Geophysics Major

Advisor: Dr. Michelle Kominz
Room 1133 Rood Hall
Phone: (269) 387-5340
Email:

Geophysics, one of the earth sciences, applies principles of physics to the study of the earth. Evaluation of gravity, magnetic, and electrical fields, seismic wave propagation and heat flow are used to deduce the earth's structure, composition, physical properties, and dynamic processes. These studies may emphasize exploration geophysics, which uses geophysical techniques in the search for petroleum, natural gas, other mineral deposits, and ground-water resources. The techniques of geophysics are also used to investigate the shallow portions of the earth's crust to determine conditions for the suitable location of dams, bridges, nuclear power plants, waste disposal sites, and highways. Geology, the study of the earth, plays a major role in geophysics.

The Geosciences and Physics Departments offer a program of study leading to a major in geophysics. Students choosing this program of study are also required to take mathematics courses which corresepond to a minor in mathematics. Students contemplating a geophysics major should contact the Geosciences Department as early as possible for advising. Total major requires 75-77 credit hours.

Within the College of Arts and Sciences at Western Michigan University, we offer a two-tiered advising system for undergraduates. Students receive major/minor specific advising through the faculty or staff expertise within the department and general advising regarding university and general education requirements as well as pre-professional advising through the College's advising office located in 2318 Friedmann Hall (http://www.wmich.edu/cas/advising/). As a student with a major within the College of Arts and Sciences, I understand that I need to meet regularly with both a departmental and college advisor to ensure I have met all requirements for graduation.

Outline of required courses on Registrar's site Offsite

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