172299 v.5 Bachelor of Science (Geophysics)

BSc(Curtin)

Introduction
Geophysics is an area of increasing importance particularly in Australia and graduates who acquire experience in this field have many opportunities open to them both in Australia and overseas. Geophysicists have always been required in the search for minerals and energy sources by developed countries. This demand is increasing. In addition, there is a fast growing demand from developing nations countries, which has already created a shortage of professionals. The importance of geophysics relative to other exploration techniques will increase steadily as oil and mineral deposits are sought at greater depths below the Earth's surface.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites
TEE Applicable Mathematics. Physics or Calculus desirable. Applicants without prerequisites may also be considered.

Specific Requirements
STAT elements considered are E and either V or Q.

Note
Enquiries should be directed to the Department of Exploration Geophysics.

Recognition of Prior Learning
Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis.

Duration and Availability
The course is three years full-time or equivalent part-time study.

Course Organisation
The first year provides a foundation of knowledge in areas of physics and mathematics. Year one also introduces the students to - geophysical processes, geology, electronic measurement, experiment/survey design, and scientific computing/data processing.Year two provides a solid foundation in geology and the physical and mathematical principles behind geophysical processes. A strong emphasis on the understanding of the physical properties of matter and the transmission and dissipation of energy is provided in the second year geophysics units. An introduction to various methods of analysing and imaging the Earth is also provided in the second year. The third year provides the students with detailed knowledge of the techniques of analysing and imaging the Earth. Geophysical methods such as seismic, magnetics, gravity, electrical and electromagnetic methods are introduced and significant field experience in the operation of industry standard equipment and computer software is gained during this year.

Professional Recognition
The Commonwealth Public Service Board accepts the Bachelors Degree in Geophysics as satisfying its requirements for appointment as a professional geophysicist. A degree in geophysics satisfies the academic requirements for membership of The Australian Society of Exploration Geophysicists, The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, The Society of Exploration Geophysicists (USA) and the European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers.

Career Opportunities
Graduates generally find employment with oil and mineral exploration companies and geograhical contractors to those companies. Many companies operate internationally and personnel may be relocated on international transfer. Emloyment opportunities also exist in State and Federal government agenies.

Additional Course Expenses
Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials. In addition, students may also need to contribute some of the cost of consumables, which varies depending on the area of study.

Course Structure Hrs/Wk Credit

Year 1 Semester 1

12297 v.2 Geophysics 101 2.0 12.5

301995 v.4 Introduction to Communication Skills 116 2.0 12.5

302804 v.2 Physics 101 4.5 25.0

7031 v.5 # Geology 101 6.0 25.0

7062 v.6 Mathematics 101 3.0 25.0

100.0

Year 1 Semester 2

307725 v.1 Geophysics 102 - Geophysical Data Analysis 4.0 25.0

307726 v.1 Geophysics 104 - Properties of Matter and Electricity 5.0 25.0

7032 v.5 # Geology 102 6.0 25.0

7063 v.6 Mathematics 102 4.0 25.0

100.0

Year 2 Semester 1

10194 v.3 # Geology 243 - Stratigraphy and Sedimentology 5.0 25.0

10198 v.3 # Geology 241 - Structural Geology and Mineralogy 5.0 25.0

302455 v.1 Geophysics 245 3.0 12.5

307727 v.1 Geophysics 201 - Propogation of Energy 2.0 12.5

8648 v.3 Mathematical Methods 201 4.0 25.0

100.0

Year 2 Semester 2

10195 v.3 # Geology 244 - Petrology and Geochemistry 6.0 25.0

10199 v.3 # Geology 242 - Remote Sensing and Field Geological Mapping 40.0 25.0

11914 v.2 Geophysics 246 3.0 12.5

307728 v.1 Geophysics 202 - Electomagnetic Fields in the Earth 2.0 12.5

7905 v.5 Mathematical Methods 202 4.0 25.0

100.0

Year 3 Semester 1

12454 v.3 Geophysics 301 5.0 25.0

12455 v.3 Geophysics 303 5.0 25.0

12456 v.3 Geophysics 305 5.0 25.0

12457 v.2 Geophysics 311 2.0 12.5

SELECT 1 OPTION 12.5

100.0

Year 3 Semester 2

12458 v.3 Geophysics 302 5.0 25.0

302607 v.1 Geophysics 314 2.5 12.5

302608 v.1 Geophysics 316 3.0 12.5

3380 v.8 * Project Geophysics 390 1.5 25.0

9227 v.5 Global Geophysics 304 2.0 12.5

SELECT 1 OPTION 12.5

100.0

Optional Units to Select From in Year 3 Semester 1 Hrs/Wk Credits

9188 v.6 Geophysics 313 2.0 12.5

Optional Units to Select From in Year 3 Semester 2 Hrs/Wk Credits

302654 v.1 Geophysics 318 2.0 12.5

# Supervised field work is an essential part of the course. Expenses for this are payable by students, and should not exceed $500 for the whole course.

* Geophysics 301, 303, 305 and 311 in fifth semester, and Geophysics 302, 314 and 316 and Project Geophysics 390 in sixth semester will normally be taken concurrently.

NB Electives are chosen in consultation with the Course Coordinator.

Availability

Year Location Period Internal External
2004 Bentley Campus Semester 1 Y

The information displayed above refers to study periods and locations that students are eligible to be offe red and admitted to this course for the first time only.