Geophysics BS

The Geophysics major is a designated capstone major. Students are required to use skill and knowledge sets from previous coursework to complete a field-based research project from conception to written report. Projects must be placed into context within the current state of understanding, and results are presented at a research … For more content click the Read More button below.

Requirements

Preparation for the Major

Preparation for the Major Policies

Transfer Students

Transfer applicants to the Geophysics major with 90 or more quarter units (60 semester units) must have completed one introductory Earth sciences course, one general physics course with laboratory for majors, and one year of calculus. A second year of calculus and a second semester of calculus-based physics with laboratory are recommended.

Refer to the UCLA transfer admission guide for up-to-date information regarding transfer selection for admission.

The Major

Required Core: Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences 136A, M140, 171, one capstone field research course (136C), one course from 152, 153, 154, 155; Physics 105A, 105B, 110A, 110B, 131. Substitutions of equivalent courses from engineering or other physical sciences departments must be approved by the undergraduate adviser.

At least three courses from one of the following areas are also required: (1) applied geophysics—Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences 111, 112, 122, 136B, 150, 152, (2) marine geophysics—courses 119, 122, 136B, 150, 153, (3) planetary geophysics—courses 150, 153, 154, 155, (4) solid earth geophysics—courses 119, 122, 136B, 150, 152, or (5) space physics—Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences C170, Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences 136B, 154, 155, Physics M122. Any course used to satisfy an area requirement cannot also be applied toward the core requirements listed above.

Honors Program

The honors program in geophysics is intended to provide exceptional students an opportunity for advanced research and study under the tutorial guidance of a faculty member. Requirements for admission to candidacy are the same as those required for admission to the Honors Programs of the College of Letters and Science. Qualified students wishing to enter the program must submit a completed application form to the departmental honors committee near the end of their junior year. Honors in geophysics are awarded at graduation to those students who have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5, have completed at least 90 graded units at the University of California, and have completed a minimum of two terms (8 units) of Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences 198 leading to the preparation of a satisfactory honors thesis. Students demonstrating exceptional ability are awarded highest honors.