Exploration Geophysics MSc

Course overview

Earth’s resources are essential for our energy future. Exploration geophysicists play a crucial role in identifying where resources are located – whether these are water, mineral deposits, hydrocarbon reserves or geothermal heat. They also conduct long-term monitoring of underground storage facilities, to ensure that hazardous material (e.g., CO2 or radioactive waste) remains contained. Geophysicists also perform the site investigations that ensure safe construction and development operations, minimising the risk from environmentally hazardous or archaeologically sensitive material in the ground.

The global demand for geophysicists will always be high, as organisations worldwide seek to develop the sustainable solutions to resource management that exploration geophysicists can provide. 

Our Exploration Geophysics MSc degree provides training with a broad spectrum of techniques that are used to understand the Earth’s interior. In studying with us, you will experience authentic industrial applications of seismic, gravity, magnetic and geo-electrical methods, and how they are integrated with field geology and modern computational approaches. Our taught-course modules culminate in an independent research project, in which you will be able to make your own contribution to a genuine research challenge. 

Established for over 60 years, our Exploration Geophysics MSc course has strong links with diverse industrial partners, global research institutes, and the Leeds Geosolutions Centre, each combining to develop the next generation of expert geophysicists and tackle emerging resource priorities.

We have an excellent track record in providing skilled geophysics graduates into a range of industrial and research sectors.

Why study at Leeds:

• This Masters degree is accredited by The Geological Society of London.
• Our active and globally-renowned research conducted here on campus feeds directly into the course, combining theoretical knowledge with authentic industrial practice.
• Leeds paves the way in sustainable energy development: independent research projects can integrate with our pioneering “Campus Geothermal” living-lab, a network of geothermal boreholes that explore subsurface heat processes for the decarbonisation of campus energy use.
• You’ll advance your knowledge and skills in key areas like industrial applications of seismic, gravity, magnetic and geo-electrical methods, complemented with machine learning technologies and applied authentically across a broad range of survey environments.
• You'll make your own contribution to the field of geophysics through an individual research project, focused on a genuine research challenge and tailored to suit your interests. Very often, projects are undertaken in close collaboration with external partners and sometimes the potential to undertake an internship.
• Our specialist facilities include industry-grade computers equipped with commercial software packages – plus geophysical field equipment you can use for your own field-based research.
• We provide a network of professional contacts and early awareness of internship and employment opportunities through visits throughout the year by representatives from industry and research institutes.
• You’ll benefit from expert practical and theoretical teaching, delivered by a programme team made up of geoscientists from the School’s Institute of Applied Geoscience and Institute of Geophysics and Tectonics.

Accreditation

The Geological Society of London

Accreditation is the assurance that a university course meets the quality standards established by the profession for which it prepares its students.

The quality and relevance of our teaching has been recognised by an independent body of academics and industrialists from The Geological Society of London. This accreditation provides a valuable step towards your professional chartership and certifies that our geophysics curriculum meets the requirements of professional geoscience employment.

Course details

In semester 1, you’ll learn the theoretical tools of the trade. Regardless of your academic background, you’ll receive fundamental training in geological concepts, computational methods, and digital data systems, and discover how to analyse seismic, gravity and magnetic datasets. 

Throughout semester 2, you’ll put this theory into practice. You will discover how machine learning methods are used as an assistive technology in geophysics, alongside physics-based methods of seismic interpretation. Our near-surface geophysics module includes training with field survey systems: these are typically applied in a residential field course in Wales, in which we explore the role of geophysical site investigation for a hypothetical windfarm development.  

All your learning from semesters 1 and 2 will culminate in your own project and dissertation, where you’ll be able to apply your skills to a real-world topic in exploration geophysics.

Throughout the year, you’ll meet a diverse range of external guest speakers. Targeting our Exploration Geophysics course specifically, their visits will keep you informed of the latest project, internship and career opportunities in their companies, and give you an impression of what it’s like to be a professional geoscientist.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Exploration Geophysics MSc in the course catalogue

Compulsory modules

Computational Analysis Techniques – 15 credits

In this module, you’ll learn how to estimate subsurface properties from geophysical data using the the techniques and theory of data inversion. You will also learn the fundamental considerations in designing a digital recording system. You will receive training in the use of the Python scientific programming language, building inverse theory algorithms in Python and learning programming skills to take into other Exploration Geophysics modules.

Geological and Physical Models for Subsurface Characterisation – 15 credits

This module provides the basic tools required to characterise rocks at all depth and spatial scales, in the context of striking a balance between economic growth and environmental safeguarding. The module starts by reinforcing your fundamental geological skills through a one-day field trip and explores the seismic expression of basin-scale structural geology. Thereafter, you will receive training in the quantitative petrophysical analysis of rocks at a well-log to microscopic scale.

Seismic Reflection Surveying – 15 credits

In this module, you’ll discover the fundamental considerations that enable seismic reflection imaging of the Earth’s interior. You will apply seismic processing techniques using an industry-standard software package and learn how acquisition technologies contribute to improved imaging potential.

Geophysical Reservoir Evaluation – 15 credits

At the heart of this module is interpreting the physical properties of subsurface materials from seismic data. Based in rock mechanics principles, you will discover the use of quantitative seismic methods to detect petrophysical and fluid changes in the subsurface. The module provides new developments in seismic reservoir characterisation, with special attention to seismic monitoring for low carbon geotechnologies.

Near Surface Geophysics – 15 credits

This module provides training in the seismic and geo-electrical approaches commonly used in near-surface exploration, including for hydrological, engineering and archaeological applications. In additional to technical training, you’ll become familiar with writing a field report and the logistical considerations that must be made in near-surface site investigations. The module culminates in a residential fieldtrip, in which you can put geophysical learning into field practice.

Gravity and Magnetic Methods – 15 credits

In this module, you will explore the application of gravity and magnetic methods to enhance subsurface geological understanding including processing and data enhancement techniques.

Seismic Data Interpretation – 15 credits

On completion of this module, you’ll be familiar with the methods of seismic interpretation methods across a range of scales. You’ll learn how to build geological models from 2D and 3D seismic volumes, how to expand the interpretability of a seismic volume, and discover how the key elements of reservoir architecture are expressed in seismic data.

Machine Learning and Statistics – 15 credits

Discover how to choose and apply appropriate statistical methodologies in your research, including significance testing, regression, and non-parametric statistics. You’ll learn how to use machine learning models such as deep learning to aid your research.

Exploration Geophysics: Project and Dissertation – 60 credits

Over the summer, you'll apply your expertise to an independent project that explores an authentic research challenge. These projects are tailored to the individual interests of students and often involve an external collaborator, with the potential to undertake an internship for part of the project period. This is your opportunity to make your own contribution to the field of Exploration Geophysics – beneficial experience whether your future direction is in industry or continuing academic research.

Fieldwork

There are two fieldwork sessions in the Exploration Geophysics year. In semester 1, you will undertake a day-trip focused on field geology: if you have no geological background, the trip helps to embed key geological principles, and otherwise serves as a refresher of geological fundamentals. In semester 2, you will complete a week-long residential field trip in which you’ll use our geophysical survey systems to conduct a site investigation of a shallow bedrock target. This typically takes place in a scenic area of North Wales.

Depending on its theme, you may also undertake fieldwork as part of your independent research project. 

Year 1 compulsory modules

Learning and teaching

You will learn through a mix of lectures and software practicals, and active-learning workshops that blend the two formats. Most instruction takes place through synchronously scheduled sessions, but all learning resources can be accessed remotely to facilitate private study in your own time. Your background instruction in geological principles is complemented by a day of in-field training, and our residential geophysics fieldtrip is an opportunity to put classroom theory into authentic practice. 

With a diverse international cohort, we aim to be as inclusive and integrative as possible. You will discover the campus and the wider city during a pre-sessional induction week, which also introduces the various support facilities in the university including the Library, Language Centre and Careers Service; you will also meet your MSc peers and relevant teaching teams. All course materials are made available through our e-learning platform in advance of scheduled sessions, and all students are assigned a personal tutor who will advise on academic and pastoral issues throughout the year.  

On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

There are a number of different means of conveying geophysics understanding, and accordingly you will be assessed via different means during the course. Examples of assessment may include: 

• submission of written reports, 
• diagnostic tests to validate analyses, 
• recorded audio commentary on your workflows, 
• poster presentation, 
• delivering a seminar, and 
• preparation of an example technical conference submission. 

These represent authentic deliverables that you might be expected to supply in professional practice and are thus complementary to your professional development. Certain modules are also assessed by time-limited exams, which may be held in online or in-person formats. For your summer research project, we encourage you to identify a research theme that is of interest to you and thus personalise your project experience to your own expertise and ambition.

The majority of assignments are individually assessed, although some teamwork also features. Opportunities for learning are provided through formative assessment (i.e., for feedback and not for credit) ahead of summative assessment. All assessments are accompanied by marking schemes and rubrics, to help you appreciate the detailed requirements of any submission. 

Applying

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in geosciences (e.g. geology or geophysics) or in a relevant numerate subject, such as physics, mathematics, or some engineering or computing disciplines. Relevant and extensive industry experience can also be taken into account.

You must have mathematics to a good A-level grade (or equivalent) as a minimum. Your mathematical competence will be assessed prior to joining and additional training may be required. The course is computer-intensive and we assume you have basic computer literacy, including Windows and MS Office. EDCL/ICDL qualifications are not formally required, but represent the level expected. Familiarity with Linux would also be advantageous, as it forms the platform for much of the workstation-based training.

Applicants with any of the following will be considered on a case-by-case basis:

• A bachelor degree with a 2:2 (hons), or equivalent, where applicants can demonstrate relevant work experience or aptitude in a relevant specialist field.
• Professional qualifications and relevant experience.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English

International students who do not meet the English language requirements for this programme may be able to study our postgraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

This pre-sessional course is designed with a progression route to your degree programme and you’ll learn academic English in the context of your subject area. To find out more, read Language for Science (6 weeks) and Language for Science: General Science (10 weeks). 

We also offer online pre-sessionals alongside our on-campus pre-sessionals. Find out more about our six week online pre-sessional.

You can also study pre-sessionals for longer periods – read about our postgraduate pre-sessional English courses.

How to apply

Application deadlines

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

30 June 2025 – International applicants

12 September 2025 – UK applicants

Click below to access the University’s online application system and find out more about the application process.

If you're still unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2025

This course is taught by

School of Earth and Environment

Contact us

School of Earth and Environment Postgraduate Admissions Team

Email: apply-masters@see.leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Fees

UK: £14,500 (Total)

International: £37,500 (Total)

Read more about paying fees and charges.

For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

Additional cost information

Standard travel and accommodation costs associated with compulsory field trips are covered by the University. However, you must pay for some subsistence, incidental or personal expenses such as suitable clothing, footwear and any related visa costs associated with overseas travel.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government.  Find out more at Masters funding overview.

We have strong company links which typically offer a number of industry scholarships.

Career opportunities

There is a growing demand for geophysicists. A Masters qualification is generally regarded as an essential entry-level requirement in the geoscience sector, whether in resource applications or in the environmental/engineering industry. The extensive set of practical and computational skills that you’ll learn on our Exploration Geophysics MSc will be highly sought after in many industries.

Graduates from the course have an exceptionally good track record at securing employment on completion. They can be found throughout all career stages in the resource industries, taking leading roles in the processing and interpretation of geophysical data or with the development of relevant software. The area of net-zero technologies is undergoing significant growth, and many of our graduates are in demand in this sector. Plus, University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2024, High Fliers Research, meaning our graduates are highly sought after by some of the most reputable companies in the field.

Here’s a snapshot into some of the job positions and organisations previous graduates from this course have secured:

• Remote sensing and data scientist, Climate X
• Project leader, CGG
• Seismology PhD researcher, University of Edinburgh
• Geophysicist, data management and GIS, The Government of Tanzania
• Geotechnical engineer, WSP
• Software engineer, Alan Turing Institute
• Chief consultant geophysicist, Wood Thilsted
• Geophysicist, General Directorate of Mineral Research and Exploration, Turkey
• Engineering geophysicist, British Geological Survey
• Geophysicist, Fugro Geoservices Ltd.
• Marine acquisition geophysicist, Gardline Ltd.
• Reflection seismologist, Shearwater GeoServices
• Consultant geophysicist, OWC

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one — that’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers. The University's Careers Service is one of the largest in the country, providing a wide range of resources to ensure you are prepared to take your next steps after graduation and get you where you want to be.

• Dedicated Employability Officer — gain quality advice, guidance and information to help you choose a career path. From CV and cover letter writing to supporting you with job applications, our School’s dedicated Employability Officer is on hand to help maximise your capabilities through a process of personal development and career planning.
• Employability and networking events — we run a full range of events, including careers fairs and industry talks in specialist areas and across broader industries, with employers who are actively recruiting for roles, giving you the opportunity to network and engage with industry sponsors. 
• Employability skills training – to support your transition to the workplace, we embed training in a range of key transferable skills valued by employers such as research and data analysis in all our programmes.
• MyCareer system — on your course and after you graduate you’ll have access to a dedicated careers portal where you can book appointments with our team, get information on careers and see job vacancies and upcoming events.
• Opportunities at Leeds — there are plenty of exciting opportunities offered by our Leeds University Union, including volunteering and over 300 clubs and societies to get involved in.

Find out more about careers support.