Geophysics and Meteorology

Geophysics and meteorology together address the physical science of the Earth as a system: how its solid interior generates earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, how its atmosphere generates weather and drives climate, and how these processes interact across timescales from seconds to millennia. Geophysics applies physics and mathematics to understand the structure and dynamics of the Earth, including seismology, geomagnetism, and the physics of rocks and fluids at depth. Meteorology brings the same rigorous quantitative approach to the atmosphere, studying how weather systems form, evolve, and dissipate, and how atmospheric physics underpins both day-to-day forecasting and long-term climate modelling.

The University of Edinburgh's four-year full-time Geophysics and Meteorology programme is taught within a department with exceptional research strength in both areas. You will develop a strong foundation in physics and mathematics in the early years, then apply these tools to both geophysical and meteorological topics, studying seismic wave propagation, fluid dynamics, atmospheric thermodynamics, numerical modelling, and the analysis of observational data from field measurements and satellites. The programme includes a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to study at a partner institution with complementary expertise in geoscience or atmospheric science, broadening your perspective and your network.

Edinburgh is particularly well placed for both subjects, with connections to British Geological Survey, the Met Office, and a wide range of environmental research institutes.

A typical entry tariff of 184 points reflects the mathematical and scientific demands of the programme and the competitive admissions context.

Graduates pursue careers in geophysical surveying, seismic data analysis, environmental consultancy, meteorological forecasting, energy exploration, climate modelling, and environmental monitoring agencies. The Met Office, oil and gas sector, renewable energy companies, and natural hazard assessment organisations are among the employers who value this combination. Postgraduate research in geophysics, atmospheric science, or climate science is also a well-travelled route.