Geophysics and Geology are concerned with the study of the Earth. Geophysics is the study of the Earth's internal structure and dynamics through the use of physics and mathematics. You will learn the fundamental physical principles and mathematical techniques underpinning the subject, and their application to fields as diverse as oil and gas exploration, environmental monitoring and protection, and mitigation of natural hazards. You will gain an understanding of the inner workings of our planet. Geology is the study of the evolution of the Earth over the last 4,500 million years and is founded on careful observation of the natural world, coupled with the application of physical, chemical and biological principles. The unifying theory of plate tectonics has transformed our understanding of the global processes behind the Earth's evolution, including the creation and destruction of the oceans, the origin of volcanoes and of ore deposits, the development of hydrocarbon basins and the building of mountains. Our Geophysics programmes are unique in Scotland. The University has one of the largest groupings of geophysicists in Europe, offering unrivalled courses that cover practical applications of physics and mathematics in the geosciences.