Exploration Geophysics MSc

at University of Leeds

The Exploration Geophysics curriculum is divided into three semesters, featuring eight taught modules and an independent research project. Taught modules cover a broad range of geophysical disciplines as applied to resource, environmental and engineering industries.

In Semester one, you will learn the theoretical tools of the trade, via fundamental modules covering topics such as seismic fundamentals and acquisition, computational inverse theory, field and structural geology, seismic data processing and near surface geophysics.
 

Throughout Semester two, you will put this theory intro practice, with applied modules in topics such as reservoir geophysics, petrophysics, seismic interpretation and gravity and magnetic methods. The semester culminates in a residential fieldtrip, in which you will undertake and data acquisition and analyse the data you collect.
 

Throughout Semester three, over summer, you will apply the skills learnt during the taught course to undertake an independent project to explore a current geophysics research problem. These projects are typically tailored to the individual interests of students, and often involve an external collaborator – whether from the industrial or research sectors – and the potential to undertake an internship for at least part of the project period.
 

Project topics regularly include investigations of specific geological issues and prospects, studies of novel seismic analysis tools, and integrated geophysical investigations – on scales from basins to quarries. All are unique to each year, with a desired commercial or academic outcome: about 10% of projects involve fieldwork, and can be case studies or innovative research-aligned investigations – even to a publishable standard.

Modules

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Exploration Geophysics: Project and Dissertation    
• Computational Inverse Theory    
• Geophysical Reservoir Evaluation    
• Near-Surface Geophysics    
• Gravity and Magnetic Methods    
• Geological and Physical Methods for Subsurface Characterisation    
• Seismic Fundamentals and Acquisition    
• Seismic Data Processing    
• Seismic Reflection Interpretation and Sequence Stratigraphy    

A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in geosciences (e.g. geology or geophysics) or in a relevant numerate subject, such as physics, mathematics, or some engineering discliplines. Relevant and extensive industry experience can also be taken into account.
 

You must have mathematics to a good A-level grade (or equivalent) as a minimum. Your mathematical competence will be assessed prior to joining and additional training may be required. The course is computer-intensive and we assume you have basic computer literacy including Windows and MS Office. EDCL/ICDL qualifications are not formally required, but represent the level expected. Familiarity with Linux would also be advantageous as it forms the platform for much of the workstation based training.
 

Applicants with a 2.2 will be considered on a case by case basis where applicants can demonstrate relevant work experience or aptitude in a relevant specialist field. Graduates from other disciplines and those with professional experience in the sector will also be considered.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.
 

Fees

• UK: £11,750 (total)
• International: £29,500 (total)
   

There is a strong and continuing demand for geophysicists. A Masters qualification is generally regarded as an essential entry-level requirement in the geoscience sector, whether in resource exploration or in the environmental/engineering industry. Graduates from MSc Exploration Geophysics have an exceptionally good track record at securing employment on completion. Many graduates can be found throughout the energy sector, taking leading roles in the processing and interpretation of seismic data or with the development of relevant software. Elsewhere, graduates secure employment in the minerals industries. MSc-level training in geophysics also equips you for the developing job market in CO2 storage and geothermal energy, or any other sector that requires strong numeracy and skills of data analytics.
 

Our graduates have secured positions in recent years, including:

• geologist/geophysicist, Agencia Nacional de Hidrocarburos (Colombia)

• geologist/geophysicist, Arup – engineering site investigation

• geophysicist, Bell Geospace – airborne geophysics

• geophysicist, British Geological Survey – geomagnetism unit

• geophysicist, CGG – seismic data processing

• geophysicist, DownUnderGeosolutions – seismic data processing

• geophysicist, ExxonMobil – energy company

• geophysicist, ION GX Imaging – seismic data processing

• geophysicist, NexenCNOOC (now CNOOC) – energy company

• geophysicist, Shell (UK) – energy company

• hydrogeophysicist, Aestsus LLC (USA) – near-surface geophysics

• PhD, University of Bristol – microseismics

• PhD, University of Edinburgh – seismic interferometry

• PhD, University of Stockholm - glaciological geophysics

• software developer, AWE (UK) – forensic seismology

• software developer, BAe Systems – cybersecurity