Applied geophysics uses physics-based methods and technologies to view and gather data from the Earth to identify oil and gas reserves, water supplies, and archaeological features. Applied geophysics at Michigan Tech prepares you to make a significant impact on our planet’s future.
A bachelor’s degree in applied geophysics from Michigan Tech prepares you to explore structures and processes below the Earth’s surface and apply your understanding in a wide array of fields. Predict and mitigate natural hazards, like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Engage in resource exploration, water management, and urban planning. Geophysics extends its reach to planetary exploration and environmental conservation. Pursue a career in glaciology, archaeology, and even forensic investigation.
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At Michigan Tech, take advantage of our location in the heart of the Keweenaw Peninsula. Work in real geological environments with industry-leading faculty. Focus on environmental protection and renewable energy, oceanography, planetary exploration, natural resource extraction, and more. Join faculty and student groups on field trips around the world to study diverse materials and geological practices.
Collaborate with your fellow geophysicists in the Geology Learning Center or as a member of a student organization such as the American Institute of Professional Geologists or the Copper Country Rock and Mineral Club. Meet the need for more geotechnical professionals with internships and co-op opportunities with the assistance of department-dedicated advisors.
What Will I Study?
Build on a foundation of physics, mathematics, and natural sciences. Develop hands-on expertise working on geophysics projects. Put your applied geophysics skills to the test in either an industry-sponsored Senior Design capstone project or collaborative Enterprise team. Expand your expertise with advanced coursework in the following areas:
- Natural Hazards
- Volcanology
- Field Geophysics
- Planetary Geology and Geophysics
- Earthquake Seismology
- Magma Reservoir Dynamics
Tomorrow Needs Geoscientists Able to Think Critically
Unravel the mysteries of our natural world. Daily tasks of geophysicists involve venturing into the field to collect valuable data. In the laboratory, meticulously analyze the data to identify meaningful insights. Stand at the foot of a volcano. Harness the power of computer modeling and satellite data. Survey the vast ocean or explore oil-rich terrain. The geoscientist's journey is a diverse and ever-evolving one.
In this dynamic field, adaptability is key. Geoscientists thrive in a variety of settings and working conditions. They are able to piece together a comprehensive understanding of a field site. Often they have only limited data. It's a discipline that demands robust critical-thinking skills.
Prepare to be part of this exciting journey. We can empower you with applied critical-thinking skills. Your skills are essential for shaping the future of geoscience.
Engineering Enterprise Concentration
You can pursue an Enterprise concentration by taking part in Michigan Tech's award-winning Enterprise Program. Work on real projects, with real clients, in an environment that’s more like a business than a classroom. Choose from more than 25 Enterprise teams on campus to invent products, provide services, and pioneer solutions.
All Enterprise teams are open to all majors, with geological projects in Alternative Energy Enterprise or Multiplanetary Innovation Enterprise. Tackle real-world design projects for industry sponsors or take part in a national competition (or both). This concentration can add courses in business and entrepreneurship.
Be Career Ready
Discover a world of opportunity. Graduate with a bachelor’s degree in applied geophysics. It will prepare you for a career in industry or graduate study. Geoscientists often spend part of their working time outdoors and enjoying nature. They may travel the world.
Interested in oil exploration or a career in academia? Explore graduate education options. An advanced degree provides greater specialization.
Explore career opportunities for applied geophysicists:
- Groundwater and surface water monitoring and cleaning
- Natural hazard mitigation
- Satellite remote sensing of environmental processes
- Geographic information systems (GIS) mapping of environmental data
- Site investigations of underground hazards
- Slope failure investigations
- Oil or gas exploration and recovery
- Subsurface visualization
- Natural and induced seismicity evaluation
Brendan Harville at the Space Grant Consortium Annual Conference"I met, connected, and collaborated with many admirable and inspiring peers and mentors for which I am truly grateful. Special experiences like these are what invigorate and propel students like me toward future goals and aspirations."
