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

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:
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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 |
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.
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.
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.
- 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
Geophysics Eligibility Criteria
Students can check the table below to see the eligibility for the Geophysics courses:
Course Level |
Criteria |
---|---|
UG |
|
PG |
|
Doctorate |
|
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
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.
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%.
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 |
|
CPGET |
July'25 |
|
CUET-PG |
March'25 |
|
UGC NET |
August'25 |
|
AP PGCET |
May'25 |
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
Dates | Upcoming 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 |
Dates | Past 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 |
6 May ' 25 | CUET PG 2025 Result |
6 May ' 25 | CUET PG Final Answer Key 2025 |
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:
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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.
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 |
---|---|
INR 7,520 |
|
INR 2.8 - 4.2 Lakh |
|
INR 1.05 Lakh |
|
Pachhunga University College |
INR 5,400 |
INR 2.69 Lakh |
|
INR 42,660 - INR 10 Lakh |
|
INR 10 Lakh |
|
- |
|
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:
Hello, here are some top Geophysics colleges offering great placement options:
College Name | Average Package |
---|---|
INR 22.54 LPA | |
INR 16.56 LPA | |
INR 15.95 LPA | |
INR 14.23 - 15.5 LPA | |
INR 9 LPA | |
INR 8 LPA | |
INR 3.5 - 6.5 LPA | |
INR 6 LPA | |
INR 6 LPA | |
INR 3.5 LPA |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website/media reports/NIRF website and may vary.
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 |
INR 10 Lakh | |
INR 48,000 - 1.44 Lakh |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
Popular Private Geophysics Colleges in India
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.