Geophysicist

Geophysicists study the earth's physical features, including its atmosphere and hydrosphere. They examine and measure seismic, gravitational, electrical, thermal and magnetic forces, using the principles of physics, mathematics and chemistry.

They analyse data to compute the earth’s shape, estimate composition and structure of the earth’s interior, determine flow patterns of ocean tides and currents and help locate petroleum and mineral deposits. They investigate the origin and activity of volcanoes, glaciers and earthquakes.

They compile data to prepare navigational charts and maps, predict atmospheric conditions, prepare environmental reports and establish water supply and flood control programmes. Some may also study other planets. Solid earth, fluid earth and upper atmosphere, are three general fields of geophysicists.

Geophysics involves the use of a number of techniques used to solve specific problems. The most important of these are: the gravity technique, the magnetic method, seismic techniques, electric and electromagnetic methods and radiomagnetic methods.

Geophysicists generally spend a certain percentage of their time in the field carrying out geographical measurements, while the rest of the time is spent in the laboratory or office, processing, interpreting, modelling, evaluating and reporting the results.

Personal Requirements

be curious
think analytically
have mathematical ability
able to communicate well both in speech and in writing
able to work as part of a team
good health
enjoy working outside and away from home

How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects

Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Science
Recommended subjects: Geography
Additional:

Pass matric with a Bachelor's pass
Meet the admission requirements (APS) set by the university.

What to Study

Degree: BSc majoring in Geography - all universities, or majoring in Geography and Environmental Management / Sciences / Studies - NWU, UJ, UCT, RU, UNISA, UV, UZ, Monash, UWC, US, Wits.

The entry requirement for this career is a BSc (Hons) in Geophysics or Physics.

Employment

mining groups
government departments (Geological Survey, Water Affairs)
Chamber of Mines
research institutes, such as CSIR
universities of technology and universities
consulting companies
MINTEK
self-employment, as a consultant

Further Information

Geological Society of South Africa
CSIR Mining Precinct (formerly CSIR Miningtek)
Corner Rustenburg and CarlowRoads
Melville, South Africa
Tel: (011) 358-0028
www.gssa.org.za

Council for Geoscience
280 Pretoria Street,
Silverton, Pretoria
Tel: (012) 841-1911
www.geoscience.org.za

Getting Started