UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · UNITED STATES
Geophysics, MS/PhD
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- PhD or MS degrees availableDegree Options
- Flexible curriculum and interdisciplinary researchLearning Environment
- Focus on observational techniques and data collectionResearch Approach
- Opportunities for hands-on fieldwork and expeditionsPractical Experience
- New Geodesy Track for PhD candidatesSpecialization
The Geophysics (GP) graduate program at UC San Diego focuses on studying Earth and other planets to understand their origin, composition, and evolution, and the implications for life, the environment, and society. The program offers a comprehensive education in geophysics fundamentals, combined with specialized research and coursework. Its flexible curriculum and interdisciplinary research environment welcome students from diverse science and engineering backgrounds, preparing them for careers in academia, industry, or public service. The program emphasizes a hands-on, collaborative learning approach, with foundational coursework supporting research projects that utilize observational techniques, novel data collection, and theoretical and computational methods. Students actively participate in field experiments, instrument development, laboratory investigations, and shipboard expeditions.
Curriculum
The program provides a broad education in geophysics fundamentals through a core academic curriculum. Students engage in research projects that emphasize observational techniques and data collection, linked to testing new theoretical and computational approaches. The curriculum is designed to be flexible and interdisciplinary, accommodating students from various science and engineering backgrounds.
- First Year
- Core Geophysics Courses
- Specialized Track Courses (e.g., Geodesy)
- Subsequent Years
- Advanced Coursework
- Research Project/Dissertation
Careers
Graduates of the Geophysics program are well-prepared for a variety of future career paths in academia, industry, and public service.
- Researcher
- Academic Scientist
- Industry Professional
- Public Service Role
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic qualifications needed to apply for the MS/PhD in Geophysics?
- A major in physics, mathematics, or earth sciences is recommended for admission. An undergraduate degree is required.
- Are GRE scores required for the Geophysics program?
- No, GRE scores are not required for Fall 2026 admission.
- When is the application deadline for the Geophysics program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is November 30.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Geophysics program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles as researchers, academic scientists, industry professionals, or in public service.
- What is the duration of the Geophysics program?
- The program offers PhD or MS degrees. The curriculum includes a first year of core and specialized courses, followed by advanced coursework and research projects in subsequent years.
- How can I learn more about tuition and fees?
- Please refer to the UC San Diego Graduate Division for current tuition and fee information.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA major in physics, mathematics, or earth sciences is recommended.
GRE scores are not required for Fall 2026 admission. Application fee waiver programs may be available; inquire with gp-admission@ucsd.edu.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the UC San Diego Graduate Division for current tuition and fee information.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the UC San Diego Graduate Division for current tuition and fee information.
LivingEstimated living costs for graduate students are available from the UC San Diego Financial Aid & Scholarships Office.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Note that GRE scores are not required for Fall 2026 admission.
2. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit the UC San Diego Graduate Application online. Be sure to provide accurate contact information (phone and email) as the program office may reach out for interviews.
3. Inquire about Fee WaiversIf eligible, explore application fee waiver programs offered by the UC San Diego Graduate Division. Inquire with gp-admission@ucsd.edu for details.
4. Contact Potential AdvisorsReview the list of faculty and research scientists interested in seeking new students for Fall 2026. Email potential advisors individually to discuss their research and potential projects.
5. Seek Guidance on Mentor SelectionIf you know your research areas but need help identifying a suitable mentor, contact the admissions coordinator, Dr. Dave May, at gp-admission@ucsd.edu.
6. Submit Application by DeadlineEnsure your complete application is submitted by the November 30 deadline for Fall admission.
Scholarships
Chancellor's Associates ScholarshipUp to $20,000 over two years (up to $10,000 per year)
Chancellor's Associates Scholarship: Enrolled Members of Federally Recognized Tribes—
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic qualifications needed to apply for the MS/PhD in Geophysics?
+
A major in physics, mathematics, or earth sciences is recommended for admission. An undergraduate degree is required.
Are GRE scores required for the Geophysics program?
+
No, GRE scores are not required for Fall 2026 admission.
When is the application deadline for the Geophysics program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is November 30.
What are the career prospects after completing the Geophysics program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles as researchers, academic scientists, industry professionals, or in public service.
What is the duration of the Geophysics program?
+
The program offers PhD or MS degrees. The curriculum includes a first year of core and specialized courses, followed by advanced coursework and research projects in subsequent years.
How can I learn more about tuition and fees?
+
Please refer to the UC San Diego Graduate Division for current tuition and fee information.