UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA · CANADA
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Geophysics (Physics)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
72 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Thesis-based doctoral programProgram Type
- Research areas include seismology, geodynamics, and rock physicsGeophysics Specializations
- Minimum 6 units of coursework and a thesis requiredProgram Requirements
- Oral candidacy exam and annual research presentationsAcademic Milestones
- Minimum residence of two academic yearsResidency
- Maximum completion time of six yearsProgram Duration
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) with a specialization in Geophysics (Physics) at the University of Alberta is a research-intensive doctoral program for graduates with strong backgrounds in physics, engineering physics, or geophysics. This thesis-based program allows students to delve deeply into specialized areas of geophysics, contributing to the forefront of scientific knowledge. The program is offered by the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences in conjunction with the Department of Physics, providing a rich interdisciplinary environment. Research within the geophysics specialization includes areas such as fluids in porous media, geodynamics, magneto-telluric methods, paleomagnetism, rock magnetism, rock physics, and seismology. Students will engage in experimental, observational, computational, and theoretical components of their research, guided by faculty members and their supervisory committee.
Curriculum
The PhD program requires a minimum of 6 units of coursework and the completion of a substantial research thesis. Students entering with a BSc must complete the MSc coursework requirements (12 units) in addition to the PhD requirements. All coursework is selected in coordination with a supervisor and supervisory committee.
- Year 1 onwards
- Thesis ResearchTHES 900
- Ethics and Academic Citizenship TrainingINT D 710
- Ethics and Academic Citizenship Training (Doctoral)INT D 720
Careers
A PhD in Geophysics provides advanced research skills and specialized knowledge applicable to a variety of roles in academia and industry.
- University Professor/Researcher
- Industry Geophysicist (Oil & Gas, Mining, Environmental)
- Government Research Scientist
- Data Scientist
- Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Geophysics program?
- Applicants must have a degree in physics, engineering physics, geophysics, or an equivalent program. A minimum admission GPA of 3.0 on the 4-point scale, calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework, is also required.
- What is the maximum duration for completing the PhD in Geophysics?
- The maximum completion time for the PhD in Geophysics program is six years. There is also a minimum residency requirement of two academic years.
- Are there any scholarships or financial aid opportunities available?
- Yes, graduate assistantships are available, and applicants are automatically considered upon acceptance into the program. The Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies also administers over $35 million in scholarships and awards annually; students should explore options on their website.
- What documents are required to apply for the PhD in Geophysics?
- Required application documents include academic transcripts, a Curriculum Vitae (CV), a Statement of Purpose, and three letters of recommendation. If applicable, a Request for Financial Support form should also be submitted.
- What career paths are possible with a PhD in Geophysics?
- A PhD in Geophysics can lead to roles such as a University Professor/Researcher, Industry Geophysicist (Oil & Gas, Mining, Environmental), Government Research Scientist, Data Scientist, or Consultant.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA degree in physics, engineering physics, geophysics, or an equivalent program.
GPAA minimum admission GPA of 3.0 on the 4-point scale (University of Alberta or equivalent).
English Language ProficiencyMust meet the GPS English Language Requirement.
The admission GPA is calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework or the equivalent of the last two years of full-time study.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies Tuition and Fees page for current international tuition rates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies Tuition and Fees page for current domestic tuition rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified on the program page. Please consult the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies for general guidance.
Information on specific tuition and fee amounts is available on the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies website. Graduate assistantships are available and applicants are automatically considered.
How to apply
1. Review Program InformationFamiliarize yourself with the PhD in Geophysics program requirements and research areas on the Department of Physics website.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all required documents including transcripts, a CV, a Statement of Purpose, and three letters of recommendation.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form through the University of Alberta's Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies portal.
4. Request Financial Support (if applicable)If financial support is required, submit a Request for Financial Support form.
5. Meet English Language RequirementsEnsure you meet the minimum English language proficiency requirements.
Scholarships
Graduate AssistantshipsVaries
Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies ScholarshipsOver $35 million administered annually
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Geophysics program?
+
Applicants must have a degree in physics, engineering physics, geophysics, or an equivalent program. A minimum admission GPA of 3.0 on the 4-point scale, calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework, is also required.
What is the maximum duration for completing the PhD in Geophysics?
+
The maximum completion time for the PhD in Geophysics program is six years. There is also a minimum residency requirement of two academic years.
Are there any scholarships or financial aid opportunities available?
+
Yes, graduate assistantships are available, and applicants are automatically considered upon acceptance into the program. The Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies also administers over $35 million in scholarships and awards annually; students should explore options on their website.
What documents are required to apply for the PhD in Geophysics?
+
Required application documents include academic transcripts, a Curriculum Vitae (CV), a Statement of Purpose, and three letters of recommendation. If applicable, a Request for Financial Support form should also be submitted.
What career paths are possible with a PhD in Geophysics?
+
A PhD in Geophysics can lead to roles such as a University Professor/Researcher, Industry Geophysicist (Oil & Gas, Mining, Environmental), Government Research Scientist, Data Scientist, or Consultant.