Geophysical approaches are fundamental for understanding how the oceans, atmosphere and ice sheets respond to climate change, managing resources such as water and geothermal energy, mitigating natural hazards such as earthquakes and volcanoes, and understanding the dynamic processes that shape the surfaces and control the interiors of Earth and other planetary bodies. Geophysics spans both theoretical modeling of physical processes and the analysis of geophysical data (including remote sensing and machine learning), and typically involves computing, as well as lab experiments and field work.

Both A.B. and Sc.B. degrees are offered, requiring 12 and 19 courses, respectively.  These degrees build skills in critical thinking, data analysis and modeling, finding solutions to complex problems, and written and oral communication.   DEEPS provides a highly collaborative learning environment that emphasizes process-oriented, hands-on approaches in the classroom, in labs and on field trips. There are many opportunities for students to do paid research during the summer or academic year.

Students interested in this concentration may also wish to consider related concentrations: Earth, Climate and Biology, Geochemistry and Environmental Chemistry, and Earth and Planetary Science.