres like the EDGE Institute. Additionally, the weekly undergraduate seminar helps students demystify graduate school applications and provides practical assistance with professional CV preparation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 52536 per year
National fee: USD 52536 per year
Local fee: USD 14934 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum integrates fundamental geophysics with advanced electives in seismology and tectonics, supported by extensive coursework in classical physics and mathematics. Modules may include:

Natural Hazards and Disasters
Earthquake Country
Field Geology
Numerical Skills in Geoscience
Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
Molecular and Petroleum Geochemistry
Applied and Exploration Geophysics
Active Tectonics and Remote Sensing
Geomorphology

Careers with Geophysics

Graduates are well-equipped for technical roles across various industries, including resource exploration, environmental consultancy, and hazard assessment. The analytical skills gained during the programme allow students to pursue diverse professional paths. Potential career roles include:

Seismologist
Oil and Gas Exploration Geophysicist
Mineral Exploration Geophysicist
Environmental Geophysicist
Earth Observation and Remote Sensing Specialist
Hydrologist or Hydrogeologist
Geotechnical Engineer
Geophysical Surveyor
Hazard Assessor
Computer Software Developer
Volcanologist

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Earth's Climate Through Time

Headlines in the History of Life

Natural Hazards and Disasters

Earthquake Country

Climate Change and Sustainability

Field Geology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-30 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Riverside, United States

Disciplines

Earth Sciences View 446 other Bachelors in Earth Sciences in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

You must have a GPA of 3.0 or better (3.4 for nonresidents) in the A-G courses, with no grade below a C.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You will need your:

Test scores

Annual income (optional)

Social Security number (if you have one)

Citizenship status

Statewide student ID (optional)

Credit card (or check)

Order Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to be sent.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

52536 USD / year

≈ 52536 USD / year
Out-of-State

52536 USD / year

≈ 52536 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year

Living costs

Riverside

United States

1100 - 1600 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Geophysics.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Riverside

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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