Bachelor of Science in Geosciences: Geophysics Emphasis

University of Arizona

Explore a greater understanding of our planet - from its inner core to the depths of the oceans to the outer reaches of space. Students who select the Bachelor of Science in Geosciences with a Geophysics emphasis take an interdisciplinary approach to the study of the planet. A Geosciences degree provides students with an understanding of fundamental concepts in geosciences including the basic structure of the Earth, major events in the evolution of life on Earth, plate tectonics, formation and importance of Earth materials and natural resources, processes that shape and change our planet, and linkages between humans and our physical environment. Students will develop an understanding of Earth's interior and its connection to surface processes, including geodynamics, seismology, tectonics, geomagnetism, and volcanism, and apply quantitative skills to describe and model various Earth systems.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing

Teamwork and leadership

The basic structure of the Earth, and how this structure is known

Theories for the origin of the Earth

Be able to access information through traditional and new technologies

Teaching and assisting others in learning

Major events in the evolution of the Earth; Main events in the evolution of life on Earth

Be able to critically evaluate information from multiple perspectives

Involvement in campus and community service

Understand the process of scientific inquiry

Involvement in research

The fundamentals of plate tectonics

Exposure to career options and opportunities

Understand the relationship of Geosciences to other areas of science and to society in general

The main classes of minerals

The nature and origin of each of the main types of sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks

The nature and distribution of sedimentary environments on Earth

The nature and significance of structures, such as folds, faults, and joints

The first-order processes that shape the surface of the Earth (e.g., rivers, glaciers, mass wasting, wind, weathering, erosion)

The nature and origin of mineral and hydrocarbon resources on Earth

The possible linkages between human activities and our physical environment (e.g., global climate change).

CAREER FIELDS

Geophysics

Geoscience

Oil and gas industry

Volcanology