Welcome to Geophysics
Proudly celebrating 100 years!
The Department of Geophysics has an international reputation for excellence in applied geophysics. It is the oldest and broadest program of applied geophysics in North America, was the first U.S. university to offer a bachelor’s degree in geophysical engineering and is evenly balanced between undergraduate and graduate students and between research and teaching. In 2026, we will be 100 years old, and we are already celebrating. Learn more.
News
Heiland Lecture Series Kicks Off
Join our Heiland lecture series this semester to hear from a wide range of Geophysics experts on important and timely topics. Each lecture is held on campus and virtually on Wednesdays from 12:00-12:50. Learn more about the speakers on our Heiland lecture page.
What is Geophysics?
Geophysics is a multidisciplinary science, integrating physics, geology, mathematics, computing and instrumentation. Its mission is to advance science and technology for characterizing structures and physical processes on Earth and other Solar System bodies.
A Look Below the Surface
Article courtesy of Mines Magazine
Undergraduate Program
Prepare to be a leader in geophysics. Our BS degree in geophysical engineering allows you to specialize in one of six areas by choosing a track of courses in the following:
Geophysical Engineering Bachelor's Degree
Graduate Programs and Research
Prepare for advanced work in applied geophysics with a master’s or PhD in Geophysics or Geophysical Engineering. Build technical skills with a graduate certificate in Petroleum Engineering.
Graduate Program
Department Research
In the News
- Mines researcher flying into eye of storm to learn more about air-sea interactions
Geophysics' Bia Villas Bôas is part of a $9 million Office of Naval Research project to enhance our predictive capabilities of extreme weather events. - Mines researchers on two finalist teams for $310M NASA Earth System Explorer mission
Geophysics' Bia Villas Bôas and Matthew Siegfried are members of two proposed missions to improve understanding of key Earth science focus areas for the benefit of all. - Ice-cored hills in the Arctic could help us detect water on other planets
A Colorado School of Mines researcher recently spent almost two weeks surveying cone-shaped hills along the Arctic Ocean in Canada to see what they can tell us about other planets. - USGS, Colorado School of Mines establish joint industry program to explore potential of geologic hydrogen
Eight member companies have already signed on to support the joint USGS-Mines research, including major players in mining and energy industries and geologic hydrogen start-ups.