Exploration Geophysics MSc

The following modules are available in 2023/24 for Exploration Geophysics MSc and are examples of the modules you are likely to study. All Modules are subject to change. You will study 180 credits in total.

Compulsory modules:

Seismic Fundamentals and Acquisition – 15 credits

This module conveys both the fundamental concepts and modern approaches in the field of seismic acquisition. The purposes of this module are: to review the fundamentals of seismology; provide practical application of seismic theory to subsurface exploration; to understand the concepts, principles, and practical application of digital signal processing as applied to industry seismic data; and more.

Geological and Physical Methods of Subsurface Characterisation – 15 credits

In this module, you will learn the fundamentals of geological and petrophysical analysis required to characterize subsurface formations in order to understand and manage environmental and economic resources. Such resources include fresh and salt water aquifers and porous reservoirs, for the sequestration of CO2, short-term storage of energy or the production of hydrocarbons.

Near Surface Geophysics – 15 credits

You will explore the principles of geophysical methods commonly applied in near-surface exploration and become familiar with handling and integrating different types of geophysical data. Learn how to design and implement geophysical field surveys.

Computational Inverse Theory – 15 credits

In this module, you will learn both the techniques and theory of inverse theory but also how to use Python for scientific programming. Inverse theory practicals will be undertaken in Python, underlining the links between these two subjects.

Seismic Data Processing – 15 credits

In this module, you will learn principles and practice of processing surface-seismic reflection and vertical-seismic-profile (VSP) data.

Seismic Reflection Interpretation and Sequence Stratigraphy – 15 credits

On completion of this module, you will be familiar with subsurface interpretation methods across a range of scales. You will learn how to build geological models from seismic datasets, how they inform the reservoir potential of the subsurface and the key elements of reservoir architecture.

Geophysical Reservoir Evaluation – 15 credits

The purpose of this module is to provide an understanding of rock mechanics and the sensitivity of seismic attributes to rock physical, petro-physical and fluid properties. New developments in seismic reservoir characterisation are also provided, with special attention to an overview of the fundamentals of time-lapse seismic technology, passive seismic monitoring, seismic geomechanics and seismic methods for low carbon, and carbon neutral, geotechnologies.

Gravity and Magnetic Methods – 15 credits

In this module you will learn the theory and practice of gravity and magnetic methods as applied to sub-surface interpretation - especially resource exploration; they will also have an introduction to EM methods.

Exploration Geophysics – Project and Dissertation – 60 credits

In this module, students will apply and extend relevant elements of the taught-course module(s) to a single exploration geophysical project, with credible industrial or research outcomes. It is typically 15 weeks of full-time work, leading to a Dissertation and other forms of assessment emulating industry and academic practice.

The full list of module information can be read in the course catalogue.