Geophysics Engineering
The Bachelor of Science in Geophysics Engineering (English) at Istanbul Technical University is a program that teaches students how to understand Earth’s physical processes — like earthquakes, the structure of the ground, and natural resources under the surface. In this program, you learn mathematics, physics, geology basics, seismology, geophysical surveying, geodynamics, and data analysis. You also study how to use instruments, measure seismic waves, analyse data and interpret what lies under the ground. The curriculum combines theory with practical lab and field work — helping you gain strong scientific knowledge and hands-on skills to understand Earth’s structure and dynamics.
At ITU, Geophysics students benefit from experienced faculty, modern labs and field-study opportunities. The English-taught courses help students prepare for international research or engineering careers — locally and abroad. With Earth science and engineering combined, graduates are ready to work in natural resource exploration, environmental monitoring, geotechnical services or academic research. If you are curious about Earth, enjoy physics and mathematics, and want to explore what lies beneath the surface — this programme offers an exciting and solid foundation.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters
- Location: Istanbul (ITU main campus)
- Study Type: Undergraduate (full-time, English track)
- Admission semester: Fall semester
- Area of study: Geophysics, Earth & Subsurface Engineering, Seismology, Geological Survey & Exploration
- Admission modus: Without additional admission restriction beyond standard entry requirements
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations: Mathematics, Physics & Basic Earth Sciences
- Calculus / Mathematics I
- Physics I
- Basic Geology / Earth Science Introduction
- Computer Skills / Basic IT
Semester 2 – Core Sciences & Introduction to Geophysics
- Calculus II / Mathematics II
- Physics II
- Geology II / Earth Materials & Minerals
- Introduction to Geophysical Principles
Semester 3 – Geophysics Fundamentals & Data Skills
- Seismology Basics / Wave Propagation
- Geophysical Survey Methods I (e.g. Seismic, Ground-Penetrating Radar)
- Statistics & Data Analysis for Geophysics
- Earth Structure & Dynamics
Semester 4 – Geophysical Methods & Subsurface Imaging
- Geophysical Survey Methods II (Gravity, Magnetic, Electrical)
- Geodynamics / Plate Tectonics & Earth Structure
- Computational Methods / Modelling for Geophysics
- Elective / Supporting Course
Semester 5 – Exploration & Applied Geophysics
- Seismic Data Interpretation & Exploration Geophysics
- Environmental & Engineering Geophysics (Soil, Groundwater, Hazards)
- Survey Planning & Field Work Basics
- Elective Course (e.g. GIS, Remote Sensing)
Semester 6 – Advanced Geophysics & Resource Exploration
- Resource Exploration Techniques / Mineral & Hydrocarbon Geophysics
- Geophysical Project Design & Management
- Geophysical Data Processing & Analysis
- Elective / Supporting Course
Semester 7 – Field Work, Projects & Industry Practice
- Geophysical Project I (Field Survey + Data Analysis)
- Environmental Risk & Disaster Studies (Earthquakes, Landslides)
- Elective Course (Specialization)
- Internship or Field-based Practical Work
Semester 8 – Graduation Project & Professional Preparation
- Geophysics Final Project / Thesis or Applied Survey Project
- Professional Ethics, Safety & Environmental Standards in Geophysics
- Elective Course (Specialization or Advanced Topic)
Career Opportunities
Graduates can work as geophysicist, seismic survey engineer, geological survey specialist, environmental/earth hazard analyst, natural resource exploration engineer, geotechnical consultant, research assistant, or data analyst in earth sciences. They may join mining companies, oil & gas exploration firms, environmental and geological survey institutions, disaster monitoring agencies, consultancy companies, research institutes or governmental geological services. The combination of physics, geology and data skills — plus English proficiency — gives graduates flexibility to work both in Turkey and internationally.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing Geophysics at ITU means studying the Earth — its structure, dynamics and resources — using science and engineering together. You learn to use data, physics and geology to explore what lies under the surface, understand natural hazards, and help locate resources. The program includes both theoretical courses and field/lab work, which gives you strong scientific and practical skills. English-taught education helps you prepare for global careers or research.
As the world increasingly needs resource exploration, environmental monitoring, and disaster analysis, this program offers strong and meaningful career paths. If you like Earth science, mathematics, physics and exploring unknown depths — this program gives you a unique chance to build a career that connects nature, technology and society.
Contact Information
Istanbul Technical University – Department of Geophysics
ITU main campus, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 285 35 43
Email: geophysics@itu.edu.tr
Faculty / Student Affairs Office – Geophysics Department
Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 285 30 30
Email: studentaffairs@geop.itu.edu.tr
International Office – İstanbul Technical University
Ayazağa / Maslak Campus, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 285 71 13
Email: international@itu.edu.tr
