BS Geophysics at University of Nevada, Reno

Programme overview

Geophysics applies mathematical and physical principles to the study of the Earth and planets. The curriculum introduces the global properties of the Earth (gravity, magnetic field, crustal motions, interior dynamics) and the determination of near-surface and interior properties through the use of seismology, electromagnetics, potential fields, remote sensing, geodesy and GPS.

Faculty: College of Science | Department: Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering | Study mode: full-time | Location: Reno, NV, United States

What you will study

The bachelor’s degree in geophysics at the University of Nevada, Reno applies mathematical and physical principles to the study of the Earth and other planets. You gain experience integrating geologic observations with geophysical measurements to analyze Earth science and related engineering problems using industry-standard computational and geographic information systems tools.

Career pathways

If you are interested in a stable career where much of your time is spent outdoors, geophysics might be for you. A degree in geophysics will open the door to the following careers:

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

University-level freshman admission (not programme-specific): minimum 3.0 weighted academic GPA in core courses; high school coursework of 4 units English, 3 units math (Algebra I or higher), 3 units natural science and 3 units social science; SAT/ACT scores optional. Some majors and colleges set additional direct-entry or progression requirements.

Domestic applicants: USD 9,383 a year (2026-27). Undergraduate base tuition for Nevada residents, 2026-27, based on 30 credits across fall and spring at $312.75 per credit; applies to all undergraduate programmes (university-wide rate band); excludes mandatory student fees ($1,696), differential fees (e Source

First-year entry terms: Spring 2027 and Fall 2027.

First-year applications opened August 1, 2026. Early Action deadline for Fall 2027 is November 15, 2026; final deadline for Fall 2027 is April 7, 2027; final deadline for Spring 2027 is December 15, 2026. Scholarship and financial aid deadline is February 15, 2027. SAT/ACT scores are optional for admission. Domestic first-year applicants pay no application fee; international undergraduate applicants pay $95. Apply through the university admissions portal (admissions.unr.edu) or the Common App.

Apply through the official page: https://www.unr.edu/apply

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