What is Geophysics?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

Updated on Sep 19, 2024 02:51 IST
Akansha Bisht

Akansha BishtSenior Executive

Geophysics is the study of the Earth's physics and structure using mathematical and physical methods. It is a broad field that contains many different areas of study like  geodesy, geodynamics, geomagnetism, and seismology. Geophysics courses deal with understanding the physical properties and processes of the Earth with its composition, structure, and dynamics.

The eligibility criteria for Geophysics programs vary depending on the course level, however, the minimum requirement to pursue a program in this discipline is to pass Class 12 in the Science stream with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) subjects with a minimum of 55% aggregate score. 

Geophysics graduates can find job options in fields such as Agriculture, Oilfield Services, Oil and Natural Gas, Geoscience Services, Survey & Research, and many many more. Some popular Geophysics job profiles include Exploration Geophysicists, Geophysicists, Advisor Geophysicists, Exploration Geophysical Advisors, etc. The average salary of a Geophysicist in India is INR 12.6 LPA. Interested students can continue reading the article for more Geophysics course details.

Relevant Links for the Geophysics course:

CUET Preparation Books 2025: Subject-wise Best Books, Study Materials & Preparation Tips

Geophysics Course Details: Highlights

Geophysics is the study of the physical aspects of the earth using a range of methods, including gravity, magnetic, electrical and seismic. Stdents can check the table below to see the key highlights of the Geophysics course.

Parameters

Geophysics Course Details

Geophysics Course Level

UG, PG, Doctorate, and Diploma

Geophysics Course Duration

UG: 3 - 4 Years

PG: 2 Years

Doctorate: 3 - 6 Years

Diploma: 1 - 2 Years

Geophysics Course Admission Criteria

Merit-Based/Entrance-Based

Geophysics Eligibility Criteria

UG: Class 12 with PCM subjects.

PG: Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline.

Doctorate: Master's degree in a relevant discipline.

Diploma: Class 12 score or Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline.

Geophysics Course Fee

INR 2,200 to INR 10 Lakh

Geophysics Average Salary

INR 12.6 LPA

Top Recruiters

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum, Reliance Industries Limited, National Geophysical Research Institute and so on

Note- This info is taken from the official website and may vary.

Helpful Links for Geophysics Course Preparation: 

Class 11 PCM NCERT Solutions  Click here

Class 11 Physics NCERT Solutions Click here

Class 11 Chemistry NCERT Solutions Click here

Class 11 Math NCERT Solutions Click here

Q:   How hard is Geophysics?
A:

The difficulty of Geophysics, like any field of study, can vary depending on individual strengths, interests, and background knowledge. Geophysics is a multidisciplinary Science that combines principles from Mathematics, Physics, Geology, and Computer Science to study the Earth's structure, properties, and processes. 

AskShikshaGPT on App
Q:   What are the applications of Geophysics?
A:

Here are some popular Geophysics applications:

  • Natural Resource Exploration: Geophysicists use their knowledge to find oil, natural gas, minerals, and water. 
  • Environmental Protection: Geophysicists help find the best locations for environmental cleanups. 
  • Earthquake Prediction and Mitigation: Geophysicists study the physical causes and effects of earthquakes. 
  • Urban and Infrastructure Planning: Geophysicists help plan cities and infrastructure. 
  • Groundwater Management: Geophysicists help manage groundwater. 
AskShikshaGPT on App
Q:   What skills are required to pursue a Geophysics course?
A:

Here are some skills required in the Geophysics field:

  • Observation: Observation is an important skill that is very useful for the fields of applied geophysics. Individuals are expected to be very careful and observe accurate data when collecting data and mapping areas from interesting regions. Any error in the observation of data can lead to massive damage.
  • Analysis: One of the biggest assets in the field of applied geophysics is the analytical skill of the candidate. What helps in the segregation of candidates into various levels of efficacy are the analytical skills possessed by the candidates. The data collected must be analysed by you without any mistakes and the results must be accurate.
  • Teamwork: As a fresher, your initial jobs will require you to work as a part of a team. All individuals need to be well in tune with the members of the team. This will not only help in building rapport but will also help in improving the efficacy of the team and ultimately benefit the company. One must possess the ability to work as a part of a team without compromising on individual responsibilities. Working as a team can also help in improving leadership qualities and sharpening communication skills.
  • Instrument Handling: Geophysics is a subject in which the application of the theories is very much dependent on the instruments that are used for the studies. To effectively observe data is imperative that the candidate must be familiar with the instruments in use. Candidates must possess adequate knowledge about the working of the instrument and must know how to operate and collect data from these instruments.
AskShikshaGPT on App
Q:   What are the differences between Geophysics and Applied Geophysics?
A:

The main difference between geophysics and applied geophysics is the purpose of their research. 

Geophysics: also known as pure geophysics, this field studies the Earth's physical properties and processes to gain information and develop theories.
Applied Geophysics: This field uses the information and methods gained from geophysics to address real-world problems.
Geophysics is used in many industries, including oil and gas, mining, environmental consulting, infrastructure development, and space exploration.

Some applications of geophysics include: 

  • Exploration Geophysics: Geophysical methods are used to search for valuable resources in the Earth's crust, such as oil, gas, coal, and minerals.
  • Site Characterization: Geophysical services collect data to characterize a site, such as for monitoring electric and magnetic fields.
  • Environmental Monitoring: Geophysical data can be used to monitor the environment, such as groundwater, landfills, and plume contamination.

Applied geophysics is used in many fields, including:

  • Civil Engineering: Geophysical applications are used in roads, bridges, tunnels, and harbors.
  • Archaeology: Geophysical applications are used to characterize sites.
  • Geological Hazards: Geophysical applications are used to study landslides, erosion, and karst.
AskShikshaGPT on App
Table of content
  • Geophysics Eligibility Criteria
  • Geophysics Entrance Exams 2024
  • Geophysics Syllabus 2024
  • Best Colleges for Geophysics in India
  • Popular Private Geophysics Colleges in India
  • Geophysics Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
  • Geophysics Course FAQs
  • Most Popular Courses
  • Popular Geophysics UG Courses
  • Popular Geophysics PG Courses
View More

Geophysics Eligibility Criteria

Students can check the table below to see the eligibility for the Geophysics courses:

Course Level

Criteria

UG

  • Pass Class 12 or its equivalent exam from a recognized board.
  • From the Science stream with Mathematics as a main subject.

PG

  • A bachelor's degree in BSc in Physics or BSc in Geophysics from any recognized university. 
  • Along with it, another major subject should be Electronic Science or Chemistry or Mathematics. 
  • 55% should be their minimum aggregate score for admission into the Geophysics course.  

Doctorate

  • A master's degree in either MSc Geophysics or any other discipline related to it.
  • With a minimum of 55% aggregate score from a UGC-approved university.

Note- This info is taken from the official website and may vary.

Geophysics Course Useful Links:

IIT JAM 2025: Registration (Started), Eligibility, Fees, Exam Pattern, Syllabus & Other Details

Q:   What are the BSc Geophysics eligibility criteria?
A:

The eligibility criteria for a BSc in Geophysics include:

  • A minimum aggregate score of 55% in Class 12 from a recognised board.
  • A major subject in Electronic Science, Chemistry, or Mathematics from the Science stream.

BSc in Geophysics is a UG degree programme that studies the Earth's inner workings, gravity, and magnetism. 

AskShikshaGPT on App
Q:   What are the MSc Marine Geophysics eligibility criteria?
A:

The eligibility criteria for an MSc in Marine Geophysics may vary depending on the institution, however, the basic requirement is to have a bachelor's degree in Earth Sciences, Physics, or Geophysics from a recognised university. You may also need to have a minimum aggregate score of 50–60%.

AskShikshaGPT on App

Geophysics Entrance Exams 2024

Geophysics course admissions are majorly based on entrance exam procedures. While some colleges conduct university-level exams, some colleges accept national-level exam scores as well. For candidates' reference, here are some popular Geophysics entrance exams conducted in India:

Entrance Exams

Exam Dates

Exam Schedule

IIT JAM

February 2, 2025

IIT JAM Schedule

CPGET

July'25

CPGET Schedule

CUET-PG

March'25

CUET-PG Schedule

UGC NET

August'25

UGC NET Schedule

AP PGCET

May'25

AP PGCET Schedule

Note- This info is taken from the official website and may vary.

Suggested Geophysics course readings:

CUET Preparation Books 2025: Subject-wise Best Books, Study Materials & Preparation Tips

Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates
15 Feb ' 26

IIT JAM 2026 Exam Day

Feb ' 26

IIT JAM 2026 Provisional Answer Key

TENTATIVE
Feb ' 26

IIT JAM 2026 Response Sheet

TENTATIVE
Mar ' 26

IIT JAM 2026 Final Answer Key

TENTATIVE
DatesPast Exam Dates
25 Aug ' 25

CUSAT CAT 2025 Counselling: B.Tech Fourth Real Time (Spot) Admission

20 Aug ' 25 - 21 Aug ' 25

CUSAT CAT 2025 Counselling: Registration for B.Tech Fourth Real Time (Spot) Admission

14 Aug ' 25

CUSAT CAT 2025 Counselling: B.Tech Third Real Time (Spot) Admission

Mar '26

CUET 2026 Application Process

TENTATIVE

May '26 - Jun '26

CUET 2026 Exam

TENTATIVE

Nov '25

UPCATET 2025 UG, PG, PhD: Download counselling le...

TENTATIVE

Nov '25

UPCATET Counselling 2025: Campus Reporting UG Can...

TENTATIVE

Oct '25

OUAT 2025 Campus Reporting for UG Courses for Mop...

TENTATIVE

Nov '25

OUAT 2025 Campus Reporting for Master's Programme...

TENTATIVE

Geophysics Syllabus 2024

Here is a general outline of topics that are commonly covered in the Geophysics courses:

Geophysics Course Semester 1

Fundamentals of Geology

Basic Mathematics and Physics

Introduction to Earth Sciences

Principles of Chemistry

Geophysics Course Semester 2

Introduction to Geophysics

Seismology and Earthquake Studies

Geomagnetism and Paleomagnetism

Gravity and Magnetic Methods

Geophysics Course Semester 3

Structural Geology

Petrology and Mineralogy

Stratigraphy and Sedimentology

Environmental Geology

Geophysics Course Semester 4

Calculus and Differential Equations

Electromagnetism

Linear Algebra and Vector Calculus

Classical Mechanics

Geophysics Course Semester 5

geophysical data acquisition and processing

Laboratory experiments

Analysis and interpretation

-

Geophysics Course Semester 6

Advanced Seismology and Seismic Imaging

Advanced Gravity and Magnetic Methods

Electrical and Electromagnetic Exploration Techniques

Ground Penetrating Radar Applications

Relevant Links for the Geophysics course:

Top 10 BSc/MSc Colleges in India

Top Colleges of DU for BSc: Total Seats, Expected and Previous Cutoff

Q:   Who sets the JAM 2025 syllabus?
A:

The IIT JAM syllabus is set by a committee of experts from the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). The committee is responsible for reviewing the syllabus on a regular basis to ensure that it is up-to-date and covers all of the latest developments in the field.

The committee takes into account a variety of factors when setting the syllabus, including:

A.  The recommendations of the IITs and other leading academic institutions in India
B. The latest trends in the field
C. The feedback of students and faculty

The committee also ensures that the syllabus is aligned with the admission criteria of the IITs and other postgraduate programs in India.

Q:   Does Geophysics have Maths?
A:

Hi, Geophysics involves Mathematics. It is essential for understanding and analyzing various geophysical phenomena, interpreting data, developing models, and solving problems encountered in Geophysics research and applications. 

Best Colleges for Geophysics in India

There are around 22 Geophysics colleges in India, of which 18 colleges are government and only 2 are private institutions and the remaining two colleges come under Public/Private entities. These colleges offer Geophysics courses on various levels, and specializations, along with offering great placement opportunities. Interested candidates can see the tables below for more details:

Best Government Colleges for Geophysics Courses

BHU, IITs, Osmania University, Andhra University, etc., are some top government institutions for Geophysics courses. See the table below for more details and similar options:

Best Government Colleges

Tuition Fee

Osmania University

INR 7,520

Andhra University, Visakhapatnam

INR 2.8 - 4.2 Lakh

Dibrugarh University

INR 1.05 Lakh

Pachhunga University College

INR 5,400

IIT Bombay

INR 2.69 Lakh

IIT Kharagpur

INR 42,660 - INR 10 Lakh

IIT Roorkee 

INR 10 Lakh

Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University

-

IIT Dhanbad (ISM) 

INR 48,000 - INR 1.44 Lakh

Note- This info is taken from the official website and may vary.

Geophysics course Links you may be interested in:

Best Science Colleges in India

Best Private for Geophysics Course

Only 2 private colleges are offering Geophysics courses in India. See the table below for more details:

Best Private Colleges

Tuition Fee

Emmanuel College INR 67,500
Sree Narayana Guru College of Advanced Studies, Vazhukumpara  -

Note- This info is taken from the official website and may vary.

Quick Links relevant to the Geophysics course:

Best Geography Colleges in India

1 Course
1.08 L
9 LPA

#10 NIRF

2 Courses
2.71 L - 8 L
17.92 LPA

#4 NIRF

2 Courses
30 K - 8 L
19.76 LPA

#5 NIRF

1 Course
4.52 K
6 LPA
2 Courses
2.8 L - 4.2 L
4.5 - 6.7 LPA
1 Course
10 L
21 LPA

#6 NIRF

Q:   Which is the best institute for an MSc in Geophysics for a good placement?
A:

Hello, here are some top Geophysics colleges offering great placement options:

College Name

Average Package

IIT Roorkee 

INR 22.54 LPA

IIT Bombay

INR 16.56 LPA

IIT Dhanbad

INR 15.95 LPA

IIT Kharagpur

INR 14.23 - 15.5 LPA

Dibrugarh University

INR 9 LPA

Banaras Hindu University

INR 8 LPA

Andhra University

INR 3.5 - 6.5 LPA

Osmania University

INR 6 LPA

University College of Science

INR 6 LPA

Faculty of Science, Kurukshetra University

INR 3.5 LPA

Note: This information is sourced from the official website/media reports/NIRF website and may vary.

Q:   Which IIT has Geophysics?
A:

Not all IITs offer Geophysics courses. However, some IITs do offer related programs or research opportunities in areas closely related to geophysics. 

Here are a few IITs that are known for offering Geophysics-related programs or research:

College Name

Total Fees

IIT Bombay

INR 30,000

IIT Kharagpur

INR 42,660 - 10 Lakh

IIT Roorkee

INR 10 Lakh

IIT Dhanbad

INR 48,000 - 1.44 Lakh

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Popular Private Geophysics Colleges in India

1 Course
1.08 L
9 LPA

#10 NIRF

2 Courses
2.71 L - 8 L
17.92 LPA

#4 NIRF

2 Courses
30 K - 8 L
19.76 LPA

#5 NIRF

1 Course
4.52 K
6 LPA
2 Courses
2.8 L - 4.2 L
4.5 - 6.7 LPA
1 Course
10 L
21 LPA

#6 NIRF

Geophysics Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

As India continues to develop and invest in infrastructure, natural resource exploration and environmental protection the demand for skilled geophysicists is expected to grow.

Geophysics Salary in India

Below Mentioned is a general overview of the Geophysics salary range in India across different job profiles:

Job Profiles

Average Salary

Exploration Geophysicist

INR 5 LPA

Geophysicist

INR 12.6 LPA

Exploration Geophysical Advisor

INR 4 LPA

Atmospheric Scientist

INR 5 LPA

Planetologist

INR 8.5 LPA

Note: The salary information has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.

Geophysics Top Recruiters

Here are some of the top recruiters for graduates of Geophysics courses in India:

Geophysics Top Recruiters

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation

Indian Oil Corporation

Bharat Petroleum

Reliance Industries Limited

National Geophysical Research Institute Hyderabad

National Institute of Oceanography

INCOIS

CSIR & DRDO Laboratories  

Central Ground Water Board 

Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.

Students also liked these Geophysics course links: 

Job Options after BSc Degree – Know Salary Packages

Popular BSc Scholarships in India

Q:   What are the roles and responsibilities of a Geoscientist?
A:

Geoscientists study the Earth's physical elements, including its composition, structure, and history. 
Fieldwork: Geoscientists collect samples and conduct surveys in the field. They may also assess the ground for suitability for engineering projects like dams or tunnels. 
Laboratory Work: Geoscientists perform tests on samples collected in the field. 

Q:   What is the career scope of Geophysics in India and abroad?
A:

Geophysics is one of the most high-demand fields in the world. In developing and developed countries alike the value of mineral resources is undeniable. Even when global trends are shifting to renewable resources the importance of minerals has not depreciated. Countries rich in natural minerals like Canada, Russia, Brazil and Venezuela have high demands for Geophysicists.

India is one of the countries rich in minerals. With the advancement of time and technology, India is also moving toward being a developed country from a developing country. Thus industrialization is also on the rise which means high demand for fuels and natural resources. The need for applying physics to interpret subsurface resources is also on the rise.

Geophysics students can seek recruitment at the Geological Survey of India as Scientists and Explorers, oil companies such as ONGC and Bharat Petroleum, oil refineries, or agricultural industries.

Geophysics Course FAQs

Candidates can continue reading the article for Geophysics Course FAQs.

Q:   Can I study Geophysics without Chemistry?
A:

It is possible to study Geophysics without having a background in Chemistry. Geophysics primarily focuses on the study of the Earth's structure, properties, and processes using principles and methods from Physics, Mathematics, and Geology. 

Q:   Does NASA hire Geophysicists?
A:

Yes, NASA does hire geophysicists, among other Earth scientists, to work on various research projects and missions related to the study of Earth, planetary science, and space exploration. While NASA is primarily known for its space exploration missions, the agency also conducts extensive research on Earth's atmosphere, oceans, climate, and geological processes.

Popular Geophysics UG Courses

Following are the most popular Geophysics UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Geophysics PG Courses

Following are the most popular Geophysics PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

qna

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...