Apr 03, 2025  
2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
Catalog Navigation
  Catalog Home
  University Calendar
  About SMU
  Catalog Policy and Legal Statement
  The University Curriculum
  Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences
  Cox School of Business
  Lyle School of Engineering
  Meadows School of the Arts
  Simmons School of Education and Human Development
  Research and Graduate Studies
  Majors and Minors
  Course Descriptions
  Admission
  Transfer Pathway Guides to SMU
  Enrollment and Academic Records
  Tuition, Fees and Financial Aid
  Student Life and Housing
  Right to Know
  Educational Programs
  Educational Facilities and Services
  Administration and Faculty
  Financial Information Bulletin 2018-2019
  My Catalog
HELP
2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Geophysics, B.S.

Geophysical techniques are used to understand the physical behavior of Earth, including plate-tectonic processes, earthquake mechanisms and nuclear test-ban verification. The B.S. degree in geophysics provides a strong quantitative background in seismology, geothermics and digital signal processing.

Requirements for the Major

A minimum of 33 credit hours in Earth sciences and a minimum of 30 credit hours of support courses, selected from the following:

Core Course (3 Credit Hours)

One course from the following:

GEOL Courses (21 Credit Hours)

Earth Science Electives (9 Credit Hours)

Three courses at the 3000 level or above ; with at least 3 credit hours (one course) in geophysics.

Required Support Courses (30 Credit Hours)

Total: 63 Credit Hours

Notes

  • Participation in a recognized geology or geophysics summer field camp is strongly recommended for all geophysics majors.
  • Experience with a modern scientific computing language is essential and can be gained in a course such as GEOL 3359 - Computer Methods in Earth Sciences .
  • The requirements for the geophysics major are considered minimal. Students should consult a faculty adviser for recommendations on additional coursework that best fits their goals.
  • B.S. students in Earth science who wish to go on to a graduate degree in Earth science are strongly recommended to complete a minor in mathematics.