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Curtin University
Courses Handbook 2014

This handbook contains information for courses and units at Curtin in 2014.
Information for the previous year's courses and units is available at Courses Handbook 2013.

314670 v.1 Geophysics Major (Master of Science)


Major/Stream Overview

This major/stream is part of a larger course. Information is specific to the major/stream, please refer to the course for more information.


This major is designed to meet the needs of geology, physics, mathematics, engineering and surveying graduates seeking a career in geophysics. It is also for geophysics graduates from other universities wishing to become more familiar with recent geophysical developments. Students will complete a range of coursework units from all areas of exploration geophysics. They will also learn to conduct and manage research before undertaking several major research project units. There is an option to exit this major after finishing the first year with the award of Graduate Diploma in Science. This major is currently not available for Honours (Geophysics) students.



Major/Stream Organisation

Major/Stream Learning Outcomes

A graduate of this course can:

1. apply discipline, knowledge, principles and concepts; apply modern geophysical methods to exploration problems in petroleum, mineral and groundwater exploration; evaluate new methodologies

2. think critically, creatively and reflectively, analyse geophysical approaches to gathering subsurface information

3. access, evaluate and synthesise information, locate, appraise and select publicly available literature and data in printed and electronic media

4. communicate effectively; report on new geophysical development to industry, government and academia using written and oral presentations

5. use technologies appropriately; select best geophysical methods for given problems; be familiar with modern geophysical instruments and computer software; use electronic resources for communication

6. utilise lifelong learning skills; demonstrate an ability to learn independently

7. recognise and apply international perspectives; recognise the global nature of geophysical problems and regional issues relating to exploration for resources

8. demonstrate cultural awareness and understanding; demonstrate an understanding of the cultural impact of resource exploration and development

9. apply professional skills; conduct, organise and report upon a geophysical research project; apply a professional approach to working with individuals and organisations; demonstrate an ethical approach to using data and reports


Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit
Year 1 Semester 1
311700 v.1   Science Research Methodologies 551 3.0 25.0
10364 v.4   Resistivity and Induced Polarisation Exploration Methods 605 5.0 25.0
12454 v.5   Gravity and Magnetics for Exploration 301 5.0 25.0
12455 v.5   Introduction to Seismic Exploration 303 5.0 25.0
  100.0
Year 1 Semester 2
311774 v.2   Geophysical Data Processing 612 6.0 25.0
302654 v.3   Environmental Geophysics 318 2.0 12.5
5566 v.5   Geophysics Project 502 2.0 25.0
12458 v.5   Electromagnetics and Radiometrics for Exploration 302 5.0 25.0
302652 v.2   Seismic Acquisition for Exploration 315 2.0 12.5
  100.0
Year 2 Semester 1
314671 v.1   Geophysical Reservoir Characterisation 622 5.0 25.0
310305 v.3   Geophysics Project 625 4.0 25.0
314664 v.1   Advanced Electromagnetic and Potential Field Methods in Geophysics 433 4.0 25.0
302615 v.4   Seismic Imaging and Modelling 423 5.0 25.0
  100.0
Year 2 Semester 2
314663 v.1   Borehole Geophysics 426 4.0 25.0
302624 v.4   Seismic Interpretation 424 5.0 25.0
314672 v.1   Geophysics Project 626 5.0 50.0
  100.0




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