Applied Geophysics Course Details - Fees, Subjects, Syllabus, Duration, Eligibility, Career Scope

What is Applied Geophysics

Applied geophysics is an interdisciplinary field that utilises the basic principles of physics to interpret subsurface phenomena. Applied geophysics mainly focuses on gathering and interpreting of data obtained on subsurface phenomena. These data are interpreted and the results are used for various practical purposes like gas and oil exploration, groundwater exploration, mineral exploration, geothermal exploration, archaeological interest, and so on. This branch of geology is often referred to as "quantitative geology". An easier definition claims geophysics to be a course where pupils learn the physics of the earth and its atmosphere. This includes studying oceanography, seismology, geomagnetism and volcanology.

Since humans cannot locate the mineral deposits under the surface with simple methods, we need fields like geophysics which helps in locating underground resources. Thanks to the rapid development in recent years, all geoscientists including geophysicists are in high demand. The energy industry is facing the greatest challenge in this respect. Hence, they are in need of efficient geophysicists.

Due to the importance of this course, applied geophysics is offered as a specialisation in a number of colleges across India. Applied geophysics is taught as a course that is a part of the wider course of geology. So the colleges also provide degrees with specialisation in applied geophysics. In this article, we shall discuss in detail the course of applied geophysics including the available courses, the job profiles, and upcoming trends in the field of geophysics.

Degrees and Levels of Applied Geophysics

Postgraduate level (M. Tech): Candidates who have completed B. Sc in Physics or Geology can opt for a two-year M. Tech course in applied geophysics. 

Integrated B. Tech + M. Sc. Tech course: IIT (ISM) Dhanbad offers this five years course. It gives off an aspirant undergraduate degree. 

Dual degree (M. Sc- PhD): This dual degree is provided to aspirants who already have a bachelor degree in applied geophysics or other relevant topics. The dual degree programme is available in IITs across the country. 

Popular Specializations

Applied Geophysics- Minimum and Maximum Duration

M.Tech in applied geophysics takes up a minimum duration of two years. During this time the candidates are required to cover all the stipulated credits without backlog. For candidates who fail to clear backlogs universities often provide extended time periods in which they can clear the backlogs. In special cases, the time span is three to four years. The exact extent of elongation depends on the specific university.

Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of Applied Geophysics

To be eligible for admission into the master's programme of applied geophysics the candidates must meet a few criteria as set by the institution they are applying for. The eligibility criteria for the two PG courses are discussed below.

M. Sc in Geophysics:

• The candidate must have a bachelor’s degree in physics along with a minor subject of maths/ chemistry/ electronic science/geology.
• The candidate must secure a minimum aggregate of 60% all through the graduation course.
• The candidate must secure their graduation degree from a recognised university.
• The candidate must additionally qualify for entrance examinations for the specific state and national university that they are applying for.

The eligibility criteria for applying to the applied geophysics M. Tech degree course are:

• The candidate must complete a four-year B.E./B. Tech course in relevant fields such as geophysics, instrumentation/electronics/instrumentation and control/electronics and instrumentation/electronics and control engineering.
• Must qualify for entrance examinations with the required cutoff.

Admission Criteria for Applied Geology Course

For admission into M. Tech in applied geophysics, the aspiring candidates must successfully complete a four-year B. Tech degree course with a minimum score of 50-60% in the entire curriculum. Additionally, they must qualify for the specified entrance examination to be eligible for admission into the M. Tech course. A valid GATE, TANCET, or other CET exam score is only considered for the admission process.

The B. Tech degree secured by the candidate must be in physics or geology or any other related subject. The degree must be awarded by a recognised university. The courses from which candidates can opt for an M. Tech in applied geophysics are:

• B. Tech in Geophysics
• B. Tech in Instrumentation
• B. Tech in Electronics
• B. Tech in Instrumentation & Control
• B. Tech in Electronics & Instrumentation
• B. Tech in Electronics & Control engineering
• B. Tech in Electrical & Electronics
• B. Tech in Applied Electronics

Entrance Examinations for Applied Geophysics

For admission into M. Tech in applied geophysics, it is mandatory for a candidate to qualify for entrance examinations such as GATE, CET and TANCET. Here we discuss briefly the various entrance examinations.

GATE: Stands for Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering. It is an exam that is designed to test the comprehensive understanding of various subjects taught through the B. Tech level. It is an annual exam that takes place once a year and in online mode. The questions asked are all MCQs.

CET: Common Entrance Test or CET is another exam that can provide entry into M. Tech applied geophysics. The CET exams are held annually and consist of aptitude questions.

TANCET: Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test can be attempted by B.Tech, B.Sc or BCA graduates who want to pursue M.Tech/MBA/MCA. It is a pen and paper-based exam which takes place annually. A number of colleges across Tamilnadu accept TANCET scores for admission.

Fees and Expenses of Applied Geophysics Course

The exact fee of the courses depends on the college from which the course will be pursued. The fee can range from Rs. 60, 000- Rs. 10, 00, 000.  Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has a course fee of Rs.60, 000 for two years. The esteemed B. R. Ambedkar National Institute of Technology has a course fee of Rs.10, 00,000 for the entire course.

Required Skillset for Applied Geophysics

Observation: Observation is an important skill that is very useful for the fields of applied geophysics. Individuals are expected to be very careful and observe accurate data when collecting data and mapping areas from interesting regions. Any error in the observation of data can lead to massive damage.

Analysis: One of the biggest assets in the field of applied geophysics is the analytical skill of the candidate. What helps in the segregation of candidates into various levels of efficacy are the analytical skills possessed by the candidates. The data collected must be analysed by you without any mistakes and the results must be accurate.

Teamwork: As a fresher, your initial jobs will require you to work as a part of a team. It is essential for all individuals to be well in tune with the members of the team. This will not only help in building rapport but will also help in improving the efficacy of the team and ultimately benefit the company. One must possess the ability to work as a part of a team without compromising on individual responsibilities. Working as a team can also help in improving leadership qualities and sharpening communication skills.

Instrument handling: Geophysics is a subject in which the application of the theories is very much dependent on the instruments that are used for the studies. To effectively observe data is imperative that the candidate must be familiar with the instruments in use. Candidates must possess adequate knowledge about the working of the instrument and must know how to operate and collect data from these instruments.