Geophysics Specialist (Science Program) - ASSPE1650

The Geophysics Specialist program allows students to model physical processes in and on Earth and other planets and to apply non­invasive methods of imaging the subsurface, often in 4D (i.e., space and time). Targets may range from archaeological investigations to groundwater imaging and mineral exploration, but also include modeling of mountain-building processes and the exploration of planetary bodies. Students are advised to be aware of course prerequisites, and consult the Earth Sciences Undergraduate Handbook. For further questions, please consult with the Student Affairs Coordinator (Scott Moore, Department of Earth Sciences, 22 Russell St. Earth Sciences Center, Room 1062 email: ugrad@es.utoronto.ca).

This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.


(13.5 to 14.0 credits with at least 1.0 credit at the 400-level)

10.0 credits of core courses:

Foundation courses: PHY131H1/​ PHY151H1, PHY132H1/​ PHY152H1, ( MAT135H1, MAT136H1)/ MAT137Y1, JEG100H1/​ ESS262H1

200-level physics, math, and earth sciences: PHY250H1, PHY254H1, MAT224H1, MAT235Y1/​ MAT237Y1, ESS224H1, ESS241H1, ESS245H1/​ CSC108H1/​ PHY224H1

300-level global and near-surface geophysics: JPE395H1, JGA305H1

400-level advanced geophysics, including field course: PHY408H1, JPE493H1, ESS445H1, ESS450H1, ESS452H1/​ ESS453H1

0.5 to 1.0 credit ethics course chosen from the following list: JPH441H1, ENV333H1, PHL273H1, PHL275H1, INS201Y1

3.0 to 3.5 additional credits chosen from Groups A, B, and/or C:

Group A -- courses required and relevant for professional registration (APGO):
CHM135H1, STA220H1/​ GGR270H1, MAT223H1, APM346H1, ESS331H1, ESS452H1/​ ESS453H1

Group B -- emphasis on physics (suitable for graduate school preparation in a physics program):
PHY252H1, PHY350H1, PHY354H1, PHY392H1, PHY454H1

Group C -- other relevant courses from physics, mathematics, or earth sciences:
PHY224H1, MAT335H1, ESS234H1, ESS311H1, ESS312H1, ESS313H1, ESS321H1, ESS322H1, ESS381H1, ESS391H1, ESS392Y1, ESS410H1, ESS424H1, ESS441H1, ESS481H1, ESS490H1, ESS491H1/​ ESS492Y1