Overview

The Geophysics programme at Stanford University provides students with an extensive understanding of the physical processes that shape our planet. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications, the curriculum ensures that graduates are well-equipped to address complex environmental and geological challenges.

The primary mission of this undergraduate major is to expose participants to a diverse spectrum of geophysical disciplines. Students explore critical areas such as tectonics, environmental geophysics, and resource exploration, gaining the technical expertise required to analyse the Earth's structure and dynamics effectively.

Academic training begins with a robust grounding in the essential sciences, including geology, physics, and mathematics.

Why Geophysics at Stanford University?

Studying within the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability provides students with access to world-class expertise and a community dedicated to solving global energy and environmental issues. The department is renowned for its pioneering research in frontiers of geophysical research and seismic activity.

The institution offers a unique interdisciplinary environment where students can engage with various exploratory courses and introductory seminars. These opportunities allow undergraduates to connect with faculty members and participate in field trips that bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world geological phenomena.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 22577 per semester
National fee: USD 22577 per semester
Local fee: USD 21709 per semester

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build deep expertise through a variety of specialised subjects. Modules may include:

Frontiers of Geophysical Research at Stanford
The Water Course
Tectonics Field Trip
Contemporary Geophysics
Designing Science Fiction Planets
Earthquakes and Volcanoes

Careers with Geophysics

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of professional pathways in the geosciences. Many alumni pursue advanced graduate study to specialise further in research or academic roles, while others enter the workforce immediately in technical and consultancy positions.

Common career destinations include roles within the energy sector, environmental consultancy firms, and government research organisations. The analytical and quantitative skills developed during the degree are also applicable to industries focused on natural hazard assessment, resource management, and civil engineering projects.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Frontiers of Geophysical Research

Foundations of Geophysics

Ice, Water, Fire

Laboratory Characterization in Properties of Rocks and Geomaterials

Mechanics

Electricity and Magnetism

Light and Heat

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Stanford, United States

Disciplines

Earth Sciences View 445 other Bachelors in Earth Sciences in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Coalition Application or Common Application
$90 nonrefundable application fee or fee waiver request
ACT or SAT (Writing/Essay not required) (refer to testing for score reporting policies)
School Report and counselor letter of recommendation
Official transcript(s)
Letters of recommendation from two teachers
Midyear transcript (by February 15)
Standardized testing is one of the application requirements that can highlight academic preparedness. There are no minimum test scores required to be admitted to Stanford, and there is no score that guarantees admission. At Stanford, we review applications holistically, meaning every component of the application is valuable to us as we get to know each student.

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

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year
Out-of-State

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year

Additional Details

Tuition per quarter. Students are typically enrolled in classes for three quarters: autumn, winter, spring.

Living costs

Stanford

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.

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