Geophysics is highly quantitative, requiring a firm background in mathematics and physics. Students study a wide-range of topics including the physics of earthquakes and seismic energy propagation, development and integration of several aspects of reservoir characterization using data from actual oil and gas fields, or numerical techniques for mathematical modeling of various earth-system phenomena along with many other areas of researchStudents in the master's or doctorate geophysics program study the earth through physical measurements, employing theory, laboratory and/or field experimentation, and modeling. Departmental research activities span from fundamental and precise laboratory studies of rocks and minerals to field studies in remote and rugged locations to high-performance computing and subsurface visualization.<br>Graduate studies in the Department of Geological and Mining Engineering and Sciences focus on understanding and safely managing the Earth and its resources for the future, with degrees leading to careers in industry, government, nonprofit organizations, and academia.<br>Our curriculum emphasizes the sociocultural facets, or social geology, inherent specifically in hazards-related work and broadly in the fields of geological sciences and engineering. Our graduate program is flexible, accommodating students individual goals and affording specialization for myriad careers in the earth sciences, geophysics, and geological engineering.