The Ohio State University School of Earth Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Earth Science: Geophysics Subprogram

Students making observations on a field trip to the Guadalupe Mountains.

Bachelor of Science in Earth Science: Geophysics Subprogram

The Bachelor of Science (BS) Geophysics Subprogram is designed for students interested in the physical processes and properties of Earth and space, such as seismic, electrical, magnetic, and gravitational activity, using quantitative analyses. The field of geophysics is critical to everyday life, with societal applications that include energy and mineral resource exploration, water resource management, natural hazard mitigation, and environmental protection and remediation.

Program Requirements

The Geophysics Subprogram requires 14-15 credit hours of geophysics-specific required courses and an additional 6-8 credit hours of elective geophysics classes in addition to the 7-10 credit hours of core courses required for all Earth Science BS students, for a total of at least 30 credit hours. Like all Earth Science BS Subprograms, Geophysics requires the completion of an approved certificate, minor, or any second major. The Geophysics Subprogram has a 50% overlap with the School of Earth Sciences' Petroleum Geology and Planetary Science Certificates, meaning that it is possible to earn one of these certificates with as little as two additional courses.

Sample 4-year curriculum

Preparation for the Major (29 units)

Note: Supporting science requirements will be changing in spring 2027. See updated requirements.

Supporting math and science (take all, 25 units):

One introductory Earth Science course & lab (4 units)

with:

Sustainability Course Requirement (3-4 units) 

Required for everyone in the Geophysics Subprogram (14-15 units):

Additional geophysics courses (choose 2-3 courses for 6-8 additional credits):

Offered autumn of even-numbered years

Offered spring of even-numbered years

Offered autumn of odd-numbered years

Offered spring of odd-numbered years

Not currently scheduled

Required for all Earth Science BS (7-10 units)

  • EARTHSC 2000: Preparation for Thesis and Careers in Earth Sciences (1 unit, au)
  • EARTHSC 2245: Introductory Data Analysis for Earth and Environmental Sciences (4 units, sp)
  • EARTHSC 4999.01: Undergraduate Research for Thesis in Earth Sciences (1 unit, graded)

Applying for research distinction

If you choose to apply for research distinction, you must enroll in 1 unit of 4999.01 in the semester you plan to graduate and enroll in at least 3 units of 4999.02 anytime during your degree, which includes the semester you plan to graduate. Honors program students should enroll in 4999.01H and 4999.02H. Applications to apply for research distinction are due early in your penultimate semester. More information is available at the ASC advising website. 

Advising information

Director of Undergraduate Studies (Earth Sciences): Professor Liz Griffith, griffith.906@osu.edu 

Undergraduate Academic Advisor (Earth Sciences): Dr. Karen Royce, royce.6@osu.edu, 614-292-6961

The state of Ohio does not license Geologists; however, if you plan to pursue licensure or certification in a state other than Ohio, please review state educational requirements for licensure and certification and state licensing board contact information at the Office of Distance Education and eLearning- State Authorizations for Students.